Barcelona's youth academy is one of the most successful in the world, but it has also faced criticism for its strict rules and lack of opportunities for players to progress.
The academy, which was founded in 1927, is responsible for producing some of the best young talents in football history, including Lionel Messi, Gerard Pique, and Andrés Iniesta.
However, the academy's reputation has been tarnished by allegations of poor treatment and exploitation of players. For example, in 2015, former player Jordi Alba accused the academy of failing to provide adequate medical care and education, and of not giving enough opportunities for players to develop their skills.
Despite these criticisms, the academy remains a top destination for aspiring footballers from all over the world. The club invests heavily in training facilities and coaching staff, and provides players with access to first-class training and match-day experience.
However, there have been calls for change at the academy, with many arguing that the current system is too rigid and does not give players enough freedom to express themselves on the pitch.
In response to these concerns, Barcelona has announced plans to introduce new measures aimed at improving the quality of training and developing players' skills. These include more flexibility in the selection process, greater autonomy for coaches, and more emphasis on individual development rather than just team success.
Overall, while the future of Barcelona's youth academy remains uncertain, the club is committed to making changes that will improve the experiences of its players and help them reach their full potential on the pitch.