Barcelona 16-year-old prodigy reflects on his first-team debut – ‘Just a small step’ | OneFootball

At 16 years and 173 days old, Toni Fernandez became the second youngest player to officially debut for FC Barcelona, after Lamine Yamal, who made his debut at 15 years and 291 days.

Fernandez made his official debut on 4 January in the Copa del Rey match against ID Barbastro, coming on in the 81st minute to replace Pablo Torre.

The match was a comfortable one for the Blaugranas, who won 0-4 in Huesca, but it will always be an unforgettable day for the La Masia graduate and his family.

Toni Fernandez grateful to everyone at the club

Speaking to the club’s official media earlier today, young Toni reflected on his first-team debut and the moment leading up to it, saying that he was very calm when the time came.

“It was a very happy moment for me. I was very calm when it was time to go on the pitch. I just wanted to enjoy the moment that we always have,” remarked the teenage forward.

Second youngest debutant in Barcelona history. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Expressing his gratitude to his family, the club and the coaching staff for his development and the opportunity he received, the 16-year-old added:

“I first want to thank my family, who are always there for me, helping me and correcting me and then, all the coaches at the club and the people at the club.

“Everything was great and I learnt from the best and now I’m working with my team and taking advantage of the opportunities to be at my best when I step up.”

Discussing his parents’ reaction after his debut, Toni admitted that they were in tears when they called him.

“They called me crying tears of happiness and said that what I did was a source of pride for them. They told me to keep working and strive for more and not to be satisfied with what I have achieved because what I have done so far is just a small step,” he revealed.