Barcelona started their season in fine style with a convincing victory over 9-man Mallorca on Saturday night, and it was also a day that the young defender Jofre Torrents will never forget.
The 18-year-old, who is impressed during the preseason, received his first team debut by Hansi Flick, because he appeared as a 68th minute replacement at Son Moix. He did not look misplaced on the Barcelona side, which will be very pleasant for all involved to see.
According to TV3 (via MD), Jofre spoke about making his Barcelona debut and became the sixth La Masia graduate to do this since Flick took over as head coach last summer.
“I am very happy. It is a dream as a child to officially make my debut with the club of my life. And now, to keep working on more opportunities. Flick told us to play calmly. He gave me a lot of encouragement and wished us happiness. Before you always stand up, you are always nervous, it is always nervous.
“All family and friends sent me messages of encouragement to go out with maximum intensity if I had to go out and give my best version. And that is what I tried to do.”
His appearance against Mallorca will certainly be the first of many that Jofre was made this season as a Barcelona player. Flick appreciates him very high, and there is every chance that he is the first choice backup of Alejandro Bald on the left, given that Gerard Martin could be used as a central defender more often.
For now, Jofre will think about his debut in Barcelona and he will hope to make his second senior performance against Levante next season.