Ibrahim Diarra impresses Hansi Flick in Barcelona preseason

Ibrahim Diarra is turning heads at Barcelona, with the young midfielder making a strong impression on Hansi Flick and the first-team staff in the club’s 4-1 preseason win over CE Europa.

He scored in the behind-closed-doors friendly and stood out for his pace, power and awareness, showing why the coaching team is suddenly paying close attention.

The 18-year-old’s rise has not been straightforward. Barcelona signed him in January 2024 for about €1.7 million, but FIFA rules on non-EU minors delayed his full move until he turned 18 in December 2024. Before settling in permanently, he impressed during two separate 15-day training spells with the youth teams, where coaches praised his dribbling, acceleration and left-footed quality.

Once he arrived in Barcelona in late November 2024, he was placed with Barca Atletic while continuing to train with the senior youth setup. That pathway reflects Barcelona’s plan to develop affordable African talent while staying within financial limits. After a season interrupted by injury, this preseason display could prove decisive in whether Flick keeps him nearby or sends him out on loan for more minutes.