Emerging Talents: Gerard Deulofeu of FC Barcelona
| Name: | Gerard Deulofeu |
| Date of Birth: | March 13, 1994 |
| Height: | 180cm |
| Nationality: | Spanish |
| Club: | FC Barcelona |
| Position: | Striker/Winger |
FC Barcelona’s youth system continues developing some of the world’s most exciting talent on a yearly basis with names like Gerard Pique, Cesc Fabregas, Xavi, and Victor Valdes all having come through the club at some point or another. It looks as if another player could be on the same path as the players mentioned if all things go according to plan. Gerard Deulofeu joined Barcelona’s Academy at the age of nine in 2003 and has since developed into a fantastic attacking option for the Catalan based club.
The 19 year old, who often features for Barcelona B, made his first team La Liga debut against Malloraca on October 29th, 2011 when he replaced Cesc Fabregas in the 63rd minute. The tricky attacker is comfortable playing as a striker or as a winger, but is often deployed on the left side of midfield. He is very technical as are most Barcelona players, and is comfortable and confident when running at players with the ball at his feet. He is right footed and enjoys coming inside to combine with other teammates or to beat defenders himself. While some have called him Barcelona’s next Messi, the comparisons are not entirely fair. Deulofeu’s style is slightly more similar to Cristiano Ronaldo in that he enjoys isolating himself in wider positions and coming inside. He also possesses a bit of flair to his game like Ronaldo.
Take a look at the video below that highlights Deulofeu’s time at Barcelona from his younger years to now and let us know what you think. Do you think Barcelona could have another big star on their books?
