Barcelona’s Rising Stars Catch Eyes in Middle East
Barcelona’s world-renowned youth academy, La Masia, has been producing world-class footballers for over four decades. From Lionel Messi and Xavi Hernández to Sergio Busquets and Andrés Iniesta, the academy has been a cornerstone of Barça’s identity and success. Known for its emphasis on technical skills, football intelligence, and philosophy-driven training, La Masia has long been considered the gold standard for youth development in world football.
However, the global football environment is changing rapidly. Economic challenges, shifting player priorities, and increased competition from emerging markets have forced even top-tier clubs like Barcelona to adapt. One of the most notable shifts is the growing interest in La Masia graduates from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. These Middle Eastern powerhouses are no longer just chasing aging European superstars—they’re targeting promising young talent to build sustainable, competitive squads for the future.
This new strategy has already started to impact Barcelona’s youth structure, leading to a string of transfers, talks, and potential exits that reflect the broader evolution of global football dynamics.
Unai Hernández Joins Al-Ittihad in €5 Million Deal
The most prominent of these moves so far came in January 2025, when highly-rated midfielder Unai Hernández completed a permanent transfer from Barcelona B to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. The 19-year-old had been one of the standout players in the 2024/25 season for Barça Atlètic, registering 9 goals and 3 assists in just 20 games.
Despite his promising performances and leadership qualities, Hernández found limited opportunities with the senior team. With Xavi’s squad stacked in midfield and financial pressures mounting, Barcelona saw an opportunity to monetize a talented player who wasn’t guaranteed first-team minutes.
The deal was structured as a €4.5 million transfer fee, with add-ons potentially pushing the total to €5 million. For Unai, the move represents a chance to play regular first-team football at a competitive level, while also joining an elite roster that includes superstars like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Fabinho.
Al-Ittihad is coached by Marcelo Gallardo, and its sporting project is overseen by Ramon Planes, Barcelona’s former technical secretary—whose familiarity with La Masia’s talent pipeline has proven key in the deal.
Pau Prim Chooses Al-Sadd for Career Growth
Another major academy departure is that of Pau Prim, the 18-year-old midfield maestro once tipped as the next Sergio Busquets. Calm under pressure, tactically sharp, and boasting excellent distribution, Prim was a favorite among youth coaches and fans alike.
However, despite his profile, Prim faced an uphill battle for playing time. With Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Fermín López ahead in the pecking order, the pathway to regular first-team action was blocked.
As his contract approached its June 2025 expiration, Barcelona made attempts to renew, but Prim opted to accept a lucrative offer from Al-Sadd SC, one of Qatar’s most historic and ambitious clubs.
The move is seen as a strategic career choice. Al-Sadd provides a stable, high-quality competitive environment with modern infrastructure and the promise of immediate minutes. The club has previously hosted players like Xavi Hernández and Santi Cazorla, and now continues its tradition of blending youth with experience.
Arnau Pradas Draws Interest from Al-Qadsiah
Yet another young star considering a Middle Eastern move is Arnau Pradas, an 18-year-old winger known for his acceleration, dribbling, and flair on the flanks. Reports from Spain suggest that Al-Qadsiah, a club backed by Saudi investment and competing in the First Division League, has expressed serious interest in the player.
Although Pradas initially wanted to extend his stay at Barcelona, contract negotiations hit a roadblock due to financial disagreements. With his current deal nearing its end, Barcelona face a dilemma: risk losing him for free or negotiate a favorable transfer while interest is hot.
Sources indicate that Al-Qadsiah is prepared to offer higher wages and a first-team role—an enticing package for any young player eager to make his mark. If the move goes through, Pradas would become the third La Masia graduate in a year to join a Gulf club.
Ansu Fati’s Future in Limbo Amid Gulf Interest
The most high-profile name linked with the Middle East is Ansu Fati—a player once seen as the heir to Messi’s legacy. After a breakout debut season and being handed the iconic No.10 jersey, Fati’s career trajectory was halted by recurring injuries and inconsistency.
Currently on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion, Fati has struggled to recapture his spark in the Premier League. With Barcelona battling financial instability and looking to streamline their wage structure, Fati’s €12 million-a-year contract is under scrutiny.
Enter super-agent Jorge Mendes, who has reportedly held discussions with multiple clubs from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE to explore options for a permanent move. However, convincing the 21-year-old to make the switch—at this stage in his career—remains challenging.
If a deal were to happen, it would likely be one of the most expensive outgoing transfers for Barcelona in 2025.
Why the Middle East Is Now a Hotbed for Young Talent
In recent years, Gulf clubs have spent heavily on attracting legendary names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Sadio Mané. But 2024 marked a strategic pivot. Instead of only investing in short-term stardom, clubs are building for the long term.
“We want to create a league that’s not only entertaining but competitive and sustainable,” said Omar Mugharbel, an executive with a Saudi Pro League club. “Young players bring energy, hunger, and longevity—and they elevate the local talent around them.”
This strategy aligns with broader national ambitions in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where sports, especially football, are central to long-term economic and cultural development plans like Saudi Vision 2030.
The Balancing Act for Barcelona
Barcelona’s dilemma is complex. On one hand, La Masia remains a vital asset—both for its ability to produce talent and as a revenue-generating stream through player sales. On the other hand, losing too many academy stars weakens squad depth and disrupts the club’s long-held philosophy of homegrown success.
Under the direction of Sporting Director Deco and Manager Xavi Hernández, the club is working to re-establish a clearer pathway for young players. Initiatives include closer integration between Barça Atlètic and the senior team, as well as reevaluating contract structures to better retain youth prospects.
But the reality is harsh: in today’s global market, Barcelona can no longer match the financial might of Middle Eastern clubs. That means more calculated decisions, faster negotiations, and an acceptance that La Masia graduates may now pursue careers beyond Europe more frequently than ever before.
Final Thoughts: A New Chapter in Football’s Evolution
The steady outflow of young talent from La Masia to the Middle East is not just a Barcelona story—it’s a sign of global football’s new reality.
Where Europe once held an unshakable grip on both elite and developmental football, that monopoly is fading. Today’s players—especially those in their late teens and early 20s—are more open to different leagues, cultures, and financial models.
As Barcelona rebuilds both on and off the pitch, adapting to these shifts will be crucial. For fans, it may be bittersweet to see young stars leave before wearing the first-team shirt. But in a changing football world, the journey from La Masia might now lead far beyond Camp Nou—and for many, it starts in the Middle East.
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