As successful as Barcelona have been with the current Messi, there is no doubt that they are constantly on the lookout for the next Messi.
And they just might have found what the're looking for in Carles Aleña, a 17-year-old Spaniard who plays for the Barcelona U-19s and has already trained with the first team because of injuries. There is serious speculation that he could be the next big thing out of the academy that produced Lionel Messi, Gerard Pique, Xavi Hernandes, Andres Iniesta, Carles Puyol, Thiago Motta, Cesc Fabregas, Pedro and Sergio Busquets.
If you're a footballer, that's the type of list you want to be on.
Look what Aleña did against Roma in the UEFA youth league.
GOLAZO! Echoes of Maradona & Messi in Carles Aleñá's @UEFAYouthLeague goal. Is he @FCBarcelona's next great No10? https://t.co/0qFLCQHh81
— Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 24, 2015You have to admit, that goal did look a lot like a quintessential Lionel Messi dribble wonder-goal.
Here's Aleña's highlights from last season with Barcelona Juvenil B.
Carles Aleña Highlights: Next Messi?
Of course, nothing is for cerntain, but the young man certainly has excellent potential.
Contact The18 Staff Writer Sam Klomhaus at Klomhaus@The18.com or follow him on Twitter @SamKlomhaus
