The La Masia academy keeps generating some of the most thrilling young talents in global football andBarcelonahave another treasure in their possession with Pedro Fernandez Sarmiento.
Also known as ‘Dro,’ the attacking midfielder is poised to emerge as the next standout talent from Barcelona’s youth system to join Hansi Flick’s team, having already been likened to Andres Iniesta.
Not to sound boastful,but we recognized Dro as a promising talent earlier this monthas an individual who has the ability to leave a mark on Barcelona during the pre-season.
In their initial friendly match against the Japanese team Vissel Kobe, the 17-year-old required just 10 minutes on the field to score a well-executed volley from outside the box.
Flick brought on Dro in the 78th minute, replacing Marcus Rashford as a late replacement, who was also appearing for the team for the first time.
Although everyone was focused on Rashford, it was his substitute who grabbed the spotlight by scoring Barcelona’s third goal of the match.
After Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo targeted the penalty area, Dro maintained his pace and ended up in a wide open space near the edge of the box when the ball reached him.
He then displayed calmness in the final moments, brought his head over the ball, and skillfully struck it past Shota Arai.
Nevertheless, his overall approach to the game and outstanding ability to control the ball were arguably more remarkable than his goal.
Soon after meeting Flick, the young celebrity went through a noticeable pre-game period, during which he moved around multiple Vissel Kobe players with his dance moves.
The young player retrieved the ball on the left side within his own half and then took control, nearly embodying his inner Lionel Messi.
His agile body collapses, and his skill in controlling the ball with both feet makes him extremely difficult to stop in these tight scenarios.
After being deprived of the ball, Barcelona quickly regain possession and the ball once more ends up at Dro’s feet.
Lamine Yamal has already set a precedent for young talents from the academy to take on significant roles at an early age, and Dro appears to be the next one to follow.
A 17-year-old player trained with the senior team at various times during the previous season, and if he keeps making an impact during pre-season, he might become a regular member of Flick’s team.
Individuals who have previously collaborated with Dro are familiar with his innate ability, and it appears only a matter of time before he is vying for a position in the Barcelona starting lineup.
“He demonstrates the same self-assurance as he did in his childhood,” said his former youth coach Javi Roxo to journalists earlier this year.
Even though some individuals liken him to Pedri, Dro makes me think of Iniesta due to his insight and exceptional skill.
Dro is capable of anything, and if Flick positions him on the wing, he can also perform well. It won’t be Raphinha, but he can resemble the Iniesta who played on the left.
If he eases the tension and plays without constraints, he can achieve anything; his talent knows no limits.
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