Barcelona believe teenage defender has first-team potential, reminds staff of Ronald Araujo

Mikayil Faye was one of the many young players to join Barcelona’s reserve team during the summer transfer window.

A centre-back by trade, Faye joined Barça Atletic in a €1.5 million deal from NK Kustosija. He was regarded as one of the most promising talents during his brief spell in Croatia.

Faye’s season so far at Barcelona

As we approach the halfway point of the campaign, Faye has done an excellent job with Barça Atletic so far.

The youngster has become a regular for the reserve team’s defensive line, thanks to the leadership of defensive legend Rafa Marquez.

According to Jordi Cardero, Faye’s performances and his player profile remind them of Ronald Araujo, largely due to his strong presence at the back. He is also quite versatile and is able to operate at left-back, if necessary.

Barcelona coaches have been left impressed by the player’s confidence, which has been reflected in his performances this season.

Targeting first-team breakthrough

Barcelona invested €1.5 million in Faye in the summer, largely with the hope that the defender can eventually make a breakthrough in the senior side.

So far this season, Faye has done a brilliant job and has impressed the onlookers with his confidence, with Xavi also keeping a close eye on him. And the coaching staff believes that he has clear first-team potential.

However, the Senegalese youth international may have to be patient, before he can earn a promotion to the first team.

That is because the Barcelona setup is chock-full of seasoned defenders such as Inigo Martinez, Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo, and Jules Kounde.

Even someone like Christensen has found it difficult to get regular game-time this season, though the Dane has showcased excellent professionalism.

The recent injury of Martinez might pave the way for youngsters like Pau Cubarsi and Mika Faye to receive a few first-team opportunities in the coming months.