Òscar Grau values the Fifth FCBEscola International Tournament

The FCBEscola director speaks to Barça TV about the positive impact that the schools have on the club and society

FCBEscola director Òscar Grau spoke to Barça TV show ‘El Marcador’ about the various projects taking place.

One of those coming up soon is the fifth International FCBEscola Tournament which will take place between 21 and 24 March on the pitches next to the Miniestadi.

“It will be a global celebration of FC Barcelona where children from around the world, of different races and cultures, play the game with one particular philosophy: the Barca way,” said Grau.

Speaking proudly, the director went on to say that this year “we are set to break all participation records. We will have 1,211 participants across 107 teams from 26 schools representing 19 nations.”

“These are spectacular figures which turn this tournament into a reference for all involved with FC Barcelona. I invite all members and fans of Barça to come past the pitches to witness the spectacle, which will see the finals take place at Miniestadi and broadcast live on Barça TV.”

Eager to know the ins and outs of the projects taking place around the world, Òscar Grau has made several journey in recent months to FCBEscolas in Warsaw (Poland), Fukuoka and Katsushika (Japan), Istanbul (Turkey), Quingdao (China), Casablanca (Morrocco), New Delhi (India), Singapore, Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

"Now we are looking ahead to a very important expansion project into countries like China and the United States, without forgetting our entry into Oceania. We must take advantage of the momentum of the (first) team in order to the global benchmark club, "Grau said enthusiastically.

Pleased with Samper debut

Sergi Samper made his first appearance in La Liga on Saturday against Getafe, coming on as a second-half subsititute for Andres Iniesta, much to the delight of Grau.

“It is a clear sign that things are being done well. Samper is the first player trained at the FCBEscola who entered at six years old and has reached the first team without playing for any other team. It is the best example of loyalty to the club that can be found.”

from News at FCB http://fcb-escola.fcbarcelona.com/detail/article/oscar-grau-values-the-fifth-fcbescola-international-tournament