FC Barcelona has reinforced its youth academy with the incorporation of Gael José Seijo, a 14-year-old center back who can also play as a midfielder. The young man, originally from Taboada, arrived at La Masia this summer after a career at CD Lugo and Deportivo de La Coruña, where he trained from an early age and stood out as an Under-14 international.
In a report by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) carried out during the training camp of the U-15 team, Seijo revealed a little-known facet: his passion for refereeing. Although at La Masia he must focus on his football development, the player maintains the possibility of pursuing a career as a professional referee. “If by chance football doesn't work for me, refereeing will always be there,” he said proudly, remembering that his interest was born thanks to his mother, who encouraged him to enroll in a referee course after taking him to watch Real Madrid games.
The young man explains how refereeing gives him advantages on the field. Knowing the regulations and knowing how to communicate with the referees allows you to control the game and avoid confrontations. “It helps me understand how to treat a referee, when to speak and how to keep him from going crazy,” he said. In addition, he usually advises his teammates about respecting referees, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and avoiding unnecessary protests.
Seijo also highlights the importance of communication during the game. "He was a referee who liked to talk. Any decision he made, he explained," he recalled. Its goal is to make the game smoother and cleaner, avoiding the frustration that arises when players insult or disrespect officials. “I feel frustration when people don't respect the referee,” he added, emphasizing that his “red” is reserved for those who lack respect.
As a footballer, Seijo is described as versatile and bold. He prefers to play forward and feels comfortable in both central defense and the midfield position. “I have strength, physique and in duels I am a very winner,” he stated, and remembers that since he was three years old he has had the ball glued to his foot, thanks to the constant support of his mother. After going through the junior and youth phase of Lugo, he joined Deportivo in the 2024-25 season before signing for Barça.
With his arrival, Barça not only gains a promising talent in the cadet category, but also a young man who provides a comprehensive vision of the game, combining passion for football with respect and understanding of refereeing. Seijo's future opens up both on the field and on the backline, and the club hopes that his duality will contribute to the development of a generation of players more aware and respectful of the sport.