Belmin Begzadic, an 11-year-old football prodigy of Bosnian heritage, has captured the attention of Barcelona FC, one of the world's greatest football clubs. Among 7,250 children from across the United States, he was the only one to meet the rigorous standards of the club's prestigious academy.
“I’m Belmin Begzadic, I’m 11 years old. I went to Spain to play for Barcelona Academy. My idol is Edin Dzeko. I live in Bowling Green, Kentucky, but when I grow up, I want to play for Bosnia and Herzegovina. I’m Bosnian, and I love all Bosnians,” the young talent told N1 in an interview.
Born on October 3, 2013, in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Belmin’s passion for football was evident from an early age. His father, Hasib Begzadic, described his son’s unique connection to the sport: “Since he was born, his only toy has been a football. Even when he started crawling, he would only go after the ball. Honestly, it’s like he sleeps with it.”
Belmin began playing football at the age of four with Sky Soccer Club. By six, his talent had already been recognized, drawing attention from BG Elite, a Bosnian-American non-profit organization. “Wherever he played, parents, coaches, and referees would approach me, asking, ‘Whose child is this? He’s something special,’” said his proud father.
Belmin's talents go beyond the football field, excelling academically, particularly in mathematics. “He’s like a calculator—there’s no problem he can’t solve,” his father added.
The young player’s journey to Barcelona started at a camp in Nashville, where 200 children were shortlisted for further evaluation in Spain. “Out of 7,250 kids, Belmin was the only one to pass all the tests,” Hasib said. The main Barcelona coach even congratulated Hasib, calling Belmin “extraordinary” and noting his technical skills and professional demeanour.
Belmin’s mother, Berisa, has been instrumental in his success, often driving hundreds of miles to tournaments. “Seven years we’ve been on the road, just him and me. I don’t miss a single match,” she said. However, the thought of her son leaving for Spain brings mixed emotions. “I feel proud, but it’s also hard. I wouldn’t stop his happiness for anything,” she added.
Belmin’s achievements have already drawn the attention of former Manchester City and Manchester United players Stephen Ireland and Ryan Hopper, who expressed interest in guiding him to England. However, Barcelona remains his ultimate dream.
As a child of Bosnian descent, Belmin holds a deep connection to his heritage. His father, originally from Bratunac, survived the horrors of war before starting a new life in the United States. “I lost my father and many family members in the genocide,” Hasib said, emphasizing the importance of carrying Bosnian pride forward.
Belmin Begzadic’s journey is just beginning, but his determination, talent, and connection to his roots promise a bright future. With Barcelona’s interest, this young player could follow in the footsteps of La Masia greats like Lionel Messi, making his family, and possibly Bosnia, immensely proud.
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