The young Belgian-Greek talent, Evangelos Patoulidis, aged 12, has made headlines by turning down an offer from the prestigious FC Barcelona to join its La Masia training center. Despite being regularly recognized as the best player in various tournaments, the left-handed prodigy’s parents declined Barcelona’s proposal based on the advice of Anderlecht, his current club in the U13s.
In addition to the club’s guidance, the decision was also influenced by the desire to allow the young player to continue his studies peacefully in Belgium alongside his family, including his older brother, aged 14, who Barça declined to welcome. This decision serves as a form of retaliation.
FC Barcelona, however, need not lose hope. They can make another attempt in the future. When the young talent turns 16, he will have the opportunity to sign his first professional contract, providing another chance for Barcelona to secure his services.
