Due to injuries and personnel losses, Barcelona’s coaching staff once again turned to the academy reserves. As promised earlier, Hansi Flick gave Toni Fernández a spot in the starting lineup. For the 17-year-old, this match against Girona marked his first La Liga start, which could become a turning point in his career.
Fernández had regularly made the matchday squad, but it was the ninth round of the national championship that proved special for him. His versatility in attack and ability to quickly adapt to various positions impressed the German coach.
Last season, Flick already took notice of the young forward, and in January Toni was promoted to the first team. He made his senior debut on January 4 in the Copa del Rey against Barbastro, coming on as a substitute for a few minutes. At that time he was just 16 years old and wore number 42. This season, the coach has included him in the squad for six matches.
A product of La Masia, the left-footer from Rubí joined the academy in 2018 after transferring from Espanyol. On the pitch, he can play as an attacking midfielder, on both flanks, or as a false nine. His contract with the club runs until 2027. In addition to his tactical flexibility, Fernández stands out for his mental resilience, ability to find open spaces, technical skills, and good vision.
In the match against Girona, he played up front, supported by Lamine on the right and Rashford on the left, wearing the number 29.
This season, Flick continues to actively integrate young players from the academy into the first team. Fernández, who plays for Spain’s U18 national team, has nearly become a full-fledged member of the first squad. He trains with the main team almost daily and has been named in the squad for all La Liga and Champions League matches. However, it was the match against Girona that marked his first appearance in the starting lineup in the national championship.
The Barcelona coach has repeatedly placed his trust in young players, giving playing time to footballers like Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal. This season has also seen debuts for Jofre Torrents, Drow, and Toni Fernández. Flick notes that he is pleased with Fernández’s work in training and his progress over two years with the first team.
