Pre-seasons have always been an effective tool for Barcelona to assess their current crop of young talents while providing La Masia’s prospects with an opportunity to showcase their abilities among the senior team.
This July, Barca will play a number of preseason games in the United States, including a coveted El Clasico match at the conclusion of the month.
And manager Xavi Hernandez has already shortlisted the young talents from the club’s youth and subsidiary ranks that he plans to take on the US tour.
As such, according to SPORT, the three players that have confirmed a call-up are: Lamine Yamal, Marc Casadó and Aleix Garrido.
All three have experienced a taste of first-team football, making their debuts under Xavi as the Spanish tactician has particularly shown great interest in the trio’s talents.
At the age of 15 years, 9 months, and 16 days, Yamal became the youngest player ever to play a league match for the club.
With discussions over his extension already taking place with his agent Jorge Mendes, the youngster will officially be able to sign his professional contract once he turns 16 on July 13.
As a defensive midfielder who gives the squad a lot of balance, Casadó is also a well-known figure. He made his debut as a replacement for Franck Kessie in the Champions League clash with Viktoria Plzen this past season.
Meanwhile, Garrido is regarded as a treasured asset in the team’s midfield and had several calls to the first squad under Xavi. The 19-year-old made his debut against Elche. In fact, one of Garrido and Casado is likely to be promoted full-time to the first team.
As far as the US tour is concerned, Yamal, Casado, and Garrido could potentially be joined by more youth talents.
Estanis Pedrola, Chadi Riad, and Arnau Tenas are all in contention to make the trip to the North American nation. Everything will depend on their circumstances, as the three appear to have finished their cycle in the subsidiary and may have already left the club on loan when the pre-season tour starts.
New signing Mikayil Faye is also in the running to make the trip to the US with the Barcelona senior setup.
