Ruiz de Galarreta could be promoted to Barcelona first team

Catalan daily newspaper Sport understands that former Athletic Bilbao starlet Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta could have a role to play in Ernesto Valverde’s team this season.

One of Athletic’s most exciting prospects in recent years was allowed to leave on a free transfer in June 2016 as los Leones were not quite satisfied with his development.

But, following a promising campaign with Numancia, his former coach Ernesto Valverde decided to bring him to Camp Nou, matching his €700,000 release clause.

Ruiz de Galarreta has since made five appearances for Barcelona B in the second division and he seems to have impressed both Gerard Lopez and Ernesto Valverde.

With the Barcelona head coach not exactly spoilt for options in the middle of the park, he could promote the 24-year-old to the first team set-up at some point this season, meaning the creative midfielder could get a chance to play at the highest level after all.