Barcelona's 16-year-old Pau Cubarsí and Lamine Yamal made their debut in a LaLiga match, becoming the first two players under 17 to start a match in the 21st century. Xavi's decision to include them in the starting XI was a significant move. The match ended in a 2-2 draw against Betis, with notable moments including Isco's return to left-back and Vitor Roque replacing Robert Lewandowski. The young players' performances and Xavi's coaching decisions were the focus of the match, showcasing Barcelona's evolving dynamics under the new coach.
And Barca had been playing so well...
Isco now back at left-back, taking ball off Lamine, and getting it quickly forward to Fekir to break.
62th minute, Betis 2-2 Barcelona. Vitor Roque comes in.... and Xavi takes Robert Lewandowski out. Huge message.
Character check for Barca.
Lamine Yamal doing whatever he pleases to. Ferran Torres taking his chances as he probably couldn't even imagine not long ago.
2 - Barcelona's Xavi Hernández became the first coach in the 21st century to start a LaLiga match with two players under the age of 17: Lamine Yamal (16 years and 192 days) and Pau Cubarsí (16 years and 364 days). Freshness. https://t.co/oNPZwdSwGq
🔵🔴 16 year old centre back Pau Cubarsí makes his debut for Barcelona tonight. …and 16 year old Lamine Yamal also makes the starting XI decided by Xavi. https://t.co/vhDowxPckg
If you were still looking to reasons to watch that Betis - Barça which feels like a big one: 🚨 Highly-rated 16-y/o CB Pau Cubarsí is making his full debut. Massive call from Xavi. https://t.co/nviYfTKo90