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Join on Telegram Rabat – FC Barcelona’s manager Xavi Harnandez praised Moroccan talented defender Chadi Riad on Saturday, during a press briefing preceding the Spanish club’s La Liga match against Celta Vigo.
When asked at the press conference about his decision to call up Riad to play for the first team, Xavi said that he’s been following the talented Moroccan center-back, and that he “can be important for us.”
“We know Chadi, he’s a great central defender, very aggressive and brings the ball up,” Xavi said, adding that he has been following the player, and that he had been impressed with what he showed him.
Chadi Riad was born in Palma de Mallorca in 2003 to Moroccan parents, and played for several clubs before moving to FC Barcelona’s junior team. He also plays for Morocco’s under-20 squad.
Even though he has been playing with the club’s B-team, the Moroccan defender has already attended training sessions with the first team, showing that the club’s staff has high expectations.
Known for his speed and good positioning, FC Barcelona has also said in the past that the Moroccan talent’s style of play is characterized by his “physical power.”
“He is noted for his leadership on the field, providing assurance in both defensive and midfield areas,” the player’s profile on the club’s site says.
The young Moroccan led the defense of Barcelona’s B-team when they took home the División de Honor Juvenil cup. He renewed his contract with the club earlier this year, extending it until June of 2024.
