How Many Youth Teams Does Barcelona Have?

By Alice Nichols

How Many Youth Teams Does Barcelona Have?

Barcelona is renowned for its exceptional youth academy, La Masia. La Masia has been the breeding ground for some of the world’s best football talents, including Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, and Xavi Hernandez. This prestigious academy is responsible for shaping young players into future stars through a well-structured youth system.

The Structure of Barcelona’s Youth System

Barcelona’s youth system consists of various teams catering to different age groups. These teams enable young players to progress through the ranks as they develop their skills and potential. Let’s delve into how many youth teams Barcelona has and how they are organized:

Juvenil A

The Juvenil A team represents the highest level in Barcelona’s youth system. It is composed of players aged 19 and under. The primary objective of this team is to prepare talented youngsters for the transition to professional football.

Juvenil B

Just below Juvenil A is the Juvenil B team, consisting of players aged 17 and under. This team serves as a stepping stone for younger talents who are not yet ready for the demands of Juvenil A but have shown promise at lower levels.

Cadet A

The Cadet A team comprises players aged 15 and under. At this level, players continue to develop their technical skills while also focusing on tactical aspects of the game. Cadet A acts as a vital platform for talented individuals to showcase their abilities.

Cadet B

Below Cadet A is the Cadet B team, consisting of players aged 14 and under. This stage emphasizes fundamental skill development, teamwork, and fostering a love for the game. It serves as a crucial stage in the early development of future stars.

Infantil A

The Infantil A team comprises players aged 12 and under. At this level, players continue to refine their technical abilities and learn more advanced concepts of the game. The focus remains on individual skill development and teamwork.

Benjamín A

The Benjamín A team consists of players aged 10 and under. This is the youngest level within Barcelona’s youth system, where children start to learn the fundamentals of football. The emphasis is primarily on enjoyment, fostering a love for the sport, and building a solid foundation for future progression.

Conclusion

Barcelona’s youth system is an integral part of its success as a football club. With each team catering to specific age groups, talented young players have ample opportunities to progress through the ranks and eventually make it to the senior team.

The structure provided by La Masia ensures that players are not only equipped with technical skills but also nurtured in terms of character development and values. Barcelona’s commitment to developing young talent has consistently yielded remarkable results, making them one of the most successful clubs in the world.