"For months, Barcelona have been searching for a new left-footed centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window, with Alessandro Bastoni sitting at the top of the club's shortlist. Yet after what happened against Alaves, it could be argued that Hansi Flick may already have a solution much closer to home. The biggest surprise of the night arrived when young defender Alvaro Cortes was handed his first-team debut from the start. Few expected Flick to throw the youngster straight into the lineup, but the coach's decision looked justified."
"From the opening minutes, Cortes played with maturity far beyond his age. Calm in possession, aggressive in duels and fearless under pressure, the young centre-back immediately looked comfortable at the senior level. One of the most encouraging aspects of his display was the understanding he quickly built with Pau Cubarsi. The two defenders looked naturally balanced together, especially during Barcelona's buildup play from the back. Cortes constantly demanded the ball and showed no fear when playing out under pressure."
"Defensively, the academy graduate was equally impressive. He reacted sharply to Alavés counter-attacks, timed his clearances well and rarely looked uncomfortable even when isolated in one-versus-one situations. The second half offered another important test after Jules Kounde moved into central defence. Yet Cortes continued to perform with the same level of confidence alongside the experienced defender. Statistically, Cortes recorded an outstanding 95% passing accuracy, completed 109 touches, produced five clearances and won eight of his 13 duels."
"Remarkably, he did not misplace a single pass until the 76th minute when attempting a long diagonal switch. Barcelona may have l"
Barcelona suffered a narrow defeat to Deportivo Alaves in Vitoria, leaving frustration. The match also brought a positive development for the club. Hansi Flick started young defender Alvaro Cortes, giving him his first-team debut. Cortes showed maturity beyond his age, remaining calm in possession, aggressive in duels, and fearless under pressure. He quickly developed an effective understanding with Pau Cubarsi, supporting balanced buildup play from the back. Defensively, he reacted sharply to counter-attacks, timed clearances well, and handled one-versus-one situations. After Jules Kounde moved into central defence in the second half, Cortes maintained the same confidence. He recorded 95% passing accuracy, 109 touches, five clearances, and eight wins in 13 duels, with no misplaced passes until the 76th minute.
Read at Barca Universal
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