Barcola - the 'grasshopper' who has overcome setbacks

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Liverpool have agreed a £123m deal to sign Bradley Barcola, the France winger whose rise has included setbacks, family support and a rapid climb to elite level. The article says Barcola, now 22, progressed through Lyon’s academy, fell out of favour there in 2022, and was briefly linked with a move to St Gallen before returning to the first team and using the chance to establish himself. He later scored against Paris St-Germain and then joined PSG in a reported £38.5m transfer.

The piece traces his time in Paris, where he won three Ligue 1 titles and two Champions Leagues, and became a senior France international. It also notes that he has already shown he can perform against Premier League opposition in the Champions League, including against Manchester City and Chelsea. BBC Sport says Liverpool see him as a major signing, but one that carries high expectations because of the fee.

A central theme is Barcola’s family background. The report says his mother encouraged him into football, his father helped shape his work ethic, and his siblings have remained important to him as he handled criticism and difficult spells. BBC Sport adds that former PSG coach Luis Enrique praised Barcola’s attitude, describing him as humble and hard-working. The article presents the move as the latest step in a career shaped by resilience, timing and strong family backing.