FC Barcelona is once again experiencing a sweet moment with La Masia. After the impact of Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Marc Bernal, the club has found another name that's starting to generate excitement. This is a midfielder who, at just 16 years old, is already drawing comparisons.
In the halls of Ciutat Esportiva, increasingly ambitious comments about this footballer can be heard. It's not common for a youth player to generate such unanimity among coaches and teammates, but in his case, the anticipation grows day by day. His vision of the game, intelligence, and maturity place him as one of the club's great bets for the future.
The player in question is Orian Goren, born in 2009 in Savyon (Israel) and with Czech roots on his mother's side. He arrived at Barça in 2023 from Maccabi Petah Tikva and from day one fit perfectly into the blaugrana style. In just two years, he has gone from being an anonymous prospect to becoming a key figure of his generation.
An international signing with Barça DNA
Barça had been exploring alternative markets for some time to strengthen its youth academy. Israel was one of those destinations, and Goren became the chosen piece. His arrival replied to the strategy of attracting international talent that fits the club's characteristic model of possession and creativity.
In his first year, he already showed signs of his enormous personality. The coaches highlighted how he understood the game even before receiving the ball. His ease in settling into a new environment surprised everyone, showing maturity to compete at the highest level for his age.
In youth tournaments, he was a standout figure, accumulating outstanding performances that caused praise both inside and outside the club. Little by little, he earned a privileged place in the academy and the recognition of his teammates.
Compared to Pedri for his style
The coaches don't hesitate to highlight one of his greatest virtues: the ability to think and execute quickly. He acts as an organizing midfielder, but he can also play in more attacking positions. His right foot is a guarantee for starting plays and threading passes between the lines.
The way he protects the ball, turns under pressure, and keeps the play going is reminiscent of Pedri. That similarity has earned him the nickname "the new Pedri," an ambitious moniker that reflects the impact of his talent. Although comparisons are dangerous, in his case the stylistic similarity is evident.
Goren doesn't need physical power to impose himself. His vision, intelligence, and technique make the difference against rivals his age. That calmness on the field is what makes him special.
Strategic renewal for Barça
The club is fully aware that it has a gem in its hands. In July 2025, he signed his first professional contract as a youth player, until 2028. The goal is to secure him against the growing interest of European teams that have already inquired about him.
The news was celebrated by the player himself and the culé fans. On social media, Goren shared a message of pride after signing, stating that it was an honor to be part of the "best club in the world." His words caused excitement among the supporters.
The sporting management considers this a medium-term investment that could bear fruit very soon. His progress is being closely followed by Hansi Flick and his coaching staff.
A gem for the present and the future
While growing in Barcelona, Goren also shines with Israel's under-17 national team. He has already played in seven international matches and scored one goal. In his home country, he is considered the main candidate to lead the senior team in the future.
The Israeli press closely follows every step of his career at La Masia. The fact that he chose such a demanding destination as Barça raises expectations even more. His case is seen as an example of talent that crosses borders and develops in the elite from a young age.
The "new Pedri" label is as attractive as it is dangerous. Barça knows it's best to take things slowly, without rushing stages. The plan is to consolidate him in the youth team, give him minutes in the UEFA Youth League, and bring him closer to Barça Atlètic.
If he keeps progressing, he could make his debut with the first team in two or three seasons. The club trusts he will become a reference for his generation.
At just 5 ft. 3 in. (1.60 m) and 16 years old, Orian Goren brings together everything La Masia looks for in a midfielder: talent, vision, and competitive character. The future will tell if he follows Pedri's path, but the excitement is already there.