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Barcelona, spain – July 26, 2024 – Seventeen-year-old Fermín López Fernández made a stunning debut for FC Barcelona in their 3-0 victory over Kobe Orient Shears in a pre-season friendly at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Tuesday, scoring a goal and immediately turning heads. The performance has sparked excitement among fans and coaching staff alike, positioning the young midfielder as a potential breakout star for the upcoming season.
Fernández, whose mother is Filipino and father is Spanish, admitted to pre-game nerves before entering the match as a substitute.However, a calming conversation with head coach Hansi Flick quickly alleviated his anxiety. “When I was substituted, Hansi told me I should just enjoy it and do what I can do with the ball,” Fernández recounted. He described being overwhelmed with joy after scoring, stating, “I could hardly believe it. I didn’t even know how to cheer.”
The promising talent has already garnered attention from Spanish sports publication Marca, which urged readers to “Note this name.” Coach Flick echoed this sentiment, praising Fernández not onyl for his goal but also for his remarkable ball control. Flick, who successfully integrated youth players during his first year with the club, highlighted Fernández’s advancement from Barcelona’s youth academy, known as La Masia.
A Rising Star from La Masia
Flick emphasized the importance of nurturing Fernández’s potential,stating,”We have to take care of them and help them improve,that is our job,and we will do that.” He also cautioned that Fernández still has work to do, acknowledging the competition for playing time in midfield. “Of course he still has to improve, in midfield we have a lot of quality, and it is indeed not easy to play there, not only for him, but also for others.”
Fernández’s skillset extends beyond goal-scoring. He possesses exceptional technique, close ball control, creativity, and tactical awareness, allowing him to effectively play both in central offensive midfield and on the left wing. His performance against Kobe showcased his dribbling ability and proficiency in one-on-one situations, skills honed during his futsal background.
The young player recently led Barcelona’s youth team to a championship title in the UEFA Youth League during the 2023-2024 season. he joined La Masia in 2016 from local club CE Sabadell, progressing through the ranks before earning a spot with the first team.His contract with Barcelona currently runs through June 30,2027,with a release clause of €80 million.
