FC Barcelona sign English teenager Ajay Tavares for La Masia academy
Sixteen-year-old English prodigy Ajay Tavares has completed a historic move to FC Barcelona, joining the world-famous La Masia academy from Norwich City this February.
The highly-rated youngster has achieved an exceptionally rare feat by securing a place at the Catalan club’s legendary youth setup.
Only a select handful of English players have ever been recruited by the complex renowned for producing icons like Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta.
A rapid rise from Norfolk grassroots
Those closest to the former Aylsham FC Jaguars player describe his journey from a small market town to Spain as beyond unbelievable.
Former youth coach Vik Khanna mentored the attacking talent from the under-8s through to the under-12s level in Norfolk.
“When he got into Norwich, there was no surprise, he was that good.”
“When he got into England, it was like, wow. When he got into Barcelona, I was just like, this is unbelievable. It’s not sunk in.”
Following in rare English footsteps
The teenage sensation joins a highly exclusive club of English talent to cross the threshold at the Spanish institution.
Aston Villa prospect Louie Barry previously lived at the complex before returning to England six years ago.
Meanwhile, Marcus McGuane featured for the Barcelona B team between 2018 and 2020.
Khanna believes his former pupil is destined for greatness and will continue to exceed expectations on the European stage.
“I think he’s overachieved already and he’s set amazing standards. I think he’s going to be the one to watch.”
Elite technical ability and vision
Oliver Matthews played alongside the newly-signed Barcelona prospect at Aylsham and vividly remembers his dominant performances.
“I remember his technical ability, his ability to see the whole pitch and his scanning was just better than anyone else’s.”
Another former grassroots team-mate, Kam Khanna, noted that the English youth international always stood out for his supreme confidence on the ball.
“It’s crazy to think that he was playing here and now he could be playing with the likes of Lamine Yamal.”
Years of family dedication
The path to the five-time Champions League winners required immense sacrifice from the Tavares family.
Helio Tavares, the player’s father, highlighted the years of late nights, early mornings, and financial commitment required to reach this elite level.
That unwavering dedication has now been rewarded with an opportunity at the most prestigious development academy in world football.
