Roony Bardghji, the highly-rated Swedish winger, has joined from FC Copenhagen for a reported fee of just £2 million, a surprisingly modest sum for a player often dubbed the “Swedish Messi.”
At just 18 years old, Bardghji has already made waves in European football, drawing attention for his flair, creativity, and clinical left foot. Touted as one of the brightest talents to emerge from Scandinavia in recent years, the winger’s arrival represents a smart and potentially high-reward investment by Barcelona. While the focus remains on blockbuster names, this under-the-radar move could prove to be one of the most astute bits of business the Catalan giants pull off this summer.
Officially signed and announced by Barcelona Atlètic due to registration constraints, Roony Bardghji’s immediate future remains uncertain and will hinge largely on his performances during pre-season. Whether he stays with the first team, joins Barcelona B, or is sent out on loan will be determined by Hansi Flick and his coaching staff, who will closely monitor his development in training.
Regardless of the outcome, this period presents a valuable opportunity for both the club and fans to get to know the man who they could be singing his name for future years.
Born in Kuwait to Syrian parents, his family moved to Sweden in 2011
Roony was born in Kuwait to parents originally from Aleppo, Syria, after his father relocated there for work. Later, he moved to Sweden with his mother and younger brother, settling in the small coastal town of Kallinge in the country's south. There, the young talent quickly adapted to his new European surroundings, laying the foundations for a promising footballing journey.
The youngster impressed on trial with Tottenham when he was younger
At just 12 years old, Roony Bardghji earned a trial with Tottenham Hotspur and made an immediate impact. In a trial match against Ipswich Town, he scored a hat-trick and provided two assists in a commanding 6-1 win, showcasing his immense potential. Despite the standout performance, a move to England ultimately didn’t materialise. While the exact reasons remain unclear, it’s widely believed that the decision to remain close to his family in Sweden played a key role, allowing him to continue his development in a more familiar and supportive environment within the Nordic football system.
Known Football Manager wonderkid
Every footballer or manager who’s played the game knows the value of a good wonderkid list, and Roony Bardghji has been a mainstay since his debut at just 16. His standout technical attributes rank among the best in his age group, making him a top target for any career-mode enthusiast. With his development tracked closely at the Danish club, many fans and virtual managers alike have long hoped to see him join their squad, knowing full well that his potential could be game-changing and you become the best manager that has ever played the game.
Comparison earned him the nickname of “Swedish Messi”
His playing style has drawn frequent comparisons to Barcelona legend Lionel Messi, thanks to his exceptional dribbling, flair, and close control in tight spaces. Operating primarily from the right flank, Roony Bardghji loves to cut inside onto his favoured left foot, mirroring the trademark movement of the Camp Nou icon. His ability to glide past defenders and create shooting opportunities with minimal space evokes shades of the Argentine great, earning him the nickname “the Swedish Messi.”
His younger brother, Rayan, is reportedly also wanted by Barcelona
Barcelona's interest in the Bardghji family doesn’t stop with Roony. The club is reportedly keeping close tabs on his 15-year-old younger brother, Rayan, who is also part of the FC Copenhagen setup. With both brothers showing significant promise, it seems Barça’s scouting department is keen to secure a potential double coup for the future.