Although Barcelona left Vitoria frustrated after a narrow defeat against Deportivo Alaves, the match may still end up being remembered for one hugely positive development inside the club.
For months, Barcelona have been searching for a new left-footed centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window, with Alessandro Bastoni sitting at the top of the club’s shortlist.
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Yet after what happened against Alaves, it could be argued that Hansi Flick may already have a solution much closer to home.
Answer within La Masia
The biggest surprise of the night arrived when young defender Alvaro Cortes was handed his first-team debut from the start.
Few expected Flick to throw the youngster straight into the lineup, but the coach’s decision looked justified.
From the opening minutes, Cortes played with maturity far beyond his age.
Calm in possession, aggressive in duels and fearless under pressure, the young centre-back immediately looked comfortable at the senior level.
One of the most encouraging aspects of his display was the understanding he quickly built with Pau Cubarsi.
Alvaro Cortes made a fantastic debut. (Picture credit: Instagram/@alvaarocortes)
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The two defenders looked naturally balanced together, especially during Barcelona’s buildup play from the back.
Cortes constantly demanded the ball and showed no fear when playing out under pressure.
Defensively, the academy graduate was equally impressive. He reacted sharply to Alavés counter-attacks, timed his clearances well and rarely looked uncomfortable even when isolated in one-versus-one situations.
Statistically speaking…
The second half offered another important test after Jules Kounde moved into central defence.
Yet Cortes continued to perform with the same level of confidence alongside the experienced defender.
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Statistically, Cortes recorded an outstanding 95% passing accuracy, completed 109 touches, produced five clearances and won eight of his 13 duels.
Remarkably, he did not misplace a single pass until the 76th minute when attempting a long diagonal switch.
Barcelona may have lost the match, but the club could end up viewing this night as an important turning point for the future, especially if Bastoni’s deal is difficult to pull off.
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