FC Barcelona bolsters youth ranks with signing of Ghanaian defender Hafiz Gariba

FC Barcelona has continued its tradition of nurturing young defensive talent by securing the signing of 18-year-old Ghanaian center-back Hafiz Gariba on a free transfer. The promising defender has inked a three-year deal with the Catalan giants, finalizing a move that had been in the works for some time.

Gariba, known for his physical strength and ability to rectify defensive errors, attracted interest from several top clubs.

However, Barcelona’s patience paid off as they successfully convinced him to join their renowned youth setup.

The young defender previously trained at Barcelona’s Escuela Marcet, a prestigious football academy, before earning the opportunity to join La Masia.

Gariba will initially integrate into the Juvenil B team under coach Pol Planas, with the club optimistic about his rapid progression to the Juvenil A squad led by Juliano Belletti.

Barcelona views him as a future asset for the first team, reflecting their commitment to developing homegrown talent.

In a separate move, Barcelona has also agreed to sign Malian midfielder Ibrahim Diarra from Africa Foot Academy. The 18-year-old will join Barça Atlètic on a contract until June 2028, though an official signing ceremony is yet to be scheduled.

These acquisitions underscore Barcelona’s strategic focus on scouting and developing young talents, ensuring a sustainable future for the club both on and off the pitch.