Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has expressed disappointment with the early pre-season performances of a pivotal squad member, casting doubt on their readiness for the 2025/26 La Liga campaign.
As the team prepares for their opening match against RCD Mallorca, Flick’s candid remarks during a press conference highlight the pressure on this player to step up.
Despite a recent upturn in form, the coach’s initial dissatisfaction underscores the high expectations at the club following a successful pre-season and a trophy-laden previous campaign.
The player in question is Fermín López, a 22-year-old midfielder vying for a starting role in Barcelona’s competitive midfield, as per getfootballnewsspain.
López, who shone last season, struggled to impress Flick during the early weeks of pre-season.
However, the young Spaniard showed signs of recovery in the Joan Gamper Trophy match against Como, where he scored an impressive brace, securing a victory and boosting his case for a spot in the starting lineup at Son Moix.
With Dani Olmo’s fitness concerns, López’s recent performance could see him edge out competitors like Frenkie de Jong and Gavi for a place in Flick’s XI.
Flick’s comments reveal a demanding approach, as he noted, “During the start of this pre-season, I was not too impressed with him, but now he has improved a lot in recent weeks.
He had a great game against Como.” This turnaround is critical for López, who faces stiff competition in a stacked midfield that includes Pedri, de Jong, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Marc Casado, Marc Bernal, and Dro.
His ability to regain Flick’s confidence could determine his role in a season where Barcelona aims to defend their La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Supercopa titles.
As the Mallorca clash looms, López’s late pre-season surge offers hope, but Flick’s initial dissatisfaction serves as a reminder of the relentless standards at Barcelona.
With the campaign kicking off, López must sustain his momentum to secure a regular spot and prove he can meet the demands of a club chasing European glory.
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