‘Dreams come true’: Barcelona youngster reflects on dream debut

Barcelona as a club have become famous for giving their academy players the opportunity to play at the highest level and this trend has continue under Hansi Flick.

Brought in to replace Xavi Hernandez in the summer, Hansi Flick has started his era as Barcelona manager on a brilliant note while giving youngsters the opportunity to play.

So far in his tenure, Flick has given debuts to four quarry players – Sergi Dominguez (19), Marc Bernal (17), Gerard Martin (22), and now, Andres Cuenca (17). The latter’s first chance in a Barcelona shirt came in the Champions League clash against Young Boys where he replaced Inigo Martinez for the final minutes.

Andres Cuenca looks on during the UEFA Champions League match between FC Barcelona and BSC Young Boys (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

After the game, Cuenca gave an interview to the club’s official media, expressing how it felt to fulfill his dream. As quoted by SPORT, here is what he had to say:

“It’s a dream come true. It was a very big challenge. Very proud and grateful.”

Cuenca also made sure to mention Flick’s commitment to La Masia.

According to the 17-year-old, Hansi Flicks’ trust in the academy works as an added incentive for the youngsters to give their everything, knowing that the opportunity could come knocking any time.

Cuenca is a natural left-footed defender who excels with the ball at his feet. Also a center-back, the youngster is far from the finished product but he has the ability to become a mainstay in the team’s defense going forward.