3 best academy players to watch out for from top clubs across Europe

Barcelona

Barcelona are famed for nurturing world-class talent in their academy, La Masia. Players like Pep Guardiola, Iniesta, Xavi and even the great Lionel Messi are all La Masia graduates and it is always interesting to see who are the next big stars emerging from Barcelona’s famed academy

Oriol Busquets (17) – Box-to-box midfielder

Not in any way related to Sergio Busquets, Oriol Busquets, 17, is a tall box-to-box midfielder. The Spanish U-17 international already reads the game like an experienced veteran and is definitely one to watch out for in the future. Arsene Wenger reportedly wanted to get him to the Premier League, but the lanky Spaniard recently signed a 3-year contract with Barcelona.

Lee Seung-Woo (18) – Forward/Attacking Midfielder

Arguably the best 18 year old in the world right now, Lee Seung Woo has already been likened to Lionel Messi. The ‘Korean Messi’ is capable of playing as an attacking midfielder, winger or as a forward and has already scored some spectacular goals in his burgeoning career. Already a part of the Barcelona B squad, Lee Seung-Woo is considered to be La Masia’s best talent.

Carles Alena (18) – Attacking midifielder/Winger/Midfielder

Since joining Barcelona as an 8-year-old, 18-year-old Carles Alena has captained all the youth teams including the Juvenil A squad and is expected to be an important part of the Barcelona B squad this year. A player who plays in a style similar to that of Messi and Iniesta, Alena is capable of scoring spectacular goals and has been earmarked by many as a star for the future.