A 17-year-old Israeli midfielder is on the verge of making soccer history in one of the world's biggest matches. Orian Goren has been named in Barcelona's 18-man squad for Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid and will start the showdown on the bench.
If coach Hansi Flick decides to bring him on, Goren would become the first Israeli to play for Barcelona in Spain's La Liga, achieving the milestone against the club's fiercest rival. The match is scheduled to kick off at 10 p.m. Israel time.
Goren, who plays for Barcelona's reserve team, Barça Atlètic, earned his opportunity after impressing Flick during preseason and taking part in several recent first-team training sessions. The injury to midfielder Dani Olmo during Barcelona's Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain last week opened the door for the teenager's promotion.
‘An exceptional talent’
Spanish sports media have been full of praise for Goren, with Catalan newspaper Sport drawing comparisons between the Israeli youngster and two of Barcelona's most celebrated midfielders, Pedri and Andrés Iniesta.
‘Goren has exceptional talent,’ the newspaper wrote, highlighting his technical ability, intelligent movement and composure on the ball. His playing style, according to the report, bears a striking resemblance to Pedri's, particularly in his ability to read the game and link up with teammates.
The comparisons to Iniesta center on Goren's decision-making, technical versatility and ability to combine with other players to create attacking opportunities.
Sport also highlighted the Israeli's flexibility in midfield, noting that he can operate in several positions, a quality particularly valued by Flick. The German coach has reportedly been monitoring Goren's progress for some time and has been impressed by both his technical ability and his understanding of the game.
Beyond his performances, Goren's attitude has also earned praise. According to the report, Flick appreciates the teenager's willingness to learn and improve, and has not hesitated to involve him in senior-team training when opportunities have arisen.
From Savyon to Barcelona
Born in Savyon, Israel, Goren joined Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy in 2023 from Maccabi Petah Tikva. Since then, he has steadily progressed through the club's youth ranks, establishing himself as one of its promising midfield prospects.
Will Flick give the Israeli youngster his chance? Barcelona coach Hansi Flick
(Photo: JOSE JORDAN / AFP)
During the summer, he took part in Barcelona's first-team preseason preparations under Flick before returning to Barça Atlètic, the reserve side coached by Juliano Belletti.
Although he has spent the current season playing for the reserves, his involvement with the senior squad ahead of one of the season's biggest fixtures reflects the confidence the coaching staff has developed in his abilities.
Barcelona's injury problems have also worked in Goren's favor. In addition to Olmo's absence, the Spanish champions have been dealing with injuries to Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen, while defender Jules Kounde remains doubtful because of a sprained left ankle.
The depleted squad has forced Flick to look more closely at the club's emerging talent, offering Goren an opportunity that few players his age receive.
For now, the Israeli teenager will have to watch from the bench as Barcelona faces Real Madrid. But if Flick calls his name, a player who left Maccabi Petah Tikva just three years ago could find himself making history on one of world soccer's greatest stages.