Baba Kourouma: Barcelona’s Rising Defensive Gem and the Next Big Talent from La Masia

The famed La Masia academy has once again brought forward a name that’s creating waves in the world of youth football: Baba Kourouma. At just 16 years old, this Spanish-Guinean footballer is already turning heads at FC Barcelona Juvenil B, not only for his impressive versatility on the pitch but also for his strong character and high football IQ.

Who is Baba Kourouma?

Born on February 23, 2009, in Spain, Baba Kourouma Kourouma stands at 1.74 meters and plays primarily as a left-footed central defender. However, his talent goes far beyond a single position. Capable of playing as a pivot or box-to-box midfielder, Kourouma is already being hailed as one of the most versatile young players in FC Barcelona's youth ranks.

He currently plays for Juvenil B, having signed for the club in 2021, and was officially promoted to his current squad on July 1, 2024, with a contract that runs until June 30, 2025. Despite being eligible for cadet level, he has consistently performed above his age group.

Football is in His Blood

Baba comes from a footballing family. His older brother, Ilaix Moriba, was once a rising star at Barcelona before moving to RB Leipzig and later playing for Valencia and now Celta de Vigo. Another brother, Lancinet "Lass" Kourouma, plays for Girona FC B. Growing up surrounded by football excellence has clearly shaped Baba’s approach to the game: determined, composed, and adaptable.

A Breakout Year for Baba Kourouma

Kourouma’s 2024 has been nothing short of spectacular. He has started in 20 of 21 league matches for Barcelona’s Juvenil B in the Liga Nacional, a key contributor to the team’s dominant run that sees them sitting comfortably at the top of the table. The only game Barcelona lost was the one Kourouma did not start — a testament to his importance on the pitch.

Recently, Baba was called up for the Copa Catalunya semifinal against RCD Espanyol, an impressive feat for someone his age. Even more notably, he debuted with Juvenil A in the Division de Honor Juvenil, marking yet another milestone in his accelerated development.

A Defender Who Thinks Like a Midfielder

What sets Kourouma apart from many of his peers is his technical intelligence. As a left-footed center-back, he excels at breaking lines with his passing, thanks to his experience playing in midfield. This blend of positional understanding allows him to step confidently into different roles and adapt seamlessly depending on the team’s tactical setup.

He’s also shown a keen eye for goal, scoring for the Catalonia U14 national team, showcasing his ability to carry the ball forward and strike cleanly from distance — a rare trait for a defender.

Trained by the Best

At La Masia, Baba has been coached by some of the academy’s finest minds, including Arnau Blanco (now part of Hansi Flick’s technical staff) and Pol Planas, head coach of Juvenil B. Both coaches have praised Baba’s work ethic, adaptability, and willingness to learn — qualities that make him a standout talent in one of the world’s most elite academies.

Eyes from Europe, Loyalty to Barcelona

Kourouma’s rise has not gone unnoticed. Reports have surfaced of interest from Manchester City, among other top European clubs. However, FC Barcelona is determined to secure his future and is actively negotiating a long-term contract that would tie him to the club until 2028.

After witnessing the trajectory of his brother Ilaix — who left Barcelona early and faced challenges establishing consistency — Baba appears more measured and patient. The club believes this maturity will be crucial to his development and eventual integration into Barcelona Atlètic or even the senior team.

What the Future Holds

Still just 16, Baba Kourouma is a name that resonates with promise. Whether in defense or midfield, his tactical flexibility, mental fortitude, and technical polish have made him one of La Masia’s most exciting prospects. His coaches see him as a player who can evolve into a modern central defender — one who not only defends but also builds play, breaks lines, and commands the tempo of the game.

In a footballing era that prizes adaptability and intelligence, Baba is ticking all the boxes. If he continues on this trajectory, it won’t be long before fans around the world see him wearing the famous blaugrana shirt on the biggest stages.