Jordi Bescos makes unexpected Barcelona first-team push after pre-season breakthrough

Barcelona teenager Jordi Bescos has emerged as a potential first-team option after an unexpected call-up by manager Hansi Flick during preparations for the new season.

The 17-year-old had been regarded as a youth-team player only a short time ago, but his performances have now placed him in contention to remain with the senior squad for longer than originally planned.

Spanish newspaper Sport described Flick’s decision to include Bescos as a “pleasant bombshell” for the youngster. The defender was not expecting such a significant step in his career, particularly because he had spent only the final months of last season with Juvenil A and had not yet played for Barca Atletic, Barcelona’s reserve side.

Bescos was initially expected to return to the reserve team after pre-season. However, his displays have reportedly led Flick to reconsider that plan, with the Barcelona manager now weighing up whether to keep the teenager involved with the first team.

Several circumstances have helped create an opening for the player, who arrived from Linares. Alejandro Balde’s injury has been an important factor, even though the Spain international has recovered and is still working towards his best form.

Barcelona have also been unable to complete a deal for Joao Cancelo or Jorge Salinas, while Jofre Torrents’ departure for Ajax Amsterdam has further reduced the options available in the left-back position.

That combination of injuries, an incomplete transfer situation and a departure has given Bescos an opportunity few would have predicted so soon. The teenager has responded by showing composure in a demanding environment rather than trying to force his way into the team.

Bescos has already fulfilled his ambition of playing for Barcelona, albeit in friendly matches. His first start came last Saturday at the stadium in Udine during a three-team tournament, where he faced a difficult test against Nottingham Forest winger Ola Aina.

Aina is known for his pace and ability to beat opponents on the wing, but Bescos handled the challenge with considerable maturity. He maintained the right distance to limit his opponent’s opportunities to dribble, while his patience and decision-making helped him deal with several dangerous moments.

The performance offered further evidence that Bescos can compete at a higher level, even though his experience remains limited. Rather than allowing the occasion to overwhelm him, he appeared to understand the demands of the role and dealt with the pressure intelligently.

The left-back position at Barcelona is currently open, giving Bescos a valuable chance to establish himself. If he continues to develop steadily and avoids rushing his progress, he could make significant advances in his career with the Catalan club.

Flick, whose coaching is known for its high standards, has already taken notice of the young defender. The German manager is also a strong believer in the potential of La Masia, Barcelona’s academy, and has shown confidence in Bescos by granting him opportunities in successive matches.

The teenager has therefore taken the first major step towards becoming part of Barcelona’s senior plans. The next decisions made by Flick and the club will determine whether Bescos can sustain his current level and remain in contention for a place in the first-team squad.