Flick Hands Surprise Debut To Álvaro Cortés
The surprise element of the Barcelona vs. Alavés match was Alvares Cortes in the center back role instead of Gerrard Martin. The 21-year-old Spaniard impressed Flick and fans with his impressive display on the pitch despite the result.
Young Defender Delivers Impressive Defensive Numbers
Álvaro Cortés made his senior debut for Barcelona alongside Pau Cubarsí in the left center-back role against Alavés. The young defender registered eight defensive contributions during the match, including a perfect 100% tackle success rate. He also completed one interception, five clearances, one blocked shot, and three recoveries. Cortés further impressed with his physical presence by winning three ground duels and five aerial duels, showing maturity and composure throughout the game.
Cortés’ Journey From Zaragoza To Barcelona
Cortes is a product of Zaragoza and joined Lamia in 2021 when he was 15 years old on a free transfer. In the 2022-23 season, he was sent out on loan to Damm FC and then promoted to Barcelona Atlètic in the 2023-24 season when he came back from his loan. The player impressed Flick and the coaching team with his performance in Barça Atlètic, which led to a surprise debut in an away match. The player has already represented Spain at the U-17, U-18, U-19, and U-20 levels in the last 4 years, but he is not a regular presence on the team. The player got a knee injury in October 2023, which is also on the records.
Hansi Flick Impressed By Cortés Performance
Spaniard is getting a lot of attention from the fans after his impressive display and flick. Appreciated player in front of the press, Alvaro Cortes is expected to be with the team for the 2026-27 preseason, as reports and fans expect his name frequently on the starting 11.
