Rodri Hernandez reacts after making Barcelona debut against Athletic Club | OneFootball

FC Barcelona returned to the top of the La Liga table after beating Athletic Club with a 2-0 scoreline in their first game of the new season at the Spotify Camp Nou. Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scored the two goals to give their side this important win.

However, one player for whom this match would remain particularly memorable is the midfielder Rodri Hernandez, as he made his debut in the Blaugrana shirt in this game. He came on to the pitch during the second half, in the 63rd minute, to a loud ovation from the home fans, as he replaced Raphinha.

Furthermore, he also talked to the media after this match, and as Mundo Deportivo has noted, he is already acting like a leader in the team. Lamine Yamal was upset with his substitution in the game against Elche, and in this media talk, the newly arrived midfielder highlighted how he has tried to get the young forward back to his best spirits:

“Lamine has been impressive. We tried to lift him up, and we saw the best version of him, even though he wasn’t able to score. The goals will come because the talent is there.”

Meanwhile, he also expressed his happiness with his team’s win:

“Very happy to play my first match, happy with the victory. Two out of two. It’s important to get some rhythm and adapt to this great team. First minutes and good feelings.”

Going forward, the Barcelona star was looking to work hard to get back to his best level after an unusual summer:

“It has been a long summer, longer than usual. I need to quickly get up to speed. I’ve had very few training sessions. These minutes have been very important to get some rhythm. This is where I wanted to be. Now it’s time to work.”

“The best players in the world are here, and we have to be at their level. This team has significant room for improvement, and we’re going to work towards that.”

Lastly, Rodri viewed the several different players available for Hansi Flick in the midfield positively:

“The most important thing is that we are all different. We give the coach different qualities. There is a great variety that allows us to have a lot of richness.”

Barcelona fans have now had their first glimpse of their marquee summer signing, but it is clear that Rodri is still far from his best level. He will reach this state gradually, and is expected to become a key part of the team as the team advances into the season.