Barcelona have struck gold in recent years by placing their faith in youngsters like Gavi and Pedri. Despite just being teenagers when they burst onto the scene, their unique profile and abundance of talent forced managers to recognise them and incorporate them into the first team regularly.
Not every story, however, is as sweet. Pablo Torre signed for the Catalans in the summer and immediately joined forces with the first team. Though he is registered as a Barca Atletic player, all of his minutes have come under Xavi Hernandez and have impressed the manager.
Yet, Torre is far from cementing a regular spot in the first team. The heavy competition in midfield have seen his minutes limited to the Copa del Rey and an occasional cameo in other competitions.
According to reports from SPORT, Barcelona’s clash against Real Sociedad later today will play a crucial role in deciding the youngster’s immediate future.
The Blaugrana wish to prioritise the teenager’s development and do not like the idea of stagnating the same.
As many as three La Liga sides are interested in signing the youngster immediately on loan, and Barcelona would not object to the possibility of a temporary exit even though Xavi has insisted he does not wish to lose more players.
Torre, on the other hand, is adamant about staying in Catalonia. If he has minutes against the Basque side later today, he will undoubtedly stay to fight for a spot.
While the teenager was splendid in his start against Intercity, he lacked the punch last week when Barcelona played Ceuta and was taken off at half-time.
With no easy fixtures left on the Catalans’ calendar, Torre’s best option would be to look for greener grasses until June. He could then fight for a starting spot next season, with more experience under his belt.