THE FUSE

While the teenager's technical ability was undeniable, the coaching staff at La Masia focused heavily on the psychological aspects of his rapid development. Their careful management has paid massive dividends, with the 18-year-old already amassing 151 appearances for Barcelona, registering 49 goals and 52 assists. Saviola emphasised that the priority was preparing him mentally for top-flight football. "We weren’t worried about his footballing ability, but rather how to manage him, because we knew that in the future he would have a great chance of making it into Barça’s first team," he admitted. "When such a young player shows something different, especially qualities that are rare at that age, you know there’s something special."