FC Barcelona have officially announced the contract renewal of teenage prospect Hugo Garces, with the midfielder signing his first professional agreement with the club.
“The player Hugo Garces has signed, in the presence of the Director of Youth Football, Jose Ramon Alexanco, to continue with the Club during his youth career,” the club statement read.
“Thank you, Garces-Lagunas family, for trusting La Masia with your son’s development as a player and a person.”
Hugo Garces – A talented young prospect
Garces, 16, joined La Masia during his U-10 development stage. Within the club, he is highly regarded and considered one of the academy players with the greatest potential for the future.
The midfielder played with the Barça U-16 side this season and established himself as one of the key figures in the team.
Under David Sanchez, the team won the league comfortably, recording 25 victories, two draws and three defeats, while finishing seven points ahead of their nearest challengers, Damm.
In his early years at La Masia, Garces was often compared to former midfielder Thiago Alcantara. However, as his game has evolved, his style has taken on a more dynamic edge, leading to comparisons with another academy graduate, Gavi.
Hugo Garces (c) has signed a new contract. (Picture courtesy: Instagram/@h.garcees.10)
Earlier this month, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced that Garces had been included in the Spain U-17 squad for preparations ahead of the U-17 European Championships.
Although the youngster will not participate in the tournament itself, the call-up is viewed as an encouraging gesture towards the Barcelona prospect and the faith in his potential.