Barça Academy Istanbul arrives at the 13th edition of the Barça Academy World Cup with a squad full of talent and standout names that don't go unnoticed. As is often the case, the Turkish academy will feature players with direct links to professional football.

Talent with footballing DNA

Among the participants is Onur Akova, who has recently signed a contract with Fenerbahçe’s youth teams. Onur has taken part in numerous international tournaments and training camps, delivering highly impressive performances. This week, he will compete in the Barça Academy World Cup as a farewell after eight seasons at Barça Academy Istanbul.

The Turkish side also includes players who have grown up surrounded by elite football. One such player is Thiago Semedo, son of Nelson Semedo, former FC Barcelona player and currently at Fenerbahçe, who will experience the competition for the first time.

Also in the squad is Henrique Leal de Moraes, son of Ederson, Brazil international goalkeeper with experience at Manchester City, now also at Fenerbahçe. He is joined by Isaiah King Lemina, son of Mario Lemina, who has played for clubs such as Juventus, Marseille and Southampton, and is currently at Galatasaray.

Completing this group is Salvador Sánchez, son of Davinson Sánchez, former player for Tottenham and Ajax, among others, and currently at Galatasaray. All of them will take part in the Barça Academy World Cup with enthusiasm and a strong desire to showcase their talent on the pitch.

Much more than just names

The players are coming to the World Cup aiming to compete, learn and enjoy a unique experience. Their participation reflects how Barça Academy is capable of attracting talent from all over the world and connecting generations, bringing together the present and future of football on the same stage.

Barça Academy Istanbul is therefore ready to shine and prove that talent is not just a matter of names. Now, on the pitch, it will be time to show it.