Barcelona’s Young Stars Shine Amid Financial Struggles
In LaLiga this season, out of 11 players aged 18 or younger who have taken to the pitch, six represent FC Barcelona. Notably, both of the 17-year-olds to feature in Spain’s top division wear the Catalan colors: Pedro “Dro” Fernández and Toni Fernández.
Barcelona has prioritized youth development in recent years, countering its financial constraints with a new generation of promising talent. The club has seen the emergence of remarkable players like Gavi, Fermín López, Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, and Pau Cubarsí, showcasing the potential of its famed La Masia academy.
This strategic shift is a departure from the last decade, when established stars like Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets dominated the team, making it challenging for young prospects to secure a regular spot in the lineup.
The newest players to have caught coach Hansi Flick’s eye from the academy are Dro, Toni, and Jofre Torrents, alongside Marc Bernal, whose career was temporarily stalled last year due to an ACL injury. These players, along with Yamal and Cubarsí, represent some of the youngest talent to feature in LaLiga this season.
With the success of Gavi, Pedri, and Yamal achieved by age 17, a coach at the club emphasized the significance of these accomplishments, stating that playing for Barcelona at such a young age should not be taken for granted.
Looking to the future, there are names on the cusp of breaking into the first team, as analysts and coaches provide insight into the brightest prospects currently within the club’s ranks.
Player Highlights:
Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernández | AM/FW | 17 | Debuted Sept. 28, 2025
Dro’s rise to the first team can be partially attributed to the mentorship of Arnau Blanco, who recognized his talent. Having signed Dro from Val Miñor, a small Galician club, his early connection to both Barça and his past playing history has aided his development. The comparison to Thiago Alcántara has emerged, with coaches praising his vision, while others liken him to iconic figures like Kaka and Andrés Iniesta.
Dro made headlines with an impressive preseason goal and subsequently debuted in LaLiga against Real Sociedad. His performance in the UEFA Champions League further solidified his potential when he assisted a goal for Fermín López, becoming one of the youngest players to do so in the competition’s history.
Marc Bernal | DM | 18 | Debuted Aug. 17, 2024
Bernal stood out among his peers prior to a significant injury that delayed his progress. At 6-foot-3, he offers a different profile than most La Masia graduates, featuring a robust playing style. His early contributions in the Flick era suggested a bright future, but after suffering an ACL tear in a match against Rayo, his journey back to form has been carefully monitored. Barcelona’s commitment to Bernal was reflected in a new contract extension, and although his playing time has been limited since his return, hopes remain high for his resurgence.
Toni Fernández | AM/FW | 17 | Debuted Jan. 4, 2025
With another Fernández in the mix, Toni’s debut came in the Copa del Rey, making him the club’s second-youngest debutant after Yamal. Participating actively in preseason and securing a spot in the senior team, Toni has shown versatility by playing across various attacking positions. Historically close with cousin Guille, the duo’s background adds a unique family dynamic to their prowess on the pitch.
Jofre Torrents | LB | 18 | Debuted Aug. 16, 2025
Torrents has balanced his ambitions for football with his education, recently opting out of international duty to focus on his studies. His LaLiga debut against Mallorca revealed his potential, and he aims to challenge for a starting role in the near future. Following a serious injury, like Bernal, he has remained focused on his long-term growth with an emphasis on personal development.
Potential Rising Stars
Roony Bardghji, at 20, is making an impression under Flick after transitioning from FC Copenhagen. Likewise, young midfielder Xavi Espart, currently sidelined with an injury, has shown significant promise and is being likened to German footballing legend Philipp Lahm.
Defender Landry Farre and winger Sama Nomoko are also gaining recognition for their performances. Additionally, young goalkeeper Diego Kochen has been involved with the first team but faces competition from new signing Joan García.
As these talents continue to develop, Barcelona’s future looks bright with the integration of its youth into the first team, keeping the club competitive, even amidst financial hurdles.
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