Barcelona wonderkid could follow in Lamine Yamal’s footsteps and make history against Alaves

La Masia continues to be the saviour whenever the Barcelona first team find themselves struggling with injuries.

The Barcelona academy has been very productive over the past half-decade, with a number of first-team stars having come through the youth ranks.

After a difficult week marked by defeats to PSG and Real Madrid and further injuries, Hansi Flick could give yet another youngster an opportunity against Deportivo Alaves.

16-year-old Ebrima Tunkara has been called up to Barcelona’s squad for tonight’s La Liga encounter.

Having spent much of pre-season with Flick’s first team, the teenager has received an opportunity in Dani Olmo’s absence.

Ebrima Tunkara could make Barcelona history tonight

Tunkara has trained with the first team throughout the week. Speaking ahead of the match, Hansi Flick refused to rule out a debut.

“He did pre-season with us and I liked what I saw from him. He’s here and he’s doing well in training. Anything can happen,” Flick explained.

Ebrima Tunkara has a chance to make history against Alaves. (Picture credit: Instagram/@ebrimatunkara10)

The youngster missed the start of the season through an ankle ligament injury but recently returned to competitive action with Barça Atletic.

Should he feature against Alaves, Tunkara will become Barcelona’s second-youngest player to appear in La Liga, according to Mundo Deportivo.

At 16 years and 235 days, only Lamine Yamal, who made his debut at 15 years and 290 days in 2023, will remain ahead of him.

Tunkara will move ahead of Vicenc Martinez, who made his debut at 16 years and 280 days back in 1941.

Flick continues to place faith in La Masia

Tunkara is not the only La Masia starlet to have received a call-up for the Alaves game, with Guillem Victor also getting a look in.

Ebrima Tunkara could make his debut vs Alaves. (Picture credit: Instagram/@ebrimatunkara10)

Barcelona currently have Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Xavi Espart, Dani Olmo and Andreas Christensen all ruled out of tonight’s clash, opening the door for La Masia talents.

Tunkara’s versatility makes him an excellent candidate for the call-up. Primarily a No. 10, he could also be used by Flick on the wing if needed.

The 16-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most talented players coming through the academy, and a debut for him would be a momentous occasion.

Barcelona supporters should not place unnecessary pressure on the teenager and should allow him to enjoy his time with the first team.

It remains to be seen whether Flick hands out any debuts against Alaves and whether Tunkara makes history by becoming Barcelona’s second-youngest La Liga debutant tonight.