Ghana-eligible Jesse Bisiwu backs himself to break into Barcelona first team

Barcelona youngster Jesse Bisiwu is confident he can force his way into the club’s first team after making the move from Club Brugge this summer.

The 18-year-old winger joined Barcelona on a contract until 2031 and has already trained with Hansi Flick’s senior squad during pre-season. He is currently featuring for Barça Atlètic as part of the club’s development plan.

Bisiwu, however, remains convinced that his opportunity with the first team will come if he continues to develop and perform.

Barcelona had initially attempted to sign the teenager in January, but Club Brugge rejected the approach before the Catalan giants returned for him in the summer.

The Belgian youth international said he was attracted by Barcelona’s long-term plans for his development and believes the club provides the right environment for him to reach the highest level.

“The plan is a five-year plan. I think the club can help me develop. That’s why I came to Barcelona,” he told RTL Sports during an interview this week (via Sport).

Bisiwu unfazed by Barça Atlètic spell

Rather than viewing his current involvement with Barça Atlètic as a setback, Bisiwu sees it as an important step towards establishing himself at the club.

The winger was part of the senior squad during pre-season and made an impression during the friendly period, but the competition for places in attack means he must continue his progression away from the first team.

Barcelona’s official profile describes Bisiwu as a young winger who stands out for his pace, strength and dribbling ability. He previously made 36 appearances for Club NXT in Belgium’s second division after breaking into the side at 15.

He also attracted attention at the 2025 European Under-17 Championship, where he helped Belgium reach the semi-finals and was named in the tournament’s best XI.

Bisiwu said his first experience of Barcelona has strengthened his belief that he made the right decision.

“The first time I heard that Barça came to see me I was very happy. It’s a dream club. I think Barça is not for everyone.”

First-team breakthrough the next target

The teenager has also received encouragement from senior members of the Barcelona squad since his arrival, helping him settle into life at the club.

He now faces the challenge of translating his potential into consistent performances for Barça Atlètic while remaining ready whenever Flick calls on him.

With Barcelona having handed him a five-year contract, Bisiwu has time to develop his game and compete for a place among the club’s senior attacking options.

His immediate objective is to continue progressing, but the long-term target is clear: establish himself as a first-team player at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.