While FC Barcelona ended up with a defeat in the last El Clasico, there were still some positives to take out from the game. For instance, Gavi put in a very effective shift, showcasing his readiness to take on any team in the world without any fears.
Another player who shone on the day for as much time as he was afforded on the pitch was the young midfielder Fermin Lopez.
With Pedri and Frenkie both unable to return from their injuries in time for the match, Xavi decided to give another chance to Fermin Lopez in perhaps the biggest match in the first half of this season.
Fermin Lopez here to stay in the first-team
Clearly, the midfielder did not disappoint in this match, as he helped Barcelona keep control of the midfield and keep elite midfielders like Kroos, Bellingham, Tchouameni, and Valverde from inflicting much damage to the Catalan team.
According to Diario AS, with his amazing performances in the last few matches, Fermin Lopez has convinced Xavi to make him a first-team player for all intents and purposes, and his presence in Xavi’s team is also cemented by the contract that he signed this week that will keep him at the Catalan club till 2027.
Thus, Lopez will not go down to the reserve team anymore and thus has the same status in the first-team as another highly promising youngster, Lamine Yamal.
Senior Spain call-up in the offing
His performances with Barcelona have also attracted the attention of the Spanish football authorities, and the Spain national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, can also call him up for the upcoming international fixtures.
Even the return of Pedri is not expected to jeopardize Fermin Lopez’s rise to the first-team, as he has the absolute confidence of the coaches. This is particularly true after El Clasico, as he was one of the outstanding players for Barcelona on the pitch.
