Barcelona regularly sends young talents on loan to gain crucial match experience. However, five of their loanees—Ansu Fati (Monaco), Iñaki Peña and Héctor Fort (Elche), Ander Astralaga (Granada), and Áron Yaakobishvili (Andorra)—currently struggle for consistent starting roles at their respective clubs.
Ansu Fati, who extended his contract with Barcelona until 2028, has endured injuries and coaching changes at Monaco. So far in 2026, he has started only three out of thirteen matches available, despite previously scoring nine goals in 23 appearances.
Goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, also extended until 2029 and loaned to Elche, initially secured a starting spot over the veteran Matías Dituro. However, following a series of poor team results, the coach reinstated Dituro, leaving Peña sidelined for the past six games.
Young defender Héctor Fort showed promise at Elche with assists and a key goal, but a shoulder injury halted his rising trajectory. He is currently recovering in Barcelona.
Ander Astralaga, loaned to Granada, briefly displaced his rival goalkeeper but later lost his spot and is now out injured.
Áron Yaakobishvili, another goalkeeper on loan at Andorra, began as a regular starter but was replaced after three consecutive losses and has not played in five matches.
This widespread shortage of game time among Barcelona's loanees raises concerns about their development and the club’s plans for their integration back into the team. Barcelona may need to reassess its loan strategies to ensure these young players fulfill their potential.
