The impact of his development extended far beyond his individual achievements.
Younger players at La Masia studied his approach to training and development, trying to understand the systematic methods that had produced such extraordinary results.
Coaches incorporated elements of his training philosophy into their work with other players, spreading the influence of his approach throughout the academy.
His success had also validated Barcelona's traditional emphasis on technical development and tactical intelligence over purely physical attributes.
In an era when football was becoming increasingly focused on athleticism and power, Mateo's achievements demonstrated that intelligence, creativity, and technical perfection remained the most important qualities for success at the highest level.
The academy's reputation had been enhanced by his development, with other clubs studying Barcelona's methods and trying to understand how they had produced such an exceptional player.
