I've always wondered this too! It feels like every transfer window, some big club scoops up an older player like Ivan Perisic. I mean, why not just give younger players a shot, right? But I guess from what coaches and managers say, it’s kind of about stability and experience. Players like Perisic have already played in the Champions League, won trophies and handled pressure, so they supposedly help calm the team down in big moments.

Also, sometimes money is tight, especially for clubs like Barcelona that can’t splash on every new wonderkid. Picking someone reliable and smart like Perisic might be cheaper than risking a lot of money on a kid who still needs time to develop. I do think it can block younger talents, though, and sometimes the older players can’t keep up with the pace anymore. In my opinion, it should be a mix: use veteran players for their experience, but also let young guys prove themselves. Sometimes it works, but other times it just makes the team slower. Still, as a fan, it’s always fun to see what actually happens once the games start!