In an increasingly competitive market for young talents, retaining a promising player can be as important as signing a star. FC Barcelona knows this well. That's why, this week, they have closed a strategic operation with future value.
One of the most watched academy players by Europe's top clubs has decided to continue his development at La Masia. The interest from clubs like Ajax or Manchester City wasn't enough to pull him away from the Barça project. He has signed until 2028 and is already considered a gem to be polished.
Manchester City | @ManCity
Guardiola wanted to take him to the Etihad
From England, the reports were clear. He is a defender with outstanding technical, physical, and tactical conditions for his age. Pep Guardiola had authorized the monitoring of his evolution and a concrete proposal was being prepared to take him to Manchester.
Ajax had also joined the bidding. Their training philosophy and prestige in developing versatile defenders were a real threat to Barça. But Deco has moved swiftly, anticipating any escape and securing his immediate future.
Pep Guardiola | @ManCityES
The renewal is official. The young footballer has signed a contract that ties him to the club until June 2028. Born in 2009, he has already made a very positive impression in Barça's lower categories, being a recurring figure in Juvenil B.
His versatility has been key to earning the trust of the coaches. He can play as a left-back, center-back, midfielder, or even defensive midfielder. That versatility makes him a valuable tactical tool and a profile that fits perfectly into the Barça playing model.
Pep Guardiola | Premier League
A talent already observed by Hansi Flick
At just 16 years old, his name has already reached the first team's office. Hansi Flick has been informed of his performance and has him on the radar. It's no coincidence: his ability to come out with the ball controlled, his defensive aggressiveness, and his reading of the game make him stand out.
This season he has played 32 matches across different club categories. Although his role is defensive, he has shown the ability to reach the opponent's area and has already scored a goal. Those offensive appearances enhance his value in a soccer where every detail counts.
Flick | @FCBarcelona
Those who have followed Barça for years will remember Ilaix Moriba, the protagonist's older brother. Ilaix decided to leave the club for Leipzig in search of a lucrative contract. Today, after several attempts to establish himself, he wanders between teams like Celta or Valencia.
His brother doesn't want to repeat that story. He has valued the stability, the development project, and the trust that the environment conveys to him. He prefers to grow step by step in a club that believes in him rather than leaving in search of immediate money.
A dominant physique and elite mentality
What is most surprising about his profile is his maturity in reading the game. He has physical power, but also positional intelligence. His coverages are effective, and he knows when to step out to intercept and when to keep the line.
At La Masia, they compare him to historic center-backs for his ability to lead from the back. Quick corrections, safe transitions, and forcefulness without excess. A style that recalls the best of Barça's DNA adapted to the demands of modern soccer.
The protagonist's name is Baba Kourouma. With this renewal, Barça secures one of the most promising players from their academy. Despite Manchester City's interest, Deco has managed to convince him to stay.
His evolution will be closely followed by the first team's coaching staff. If he keeps his progression, he won't take long to enter official drafts. La Masia's machinery continues to produce talent, and Baba could be the next great success story.
