Alvaro Cortes was one of the biggest surprises in Hansi Flick’s FC Barcelona starting lineup against Deportivo Alaves.
The 21-year-old La Masia graduate, who had been called up to the matchday squad on several occasions, finally made his first-team debut and delivered a strong performance.
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Despite the Catalans’ defeat, Cortes emerged as one of the standout performers on the pitch, impressing with his composure, defensive maturity and confidence on the ball.
Cortes elated after Barcelona debut
Following his first-team bow, Cortes gave an interview to the club in which he reflected on his feelings after debuting for what he considers “the best club in the world” and openly discussed his future.
“I remember getting nervous. I think that’s normal; making your debut for the best club in the world is what it’s all about,” Cortes explained, as quoted by SPORT.
“I took it in my stride, talking to my family and teammates who helped me a lot. I took it in my stride, trying to do what I usually do in matches, and I was lucky that it went well,” he added.
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Continuing, the 21-year-old Barça Atletic captain further said: “I still haven’t fully realised what’s happened. For me, it was a dream.
“I try to talk about it with my family and friends to grasp the magnitude of it, but I still haven’t fully realised that I’ve made my debut for Barça.”
On Flick’s advice, his future
Speaking about Flick’s instructions before the match, the young defender highlighted the confidence shown by the German coach, saying:
“When Flick told me I was starting, he advised me to play just as I had in training, because I’d improved a lot over the past few weeks with the team.
Alvaro Cortes made his debut vs Alaves. (Picture credit: Instagram/@alvaarocortes)
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“He told me he had a lot of faith in me, with and without the ball. It’s the style of play we’re taught here, and I found it very easy to play alongside my teammates.”
Regarding his future, Cortes was ambitious and fully committed to the club, as he said:
“I’d love to stay at Barça. I’m under contract, and I’d love to stay here for as long as possible. It’s true that there’s a lot of competition for the position, but I want to keep working hard and make the most of every opportunity to stay.”
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