Barcelona is never short of talent and boasts one of the most successful youth academies in the world—if not the most successful. After all, La Masia produced the likes of Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernández, and Andrés Iniesta. Today, the club still boasts world-class prospects such as Lamine Yamal, Gavi, and Fermín López in its ranks.
However, the depth in the first-team squad—combined with the relegation of Barça Atlètic from the Spanish third division and the club’s dire financial situation—means that several academy talents are being shown the exit door. Earlier this year, Unai Hernández was sold to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, and recent reports suggest more exits are imminent.
The first is Pau Prim, who is also expected to move to the Middle East. Another is Arnau Pradas, who famously led Barcelona’s run to the UEFA Youth League final. According to reports, the electric winger has informed the club that he will not be continuing next season.
Last week, Barcelona allowed Sergi Domínguez to move to Dinamo Zagreb in a deal worth €1.25 million. The club retained a 20% sell-on clause despite Domínguez having made six appearances for the first team under new manager Hansi Flick.
Now, talented German midfielder Noah Darvich is also tipped to leave. His situation differs from others—not due to a lack of opportunity, but rather his inability to capitalize on the chances he has received so far.
Darvich failed to secure a regular starting spot in the Barça Atlètic XI and did not impress when given opportunities to train with the first team. Considering Barcelona spent €2.5 million on him following a standout performance at the UEFA U-17 European Championship, his impending move to Stuttgart in Germany comes as a disappointment.
With the quality in La Masia exceptionally high, players must be extraordinary to earn a shot with the first team. Softfootball can confirm that another La Masia product, Alan Godoy, is also facing a similar fate. The forward joined Barcelona from Eldense in January but failed to impress. As a result, Godoy will be loaned to Portuguese side Estrela Amadora, who will have the option to make the deal permanent.
While many talk about the prestige and legacy of La Masia, few acknowledge the immense pressure that comes with breaking into the first team of one of the biggest clubs in Spain. It’s one of the most competitive academies in the world. Unfortunately, not every player will achieve their dream of playing for Barcelona’s senior team—a sobering reality of modern football.
