Roony Joins Barça, Lamine Gets 10 — But What About Defense?
Barcelona signs Roony Bardghji, hands Lamine Yamal the No. 10 shirt, and fans question the lack of defensive reinforcements in the 2025 window.
RayWrites- June 25, 2025
Roony Bardghji to Barça: A New Chapter Begins
Barcelona has reportedly completed the signing of 19-year-old Swedish sensation Roony Bardghji, popularly dubbed the “Swedish Messi.” Known for his close control, tactical maturity, and left-footed magic, Bardghji is being seen as a smart, low-cost acquisition in a rapidly evolving Barça transfer strategy.
Signed from Copenhagen for just €2 million plus add-ons, with a 15% sell-on clause, the move is yet another example of Deco’s emphasis on scouting intelligent, cost-efficient talent instead of chasing big names.
Though Bardghji is recovering from an ACL injury suffered in May 2024, his quality remains undoubted. A memorable goal against Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League highlighted his flair and decision-making. His ability to dribble in tight spaces and understand structured play makes him a strong candidate to rotate with Lamine Yamal in Copa del Rey and less intense La Liga fixtures.
Yet, rumors suggest he might start with Barça Athletic. Many believe that would be a mistake. Bardghji is ready for European football and deserves minutes with the first team under Hansi Flick’s watchful eyes.
Lamine Yamal Inherits the Iconic No. 10
In a bold yet symbolic move, Barcelona has handed the legendary No. 10 shirt to 16-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal. The youngster has already shown glimpses of elite potential and is widely considered one of the brightest prospects in world football today.
While giving such a prestigious number to a teenager may raise eyebrows, it also signals belief—belief in Yamal’s ability to carry the legacy of Messi, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo. If Bardghji becomes a strong backup, it will ease pressure on Yamal, allowing Barça to rotate smartly across competitions.
Nico Williams: Smart Fit or Redundant Move?
Barcelona is inching closer to finalizing a deal for Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger, elite in 1v1 dribbling and take-ons, brings a different dynamic to Barça’s attacking line. While he only scored 6–7 goals last season, his pace and width could become crucial under Flick’s system.
Rumors of a potential front four including Lamine (right), Nico (left), Raphinha (CAM), and Dani Olmo (false nine) have fans dreaming. Add Ferran Torres, Vitor Roque, and Bardghji from the bench, and suddenly Barça’s attacking depth looks frightening.
But with Lewandowski aging and Fati already off to Monaco, such moves appear more like long-term planning rather than luxury signings. Still, many culés are left wondering…
Why Aren’t Barcelona Signing Defenders?
Despite the exciting flurry of forward signings, the big question remains—what about the defense?
Last season, Barcelona’s defense was shaky. Individual errors and poor structural decisions led to numerous goals conceded. Fans are naturally questioning why the board is focused on bolstering an already elite attack while ignoring the backline.
Here’s the truth: the issue is not individual defenders, but the system.
Barcelona plays a high defensive line with aggressive counter-pressing. Even the best defenders—be it Van de Ven or Bastoni—would be exposed in such a setup. High lines make defenders vulnerable to balls in behind, and if the counter-press fails, it’s game over.
“You can’t outrun the ball,” as one fan rightly put it.
Hansi Flick might tweak the system by abandoning the risky offside trap and prioritizing deeper tracking. If so, that alone could solve many problems without spending big on center-backs.
Cubarsí had an excellent season. Íñigo Martínez was solid but underrated. With smart tweaks, this current crop could perform well.
The Brazilian Wonderkid & Other Moves
Barcelona is reportedly targeting 17-year-old Guilherme Lucas (Zé Lukas), captain of Brazil’s U17 national team. The defensive midfielder is praised for his composure, long-range passing, and fearless tackling despite his short stature. He could be another long-term gem if brought in now and integrated gradually.
We’ve already seen cost-effective moves with players like Ibrahim Diarra from Mali. Deco’s plan seems clear—sign global youth talents early, develop them under Barça’s philosophy, and build both sporting success and financial sustainability.
There are also whispers about a shocking move for Marcus Rashford. However, many fans oppose it, given Barça’s already crowded attacking line. If anything, a short-term experienced backup like Ivan Perišić would be more suitable.
Departures and Financial Updates
Ansu Fati has joined Monaco, initially extending his Barça contract by one year before a permanent move. The deal includes an €11M buy option for Monaco and a €28M buy-back clause for Barça. Pablo Torre is in talks with Mallorca for a loan, and center-back Mika Dominguez has been sold to Dinamo Zagreb.
Despite being in debt (~€1.3B), Barça is financially recovering. The club recently sold 475 VIP seats for €100M to UAE and UK investors, which will help cover registrations and salaries. However, stadium revenue remains low due to the temporary move to Montjuïc, costing the club nearly €100M per year.
Big signings like Nico Williams might be delayed until after June 30, so they fall into the next financial year. Meanwhile, Vitor Roque’s registration is complete for the current season.
Conclusion: Exciting Times, But Mind the Gaps
Barcelona’s transfer activity in 2025 reflects a shift—smart scouting, low-cost signings, and long-term planning. The arrival of Roony Bardghji, the promotion of Lamine Yamal to No. 10, and the potential signing of Nico Williams suggest a vision focused on creativity and youth.
But unless Hansi Flick addresses the tactical structure—particularly in defense—Barcelona may once again suffer the same fate next season. The problem is not defenders, it’s how the team defends.
Still, there’s a lot to be optimistic about. Barça fans should be excited. A new era is unfolding.
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