La Masia Golden Generation

Lore & Background

Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia, produced Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, and Xavi, who in 2010 were chosen as the three best players in the world in the Ballon d'Or ranking—an unprecedented feat for players from the same football academy. The club's first team won the continental treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Champions League) in 2009, becoming the first Spanish club to do so, and also became the first European club to win six competitions in a single year (2009). In 2011, Barcelona won five trophies, and in 2015, under Luis Enrique, they became the first European club to achieve the continental treble twice.

In Their Own Story

The rain fell softly on the pitch at Sant Joan Despí. Young boots slapped against wet grass, echoing the rhythm of drills practiced for years. In the distance, the lights of Barcelona twinkled. Here, amidst the smell of cut turf and mud, friendships were forged that would later conquer Europe. A simple pass became a promise kept between brothers in blue and red stripes.

Reader's Guide

It states that the club moved to the Camp de la Indústria in 1909, then to Les Corts in 1922, and later to Camp Nou (not mentioned in the source). The article does not describe the La Masia building or its location.

Did You Know?

• Barcelona players have won a joint record twelve Ballon d'Or awards and a record six FIFA World Player of the Year awards.
• The club's official anthem is the 'Cant del Barça', written by Jaume Picas i Guiu and Josep Maria Espinàs.
• Barcelona is one of three founding members of La Liga that have never been relegated since 1929.