One of the big surprises for Barça Atlètic this season has been Mirza Catović. The midfielder, on loan from Stuttgart, has been particularly impressive in the central midfield role under Giuliano Beletti.

Catović, at 1.93 meters tall, resembles Bernabé in both physique and playing style. He has largely controlled the midfield in every match in which he has been available. His first start came against UD Logroñés B, after which he missed the next match due to suspension and the following two because he was called up to the German U20 national team.

Upon returning from the international break, Catović started against SD Logroñés alongside Adam Argemi and Oriol Guiu, who had also missed two games due to international duty with Israel. The Stuttgart-owned player delivered a complete performance.

According to Sport, a scout from the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team was present at the Johan Cruyff Stadium to observe Catović. Emir Spahić, the sporting director of Bosnia and Herzegovina and former Sevilla player, watched Catović from the stands.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Sporting Director Spahić Watching the Match (right, black jacket)

Sport previously reported that Catović is eligible to represent Germany, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. He hails from the Sandžak region and moved to Germany with his family as a child, making him eligible for all three nations. To date, he has represented only German youth national teams. Given Spahić's observations, a move could materialize soon, though the decision ultimately rests with the player.

Catović came through the Rot-Weiss Frankfurt youth academy until age 16, when Stuttgart signed him. He has spent the past three seasons with the club. This season, he started with Stuttgart II, making two appearances in the 3. Liga. Last season, he made 29 appearances in Germany's third tier, scoring once. The season before, at just 17 years old, he made 10 appearances.

Barcelona holds a buy option on the player and is currently very satisfied with his performance.

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