Ever since Argentina won the World Cup, there has been a renewed interest in the Argentinian league and the top players, especially the young, who are plying their trade in it. First, there is the talented Independiente forward Santiago Hidalgo, who is dazzling the crowds at just 17. Then there is Velez Sarsfield’s midfield general Maximo Perrone whose deal with Manchester City fell through in the 11th hour. Other stars are Alejandro Garnacho, who is starring for Manchester United in the Premier League. Valentin Barco is the latest name to join this list after being linked with top European clubs.
A product of the famed Boca Juniors youth academy, Valentin Barco’s rise has been well documented in a nation that has been more famous for developing attackers; Barco has been identified as a top talent by several ex-footballers and journalists.
And finally, in the winter transfer window, clubs from across the Atlantic are starting to sniff around the talented full-back, who could be the next star to come out from the Land of the Silver.
So, who is Valentin Barco, and how good is he?
How good is Valentin Barco?
Born in the town of Veinticinco de Mayo in the Buenos Aires province on July 23, 2024, Valentin Barco started his footballing journey at the age of three as his family moved more than 350 kilometres to the city of Las Parejas where Barco joined Sportivo Las Parejas.
He would spend six years at the club before successfully passing the trials of Boca Juniors and joining their youth academy. In fact, the scout Ramon Maddoni that recommended him to Boca Juniors has also found Carlos Tevez, Juan Roman Riquelme, and Esteban Cambiasso.
Barco would progress through various age groups, where he played as a left winger for the youth side. He was an integral part of the team winning the youth league in 2018.
At the same time, he was also showcasing his skills for the Argentina under-15 national team. His first assignment with the national side was the Vlatko Markovic tournament, an under-15 competition organised by the Croatian Football Federation. Boca Juniors won the title, with Barco playing an integral part.
Boca Juniors signed him to a professional contract as soon as he turned 16. His debut came on July 17, 2021, when he played against Club Atletico Union in a 1-1 draw.
Valentin Barco stats
His brilliant performances in the international tournaments caught the attention of Javier Mascherano, Argentina’s under-20 coach who added him to the…
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