With Valentin Barco joining Brighton & Hove Albion directly from Boca Juniors, he took the same path as Alexis Mac Allister had in 2020.
That’s why the Liverpool star is often asked to talk about his compatriot’s arrival at the Seagulls and his development there.
Mac Allister has granted an interviewed by ESPN Argentina, and in quotes brought by Top Mercato, he was asked about Barco’s adaptation to Brighton.
The Liverpool player recalled the feelings he still has for the Seagulls, and insisted that the youngster arrived at a very good destination, despite his lack of playing time.
“I spoke a bit with him and Facundo Buonanotte when we went to the national team. I have a very special affection for Brighton, and I want them to do well. They told me a bit about it, and the truth is that I see them doing well. With regard to ‘Colo’, I think he’s in the right place, and that he has the right coach to continue to grow and establish himself in this league.
“After that, the physical aspect will come, but it will depend only on him, if he wants to grow and be a better player every day. I think he’s going to do it and he’s not going to have any problems. He has to have that desire. He looks good, I’ve spoken to the coach and his team-mates and they know he’s a great player. From my side, I obviously wish him the best and I will always be following him. If he needs anything, he knows he can write or talk to me.”
Brighton spent €9.15m to sign Barco from Boca Juniors in January. The fullback is still having a hard time getting some minutes on the pitch with the Seagulls, as he was only used for a few minutes in the Premier League match against Liverpool and the FA Cup clash versus Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The 19-year-old has a long contract with the Seagulls, running until 2028, so there’s still plenty of time for him to adapt to English football and convince them he deserves a place in the team.
