FC Barcelona is set to infuse fresh talent into its first team as head coach Hansi Flick continues to spotlight La Masia’s burgeoning prospects.
From Academy to Asia: La Masia Duo Set to Shine in Barcelona’s Preseason Friendlies
For the 2025/26 preseason, two standout academy players—Pedro Fernández, known as ‘Dro’, and Juan Hernández—have been promoted to train with the senior squad, effectively becoming the club’s latest ‘new signings’.
Flick’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent was evident last season when he integrated players like Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal into the first team.
Bernal, a promising defensive midfielder, made his La Liga debut in August 2024 but suffered an ACL injury later that month, sidelining him for the remainder of the season.
His return is anticipated to bolster the midfield options alongside Casadó.
Pedro Fernández, a versatile attacker, and Juan Hernández, a creative playmaker, have both impressed in La Masia’s ranks. Hernández, in particular, has drawn comparisons to Andrés Iniesta for his technical prowess and vision.
Their inclusion in the preseason training underscores Flick’s strategy to rejuvenate the squad with youthful energy and talent.
In a strategic shift, Barcelona has canceled its traditional U.S. preseason tour and will instead embark on an Asian tour in 2025.
The club is scheduled to play two friendly matches in South Korea in early August, facing FC Seoul and either Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors or Suwon Samsung Bluewings.
These matches will take place at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, marking Barcelona’s return to Korea for the first time since 2010.
This Asian tour is part of Barcelona’s broader initiative to expand its global footprint and engage with its international fan base. The tour is expected to generate significant revenue, providing a financial boost to the club.
As Barcelona prepares for the upcoming season, the integration of La Masia talents like Fernández and Hernández, coupled with the international exposure from the Asian tour, reflects the club’s commitment to blending tradition with global ambition.
