Barça: at 12 years old, he is already panicking the networks… the new Lamine Yamal? (video)

At just 12 years old, Adam Qaroual is already capturing the attention of football enthusiasts across Europe. The young talent, currently rising through the ranks at Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, has become a social media sensation and is already drawing comparisons to the club’s latest superstar, Lamine Yamal.

His name is being whispered with excitement throughout the corridors of La Masia. Coaches, scouts, and staff are all beginning to see in Adam the makings of another generational talent. His dazzling displays on the pitch have left teammates, opponents, and even experienced observers stunned.

Born in 2012 in Mönchengladbach, Germany, Adam Qaroual carries a unique multicultural identity. With German, Moroccan, and Spanish nationalities, he represents a melting pot of football influences, and multiple national youth programs are reportedly keeping close tabs on his development.

Adam’s early football education started far from the grandeur of La Masia. Like many prodigies, he first fell in love with the sport in the streets, where flair and instinct are honed naturally. He later passed through the youth systems of clubs like Lürrip, Borussia Mönchengladbach, and PSV Eindhoven before landing in Barcelona in 2023.

It didn’t take long for the coaches at La Masia to recognize his immense potential. Now with Barça’s U13 squad, Adam stands out with his breathtaking dribbling, composure on the ball, and extraordinary vision. He regularly plays with a maturity that belies his tender age.

Observers often highlight his impeccable decision-making under pressure. He reads the game like a seasoned professional, rarely making the wrong choice and always prioritizing the team’s play over personal glory—a trait that fits seamlessly with Barcelona’s football philosophy.

Adam has also developed a strong on-field connection with Moha Akhomach, the younger brother of Ilias Akhomach. The duo’s chemistry has been a highlight of Barça’s youth matches this season, with their combination plays and intuitive understanding reminiscent of some of Barcelona’s most iconic attacking partnerships.

While comparisons to Lamine Yamal might seem premature, they are not without basis. Like Yamal, Adam exudes confidence and creativity. Yet he remains humble, grounded, and focused on learning—a balance that has impressed those guiding his journey.

His rise hasn’t gone unnoticed outside of Barcelona either. Jorge Mendes, one of the most influential football agents in the world, has reportedly approached his family with interest. In a symbolic gesture of admiration, Mendes even gifted Adam a Cristiano Ronaldo jersey—an idol of Adam’s.

Despite the growing hype, Barcelona’s management is keen to shield him from early pressure. Drawing lessons from how they handled Lamine Yamal’s rise, the club is deliberately taking a cautious approach to ensure Adam’s growth is well-paced and protected from burnout.

Behind the scenes, Adam’s dedication is unmatched. Those close to him describe a boy who is constantly seeking improvement, watching replays of his games, staying after training for extra drills, and absorbing advice like a sponge. He is, in every sense, a student of the game.

His coaches praise not only his technical prowess but also his leadership qualities. Even among older teammates, Adam commands respect for his work ethic and the calm authority with which he plays. He is a natural orchestrator on the pitch, guiding the tempo and dictating play.

As the football world becomes more aware of Adam Qaroual’s talents, comparisons will inevitably intensify. Yet for now, La Masia remains his sanctuary—a place where he can continue to grow away from the headlines, and where he can be nurtured to become more than just the “new Yamal.”

For Barcelona, whose identity is deeply rooted in producing world-class talents from within, Adam represents a continuation of a proud legacy. He could be the next great flag-bearer of the club’s academy values and footballing principles.

It’s still early days, and much can change in the world of youth football. But if Adam Qaroual continues on this trajectory, fans may one day look back on this time as the dawn of another unforgettable Barcelona story.

He may only be 12, but the football world is already watching closely. The question isn’t just whether Adam Qaroual will make it—it’s how far he can go.