Roony Bardghji, the 19-year-old Swedish winger, has taken the football world by storm with his recent transfer to FC Barcelona and a standout debut goal against Vissel Kobe in a pre-season friendly on July 27, 2025. But who is this young talent, and why is he generating so much buzz?
Roony Bardghji: The Rising Star
Early Life and Background
Born on November 15, 2005, in Kuwait to Syrian parents, Roony Bardghji moved to Sweden at the age of six with his mother and younger brother, Rayan, who also plays in FC Copenhagen’s youth system. Growing up in Kallinge, Sweden, Bardghji learned Swedish, adding it to his repertoire of four languages: Danish, Arabic, and English. His early football days began at local clubs Kallinge SK and Rodeby AIK before a brief stint at Malmö FF in 2019. His talent was evident early on, earning him the nickname “Swedish Messi” due to his flair and goal-scoring ability.
Breakthrough at FC Copenhagen
Bardghji joined FC Copenhagen’s youth system in 2020 and quickly rose through the ranks. At just 16, he became the club’s youngest-ever player in November 2021 and the Danish Superliga’s youngest goalscorer later that month. His breakout moment came in 2023 when he scored a stunning goal against Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League, helping Copenhagen secure a 4-3 victory. Before suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in May 2024, Bardghji had scored 11 goals in the 2023-24 season, cementing his status as one of Europe’s brightest prospects.
Barcelona’s Bargain Signing
In July 2025, Barcelona secured Bardghji’s signature from FC Copenhagen for a modest €2.7 million, a deal made possible due to his contract nearing its expiration in December 2025. The transfer, spearheaded by Barcelona’s sporting director Deco, reflects the club’s strategy of investing in young, high-potential players. Bardghji signed a four-year contract until June 30, 2029, and joined Hansi Flick’s first-team squad for pre-season training.
