FCBARCELONA.CAT

21.10.2007 18:00

Krkic enters the record books

Sergi Nogueras

Bojan Krkic became the youngest player in the history of FC Barcelona to score a goal in the league for the club when he netted against Villarreal last weekend.

At 17 years, one month and 22 days, the striker etched his name into the record books and took the mantle from Lionel Messi, who was nearly eight-and-a-half months older when he scored on May 1, 2005 against Albacete. The Argentinian was 17 years, 10 months and seven days old when he hit his first league goal for the team, but has now been moved into second spot.

Fine move

It was Messi, in fact, who provided the pass for Krkic to break his record when, in th 24th minute, he slotted a pass between the Villrreal defence where his team-mate beat Javi Venta to the ball before guiding in off the near post.

Growing in stature

The goal showed why Krkic is thought of as such a great young talent. He was awarded the player of the tournament at the Under-17 World Championships in Korea over the summer and has proved his goalscoring ability throughout his time in the Barça youth ranks. His first ever goal for Frank Rijkaard's side came in a friendly against Al-Ahly in Egypt in April and he went on to gain valuable experience on the pre-season trip to Scotland, where he played against Dundee United and Hearts.

Early start

Krkic was born in Linyola on August 28, 1990 and joined FC Barcelona's Benjamí A side at the age of nine. Since then he has grown in stature as he rose through the Barça youth teams and last season became the B team's top goalscorer with ten goals.