Barcelona’s 16-year-old wonderkid emerging as the biggest revelation of pre-season | OneFootball

Every pre-season produces a surprise at FC Barcelona. During Hansi Flick’s first season at the club it was Marc Bernal who made an impression while last summer saw the emergence of Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez.

And, this summer’s standout at Barcelona is quickly becoming Ebrima Tunkara.

Indeed, according to SPORT, the 16-year-old attacking midfielder has impressed everyone at the club, establishing himself as one of the biggest revelations of Flick’s pre-season, alongside fellow youngster Hamza Abdelkarim.

Born in The Gambia before moving to Mataro as a child, Tunkara is the youngest player in the squad, having been born in 2010. His age, however, has done little to limit his impact.

A special talent

Tunkara has stood out not only because of his physical strength but also for his technical quality.

His performances in training have left several senior teammates stunned, with Fermin Lopez recently revealing that Tunkara was the player who had impressed him the most during the opening days of pre-season, alongside Orian Goren.

Barcelona have believed in his potential for some time. The club agreed his first professional contract in January, which officially came into effect when he turned 16 in March.

Tunkara started against Birmingham and impressed. (Photo courtesy: FC Barcelona official website)

Starring vs Birmingham City

After Barcelona’s behind-closed-doors match against Europa, many supporters finally got their first proper look at Tunkara during the friendly against Birmingham City.

Although he did not score, the youngster produced an eye-catching 45-minute display.

He moved the ball confidently, escaped pressure with intelligent turns, demonstrated impressive vision in possession and even forced an opponent into a booking through his direct running.

Like most players his age, decision-making remains the biggest area for improvement. That is hardly surprising for a 16-year-old competing alongside senior professionals.

What continues to impress Barcelona’s coaching staff is his mentality. He approaches every session with focus, confidence and ambition, often looking even more influential during training, where his natural ability consistently stands out.

His versatility is another major asset, as he can play both as an attacking midfielder and on either wing.

Flick keeping a close eye

Flick has been highly encouraged by Tunkara’s progress but continues to work closely with the teenager to refine different aspects of his game.

Meanwhile, new fitness coach Benjamin Kugel has been particularly impressed by Tunkara’s physical strength and endurance despite his young age.

Barcelona know there is still plenty of development ahead, but the excitement surrounding him is growing rapidly.

At just 16 years old, Ebrima Tunkara is already showing signs that he could become one of La Masia’s next major success stories.