Aleix Garrido, leading the next generation at Barcelona

Aleix Garrido reached a new career milestone this weekend - he was part of Barça first team squad that flew down to Alicante for tonight’s league meeting with Elche. There has been a lot of talk about the Ripoll-born midfielder at La Masia over the years as he partnered Gavi in the centre of the park at various youth team levels. Gavi and Aleix formed the midfield pairing in Barcelona’s Under-19s, when the player from Los Palacios abruptly made the leap to senior side.

Future to be resolved

He was spotted by former player Iván de la Peña, who now is an agent and manages his affairs. De la Peña is set for a busy couple of months because Aleix’s contract expires in June. Xavi was full of praise for the player in Friday’s press conference when it was confirmed that he would be in the squad for the Elche game. The coach explained that Aleix has the creativity and vision Barça need while Pedri remains out injured.

Aleix Garrido is a youth international with Spain, having played three games for the Under-18s and two with the Under-19s. That his talent has not gone unnoticed at the RFEF is another of the virtues that Xavi appreciates.

With his call-up for today’s match at Elche, we will see whether Xavi see fit to hand Aleix his senior debut, Gavi’s generation continues to grow. In the shadow of the Sevillian, who has continued to dazzle since he made his debut under Koeman at Barça and with Luis Enrique in the national team, a handful of players are coming through. From the class of 2003 there is Marc Casadó, Estanis Pedrola and Chadi Riad. And from 2004, Gavi, Aleix Garrido, Alarcón and Barberà. The latter, a good striker who coaching staff speak wonders about. Barça have now accepted that they have lost him because he is due to join Brugges, as his representation agency (You First) maintains a very good relationship with the Belgian club. Aleix Garrido, like Alarcón and Gavi himself, could renew his contract shortly.