A dazzling Barcelona gem, long nurtured in the club’s famed youth system, is set to depart after an incredible 12-year journey.
With FC Barcelona’s illustrious La Masia academy – a hallmark of producing footballing legends – experiencing a sad farewell as one of its long-serving producers of talent has chosen to depart after 12 years of service from Barcelona, the academy is recognizably suffering an emotional and public distress.
Having confirmed his exit as of June 19, 2025, we are witnessing the conclusion of an era for a player who had grown up through the academy’s youth system and carried the weight of hard work and determination that the academy embodies.
Barcelona fans, who had high hopes for this product to rise to the first team, are left with conflicted feelings as they process the unexpected announcement of the player’s departure.
The player news to navigate is Arnau Pradas – the 19-year-old left winger, who joined La Masia from Manresa in 2013 – is known for his left foot and creativity to contribute to meaningful outcomes, according to Diario Sport.
This season, Pradas has been sensational, with five goals and two assists, with a strong contribution to Barça achieving a third-place finish in the UEFA Youth League.
While Pradas has made a solid contribution to the youth team, the club chose not to offer the acceptance of a contract with an expiry date of June 30, 2025.
Pradas looked elsewhere for positive progression, and he chose to take a chance, considering offers from clubs such as Arsenal and clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
His departure coincides with Barça Atletic’s relegation to the Second RFEF, a factor that contributed to his decision to try new challenges.
Although Prada’s loss is detrimental, it also demonstrates his desire to explore and maximize his potential elsewhere.
The club thanked him for his contributions to the club, but his departure leaves behind the need for a strategic approach to youth retention.
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