Barcelona youngster already showing why Flick fought hard to keep him in the summer | OneFootball

Fermin Lopez was the star in Barcelona’s 6-0 win over Valencia, and his performance on the night sent a strong message not only to the manager but also to clubs across the globe who were interested in him but insulted him with small financial offers.

The player, despite not being a regular starter for Barcelona, has always had a lion’s heart on the field, and his ability to create chances out of thin air makes him a very unique profile in today’s world of football.

A month ago, there was widespread speculation that Lopez was considering a departure from Barcelona given the competition for a starting spot, and at one point, it seemed set that he would announce his exit from the club, with Chelsea pushing to sign him.

Hansi Flick, however, insisted that the player stay and eventually had a part in helping Lopez finalise his decision. Needless to say, it has not taken long for the player to show why the manager was pushing for his continuity.

A special player

Barcelona’s midfield, by far, is the team’s most stacked department in terms of profiles and competition for a starting spot.

The attacking midfield, further, is the one where there is an even more gruelling competition, given that there is only one spot in the starting lineup, and the likes of Dani Olmo, Gavi, and even Raphinha are possible competitors with Fermin for the position.

Fermin has been the manager’s preferred option this season, but there was no tangible favouritism towards him despite the exit links from Flick’s side.

The 22-year-old earned the start against Mallorca and was hooked off at half-time after an average display, then was benched against Levante and came off the bench for just under half an hour against Rayo Vallecano.

Fermin was brilliant vs Valencia. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Last weekend, however, Flick handed him the start once more vs Valencia, and he showed exactly why the manager pushed for him to stay. The youngster shone brightly and was the team’s best player on the field, constantly creating threat.

Lopez was simply uncontrollable against Carlos Corberan’s men as he netted a calm and complicated finish for the team’s first goal and then went on to score a golazo from outside the box to complete his brace.

In addition, he completed 89% of his passes, made two key passes, created two big chances and won six duels on the night.

A unique profile

There is no doubt that the 22-year-old’s profile stands out from that of his peers for a number of reasons.

But what makes him all the more special is that his ability as an elite goalscorer does not reduce his technical ability or finesse in tight combination play. Such a combination, needless to say, is unique.

If the player can keep up the same level in the coming games, it is safe to say that he will likely be Flick’s preferred option over Dani Olmo in the department and rightfully so.

All he requires is a little consistency, something one can expect from the player, given the manager’s strict management. His profile is rare to come by at La Masia, and it is clear that his unconventional ability to come up with goals from midfield is worth its weight in gold.