Israeli Talent Ori Goren Trains with Barcelona Senior Team Amid Future Prospects

Seventeen-year-old Israeli footballer Ori Goren, a product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, has begun training with the club's senior team ahead of the 2026/2027 season. Jordi Cardero, a journalist from Mundo Deportivo, highlighted Goren's technical finesse and central midfield role, comparing his style to legendary players Andrés Iniesta and Pedri. Cardero noted that Barcelona's coaching staff even shows Goren videos of Pedri to help him emulate specific movements, underscoring his high potential within the club.

Despite this promising development, Cardero clarified that Goren's inclusion in the senior team's preseason training is primarily intended to support and encourage him rather than signal an immediate promotion to the first-team squad by coach Xavi Hernández. Last season, Goren appeared in five UEFA Youth League matches, scoring twice. Notably, his youth team was eliminated by Maccabi Haifa's youth squad during their European campaign.

Goren's progress is closely watched by Barcelona's leadership, reflecting their appreciation of his talent, though a permanent senior team role is not yet confirmed. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether he will break into the senior ranks or continue his development within the youth setup.