Andres Cuenca has concluded his journey with Barcelona after seven years at La Masia. The 19-year-old center-back will now embark on a new path in Italy, where he is expected to join Cesc Fabregas‘s Como team once the transfer is finalized.
Despite having renewed his contract with Barcelona until 2027 last winter, the club has determined that this is an opportune moment for him to advance in his career following a loan stint at Sporting Gijon during the latter half of last season.
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Transitioning from La Masia to Professional Football
A member of Barcelona’s esteemed 2007 generation alongside talents like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí, Cuenca joined the club as an Under-13 player after beginning his football journey at Sevilla.
Throughout his time with the club, Cuenca garnered a reputation for his calmness on the ball, sharp distribution skills, and ability to play out of the back, traits that helped him secure frequent appearances for Barça Atletic.
Andres Cuenca is set to join Como. (Photo by Vasile Mihai-Antonio/Getty Images for DFB)
He made 26 appearances for the reserve team and fulfilled a lifelong dream by making his first-team debut in the UEFA Champions League against Young Boys in October 2024.
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A Productive Loan Spell
Cuenca’s loan to Sporting Gijon got off to a rocky start due to a muscular injury that hindered his acclimatization.
However, after regaining full fitness, he became a key player for the squad, starting in each of Sporting’s last seven league matches and solidifying his place in the lineup.
These impressive performances prompted Como to pursue the young defender, as Fabregas seeks to enhance his team with promising talents.
A Touching Farewell
Before leaving, Cuenca shared a heartfelt farewell message with Barcelona fans via social media.
“Saying goodbye to the place where I grew up is never easy. I arrived as a child and leave today with a treasure trove of memories, lessons learned, and people who have profoundly impacted my life,” he expressed.
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“These years defending this badge have been incredible, sharing a locker room with teammates who became friends, and learning from coaches and mentors who have helped me grow both on and off the field.”
“There were also tough times, but I feel fortunate to have been part of this club through it all. Each experience has made me a better footballer and, most importantly, a better person.”
Expressing gratitude to everyone he’s encountered at the club, he added: “I want to thank all my teammates, coaches, club staff, and everyone who walked this path with me. Without your support, none of this would have been possible.”
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Cuenca also reflected on what Barcelona will always signify for him.
“I depart proud of everything we’ve shared and excited for the new challenges ahead, knowing that a part of me will always remain here.”
“Thank you for everything. Visca el Barça.”
After seven years in the Blaugrana jersey, Cuenca now prepares to begin a new chapter in Serie A, aiming to further his development under one of Barcelona’s legendary midfielders.