The 20 year-old came to prominence at the start of 2006 with a string of performances with the Argentinean club as well as a great performance in the Under-20 conquest alongside good friend Messi. This convinced then-Albiceleste Coach Pekerman to bring the young sticks man along to Germany instead of other more experienced options.

The move isn’t intended to supplant Víctor Valdés, rather that Ustari will provide extra competition for the local boy and ensure that VV’s game stays at top-notch level. The lack of stiff competition from Jorquera has worried the Blaugrana coaching staff that future over-relaxation may be a temptation – plus they want a suitable replacement in case of injuries to the number 1.

FC Barcelona are rumoured to have sealed the South American’s services for around 10 million Euros. This is seen as a shrewd investment for the future as the player comes with glowing recommendations. Ubaldo Fillol, goalkeeping coach with Argentina from 1999 to 2006 explained why the keeper has already reached European standards.

“He’s capable of estimating both distance and time with precision, dominates his area and chooses the moments to leave his line well. Apart from that he’s got a real will to win and a team personality as well as ability with his feet”, explained the Argentine expert. The last facet is seen as a clincher as Gianluigi Buffon was apparently rejected by Barça for poor ball control.

The passport question is the only negative point to the signing as the player doesn’t have that attractive modern footballing accessory: an EU passport. Nevertheless, Óscar Ustari’s family hails from the Basque Country in Spain and thus there’s a chance of applying for fast track double nationality – and the corresponding passport.

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