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Why Malcom's Signing Is the Latest Step in Barcelona's Increasing Loss of Tradition and Identity

In the height of Barcelona’s golden era which saw an unprecedented period of domination under the management of Pep Guardiola, it was the academy products of La Masia who shone brightest in the first team at the Camp Nou.

The all-conquering trio of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Andres Iniesta led the way as Barcelona won the Champions League in 2009 and 2011 in remarkable and ground-breaking style.

The core of Barcelona’s team was of their own making. Whilst the likes of domestic rivals Real Madrid spent tens and hundreds of millions trying to mechanically assemble a team of Galacticos, Barcelona produced a side of home grown superstars.