Hansi Flick considers 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy a key figure in his plans

Hansi Flick may not have the best financial backing as he takes charge at Barcelona, but what he has inherited beyond doubt is a goldmine of young talents mature beyond their years.

The German coach’s arrival initially created doubt as to what would happen to the players Xavi nurtured from La Masia over the past two and a half seasons.

It is now clear, however, that he sees the academy with great positivity and as an asset heading into the club.

Trusting the process

In a report earlier today, German journalist Florian Plettenberg confirmed that Flick sees the team’s latest sensation Pau Cubarsi as a key piece in his project.

The manager is said to have decided on the youngster firmly in his plans for next season, possibly even as a first-choice starting centre-back.

Set for a critical role under Flick. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

It remains to be seen if this decision has any repercussions on the other defenders at the club.

After all, the team have surplus resources in the position and Cubarsi’s inclusion as a regular will leave some with doubts over their future.

Flick has eyes on the academy

Of the four factors that convinced Joan Laporta and Co. of Flick’s appointment, the manager’s research on La Masia and extensive scouting was one of the primary reasons.

After all, it conveyed to the board that the new manager perfectly understood the objective and situation at the club.

As revealed recently, Flick had his assistant regularly watch games of the lower divisions of Barcelona and even has a long report on the crucial takeaways.

In fact, he has already identified three players as prime options to join the team for pre-season and prove their worth.