Israeli Midfielder Ori Goren Considered for Barcelona's Final Squad Ahead of Birmingham Friendly

Barcelona is preparing for its second preseason match on Friday against Birmingham, with coach Xavi Flick facing significant midfield absences due to the World Cup. This situation opens the door for Israeli midfielder Ori Goren, who impressed in the previous 4-1 win over Europa and is now among the candidates expected to receive playing time. Birmingham, recently promoted back to the English Championship and finishing tenth last season, is known as one of the wealthiest clubs outside the Premier League.

Spanish sports outlet AS highlighted this match as an opportunity for several young players to integrate into Barcelona's senior team soon, naming Goren alongside Awerima Tonkara and Hamza Abdelkarim as standout prospects. Former player Farmin Lopes praised Goren and Tonkara as the most impressive young talents so far, while veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny expressed satisfaction with the gradual inclusion of youth players.

Goren is likely to come off the bench as a midfielder during the game. Alejandro Balde has completed full training and is expected to play, while new signing Karim Adeyemi is also in camp and may feature. Meanwhile, Rafinha has returned to training but is not traveling with the team to England and is training separately. Barcelona continues to adjust its squad ahead of the new season amid ongoing player absences and integration of youth talent.