Barcelona’s newest call-up from youth team ‘destined to be one of the greats in the years to come’ – report | OneFootball

Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, made an unexpected choice by including 18-year-old goalkeeper Aron Yaakobishvili, commonly known as Yako, in the matchday squad for the upcoming game against Getafe.

This decision has certainly caught the attention of fans and pundits alike, as Yako will step in as the third goalkeeper, filling the gap left by the injured Marc-André ter Stegen.

Yako, who was born in Hungary, joined Barcelona’s U19 B team in 2018 after a year with Atletic Sant Just. Before that, he honed his skills with MTK Budapest in his home country.

His talent and hard work paid off when he signed a new contract in 2023, ensuring his place with Barça’s youth team until June 30, 2025.

He has trained diligently alongside established goalkeepers Inaki Pena and Ander Astralaga, demonstrating his commitment and skill.

Tipped for greatness

According to SPORT, Yako possesses impressive height and has excellent ball control, allowing him to manage plays effectively with his feet.

His reflexes are remarkable, making him a formidable presence between the posts. While he may come across as introverted off the pitch, he transforms into a confident leader during matches, guiding his teammates from his goal area.

This call-up to the first team is a significant recognition of his potential and hard work, marking him as one of the promising talents expected to shine in the coming years.

Interestingly, this is not Yako’s first time being called up to the first team. Last season, he was included in Xavi’s squad, and Rafa Marquez also selected him for Barça Atletic.

Last year, he served as the starting goalkeeper for FC Barcelona’s Under-19s during the prestigious UEFA Youth League, showcasing his ability on a larger stage.

This season, Yako’s role remains uncertain, particularly due to the changes that Ter Stegen’s injury has introduced to the team’s dynamics.

Known for his incredible ability to make seemingly impossible saves, Yako’s style might be more erratic than that of his predecessors, but he brings a flair and excitement that could prove invaluable for Barcelona’s future.