The Barcelona Plan for Noah Darvich: A Rising Star in the Making

The spotlight is growing for Noah Darvich at Barcelona Atlètic. The young German player (17 years old) is becoming increasingly seasoned in the demanding Primera RFEF category. His integration has been gradual but steady. A new country, a new life. Language, culture. Living in La Masia. It’s been a radical change for the former Freiburg player, but he has been progressively adapting and gaining confidence, both with his Spanish and on the field.

So much so that his role under Rafa Márquez has changed significantly in recent weeks. Initially, he had little involvement, with barely one start for Barcelona’s B team in 2023. He gained more experience with the youth team in the Youth League and captained Germany in the U-17 World Cup, which marked a turning point in his season.

EARNING MÁRQUEZ’S TRUST Upon returning from Indonesia and fully back in the fold with Barcelona, Darvich gradually earned minutes until Márquez handed him his first start of 2024 against Fuenlabrada. He impressed with 70 minutes on the field and has been climbing since then, gaining confidence and improving his performance, understanding his teammates better.

He played 45 minutes against Logroñés, started against Sabadell, and scored his first goal against Teruel on March 16 (with the B team, as he had already scored in the Youth League). He has played two full matches in a row (the aforementioned Teruel game and previously against Sestao) and scored his first goal for the German U-18 team during this break.

AWAITING PROMOTION So far, Xavi hasn’t considered calling him up for any first-team matches, although he has been invited to train with them several times. Whether Barcelona Atlètic secures promotion will be crucial in defining his future next season (other players are in the same situation). If they fail to do so, Darvich won’t continue playing in the Primera RFEF.

Second Division seems like a good stepping stone for him. Additionally, his camp would demand participating in preseason with the first team if he stays. There are several uncertainties, including the scenario with the new coach or if Xavi continues. For now, Darvich is focused on finishing this season well and continuing his progression.