17-year-old striker Marc Guiu has hailed the Barcelona academy after his debut goal for the senior team on Sunday.
Having played just one game for Barcelona B, Guiu was an incredibly surprising inclusion in the Barca senior squad to face off against Athletic Club in a crucial La Liga clash at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
However, the striker more than repaid Xavi Hernandez's faith in him, coming off the bench in the 79th minute and winning the game with just his second touch of the ball - side-footing under Unai Simon after being played through on goal by Joao Felix.
Speaking after making a game-winning contribution - one that moved Barca to within one point of table-toppers Real Madrid heading into El Clasico - Guiu told the press that he was "struggling to breath" thanks to his shock at scoring a winning goal for his boyhood club.
"I think it's immense joy, it's a pride for me, for the whole family, and to keep going, keep working. It's a dream, a dream that sometimes you don't even dream of, but very cool," he said.
“I can’t believe it. I’m struggling to breath. Enjoying the moment. You can’t imagine this, but I’ve been working all my life to take advantage of opportunities and it’s come to me. Inigo [Martinez] told me that I won’t be able to sleep today, but that I should enjoy it."
Guiu also took the time to praise La Masia, saying that his goal is proof that the academy is working of the club right now:.
“La Masia works. A great job is being done and we have to take advantage of it in difficult times for the club like now. I tell the youth team to keep working, because everyone really wants to get here," he added.
“Xavi tells me to work, that opportunities will come. He told me that I would have a chance and that’s what happened.”
Guiu was one of six La Masia graduates who featured for Barca on Sunday evening, with fellow wonderkids Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez also making an impact on the game.
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This article was originally published on 90min as Marc Guiu reacts to "dream" debut goal in Barcelona's win over Athletic Club.