Former Barcelona academy talent Dro insists PSG offers the best pathway for his development after controversial move to Paris
Dro Fernández has made little effort to soften the blow of his controversial move from FC Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain, insisting there was “no better place” for his development after completing a surprise switch to the French champions.
The highly rated youngster, who grew up within Barcelona’s academy system, opted to join PSG in a decision that angered club president Joan Laporta and head coach Hansi Flick. Both figures publicly expressed their frustration at losing a player they viewed as part of the club’s long-term future, making Dro’s departure one of the most talked-about youth moves of the summer.
Speaking for the first time as a PSG player, Dro appeared unmoved by the backlash from his former club. Instead, he framed the move as a necessary step in his personal and professional growth – comments that will be interpreted by many in Catalonia as a pointed message to Barcelona.
“I’m very happy and extremely excited. It’s a moment of great pride for me and my family, and I can’t wait to start playing,” Dro said. “It’s an important step, but the decision was taken to continue growing as a player, and I believe there’s no better place to do that than here.”
Those remarks are likely to sting at Barcelona, particularly given the club’s ongoing efforts to rebuild around young talent under Flick, who gave him his first team debut this season. Dro went further, highlighting PSG’s project and its emphasis on youth as a key factor behind his choice.
Describing himself as a creative player who thrives in possession and decision-making, Dro stressed that the environment in Paris was decisive.
“I’m a player who likes carrying the ball and making good decisions,” he told the club’s media channels.
“I’m calm and relaxed, I like keeping close to the people I care about. I really believe there’s no better place to grow, because the project here with young players is incredible.”
🎙️ “I think there is no better place to continue growing as a player”
Dro Fernández in Paris – The first interview with our new Parisian. 🔴🔵 pic.twitter.com/tawxqKUSpN
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) January 27, 2026
Agent instrumental in move
The teenager also singled out PSG coach Luis Enrique as one of the main factors in joining, suggesting a level of trust and opportunity that he felt would accelerate his development. “Because of the coach and everyone who makes this project possible, I’m here,” he added.
Dro and Luis Enrique share the same agent in former Barcelona and Espanyol player Iván de la Peña, who was instrumental in making the move happen.
PSG’s aggressive recruitment of elite young talent continues as the club reshapes its identity, while Barcelona are left to reflect on another academy graduate choosing a different path.