Kike Barja

Enrique "Kike" Barja Afonso was born on April 1, 1997, in Noáin, a town located in the province of Navarre, Spain. From a young age, he showed great interest in football, which would eventually lead him to pursue a professional career in the sport. His early life in Noáin laid the foundation for his future success in football, as he joined the youth setup of CA Osasuna, the local club he would represent for many years.

Kike Barja made his senior debut for Club Atlético Osasuna's reserve team, also known as Osasuna B, on November 2, 2014, in a match against CD Izarra. The game was part of the Tercera División season, exemplifying the early stage of Barja's professional football journey. His debut marked the beginning of his rise through the ranks at Osasuna, alongside his continued development in the sport.

On December 9, 2017, Kike Barja debuted for the CA Osasuna first team in a Segunda División match against CD Lugo. His promotion from the B team to the first team was a significant step in his career, demonstrating his growth and potential as a professional footballer. The match ended in a draw, but Barja's performance was noted as promising, marking the start of his regular participation with the main squad.

Kike Barja scored his first professional goal for CA Osasuna in a league match against AD Alcorcón on January 20, 2018. This goal was not only important personally for Barja but also contributed to the team's overall performance in the league. As a promising winger, his ability to score and create opportunities made him a valuable asset to Osasuna's squad.

Osasuna achieved promotion to La Liga on June 30, 2019, thanks in part to Kike Barja's contributions throughout the season. As a key player in the squad, Barja played a vital role in many matches during the campaign. His efforts helped Osasuna secure a top position in the Segunda División, allowing them to return to Spain's top football competition after several seasons away.

Kike Barja and CA Osasuna achieved a memorable victory in the Copa del Rey on January 23, 2020, by defeating Recreativo de Huelva. Barja played an instrumental role in securing the win, demonstrating his continued growth and influence on the pitch. His performance was key in pushing the team through to the next round of the competition, further establishing his place as a regular starter.

Kike Barja scored his first goal in La Liga on July 11, 2020, during a match against RCD Mallorca. This achievement was a significant milestone in his career, marking his ability to compete and succeed at the highest level of Spanish football. His goal was crucial for Osasuna, helping them secure a notable victory in the league and boosting his confidence as a top-tier player.

Kike Barja renewed his contract with CA Osasuna on October 18, 2020, extending his stay with the club until 2024. This new contract was a testament to his performances and his importance to the team. Osasuna recognized his talent and potential, which led them to secure his future with the club. His commitment to the team was welcomed by fans and management alike.

On February 6, 2021, Kike Barja scored a memorable goal against SD Eibar in a La Liga clash. His performance in this match was outstanding, showcasing his skills and the ability to influence the game's outcome. This goal was one of the highlights of his 2020-2021 season, proving his capability to perform at the top level and further establishing himself as a key player for Osasuna.

After a significant injury layoff, Kike Barja made his return to action on April 25, 2023, during a league match. His comeback was highly anticipated by fans and his presence on the field was a boost for Osasuna. Barja's determination and resilience through his recovery process demonstrated his commitment and passion for the game, earning him respect from teammates and opponents alike.