Barcelona’s All Time Best African XI: A Fusion of Legacy and Untold Stories
With over 20 African players having graced the ranks of FC Barcelona, the prospect of assembling an all-time best African XI from the club’s history sparks excitement. Let’s delve into this ultimate team and explore the tales behind each selection.
Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
- A product of the Samuel Eto’o Academy in Cameroon, Onana’s bond with Barcelona is special. Despite his eventual move to Ajax, his departure from Barca left warm sentiments: “Barcelona is my home, and I grew up there.”
Right-back: Samuel Okunowo
- Discovered by Barca scouts at a U18 tournament in 1997, Okunowo’s journey from a trial offer after a Nigeria victory to making 21 appearances in the 1998-99 La Liga-winning side is a story of unexpected brilliance and subsequent travels across various football landscapes.
Centre-backs: Yaya Toure, Alex Song
- Yaya Toure, an iconic figure, played a crucial role in winning the Champions League and two La Liga titles. His stint at centre-back during the 2009 Champions League final adds a unique chapter to his legacy. Alex Song, a defensive midfielder, joined Barca as a backup but faced challenges, and his most memorable moment involved an unexpected trophy-lifting mishap.
Left-back: Ez Abde
- A La Masia standout, Abde showcased attacking prowess in Xavi’s first season but was eventually forced to leave due to emerging talents. Known for his knack for scoring bangers, Abde’s departure from Barcelona left a void felt by his La Masia peers.
Central Midfielders: Seydou Keita, Franck Kessie
- Seydou Keita, a versatile midfielder during the Guardiola era, possessed excellent touch, vision, and an underrated goal-scoring ability. Despite challenges, the bond between Keita and Guardiola reflected mutual respect. Franck Kessie, although not a former Barcelona player, is included for his current achievements, highlighting the continued impact of African talent in football.
This collection of African talents forms a rich tapestry of Barcelona’s history, blending legacy, unexpected journeys, and untold stories that contribute to the diverse mosaic of the footballing world.
