Barcelona see Sergi Mayans as a long-term answer at left-sided centre-back

Barcelona are monitoring Sergi Mayans as a potential future solution at left-sided centre-back, with the 17-year-old impressing after making his first start for the club’s second team.

The Catalan club are seeking a physically strong left-footed defender who is comfortable in possession and could provide genuine competition for Gerard Martin. Hansi Flick has continued to call up Alex Campos to first-team matches, while Hafiz Gariba has strengthened his case with a series of impressive performances for Barcelona Atletic.

According to Sport, Mayans has expanded the options available to the first-team staff. He is regarded as the outstanding left-footed centre-back in the La Masia academy and made his first start for the club against Arnedo, completing the full 90 minutes.

Mayans had been one of the most notable performers during pre-season but suffered an ankle sprain which temporarily interrupted his progress. He had also been included in the squad for last week’s game away to Olot, where his physical presence was already apparent. The defender is approaching 1.90 metres in height.

The call-ups of Campos and Gilm Victor to the first team accelerated Mayans’ first appearance in the Segunda Division. Juliano Belletti selected Landry and Caicedo as the full-backs, with Gariba and Mayans forming the central defensive partnership.

The young Catalan defender developed a strong understanding with the Ghanaian centre-back and made only a limited number of mistakes. Arnedo scored from a quick attack, but Mayans produced an impressive display throughout the match.

A strategic investment

Despite having been out of competitive action for almost two months, Mayans performed at a high level both with and without the ball. Belletti gave a highly positive assessment of his contribution and also praised Dani Avila, who made his own debut after recovering from injury and was given an opportunity at Johan.

“Mayans is a player who worked very hard before his injury. We have great confidence in him, as well as in Dani Avila, who was also returning from injury,” said Belletti.

Sport had previously reported that the Barcelona Atletic coaching staff had been particularly impressed by Mayans during pre-season.

Mayans’ physical strength gives him an advantage in challenges, allowing him to compete successfully in duels more often than is usually the case for defenders developed at La Masia. He also has a reliable left foot, enabling him to start attacks accurately with short passes or longer deliveries.

He joined Barcelona from Reus in the summer of 2018, initially entering the club’s academy with Benjamin B. This season is his ninth as a Barcelona player, following several years within the club’s system.

Mayans has represented Spain at different youth levels. He began as a full-back, but his physical development led Barcelona to conclude that left-sided centre-back was his most suitable position. His aerial ability, passing from deep and strength against powerful forwards give him a valuable blend of defensive coverage and creativity.

Belletti wants to help him continue improving, while Mayans understands that playing at centre-back for Barcelona demands further technical and tactical development.

Flick has already handed Brian Farinas his debut against Alaves, while Alex Campos, Gilm Victor and Ebrima remain in contention for opportunities. Mayans’ chance is expected to arrive in time.

Barcelona face Aston Villa in the Champions League on 03 November 2026.