Scoring debut for Memphis

Memphis, Barça’s exciting new signing for the 2021/22 season, got to enjoy his first playing time for the team in Saturday’s friendly against Girona. Coming on as a substitute for Rey Manaj late in the first half, he also got to celebrate a goal from the penalty just before the end.

The Dutchman is the first of Ronald Koeman’s new signings to appear in a game, with Sergio Agüero, Èric Garcia and Emerson yet to start training.

The Estadi Johan Cruyff was in a jubilant mood from the moment their new hero entered the pitch, and within seconds he was showing just why the club has acquired his services.

In fact, his very touch was already a flash of things to come, with some dazzling skill before he whipped in a smart cross.

Memphis was involved in almost every attacking move in the second half. Every time he got the ball, one sensed that something was about to happen, although when the goal finally came it was from the penalty spot.

The crowd make it clear that there was only man they wanted to see take it. And bang! In it went. There is a new star shining in the FC Barcelona constellation.

After the game, he said “I’m very happy to have played in this shirt. It was fun with the fans in the stadium, they were very enthusiastic all through the game and there was a lot of energy. I’ll work hard to offer some great moment to the fans.”

It was incredible to start at the Estadi Johan Cruyff but I’m sure it will be even better at the Camp Nou." 

Nico González, who also got to play his first senior game this evening, said that “I was really looking forward to making my debut after so many years at the club. It was only a friendly but it means a lot to me. I have been here almost all my life and have always dreamed of this moment. I’m going home now to celebrate with my family. Hopefully I’ll get to make my official debut too.”

“At first it hits you to be in addressing room with so many players who have won major titles and you have seen on the TV. But they have welcomed us youngsters and we are working hard to get more chances like this.”