It’s now official: Ayoub Hilali, the highly rated 14-year-old Moroccan forward, has joined FC Barcelona’s famous academy, La Masia, a huge step in the rise of any young talent in Europe.
Considered one of the most exciting emerging prospects of his generation, Hilali arrives from CF Badalona and will immediately join Barça’s Cadet B (U15) side.
The move was officially confirmed on April 8, with the young attacker signing a three-year development agreement running until 2029.
Hilali is already attracting attention for his technical profile and versatility in attack.
Although primarily signed as a forward, he can play in many offensive roles: a No. 10 playmaker, a central striker (No. 9), or on either wing.
Club observers describe him as a technically gifted player with strong adaptability, qualities that make him a natural fit for Barcelona’s possession-based style.
🚨💎 Ayoub Hilali rejoint La Masia. Le joueur de Badalona évoluera avec les Cadets B (U15) et peut jouer en 10, en 9 ou sur les ailes. . @charlyplanter pic.twitter.com/pARHFdiYE9
— Blaugranation (@blaugranation_) April 4, 2026
His arrival reportedly includes a full development package, with sporting supervision, academic support, and accommodation within La Masia’s facilities.
La Masia has recently produced one of the club’s most successful generations in years, with talents such as Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Marc Bernal now all of them playing in the first team under Hansi Flick.
Reports also suggest that Barcelona has introduced a progressive release-clause structure for its young talents, starting at around €6 million and potentially rising to €100 million after 15 first-team appearances, proof of how seriously the club sees its academy talents.
