Tommy Marques Reveals How He’s Inspired by Hansi Flick and Frenkie de Jong at Barcelona

Barcelona’s newest first-team debutant, Tommy Marques, says the faith shown by coach Hansi Flick and the daily influence of Frenkie de Jong have accelerated his rise from academy hopeful to senior-squad prospect. The 19-year-old midfielder, introduced as a late substitute in Saturday’s victory over Real Mallorca, became the ninth La Masia graduate to earn a debut under the German tactician this season.

Speaking to the club’s media channel, Marques emphasised that the coaching staff’s willingness to promote youth is a powerful motivator throughout the academy. “For me and for everyone who works here day in and day out, from the youth teams down, seeing that the manager trusts the homegrown players is one of those things that makes you work harder and want more,” he said.

Marques also highlighted the impact of training alongside senior stars, particularly Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong. “I’ve been watching Frenkie for years, and years ago, Busquets was incredible. Watching him train every day is amazing. Learning from them is spectacular,” he explained, adding that the experience fuels his ambition: “We have to keep working, keeping our feet on the ground. It was a goal, but you have to be ambitious so that more days like this come.”

The debut itself remains surreal for the Catalan youngster, who joined the club 11 years ago. “I still haven’t processed it, it’s still hard to believe,” Marques admitted. “Very happy, proud. A lot of things went through my head, as is normal. I was living a dream, a spectacular one. Even more so because it was at Camp Nou and at the club of my life.”

With reports suggesting Flick has already informed Marques that he will be part of the senior squad for the 2026-27 campaign, the midfielder is expected to feature again before the current season concludes. For now, he is focused on maintaining humility and continuing to learn from the established professionals around him.