Barcelona’s 16-year-old La Masia pearl already following in the footsteps of Lamine Yamal | OneFootball

Barcelona’s La Masia has a habit of producing talent before the world is ready to notice. 

While Lamine Yamal continues to dominate headlines, another name is beginning to gain traction, and his name is Ebrima Tunkara.

At just 16 years old, Tunkara is still far from being a household name, which explains why much of the fanbase remains unaware of his rise. 

But within La Masia and among those closely following youth development, there is a growing sense that Barcelona could once again be shaping something special.

There are similarities

According to AS, the comparisons with Yamal are not about position or playing style. 

Instead, they revolve around timing, progression, and the ability to accelerate through levels that typically slow players down. 

Like Yamal before him, Tunkara is already competing above his natural age group, currently working with the U-17 side and aiming to secure a place in European and World Championships earlier than expected.

That alone places him in a rare category.

There is also a symbolic comparison to his profile. A left-footed attacking player who wears the No. 10 shirt, Tunkara carries traits that naturally draw attention. 

Not because he replicates Yamal, but because he shows the same early signs of confidence and technical clarity that often define elite prospects.

What stands out most, however, is his mentality. Tunkara, who considers Pedri as his idol, is not waiting for opportunities to come to him – he is forcing his way into the conversation. 

A top name in youth category

Within the U-17 setup, he has already formed a strong understanding with Enzo Alves, the son of Real Madrid legend Marcelo. 

Their partnership has developed quickly, built on instinct, movement, and a shared attacking rhythm. 

As a result, Barcelona, along with the Spanish federation, are monitoring his progress closely. 

There is no rush, no unnecessary pressure, but there is clear awareness of his potential.

If anything, it suggests Barcelona may once again be building something before the rest of Europe catches on.