Three La Masia players who left Barcelona and saw their careers collapse | Barca Universal

"While some departures have gone on to succeed elsewhere, there is a long list of players who left Barcelona too early, chasing faster progress, higher wages or a clearer pathway, only to see their careers lose direction. Talent alone has never been enough. Timing matters, and La Masia often provides protection that young players do not realise they need until it is gone."

"Gai Assulin joined Barcelona's academy in 2003 and was quickly labelled one of its brightest gems. His close control, creativity and confidence made him stand out at the youth level, and before long, he was being spoken about as the new Messi. The hype followed him everywhere. In 2010, Assulin chose to leave Barcelona for Manchester City in search of senior football opportunities. The belief was that regular minutes elsewhere would accelerate his development."

Pedro 'Dro' Fernandez is pressing to leave Barcelona, with PSG identified as his preferred destination. La Masia traditionally rewards patience, but many youths depart chasing faster progression, higher wages or clearer pathways and subsequently see careers lose direction. Talent alone proves insufficient; timing and the academy's protective structure matter for consistent development. Gai Assulin joined in 2003, earned comparisons to Messi, then left for Manchester City in 2010 seeking senior minutes; subsequent instability, frequent moves and early pressure eroded his confidence and career trajectory, with his last known club being Serie D side Crema in 2021. Marc Guiu joined La Masia in 2013 and progressed through the youth ranks.

Read at Barca Universal