The Africa Foot Academy have confirmed the moves of two of their brighter talents to Barcelona. Ibrahim Diarra, the star performer in the Mali under-17 side, has long been linked with a move to the Catalan giants, but will be joined by Arouna Traore.
Diarra, a right-winger who can also play in behind the striker, has been highly rated by the club, and Sport say that they have paid €1.5m for the teenage talent. He has already been at the Ciutat Esportiva recently, but will only be able to play from January onwards.
🌟 Ibrahim Diarra in Barcelona!
Africa Foot's talent shines internationally! Ibrahim Diarra joins the @FCBarcelona for an exceptional sporting stay as part of our partnership. A great opportunity to progress at the highest level! #AfricaFoot #FCBarcelone pic.twitter.com/SFKntbqWdu— Academie Africa Foot (@AfricaFootMali1) November 20, 2024
The other 17-year-old talent, Traore, is a striker, and will arrive initially on a trial period. Their moves can only be made official once they turn 18 according to FIFA regulations, but Traore will only do so next November. Diarra on the other hand comes of age in December.
🌟 Arouna Traoré is flying to Barcelona!
As part of our partnership with the @FCBarcelonaArouna Traoré will have the chance to have a sporting stay with the legendary Catalan club. An enriching experience to grow as a player! #AfricaFoot #FCBarcelone pic.twitter.com/nwKsmeUGbL— Academie Africa Foot (@AfricaFootMali1) November 20, 2024
With Diarra too, as happened with Ghanaian left-back David Oduro as well, Barcelona brought them in for trial periods ahead of time, before then signing them several months later. Aziz Issah also arrived from Ghana, reflecting Barcelona’s intention to put more resources into recruitment in Africa.
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