Barcelona lose 17-year-old La Masia talent rated highly by Flick to shoulder injury | OneFootball

Iker Rodriguez, one of the most promising goalkeepers in Barcelona’s academy, has seen his progress stalled due to a left shoulder injury, reports Mundo Deportivo.

The issue had already prevented him from competing at full capacity at the end of last season. At the end of August, it was decided that surgery was the solution for his problem, and he now faces an indefinite recovery period that will depend on his progress.

A future first-team player

Part of Pol Planas’s Juvenil A squad, alongside goalkeepers Max Bonfill and Gerard Sala, Rodriguez had already debuted under Juliano Belletti last term and was considered the main candidate for the starting role this season.

The Sabadell-born goalkeeper was also seen as an option for Barça Atletic, competing with Diego Kochen and Eder Aller.

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Rodriguez is highly rated by Hansi Flick and his coaching staff, after he worked in training sessions with the first team last season.

The injury explains Rodriguez’s absence from Barcelona’s Champions League B list, although he can be added once fit.

Rodriguez is now focused on a careful recovery, aiming to return stronger during the 2025-26 season.

Although he will miss several major competitions, he is expected to have time to enjoy a full campaign, make an impact, and continue impressing Barcelona’s coaches, including those of the first team, with his quality, work ethic, and attitude.