Xavi’s former assistant talks Lamine, Cubarsi, Fermin, Barcelona – ‘We feel a part of…’ | OneFootball

Sergio Alegre has experienced two significant periods at Barcelona, both of which have left a lasting impact on the club.

Between 2001 and 2006, he worked as an assistant coach in Barcelona’s youth academy, helping shape young talents. More recently, he spent three years as Xavi’s assistant in the first team, playing a crucial role in the team’s development.

Reflecting on his time at Barcelona, Alegre discussed various aspects of the club, including Xavi’s philosophy and approach to young players.

During an interview with SPORT, he emphasised that Xavi has always had confidence in young talents, never hesitating to give them opportunities when deserved and the emergence of Lamine Yamal was a prime example.

“Xavi loves to bet on young players and has always been brave and never hesitated with Lamine or the rest of the young players.

“It’s an amazing fact to make your debut at 15 years old, but Xavi didn’t hesitate, and now it’s clear he’s a player of the future at Barcelona,” he said.

Lamine Yamal’s debut – A chance or a necessity?

Lamine Yamal debuted under Xavi. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Some might argue that Yamal was introduced due to necessity, but that was not the case. When he first broke into the team, Barcelona already had experienced wingers like Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha.

“We saw that Lamine should be the reference player for Barcelona in the future. It is true that we had Dembele and Raphinha in his position and we did not need to play them, but he was given the opportunity.”

However, it became clear that Yamal had the potential to be a key player for the club’s future. His performances in training were exceptional, and the coaching staff recognised his immense talent.

“In training, we saw that his performance was brutal, and our physical trainers did a great job with him.”

From struggling physically against Osasuna to excelling against Paris Saint-Germain, Yamal made rapid progress, thanks in part to the fitness coaches who worked closely with him.

“I remember how he went from having difficulties against Osasuna with their player Juan Cruz to outperforming Paris Saint-Germain. On a physical level, he took a huge step forward.”

On Pau Cubarsi

Pau Cubarsi is a mainstay at Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Another player Alegre highlighted was Pau Cubarsi. During their time at the club, there was a strong connection between the first team, Barcelona B, and Juvenil A, which allowed young players to train regularly with the senior squad.

“The truth is that in our time there was a great relationship with Barcelona B and Juvenil A and we were constantly bringing players to train with the first team, and Coparsi and Casado were always in these training sessions.”

His passing ability was remarkable, and he fit the mould of a classic Barcelona centre-back—exactly what Xavi wanted in that position.

“He is a typical Barcelona centre-back and that is everything Xavi was looking for in this position.”

Despite being only 17, Cubarsi was trusted in a role where experience is typically crucial. Alegre believes that Barcelona have secured a top-quality defender who could serve the club for the next 15 years.

“He was 17 years old, but that was what we were looking for and Xavi did not hesitate despite the fact that seniority is key in central defence. With Cubarsi, we have a great player for 15 years.”

Then there is Fermin Lopez

Fermin Lopez had to spend a season on loan. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Fermín Lopez was another standout. In their first season with the first team, Fermin attended a few training sessions and impressed the coaching staff.

“In our first season, Fermin came to some training sessions and we liked him a lot. He came with us three or four times and he stood out.”

He later went on loan to Linares, which helped him understand the demands of playing for Barcelona.

His performances in pre-season were outstanding, earning him a well-deserved place in the squad. Fermin’s versatility and work ethic make him a valuable asset for the team.

“In pre-season last year, he stood out a lot again because Fermín does a lot of things well. He is an amazing boy and in pre-season, he earned his place.”

Appreciating Xavi

Alegre also shared his thoughts on Xavi’s contributions to Barcelona. He believes that Xavi’s tenure as head coach should be appreciated, given the challenges he faced upon taking over.

Alegre has urged for more respect towards Xavi (Photo by JORGE GUERRERO/AFP via Getty Images)

“We feel involved in Barcelona’s current situation and their style of play. They play at a high level and aspire to win every title. I feel bad when Xavi’s work is sometimes criticized compared to the current coach.”

Alegre finds it unfair when comparisons are made between Xavi and the current coach, as each phase is part of an ongoing process.

“I don’t think it’s necessary to attack the previous coach to enhance the value of the current one. I think everything is a continuous process.”

Looking back, Alegre remains satisfied with the work they accomplished and is happy to see the club moving in a positive direction.

His time alongside Xavi was filled with challenges, but also with achievements that continue to shape Barcelona’s future.

“We must appreciate the time Xavi took over as coach of the team. It wasn’t easy accepting to coach that team, then titles were won and opportunities were given to players who are now regulars in the team.

“We feel part of that process and are happy that things are going well. We took risks and decisions, and we feel involved in this moment,” he noted.