Ghanaian midfielder Abdul Aziz Issah’s future at FC Barcelona appears uncertain, with multiple reports indicating the club is leaning toward not activating the option to make his loan move permanent.
Issah joined Barcelona on loan from Dreams FC in Ghana in September 2024 with high expectations. Touted as one of Ghana’s brightest prospects, many anticipated he would make a strong impression in the Catalan club’s setup. However, his time in Spain has not gone as planned.
Despite reportedly impressing in first-team training sessions under new manager Hansi-Dieter Flick, Issah has struggled to break into Barcelona Atletic, the club’s reserve side. He featured in just two matches, totaling only 26 minutes of game time. His prolonged absence from matchday squads raised concerns about his development and adaptation to the club’s style of play.
Even with injuries depleting Barcelona’s midfield options this season, Issah was consistently overlooked. Though he showcased his potential at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations—where he played a key role for Ghana—Barcelona’s technical staff reportedly remains unconvinced of his readiness for top-level competition.
With a midfield already stacked with elite talents like Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and rising star Lamine Yamal, opportunities for young players like Issah are limited. At just 19, consistent game time is crucial for his growth, and a move away from Barcelona may be in his best interest to avoid stagnation.
Meanwhile, fellow Ghanaian youngster David Oduru could be in line for a breakthrough at the club. The former Accra Lions left-back has caught the eye as Barcelona grapples with injury concerns in defense. First-choice left-back Alejandro Balde remains sidelined with recurring injuries, and his deputy, Gerard Martin, has struggled to impress.
This situation presents a golden opportunity for Oduru. With Barcelona actively seeking depth in the left-back position, the promising Ghanaian could find himself in serious contention for a first-team spot next season.
As one Ghanaian prospect faces the prospect of departure, another appears on the cusp of seizing his moment. The contrasting fortunes of Issah and Oduru underscore the high-stakes nature of development at a club as competitive as Barcelona—where only the most adaptable and ready talents break through.
