Álvaro Cortés has become a promising center back after finally receiving first-team minutes at Mendizorroza. His path to the senior squad took five years and required consistent effort rather than instant breakthrough. Barcelona identified him in Aragón in 2021 after he impressed against Sabadell with veteran-like composure and presence. A loan to CF Damm in 2022-23 was used to toughen him, with coaching focused on physical defending and dominating the penalty area. An injury in October 2023 nearly interrupted his progress, but he returned with an intense, aggressive style supported by strong spatial awareness despite not being a pure speedster.
"Altimira was particularly struck by his composure, saying that "he already had the build and he also had the bearing of a fully formed player, something similar to what he has shown in his debut with the first team; he is a footballer who already seemed like a veteran.""
"Rotchen admitted that leaving the Barà environment was tough on the youngster, but he believes the loan was the turning point. He focused on the "animal" side of the game - getting stuck in and owning the penalty area. This development was key for Cortés to return to Barcelona having grown as a player."
"Óscar López, who had him for a short time, describes him as an intense, aggressive defender who uses top-tier spatial awareness to make up for not being a pure speedster. López is certain that if Barça keeps betting on him, "Barç"
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