FC Barcelona is a club all too familiar with the perks of trusting their own youth to carry the legacy of the Blaugrana colors forward. Storied with many fabled young starlets, La Blaugrana have never had to worry about the quality of talent that La Masia has produced for them over the years.
Technically gifted, positionally astute, and blessed with the many virtues that make them worthy of representing FC Barcelona, these young stars often end up becoming the pillars of whichever iteration of Blaugranes they join. However, there is often also more to them than meets the eye.
Certain La Masia gems also go on to show incredible leadership skills. Ones that make them become a reference point within their teams. Carles Puyol was one such player, and so were Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andres Iniesta. However, it seems that same spark of leadership has found itself rekindled in a certain 19-year-old.
Highlighted by Spanish outlet Diario AS, in the recent clash against Sevilla, 19-year-old Gavi was seen pointing out to his veteran teammates the minor mistakes they were making. In the final moments of the game when Polish striker Robert Lewandowski seemingly made an unnecessary foul, Gavi was the very first to approach him and rationalize with him.
At another point, he spoke to the same 35-year-old ace in regards to doing better. However, this is not the first team Gavi has showcased his undeniable value as a leader within the team and his unmistakable winning character.
Giving his all in every single game he plays for Barcelona, whether it be winning duels or even jeopardizing his own safety for the badge, the Golden Boy winner has no bounds. He even previously questioned his defense rather vocally after they conceded a clumsy goal to RCD Mallorca.
Despite still only being 19 years of age, the La Masia prodigy is looked at respectfully even by his seniors. Simultaneously, he is also seen as a ‘reference point’ by the youngsters who are emerging into the first team, and Gavi himself continues to mentor them, with the likes of Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez being good examples of this.
