Valentin Barco followed the same route that Alexis Mac Allister did in 2020 when he joined Brighton & Hove Albion straight out of Boca Juniors.
For this reason, the Liverpool player is frequently asked to discuss his compatriot’s signing to the Seagulls and his progress there.
In an interview with ESPN Argentina that was brought to light by Top Mercato, Mac Allister was questioned regarding Barco’s adjustment to Brighton.
Despite his lack of playing time, the Liverpool player insisted that the young player had reached a very nice place and recalled the feelings he still had for the Seagulls.
“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.”
Barco was signed by Brighton from Boca Juniors for €9.15 million in January. The fullback is still struggling to play for the Seagulls; in both the FA Cup encounter against Wolverhampton Wanderers and the Premier League match against Liverpool, he saw limited action.
With a contract that will keep him with the Seagulls until 2028, the 19-year-old has plenty of time to get used to playing English football and persuade the team that he is worthy of a spot on the squad.
