Barcelona merges first team and Barça Atletic structures for player development

FC Barcelona has restructured its sporting framework by merging the first team and Barça Atletic. The change, approved by the club's board, aims to enhance player development and coordination, ensuring that young talents are better protected and integrated into the main squad. Under the new system, all players signing for Barcelona after age 16 will have a tailored development plan overseen directly by the sports department. The club seeks to prevent situations like Dro's departure to PSG at age 18 and hopes to reduce the gap between the reserve team and the first team.

• 8:40 AMYahoo Sports — Report – The main reason why Barcelona merged first team and Barça Atletic structures