FOOTBALL

Angel Alarcon, the latest teenage sensation from Barcelona

Published

2 years ago

March 7, 2023

admin

Remember the name – Angel Alarcon.

Touted as the next big thing to come out of the Barcelona talent factory after Pedri, Alarcon has been attracting a lot of attention.

Let’s find out more about him.

Alarcon was born on 15 May 2004 in Castelldefels, a town on the outskirts of Barcelona where Lionel Messi also lived during his time at the club.

He began playing football at his local club Vista Alegre and joined Espanyol at the age of six.

Alarcon’s performances at Espanyol were so impressive that by the age of 14, both Barcelona and Real Madrid were vying to sign him.

In the end, he chose Barcelona and soon proved why the two biggest clubs in Spain had been desperate to secure his signature.

In 2019, Alarcon finished as the top scorer in the Kevin De Bruyne Cup, an under-15 tournament set up by the Manchester City star in collaboration with his boyhood club KVE Drongen in 2016.

He scored 37 goals in his first two seasons with Barcelona, and despite not being the typical silky and skilful winger that people picture from La Masia, he impressed with his power, vertical movement, and special sense for goal.

Former Barcelona sporting director Ramon Planes recalls a conversation he had with first-team manager Ronald Koeman at the end of the 2020-2021 campaign.

Planes suggested taking two academy players, Alarcon and Gavi, to the next pre-season tour, even though they hadn’t completed a season with the Barcelona B team.

The club told both players that they would be part of the first team’s pre-season tour in the summer of 2021.

However, Alarcon tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the last game of the previous campaign, an under-19 cup tie against Deportivo La Coruna, and missed pre-season as a result, as well as the entire following season.

Despite his injury setback, Alarcon spent last season recovering and has returned to his best form this campaign.

He has scored nine goals in 17 league games with the Under-19 team this term and has made six goals contributions in as many games in the UEFA Youth League.

Xavi was convinced by his performances and called him up to the first team, where he has been reunited with Gavi.

Alarcon has become the latest Barcelona academy graduate to make the step up to the first team this season after catching the eye of coach Xavi.

Since Memphis Depay’s departure to Atletico Madrid in January, the 18-year-old Alarcon has trained with the senior squad every day.

He and the 19-year-old midfielder Pablo Torre have been the two young prospects regularly included in Xavi’s matchday squads in recent months.

Despite spending 14 months on the sidelines due to his injury, Alarcon has come back stronger than ever.

Alarcon made his first team debut on 19th Jan, 2023 in the Copa del Rey game against Ceuta. The 18 year old was the 198th player from ‘La Masia’ to make his senior debut.

Xavi has been hugely impressed by his performances in training and gave him his La Liga debut in Barcelona’s 2-0 win against Cadiz last month.

While Alarcon’s chances were helped by Barca being unable to sign a replacement for Depay, he has earned his place among his team-mates with his talent and hard work.

Looking ahead, Xavi believes that Alarcon has a bright future ahead of him.

The teenager’s ability to operate at any position in the attacking front and his special sense for goal mean that he could end up as a No. 9 at Barcelona.

For now, though, Alarcon is focused on continuing to improve and helping Barcelona to achieve their goals.

With his talent, determination, and the support of his team-mates and coaches, he has the potential to become one of the best players in the world.

FC Goa

FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan with a 2-1 Victory

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.

Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.

The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!

FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.

The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.

FC Goa

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.

FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!

Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.

The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.

FC Goa

Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa Face Off in ISL 2024-25 Thriller

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

Mohun Bagan SG faces FC Goa in a thrilling ISL 2024-25 encounter, promising intense action and crucial league implications.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.

Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.

This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.

Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.