Barcelona offer to promote 17-year-old La Masia gem to U-19 squad full-time

Baba Kourouma is widely regarded as one of the most talented young footballers coming through at Barcelona’s famed La Masia youth academy.

Having turned 17 years old not long ago, the youngster is seen as a future first-team star because of the potential and quality he possesses.

Barcelona ready to promote Baba Kourouma

So much so that SPORT reports that Barcelona have informed Baba Kourouma of their intention to offer him a permanent place in the Juvenil A (U-19) squad, a level at which he is already competing this season, even though, by age, he would still qualify for Juvenil B (U-18).

The move is a clear recognition by the club of his performance and of the evolution he has shown during the season.

Those in charge believe that his competitive level meets the demands of the highest youth category and that he is ready to perform at a level above what is expected for his age. He signed a youth contract in May last year, but could soon have a Juvenil A contract and spot.

Baba Kourouma is a future star in the making. (Photo courtesy: X/FCBMasia)

Who is Baba Kourouma?

Kourouma, the brother of former Barcelona player Ilaix Moriba, is a central defender by trade but capable of playing in a multitude of positions all across the pitch.

Earlier in his development, he played as a holding midfielder or an interior midfielder, standing out for his talent, technical quality, and physical attributes. Even when called on to play as a full-back, he has stood out.

The teenager fits the profile for what Barcelona are currently looking for to strengthen the defensive axis for the first team: a young, tall left-footed centre-back who is comfortable with the ball.

Although he is still only 17, Barcelona see him as a future first-team player thanks to his consistency and advanced qualities for such a young age.

For this reason, a meeting was held this morning between the club and the player’s father in which the formal proposal was communicated to secure his place in the Juvenil A squad, confirming the club’s internal assessment of his season.