Norwich City said goodbye with pride and affection to Ajay Tavares, the 16-year-old who was presented by FC Barcelona on Monday.
"We are incredibly sad to lose a player of Ajay’s caliber, but we also have an immense feeling of pride," said Ben Knapper, Norwich’s sporting director.
He added that Ajay’s progress is the result of the fantastic work of everyone in their academy, which has contributed to his career and this great achievement. "We couldn’t be prouder to see him take this step to one of the most iconic clubs in the world and one of the best academies," he said.
Tavares, who can play as a central forward or a winger, has not yet made his official first team debut for Norwich but did play in a preseason match and has been a regular in the Under-18 team this season.
Tavares joined Norwich at the age of 12 and has represented England at the Under-15, Under-16, and Under-17 levels.
"He is an incredible young talent with a bright future ahead. This step celebrates all the work he has done in our academy, and we will continue to follow his progress with great pride," added Knapper.
