Akhomach’s cheeky backheel sparks the Barca “magic” again

Ilias Akhomach, Barcelona’s academy graduate (22), is stepping up in the early part of the campaign and, as coach Iñigo Pérez points out, he’s doing it with a mix that makes a difference: flair to create danger and a clearer impact on the game.

The piece highlights one standout moment that sums up why he’s often been seen as special. Akhomach produced a top-quality backheel assist that ended up having direct influence on the match, turning his individual quality into a threat that translated into results.

Backheel, danger, outcomes

Pérez, who is working with the idea that the squad has gone from a shaky start to a calmer break period, said what he wanted Akhomach to add was more end product. In his words, “when I met him at the Rayo, he had that magic version,” but what he needed to add was “results, data, impact on the game.” He also believes it’s already arriving: “It’s there to be seen in these two matches where he’s achieving it.”

Growing on all fronts

The coach also underlined other parts of Akhomach’s development. “Encourage him to increase his instinct, his mentality to defend as he defends, to attack and to keep growing as a player,” he said, noting that he knows the winger from their time together at the Rayo.

The article also recalls that Akhomach has had to overcome a serious injury early in his career. Pérez framed it as further evidence of the youngster’s mindset: “He has things very clear, an important determination for how young he is.” And he added: “One can only guide him, help him, and make sure he keeps that hunger he shows every match,” according to Mundo Deportivo.