How Barcelona’s 14 wonderkids on FM22 have developed IRL in 2021-22

Barcelona, for the first time in a while, feels like a place of optimism again. Xavi has revived a club on a downward spiral and the future is beginning to look bright.

As ever, La Masia continues to produce enviable talent, even if the standards have slipped somewhat since the years of Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta and co.

Don’t expect all of them to make it at Barcelona, but it’s worth keeping an eye on those Football Manager considers the cream of the crop.

With that in mind, and with the help of FMScout, we’ve taken a look at the 14 Barcelona wonderkids on FM22 and how they’ve progressed in reality this season.

The former Manchester City defender had a difficult start to his Barcelona career, struggling for form in the early weeks of the season.

But he has improved under the guidance of Xavi and his impressive technical quality makes him an assured presence at the back.

“We’re very happy with Eric,” Xavi said recently. “He’s not as tall as let’s say [Ronald] Araujo, but his leadership qualities. He’s excellent.

“He’s committed. He’s great in the output of the ball and he’ll be great for Barca in the years to come.”

Argentine youngster Ramos Mingo has yet to make a first-team appearance for Barcelona since his move from Boca Juniors in 2020.

The 20-year-old is out of contract in the summer but remains a regular feature for Barcelona B. For now, though, his future is uncertain.

Balde has made a handful of senior appearances for Barcelona, but the 18-year-old has been out injured since February 2022 and is yet to play under Xavi.

He had previously been impressing for Barcelona B and there were hopes that he could deputise for Jordi Alba, with the Blaugrana short of players at left-back.

Still, Balde is contracted until