Barcelona signs 15-year-old Kazakh prodigy Karim Mendikanov for youth academy
FC Barcelona has secured the signing of 15-year-old Kazakh winger Karim Mendikanov. The young talent, born in 2011, has already begun training with the club's youth team (Juvenil A). His arrival marks a rare addition of an under-18 international player from Eastern Europe to Barcelona's academy in recent years. Mendikanov first moved to Spain in 2022, joining Catalonia's football development system. Last season, he played in the Catalan league for Cerdanyola before transferring to Sant Cugat this year. There, he quickly became one of the team's standout performers, catching the attention of several La Liga clubs.
Despite interest from other Spanish sides, Mendikanov opted for Barcelona. Known for his pace, dribbling, and one-on-one ability, the right winger will officially join the club next season. His move was finalised after receiving approval from Sant Cugat, where he had been training. Barcelona has not signed any under-18 international talents from Asia or Eastern Europe in the past three years. Mendikanov's arrival breaks this trend, adding a fresh dynamic to the club's youth setup.
Mendikanov's signing strengthens Barcelona's focus on nurturing young, technically gifted players. The winger will continue his development within the club's renowned academy system. His official integration into the team begins next season.
