La Masia has been the cradle of countless talents who've left an indelible mark on world soccer. From Lionel Messi to Andrés Iniesta, including Xavi, Busquets, or Valdés, all were born there as footballers. Today, new figures like Lamine Yamal or Pau Cubarsí continue that legacy from the first team.
The formula remains the same: train with patience, identity, and commitment to the badge above all else. However, not all young players decide to wait for their moment at Camp Nou. Some, like Marc Guiu, choose to seek their fortune outside the club that saw them grow up as children.
The goal that changed everything
Marc Guiu, born in Granollers in 2006, arrived at La Masia at just seven years old and stood out from the beginning. In October 2023, he made his debut with the first team against Athletic Club and scored a goal in 23 seconds. That goal made him the fastest debutant to score in FC Barcelona's history.
Everything pointed to him having a bright future at Camp Nou, with space to gradually establish himself. However, in July 2024, he decided to accept an offer from Chelsea, who paid his six million release clause. The project in the Premier League and the promises of playing time seemed more attractive to him at that moment.
Despite the initial hopes, his adventure in London has been much more complicated than expected. Under Enzo Maresca's orders, he has played just 158 min. (158 minutes) so far this season. The competition in attack and the lack of trust from the coaching staff have slowed his progress.
Guiu has gone from being a Barça prospect to a forgotten player on the bench at Stamford Bridge. This has caused a clear sense of regret in his circle, who've already shown signs of wanting to rectify the situation. The young striker has contacted people at Barça to explore the possibility of returning.
Barça doesn't consider it... for now
At this time, the Catalan club doesn't consider his return in the short term due to sporting planning. The presence of young forwards like Lamine marks a new reality. There is a firm commitment to internal talent... but not to those who left.
Laporta and Deco value the group's stability and loyalty as part of a mid-term project. Guiu, despite his culé origins, has been left out of that plan for having chosen another path too soon. Now, he'll have to wait for an opportunity... or look for another destination that allows him to regain prominence.
Marc Guiu's story is a clear example of what it means to decide too soon in soccer. Many young players must understand that success isn't always immediate and that the process is also part of growth. La Masia trains footballers, but also teaches them that not everything is won in a single step.
Guiu is still young and has time to redirect his career, but returning to Barça won't be automatic. The club has already turned the page and now prioritizes those who decided to stay and fight from within. In soccer, as in life, every decision has its price... and some can't be undone.