From Israel to Camp Nou: Israeli teenager Orian Goren named to Barcelona squad for El Clasico

Israeli soccer player Orian Goren, 17, was officially named to Barcelona's squad for Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid in the 10th round of Spain's La Liga, becoming the first Israeli player to be included in a squad for one of the most prestigious and widely watched matches in world soccer.

Goren's inclusion comes primarily as a result of Dani Olmo's injury, which is expected to keep the Spanish midfielder sidelined for several weeks. Nevertheless, his selection is another indication of the confidence Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has placed in the promising Israeli youngster, having already given him several opportunities during preseason matches and included him in first-team training sessions.

Flick is well acquainted with Goren, who participated in Barcelona's first-team preseason preparations, including the Joan Gamper Trophy match.

Spanish sports newspaper Marca highlighted Goren's progress on Saturday, writing: "During those weeks, Goren had the opportunity to train alongside members of the first-team squad.

Now, his inclusion in the squad represents another step in his development. The midfielder trained on Friday and Saturday under the guidance of the German coach."

Goren's rise through Barcelona's ranks

The newspaper also praised the Israeli midfielder's performances for Barcelona's reserve team.

"He has become a key player for Barça Atlètic, the club's reserve team, standing out for his consistency in the middle of the pitch. He is a regular starter. A possible call-up for El Clasico would mark another chapter in his progress. At 17, Goren faces a major opportunity to be included in the squad for a match every player dreams of taking part in."

Catalan sports newspaper Sport also published an article on Sunday examining how Goren managed to win over Flick, further highlighting the growing attention surrounding the Israeli prospect. The hope now is that this milestone marks only the beginning of a promising career.

Following in the footsteps of Gai Assulin

Goren's achievement also recalls that of another Israeli player, Gai Assulin, who was previously part of Barcelona's senior squad. Assulin made appearances for the Catalan club in the Copa del Rey but never played for Barcelona in a La Liga match.

Another young player included in Barcelona's squad is Alex Campos, who has received his first league call-up, having previously been named in the squad for the match against Paris Saint-Germain.

Barcelona will face Real Madrid without several injured players, including Dani Olmo, Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen, and Roony Bardghji.