Arouna Traoré, a promising Malian U20 international, has joined FC Barcelona through a collaboration with Africa Foot Academy, marking the beginning of his journey at the Catalan club. Born in Douala, Cameroon, Traoré honed his skills at the Diarra Football Academy before transitioning to Mali’s youth system in 2022.
Traoré’s versatility on the pitch has been a defining trait, with his ability to play both as a forward and on the wings, utilizing his ambidextrous footwork.
His breakout performance came during the 2022 UFOA-A U17 tournament in Mauritania, where he scored for Mali despite starting as a substitute.
Like Samuel Eto’o, who also rose from Douala’s football fields, Traoré combines technical skill, speed, and sharpness in front of goal.
His journey to Barcelona was paved by the guidance of Ibrahim Diarra, a mentor who inspired Traoré’s rise.
With dreams of securing a spot at La Masia, Traoré’s two-week training at the iconic academy represents a significant step in his bid to establish himself among football’s elite.
