Barcelona and Real Madrid scouting Mexican wonderkid Gilberto Mora | OneFootball

An exceptional number of La Masia talents have made their way to the FC Barcelona first team in recent years, playing a vital role in keeping the club competitive despite financial challenges.

At the same time, the Catalan side has maintained its focus on identifying promising young talent from around the world, a strategy that has now drawn attention to one of Mexico’s most exciting prospects.

According to TeamTalk, FC Barcelona are among several elite clubs keeping close tabs on Gilberto Rafael Mora Zambrano, the 16-year-old attacking midfielder from Club Tijuana who has quickly become the talk of Liga MX. Despite his young age, Mora’s flair, maturity, and standout performances have made him one of the hottest names in world youth football.

Born on October 14, 2008, in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mora is the son of former professional footballer Gilberto Mora Olayo, and has wasted no time carving out his own legacy.

After making his senior debut for Tijuana in August 2024 at just 15 years and 10 months old, he became the club’s youngest-ever player and the third youngest in Liga MX history. He made an immediate impact by providing an assist in that match and, just days later, scored against León to become the youngest goalscorer in Liga MX history at 15 years and 320 days.

Now an integral part of Tijuana’s setup, Mora has already registered three goals and one assist in eight appearances this season. Known for his quick feet, creative passing, and audacious skill moves, he has drawn comparisons to some of Europe’s brightest playmakers. His performances have also earned him attention on the international stage, where he was one of Mexico’s standout players in their Gold Cup triumph last summer.

Tijuana academy director Ignacio Ruvalcaba has tipped the youngster for a major European move, predicting a 2026 World Cup appearance before a transfer abroad. “Surely he will be competing in Europe,” Ruvalcaba said, while urging patience to allow Mora another season of development in Mexico.

Naturally, top European clubs are already circling. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid have already sent scouts to Tijuana to observe Mora firsthand, drawn by his composure, creativity, and attacking intelligence. Meanwhile, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City are said to be monitoring his progress closely.

However, FIFA regulations prevent international transfers of players under 18 unless their family relocates abroad for non-footballing reasons, meaning Mora’s European adventure will likely have to wait.

Still, the Catalans’ interest makes sense. FC Barcelona have made a habit of identifying generational talents early, and securing Mora’s signature could prove a smart long-term investment. With his current market value estimated at €4.5 million and expected to rise sharply, the Blaugranes would do well to stay ahead in the race for Mexico’s next rising gem.