Barcelona Add Shock Name to Champions League Squad List for 2025-26 Season
FC Barcelona have surprised many football fans and analysts alike by adding a relatively unknown name to their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League squad list. This unexpected move follows the recent departure of Unai Hernández, who left for the Saudi Pro League, creating an open spot in the squad. The club has chosen to promote 18-year-old attacking midfielder Noah Darvich from their B team, signaling a bold and exciting approach to blending youth and experience in Europe’s premier club competition.
The Context Behind the Decision
Barcelona’s Champions League campaign officially kicks off on September 18, 2025, with a challenging fixture against Newcastle United. Ahead of this crucial tournament, the club needed to finalize their squad list to comply with UEFA’s regulations, which allow only a limited number of players on the main roster (the A-list) and additional players on the B-list, who must meet certain eligibility criteria related to age and club tenure.
The departure of Unai Hernández left a gap in the midfield department, and rather than signing an external player, Barcelona’s management decided to take a chance on Darvich, who had been recovering from injury but has shown impressive potential in the B team. The decision reflects a strategic vision from the club to nurture young talent by exposing them early to top-level competition, a philosophy that has often defined Barcelona’s identity.
Who is Noah Darvich?
Noah Darvich is an 18-year-old attacking midfielder who has risen through the ranks of Barcelona’s youth academy. Known for his creativity, vision, and technical ability, Darvich has been earmarked as one of the promising young prospects at the club. Although he is yet to make his official first-team debut, his promotion to the Champions League squad list is a major vote of confidence.
Darvich’s inclusion means he is now eligible to participate in Champions League matches, offering him a valuable opportunity to gain experience against Europe’s elite clubs. His presence also adds a fresh dynamic to Barcelona’s midfield options, where competition for places remains fierce.
Other Squad Updates
Alongside Darvich’s elevation, Barcelona have added goalkeeper Áron Yaakobishvili and midfielder Guille Fernández to the B-list, making them eligible for group-stage selection. Both players are also products of the club’s youth system and represent the long-term vision of integrating academy talents into the senior squad.
The A-list features key players such as Marc-André ter Stegen, who despite recovering from back surgery and expected to return only in early 2026, remains a part of the Champions League roster. New signings like Joan García, Marcus Rashford, and Roony Bardghji have also been included, highlighting Barcelona’s blend of seasoned professionals and exciting new arrivals.
An interesting note is the inclusion of Marc Casadó on the list as a defender, although he primarily plays in midfield. This tactical decision might give Barcelona flexibility in squad rotation.
What This Means for Barcelona’s Champions League Campaign
Barcelona’s mix of youth and experience aims to rekindle their glory days in European football. With legends like ter Stegen and rising stars like Rashford, Bardghji, and now Darvich, the squad looks well-equipped to make a serious push in the tournament.
Promoting young players like Darvich indicates Barcelona’s confidence in their academy and their commitment to fostering homegrown talent even on the biggest stage. It also provides these youngsters with invaluable exposure that can accelerate their development.
Barcelona’s Champions League journey begins in a group that promises competitive matches, and fans will be eager to see if Darvich and other young players can rise to the occasion.