Flick knows he has a treasure in Barcelona starlet; his new role could affect two more youngsters

Fermin Lopez made his 50th appearance for FC Barcelona last night against Crvena Zvezda and marked it with a goal as the Catalans secured a thumping 5-2 win in the UEFA Champions League.

The 21-year-old, who recently signed a new contract with Barça until 2029, became the 11th different player to score for the team this season and did so while playing in an unfamiliar position on the left flank.

Fermin’s new role

According to SPORT, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is fully aware that he has a treasure at his hands in the form of Fermin Lopez.

The coach knows that the 21-year-old is a player who not only contributes with goals but also brings character and versatility to the table.

Flick put this versatility to the test last night when he brought the La Masia graduate on against Crvena Zvezda in the 68th minute.

Fermin came on for Pedri whilst simultaneously Dani Olmo replaced Raphinha leaving Barça with four midfielders on the field (Marc Casado, Frenkie de Jong, Olmo and Fermin) for three positions.

The manager resolved this by positioning Fermin as a false left winger when many anticipated that Olmo would take the role.

Fermin seized the opportunity, scoring with a strike from inside the box – a crucial goal that not only marked his first of the season but will also boost his confidence after recovering from two muscle injuries.

Impact on Ansu Fati and Pau Victor

The situation seems to suggest that Flick intends to take advantage of the crowded midfield to give his players more minutes in advanced positions.

In this regard, Fermin, Olmo, Pedri, Gavi, and Pablo Torre are the most flexible pieces in the squad, while De Jong and Casado are more comfortable in deeper, central roles.

However, one of the immediate consequences of Fermin’s new role with Barcelona was that Ansu Fati, who could have played as a left-winger, was left on the bench in Belgrade.

Summer signing Pau Victor, another option for the attacking positions, only saw 12 minutes of action.

If Flick continues with the tactic, the two young attackers, who have not featured much this season, could see their minutes further dwindle.