As Barcelona gear up for their Sunday affair against Real Oviedo, their final training session at the Ciutat Esportiva saw a surprise inclusion as Hansi Flick was forced to look to the lower academy r...
As Barcelona gear up for their Sunday affair against Real Oviedo, their final training session at the Ciutat Esportiva saw a surprise inclusion as Hansi Flick was forced to look to the lower academy ranks to complete his squad.
In the wake of Diego Kochen’s absence and Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s recent move to Girona, an emergency solution was required in the goalkeeping department.
This led to Flick calling up Gerard Sala, the young shot-stopper from the Juvenil B team, reports Diario SPORT.
Who is Gerard Sala?
The call-up was necessitated by the absence of Kochen. The American goalkeeper was unavailable for Flick as he has been summoned by Barça Atletic for a crucial showdown against Poblense this Saturday.
With the reserve side fighting for direct promotion to the Primera RFEF, Kochen’s presence there was deemed a priority.
Sala was standing in for Diego Kochen. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
Although Kochen is expected to return in time to make the squad list for the first team’s upcoming match against Real Oviedo, Flick needed immediate cover to facilitate the training session, opening the door for Sala.
Sala, who arrived at La Masia in 2017 from Mataro, is a name well-regarded within the academy.
Born in Granollers, the keeper is currently 17 years old but is set to celebrate his 18th birthday this Sunday. His progress was rewarded in November 2024 with a contract renewal until 2027.
Coaches define him as a “modern goalkeeper,” highlighting his excellent footwork, quick reflexes, and bravery in coming off his line.
While his resemblance to Marc Cucurella once made him a visual curiosity, it is his steady, silent progression through the categories that has earned him this valuable experience with the senior stars.
Category: General Sports
