Xavi Simons, Oriol Busquets & the top 10 teenage stars to watch at Barcelona
As part of the NxGn series, Goal takes a look at the most promising young players waiting in the wings at the Catalan club
- Jan Kruger – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Table of Contents
ToggleAbel Ruiz
As an 18-year-old striker who has represented Spain at U-17 and U-19 level, there are high hopes that Abel Ruiz will go on to become first-choice centre-forward for La Roja. A skillful player with good technique, he was captain of the side that won the European Championship at U-17 level a few months ago and is currently one of the brightest talents at Barca B.
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Oriol Busquets
He may be no relation to Sergio, but the two players definitely share similar characteristics. Like the older Busquets, Oriol is a central midfielder who is tall and known for his great tactical understanding of the game. The 19-year-old currently plays at Barca B but made his debut for the first team in the Copa del Rey against Murcia earlier this season.
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Alex Collado
Alex Collado is already Barca B's best midfielder, even though he will only turn 19 next month. He has not featured yet for the first team but is highly thought of by coaching staff at the Catalan club. Good with the ball at his feet and technically adept, he is known for his ability to carry the ball forward from midfield.
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Mateu Morey
A centre-back similar to Gerard Pique, Mateu Morey is taller than the Barca defender and very good at bringing the ball out from the back. Born in 2000, he is still with the youth team after turning down several offers from elsewhere last summer – including one from Bayern Munich. He should have a bright future at Barca.
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