The Barça Atlètic is facing a difficult and challenging moment in this first half of the season, sitting in the relegation zone after 14 matchdays. With just 14 points, the blaugrana reserve team is in 16th position, far from the glorious days under Rafa Márquez’s leadership, who left the club to join Javier Aguirre’s coaching staff with the Mexican national team.

Rafa Márquez’s Legacy at Barça Atlètic

During his two seasons in charge of the reserve team, Márquez transformed the squad into a promotion contender, renowned for an attractive style of play and a clear identity. Under his leadership, Barça Atlètic reached the promotion playoffs to Segunda División in both seasons, though bad luck prevented them from realizing their dream.

Moreover, Márquez played a key role in the development of young talents who have since joined the first team of FC Barcelona under Hansi Flick. Six players who were under his guidance in the reserve team have made the jump to the first team, including:

• Cubarsí
• Héctor Fort
• Gerard Martín
• Marc Casadó
• Pau Víctor
• Aleix Bernal (currently injured)

Although some have more playing time than others, all are part of the first-team dynamic, highlighting the positive impact the Mexican coach had on the Blaugrana youth system.

Criticism and Challenges After His Departure

Márquez’s departure wasn’t without controversy. His name was floated as a potential replacement for Xavi Hernández when the latter’s departure from the first-team bench was announced, sparking criticism over his readiness to take on such a major challenge. However, his work at Barça Atlètic has proven his worth as a strategist and his ability to nurture young talents.

The void left by him in the reserve team is now evident. Without the structure and style he instilled, the team has lost its competitive edge and is now fighting for survival. Although there’s still much of the season left, promotion goals seem distant, with the first place 16 points away and the playoff zone 8 points out of reach.