Barcelona merges first team and Barça Atletic structures for player development

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 4, 2026, 8:40 AM

Last updated Aug 4, 2026

Barcelona merges first team and Barça Atletic structures for player development
Summary

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.

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  • Barcelona approved a merger of the first team and Barça Atletic structures.
  • A unified framework aims to improve player development across both teams.
  • Players over 16 will receive individual development plans from the sports department.
  • The club seeks to protect young talents from interest from top European clubs.
  • Earned promotion for Barça Atletic is now a major priority.
Latest Updates
  • 8:40 AMYahoo SportsReport – The main reason why Barcelona merged first team and Barça Atletic structures
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Last week, FC Barcelona approved a key overhaul of their sporting structure by bringing the first team and Barça Atletic under a unified framework. The decision, green-lighted by the club’s board, ...

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