Xavi’s talent-scouting prowess is on full display as he continues to identify promising prospects from La Masia.

Hailing from the revered Barcelona academy himself, the Blaugrana’s head honcho may have just discovered another remarkable talent. Fans should certainly take note of Marc Guiu’s name, especially after his stunning debut performance. Guiu wasted no time making an impact, securing a match-winning goal just 23 seconds into his senior debut on Sunday.

At home against Athletic Club, Barcelona was struggling to break the deadlock, locked in a 0-0 draw when Guiu was brought into the game in the 79th minute. By the 80th minute, the 17-year-old emerging star had successfully found the back of the net, marking a flawless start to his professional career.

With just over 10 minutes remaining, Guiu replaced another La Masia product, Fermin Lopez, as Barcelona faced the challenge of missing several key players in their attack and midfield, including the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong, who were sidelined due to injuries.

Despite the absences, the younger generation proved their worth. Loanee Joao Felix set up Guiu for a one-on-one opportunity against Spain’s goalkeeper, Unai Simon and the teenager did the rest, with Simon’s hand unable to prevent the ball from finding the net.

While Guiu, at 17 years and 291 days old, didn’t break the record as Barcelona’s youngest-ever scorer, that title still belongs to 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, who made history earlier in October. However, Guiu’s milestone goal makes him the youngest player to debut with a goal for Barcelona in the 21st century, a feat that has left fans eager for more.

Standing at 6’2″ and aged just 17, Guiu might be the forward of Barcelona’s future, poised to take the reins when Lewandowski’s tenure comes to a close.

Although Lewandowski’s contract with Barcelona runs until 2026, with the option of an additional year, Xavi may contemplate fast-tracking Guiu’s development if his remarkable debut in La Liga is any indication. It seems Guiu’s talent might be too exceptional to keep him waiting on the sidelines for long.

HIGHLIGHTS: #BarçaAthletic 1-0

A debut goal for youngster, Marc Guiu, gives @FCBarcelona the win 💙❤️#LALIGAEASPORTS | #LALIGAHighlights pic.twitter.com/U2MNdNaCIz

— LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) October 22, 2023

🥲 Marc Guiu’s family reacting to his goal on first professional appearance…

Football. ❤️✨ pic.twitter.com/W7kGRuiEdk

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 22, 2023

Marc Guiu

Barcelona II performance and stats

It will be Barcelona II ended the league in the position with points.

It has a even goal difference after scoring goals and conceding .​

Embed from Getty Images

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