Luis Enrique: "Only Messi has a better goals-per-minute ratio than Ansu"

Luis Enrique: "Only Messi has a better goals-per-minute ratio than Ansu"

Ansu Fati debutará con la selección española absoluta
Ansu Fati debutará con la selección española absoluta | EFE

Whilst acknowledging Fati's young age, Luis Enrique is adamant that the winger is ready to start at the highest level now

Luis Enrique Martinez has surprised many onlookers with his squad selection for the UEFA Nations League matches against Germany and Ukraine. The Asturian has opted for youth over experience with Ansu Fati, who is enjoying an incredible rise in European football, being the standout name in his list. He could become the second-youngest player to be capped by Spain (Angel Zubieta is the youngster).

On Fati's inclusion, Lucho said: "I know Ansu perfectly because of the team he plays for. He's at the required level even if he hasn't played as much. His numbers are excellent. Only Messi has a better goals-per-minutes ratio than him. It's something which shows the incredible talent he has. I don't have any issues with calling up youngsters. He's got everything and is part of the present. It's very important he's here with us."

Eric Garcia

Another La Masia graduate and friend of Ansu, Eric Garcia, was another surprising name on Luis Enrique's list. "He left Barcelona to play for City and we know him very well. He's only 19 but he's played really well in the younger categories and is a leader on and off the pitch. He is playing for a team that plays like or, or how we'd like to play, and has featured a lot for City this season. He's ready. He's intelligent, great with the ball at his feet and is mature beyond his years."

Pie de foto | AUTOR FOTO

ADAMA TRAORÉ

Another player who came through La Masia and is in the squad is Adama Traore. "I knew of his potential when he was at Barça. Over the last couple of seasons in England, we've seen a clear evolution in his play. Before he used to only do things with the ball and now he's capable of doing more things. He's so hard to defend against. He's a diamond with the potential to be even greater. He's desperate to prove himself and I'm delighted to have him with us. He can bring a lot to the team."

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