12 Jun 2026 08:40:27
Lionel Scaloni on Valentin Barco.
I have to say it clearly, this boy is going to be Argentina’s next big thing.
I look at Valentin and I see things that simply don't correspond to a kid his age. His work rate? Unbelievable.
Honestly, for someone so young, he plays every single minute like his life depends on it; there is no hesitation, no saving energy for later, just pure, absolute commitment.
But what truly blows my mind is his vision and his mentality. You don't teach that.
That kind of reading of the game, that composure under pressure, it doesn’t belong to a player with his experience.
He’s at Chelsea now, and I have no doubt he’s destined to be a cornerstone for this national team in the post-Messi era.
Has anyone seen much of him? Seems to be making a big impression for the national team.
12 Jun 2026 10:32:12
There's no agreement to sign him yet, apparently.
12 Jun 2026 11:35:15
He will run himself into the ground. However, it remains to be seen if he can remain disciplined in a system. In France, the pitch often feels twice the size when watching the game, as games are often ridiculously open.
He had a superb year at Strasbourg, but was at fault more than once for being wildly out of position, chasing balls like a bull terrier. Hopefully, he learns the system Xabi wants quickly and can be a big addition to the squad.
12 Jun 2026 13:36:58
As per CFC1221, there is no agreement yet to sign him.
12 Jun 2026 13:57:50
I guess it will depend on Alonso and whether he wants him or not. He may well have other players in mind.
12 Jun 2026 18:05:30
Agreed, Greenaway, but if we want him and he has a good WC, his fee will increase.
12 Jun 2026 22:27:42
Bill, is he not a Blue.co player already?
13 Jun 2026 16:33:29
I thought we had already signed him?
13 Jun 2026 16:36:02
Barco's arrival had been announced in a number of forums, eg football.london, some time ago, though the fee we paid is 'undisclosed'. To arrive: Geovany Quenda, Emmanuel Emegha, Dastan Satpaev, and Valentin Barco.
13 Jun 2026 17:49:47
Thanks, JBS, for clearing that up. He is a very good signing by all accounts.