La Masia has always been a breeding ground for talent, but rarely does such a special profile emerge. Ebrima Tunkara, an attacking midfielder for Juvenil A, has become the most talked-about name in the academy. His breakthrough has surprised coaches, teammates, and fans, who see him as the natural successor to Lamine Yamal.
Born in 2010, he is only 15 years old (15 years old), but he already competes in a category above his age group. His competitive character, vision on the field, and ability to change the course of matches make a difference every weekend. Despite his young age, he has earned immediate respect within the Joan Gamper Sports City.
His technical quality is hard to ignore, both in ball control and decision-making. He has a privileged left foot, capable of creating chances with through passes, effective dribbles, and powerful shots on goal. All of this makes him one of the most exciting prospects Barça has had in years.
A story of overcoming and family sacrifice
Ebrima's background is marked by overcoming adversity. Born in Lamoi, Gambia, he emigrated with his family to Catalonia in 2017. His father, Abdul Tunkara, had arrived years earlier, working hard to reunite his family.
In Cerdanyola, he began taking his first steps in organized soccer after years of playing in the street. There, he caught the attention of coach Albert Puig, who needed just ten minutes to recommend his immediate signing. What he saw that day was enough to understand that this was an extraordinary talent.
Barça acted quickly and brought him into its 7-a-side soccer structure for the 2018-19 season. In just a few months, Tunkara went from playing barefoot in the streets of Gambia to wearing the blaugrana jersey. That leap marked a turning point, both in his personal life and in his athletic development.
A meteoric rise in the youth ranks
Since then, his progress has been steady, overcoming every challenge La Masia has put in front of him with ease. Coaches and coordinators highlight not only his talent, but also his discipline, humility, and winning mentality. These qualities set him apart from other talented players who never managed to establish themselves at the club.
In Juvenil A, despite competing against footballers three years older, he has become a leader. His performances show personality, intelligence, and an adaptability that is surprising for his young age. Every match leaves flashes that confirm the expectations placed on him.
His strengths are not limited to passing or creativity; he also gets into the box and scores goals. In the last season, he has posted remarkable numbers, with consistent assists and a handful of decisive goals. That has earned him a draft to the Spanish U-16 national team, where he is already being closely monitored.
Comparisons and growing expectations
Ebrima Tunkara's explosion is reminiscent of Lamine Yamal's, though with different characteristics. While Lamine stands out for his dribbling, Ebrima controls the midfield with composure and clarity. Both represent a bright future for Barça and for Spanish soccer in general.
Within the club, people are already talking about him as the greatest talent since Iniesta's breakthrough. His coaches agree that he possesses a tactical maturity that is hard to find in players his age. In addition, his physique, above average, allows him to compete effectively against older and more experienced opponents.
Laporta and Deco are fully aware of the diamond they have in their hands. For this reason, they have decided to secure him with a contract until 2026, ensuring his continuity at the club. The intention is to gradually integrate him into first-team dynamics over the coming years.
The future of the Gambian-Spanish gem
The challenge now is to manage Ebrima's development calmly, without rushing a premature leap. The sporting management wants to avoid skipping steps, following an orderly and patient growth plan. They know that excessive media pressure can be as dangerous as any physical injury.
Flick already has reports on Tunkara and is closely following him, aware of the potential he represents for the future. Meanwhile, the Barça fans are excited about a talent who reminds them of the best from La Masia. If he keeps up this development, Camp Nou could soon enjoy a footballer destined to make history.
At 15 years old (15 years old), Ebrima Tunkara is already considered the greatest gem of La Masia. An attacking midfielder with a privileged left foot, unique vision, and a future that promises to be as great as his talent.