Over the years, La Masia has become renowned for its production of world-class talent, some of the greatest players we’ve ever seen have come from that academy. The next name to join that illustrious list will be Marc Jurado.
However, instead of following in the steps of Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi, the academy prospect will be leaving Barcelona for the bright lights of Old Trafford. Manchester United are set to complete the signing of the 16-year-old sensation after he confirmed his departure on Instagram.
“Today it’s time to say goodbye, but not before expressing my gratitude to each of the people who have helped me since I started in the pre-benjamín [junior team] in the year 2011. I leave behind unforgettable memories which will always stay with me.”
Despite being at the club since he was nine years old, the youngster felt it to be the right time to leave. Barcelona initially believed that he would follow the likes of Ansu Fati, Ilaix Moriba, Pablo Paez and Ilias and sign a new long-term contract, instead he rejected the proposed three-year deal.
The last time United poached a Barcelona academy graduate, he went on to be a world cup winner and 4-time UCL champion. That was back in 2004, coincidently the same year Marc Jurado was born in. The youngster will be announced amongst United’s new youth intake as he’ll be joining the club’s U18s. The Red Devils will have to pay a compensation fee of £175,000 for the Spaniard.
It’s become clear recently that Manchester United have taken an invested interest in youth, with the signings of Dan James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka paving the way for a new & bold recruitment strategy.
Profile
Name: Marc Jurado Gomez
Age: 16
Position: Right-Back
Right-Footed
According to those who watch him regularly, the youngster has good positional awareness alongside rapid recovery pace when defending counter-attacks. He epitomises the modern-day full-back, described as being rampant up and down the right flank.
It also goes without saying that the Spaniard possesses great technical qualities, cited as being good at taking on players and linking up with his teammates. If all that wasn’t enough, Jurado can operate as a winger as well as a full-back or wing-back.
It may be a while before Jurado is seen in the senior team, but United fans can rest assured knowing that the future of their right-back position is in good hands. Aaron Wan-Bissaka will be a tough act to follow but Marc Jurado may be the man to eclipse him.
