These 11 players made their Barcelona debut against Birmingham

23.08.26 15:30 LaLiga Spain

Elche

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Barcelona

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In their second pre-season match, FC Barcelona settled for a draw against Birmingham (2-2) before losing on penalties (2-3). It was a perfect opportunity for Hansi Flick to put as many of his players to the test as possible.

The Barça manager threw 11 new players into the fray, including fresh signings Hamza Abdelkarim and Karim Adeyemi. Here’s a look at the new faces set to bolster the squad for the upcoming season.

Karim Adeyemi

Brought in this summer to strengthen the Blaugrana attack, the German international made his first appearance in Barça colors against Birmingham. His blistering pace and directness have already made him one of Hansi Flick’s main attacking assets. Last season, he scored 10 goals and provided 6 assists in 39 matches for Dortmund.

Hamza Abdelkarim

The 18-year-old Egyptian forward made a name for himself with the U19s before being handed his chance with the senior squad. Scoring twice in this friendly against Birmingham, he's already confirming his immense potential. He’s also featured in 4 World Cup 2026 qualifiers for the Pharaohs.

Ebrima Tunkara

This 16-year-old attacking midfielder is already regarded as one of La Masia’s brightest prospects. Technically gifted and creative, he played 9 matches for the B team in 2025-2026 and quickly earned a call-up to the senior squad.

Shane Kluivert

The son of Patrick Kluivert, this winger continues his development at La Masia. Fast and incisive, he was rewarded with his first appearance for the senior team during pre-season. Touted as a raw diamond, he recently signed a new contract with the Spanish champions.

Áron Yaakobishvili

This young Hungarian goalkeeper, a product of the club's academy, is already considered one of the most promising shot-stoppers coming through the ranks. Barça finally have a bright prospect in a position that has been problematic in recent years.

Álex González

A striker from Juvenil A, he has stood out for his goal-scoring instincts at youth level. His performances convinced Hansi Flick to hand him his first senior minutes.

Ibrahim Diarra

An explosive Malian winger, he joined Barça with a strong reputation from youth football. His standout display in the Youth League final against Trabzonspor (4-1)—scoring twice and providing an assist—fast-tracked his integration into the senior squad.

Brian Fariñas

A midfielder developed at La Masia, he is known for his technical quality and vision. His strong showings with the youth teams earned him a spot in the senior squad during summer preparations.

Jordi Pesquer

A defender trained at La Masia, he is valued for his solidity and ability to play out from the back. He’s been brought into the senior squad to gain experience during these friendlies.

Orian Goren

A creative midfielder from Juvenil A, he has established himself as a key player in the youth ranks. His passing range and football intelligence have earned him a shot with the first team.

Òscar Gistau

A centre-forward developed at La Masia, he caught the eye with his efficiency in front of goal for the U19s (2 goals and 2 assists in 9 matches). His performances earned him his senior debut against Birmingham.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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