Barcelona academy ace faces his career-defining season in Premier League

Barcelona loanee Ansu Fati

Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images

FC Barcelona has produced many promising talents over the years from their revered academy. La Masia has enabled many gifted youngsters to develop and reach their respective potential. However, there are certainly those from even within the gifted that stand out over others.

One such talent was undoubtedly Ansu Fati. The La Masia winger, soon to turn 21, was a player that managed to take the world by storm. Debuting only aged 16, the Spaniard possessed speed, agility, dynamism, and an eye for goal not even seasoned veterans could contend with.

Make or break for Fati

As highlighted by SPORT, however, the current season could be Fati’s most career-defining campaign. Following his breakthrough some time ago in 2019, the player has had to fight his way through adversity at various levels. Constantly plagued with injuries and fitness problems, Ansu Fati began to clearly deteriorate.

Despite once having been at a level so high that Barcelona handed him Lionel Messi’s fabled number ‘10’ without any second thoughts, he now plays for Brighton in the Premier League as he was sent out on loan by Barcelona. However, unwilling to permanently part ways with the club of his life, Fati remains determined.

Redemption arc

This loan offers the young forward an opportunity to find redemption. His time in Brighton will be the judge of what’s to come for him. However, it seems that life in England is working out so far. Having found his scoring touch again, Fati has managed to put the ball in the back of the net against various strong opponents, including Manchester City.

However, for Barcelona, a major decision will be to decide whether to sell Fati or not after this season. Heading back now, the youngster will be aware of the fact that he is not indisputable. Moreover, he may himself be open to a move away from Catalonia and could find great offers headed his way if his performances continue to remain consistent.