Hansi Flick calls up two La Masia talents to train with Barcelona first team before Athletic clash | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to close out their La Liga campaign with a visit to Athletic Bilbao, a match that holds no bearing on the title race, as Hansi Flick’s side have already secured the Spanish crown.

While the result may be inconsequential, the occasion offers a valuable opportunity for Flick to rotate his squad and perhaps offer a glimpse of the future by promoting fresh talent from La Masia.

La Masia starlets join first-team training

As per Mundo Deportivo, ahead of the game against Athletic Bilbao in La Liga, Hansi Flick has called up two La Masia starlets – Juan Hernandez and Pedro Fernandez to train with the first team. It remains to be seen if they make it to the squad list.

Hansi Flick has shown immense trust in La Masia throughout the season. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Hansi Flick, in his one season as Barcelona manager, has shown that he is not afraid to give youngsters a chance in the first team. He has given the first-team debut to many La Masia graduates and could be looking to continue the same trend.

Juan Hernandez, just 17 years old, is predominantly an attacking midfielder who can also play on the left wing and also further withdrawn in midfield. He has already been capped by Spain at the U19 level thrice and is widely touted as one of the biggest talents coming through La Masia.

Pedro Fernandez, also of a similar age, plays in the same positions as Juan. He is yet to be called up to the U19 Spain squad but if he continues his development at a similar rate, it is only a matter of time before the calls comes.

Will Flick hand out final day debuts?

With three first-team players: Jules Kounde, Ferran Torres and Marc Bernal ruled out of the game against Athletic Bilbao, it opens up the opportunity for Hansi Flick to call a few youngsters. The German coach could also choose to rest the likes of Pedri who have had a long season.

Whether Juan Hernandez or Pedro Fernandez make Flick’s final squad remains to be seen, but their involvement in first-team training is a strong signal of intent. A debut would be a significant milestone for either youngster, and a fitting way to cap off a season where youth development has been a cornerstone of Barcelona’s resurgence.