While the likes of Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi have hogged the headlines in recent months, it’s easy to forget that another youngster had been making waves in the Barcelona first team earlier in the season, and that was Fermin Lopez.
The 20-year-old was elevated into Xavi Hernandez’s squad after a very impressive pre-season, which included scoring against Real Madrid. At such, he became an important part of the furniture, and often started in La Liga, especially when the likes of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri were injured.
However, he has struggled for minutes over the last few months. He has started just two matches in 2023, and they were in the Copa del Rey against lower league opposition (Barbastro and Unionistas de Salamanca). This is despite the fact that he has been fit and available throughout this period.
It’s a worrying time for Fermin as he bids to continue being a Barcelona first team player, although Sport note that he has an uncertain future. A summer exit – most likely a loan – could be possible, especially if he continues to have little prominence.
Ultimately, Fermin’s future – like with many Barcelona players – will be decided in the summer, because it gives an opportunity for the next manager to decide who he wants in his squad. It remains to be seen whether the youngster can get back into Xavi’s plans between now and the end of the season.
