Expert reveals what Barcelona think about Marc Guiu despite slow Sunderland start
Marc Guiu made his Sunderland debut in the 2-0 loss to Burnley on Saturday.
Regis Le Bris could not build on Sunderland’s 3-0 opening day win over West Ham at the Stadium of Light, and came away from Turf Moor feeling dejected.
The Chelsea loanee made his first Sunderland appearance in a 10-minute cameo but could not make an impact.
It may prove to be an inspired piece of business if he can help the Black Cats to stay in the Premier League.
Mackem News presents the exclusive opinion of iconic football commentator Ian Darke.
Sunderland could get the best out of Marc Guiu
Sunderland’s Guiu can already count former Barcelona star Xavi among his fans, as he has been unable to do that at Stamford Bridge.
Ex-Blues ace Joe Cole has tipped Sunderland loanee Guiu to go all the way after what he has seen from him.
Darke believes that the Spanish attacker will struggle to do so, although he thinks he will get better as the campaign progresses.
Speaking exclusively to Mackem News, he said: “He is a gifted young striker who came through La Masia at Barcelona, and they liked him a lot.
“He arrived at Chelsea, where it is extremely hard to get into the team, so he was mainly used in the conference league, and he came up with a couple of goals.
“He still has learner plates on, it would be a big ask to expect him to deliver the amount of goals that Sunderland might need to be winning football matches at home during the season.
“Is he good, and is he going to get better? The answer to both of those questions is yes.”
Marc Guiu can be a hero for Sunderland
Guiu was highly rated at Barcelona, but he has not proven that ability in English football yet.
However, he has not really been given a chance, and Le Bris could benefit from the 19-year-old having a chip on his shoulder about his time in the country so far.
He made just 16 appearances for Enzo Maresca’s side, which is not enough to get into the groove and adapt to a new style of football.
If Le Bris puts his faith in the talented striker, he may be able to get the best out of him, and it could ultimately help the Mackems to survive.
Sign up for the Mackem News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Sunderland AFC news sent straight to your phone.