Ernesto Valverde ready to give Jose Arnaiz a chance at Barcelona

The best players have to play at Barcelona and Jose Arnaiz is one of those footballers whom they seduced from the first moment. The forward has become one of the sensations of the season at Barcelona B and his eventual place in the first team will be due to his impressive form.

It will be unhurried, but without waiting. Calmly, because at 22 and despite showing an incredible maturity, he still has aspects to improve. The calendar gives him a good chance to play with the game against Murcia just around the corner in the Copa del Rey - Carles Alena made his debut in the cup last season.

Ernesto Valverde has an impressive curriculum when it comes to detecting quality youngsters and showing bravery in picking them. Now it’s Jose Arnaiz who has risen to his attention. Signed from Valladolid this summer, he offers tremendous versatility, can play with both feet, in any attacking position, and he has great ability to take on defenders. He’s scored four goals with Barca B this season including an incredible slalom goal against Lorca which recalled Leo Messi.

Valverde usually speaks with Gerard Lopez, the B team coach. There is a fluid dialogue and the name of Arnaiz is on the table. He will have a chance against Murcia to show his quality. With Dembele injured for months he is an interesting option.

Jose Arnaiz is centred and when asked about it says he’s “focused on the B team”, “my place is here”. A humility which will take him far.