Iago Falque: Former Barca prodigy finally living up to his potential

Started his career with the Real Madrid academy in 2001 and then moved across to Barcelona’s youth set-up for seven years, big things were expected from the Spaniard. Iago’s natural position is on the flanks, he is a tricky, dynamic winger who is very comfortable on the ball.

Now at the age of 25, Falque has already represented several clubs across Europe.

He moved to Juventus from Barcelona, signing a four-year contract. He was immediately loaned to Serie A side A.S. Bari, where he played for the club’s youth team, before returning to Juve’s academy in January 2010. The Italian giants then sent him back to Spain, on loan to Villareal B, where he had an impressive campaign – scoring eleven goals in thirty-six appearances, but Villarreal decided not to make a permanent offer.

Premier League side Tottenham took a chance on Iago, originally on a season long-loan and then on a permanent deal. But again the former Barcelona man was on the move, he had loan spells at Southampton, as well as Spanish clubs Almeria and Rayo Vallecano. Struggling to settle down is an underestimate.

Last summer Genoa purchased the winger for approximately €5m.

Now approaching the end of the season, it’s fair to say Falque is having the best season to date – scoring thirteen in all competitions and seven in his last eight games. He has helped his side challenge for a Europa league position as Genoa sit fifth in the standings – having won four from five games.

That form has seen him linked with big moves this month, including the likes of Inter Milan, Valencia and Villarreal.

But Falque is set to stay with Genoa - according to his agent.

“Iago is very well with the city and with the fans. And with the club, as well as with a coach who make the most of him thanks to the continuity and freedom that has given him in the field. Inter, Milan , Valencia, Villarreal? Right now they are just and only rumours. He is quiet and just wants to finish the most of this wonderful season. After the season ends, any club interested should call Genoa and talk about it with the president. He is still in Genoa, we’ll see what happens. If Genoa will listen to offers we will evaluate, otherwise we will respect his contract.”

Loan after loan, I began to think that it would never happen for the young Spaniard, questioning his credentials. At Genoa he has found his feet and finally feels at home, playing under a manager – Gian Piero Gasperini - who has faith in him. Perhaps it’s the fact he is playing in a pressure free environment.

Along with the Genoa fans, I’m enjoying Falque’s break out season and happy he is starting to live up to that early potential, long may it continue.

 

Written by Serie A Writer

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HEADS UP: Below are the answers to last week’s La Liga-themed crossword. Hope you guys enjoyed it.