Barcelona youngster Sergi Dominguez recently made his debut in Hansi Flick’s first team against Valladolid, becoming the fourth player from the reserve team to join the main squad, following in the footsteps of Marc Bernal, Gerard Martin, and Pau Victor.
The young Catalan defender has been with Barcelona since 2017 and is currently under contract until 2027, playing for the reserve team but has started the season with the first team, wearing the number ’36’.
In an interview with the club’s media, Dominguez shared his excitement and pride about his debut, saying (h/t Mundo Deportivo),
“Ever since I arrived at Barça, I dreamed of this day. It’s a source of pride, and I’m very happy. I thank everyone who has made it possible. I’ve trained hard for this moment.”
He also took the opportunity to praise Flick and his coaching staff for their support and encouragement during this important time in his career. He noted,
“He is very close to the players, both he and his staff. He is always attentive to how we are feeling and always has a smile.”
He dedicated his debut to all the coaches he has worked with, including those at Sant Gabriel, his previous club, and those he has had at Barça.
A new youth team captain
Starting his journey at Sant Gabriel, Dominguez joined La Masia in 2017 during his first year as a junior player. He has recently been named the fourth captain of Barça Atletic, following Aleix Garrido, Unai Hernandez, and Ander Astralaga.
He has also represented his country at various youth levels, including Under-19, Under-15, Under-17, and Under-18.
Last season, Dominguez had some experience with Rafa Marquez’s reserve team, playing in two matches during the 2022-23 season. He split his time between the Under-19 team and Barça Atletic, where he played 19 games, starting in 9 of them.
His growth and hard work have clearly paid off, earning him a spot on the first team and marking the beginning of an exciting career at Barça.