Did the Dro Fernandez coup give ideas to Parisian leaders? For several years, FC Barcelona has relied on the recruitment of low-cost gems to strengthen its training, with notable success. But this strategy now inspires the biggest European clubs, and competition is becoming increasingly fierce, particularly against Paris. Last winter, the capital club took advantage of young Dro Fernandez’s low release clause to enlist him and offer him more playing time.
Recently, Barça has notably intensified its detection work in Africa, increasing partnerships with academies and recruiting several promising young people from the continent. Everything seemed under control until the entry of PSG, who recently decided to explore this same market with ambition. The Parisian club is now taking a close interest in the best prospects from African training centers. And at the heart of this new battle: Aboubacar Maiga, a 16-year-old Malian attacking midfielder.
Aboubacar Maiga fails at Barça
Considered one of the great hopes of his generation, the African prodigy was announced close to joining Barça last summer after a successful spell at the club during several days spent in Catalonia, with Barça, but the player had to wait until he turned 18 to finalize his transfer. But twist: because Sport reveals that Maiga was recently spotted in Paris, where he had a trial with PSG before taking part in the Olympia Future Cup, with the club’s youngsters.
The Catalan daily indicates that it was a test to assess its true competitive level. At the end of the tournament, PSG officials will decide its future. If he convinces, the Parisian club will seek to conclude an agreement to secure his arrival as soon as he turns 18 and now seems to have got ahead of the Blaugrana management. This situation perfectly illustrates the growing tensions between the two clubs. A rivalry set to last, as the two European giants rely on youth to build their future.
