Bojan Krkić Pérez, or simply Bojan as he's known to fans, was once considered the future of FC Barcelona. A product of the famed La Masia youth academy, Bojan's early career trajectory was nothing short of meteoric. Let's delve into the story of the talented forward, his rise to prominence, and the unexpected turns his career took.

Born in 1990 to a Serbian father and a Spanish mother, Bojan's footballing talent was evident from a young age. He joined Barcelona's youth system at just eight years old and quickly established himself as a prolific goalscorer. Reports claim he netted over 900 goals in his youth career, surpassing the legendary Lionel Messi's record at the time.


By 2007, at the tender age of 17, Bojan made his debut for the Barcelona senior team, becoming their youngest ever player to do so in a league match. He even broke the record for the youngest goalscorer shortly after. Playing alongside superstars like Messi and Xavi, Bojan's early performances were dazzling. His pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal excited fans and pundits alike.

The 2007-2008 season proved to be Bojan's most successful. He bagged 10 goals in La Liga, helping Barcelona win the league title. He also featured in their Champions League triumph that year, solidifying his place as a rising star. Awards like La Liga's revelation player cemented his status as one to watch.


However, Bojan's rapid rise came with immense pressure. Comparisons with Messi were inevitable, and sustaining such a high level at such a young age proved difficult. Injuries also began to hamper his progress. In 2011, Barcelona decided to loan him out, marking a turning point in his career.

Bojan embarked on a series of loan spells at Roma, AC Milan, and Ajax, with varying degrees of success. He struggled to recapture his Barcelona form, and the constant change of clubs disrupted his rhythm. In 2014, he made a permanent move to Stoke City in the Premier League, a surprising choice for many.


Bojan's time in England was mixed. While he showcased his technical ability at times, adapting to the physical demands of the Premier League proved challenging. He spent several seasons on loan at other clubs before finally leaving Stoke City in 2019.

The latter part of Bojan's career saw him play in various leagues around the world, including Major League Soccer in the United States and the Japanese J1 League. Despite glimpses of his former brilliance, he never quite reached the heights expected of him in his early days.


In March 2023, Bojan announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33. While his career may not have followed the trajectory many predicted, Bojan's talent and achievements deserve recognition. He remains a legend at La Masia and a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional football.

Honours

Barcelona

La Liga: 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11
Copa del Rey: 2008–09
Supercopa de España: 2009, 2010
UEFA Champions League: 2008–09, 2010–11
UEFA Super Cup: 2009
FIFA Club World Cup: 2009

Ajax

Eredivisie: 2013–14
Johan Cruyff Shield: 2013

Montreal Impact

Canadian Championship: 2019

Spain U17

UEFA U-17 European Championship: 2007

Spain U21

UEFA U-21 European Championship: 2011

Individual

UEFA U-17 Championship Golden Player: 2007[123]
UEFA U-17 Championship Top Scorer: 2006[124]
FIFA U-17 World Cup Bronze Ball: 2007[125]
FIFA U-17 World Cup Bronze Shoe: 2007[125]
La Liga Breakthrough Player of the Year: 2007–08