Barcelona returned to winning ways following an entertaining 4-2 win over Valencia at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
While Robert Lewandowski stole the show with a stellar hattrick, Fermin Lopez was the other scorer for Barcelona, notably heading in the opener.
Apart from his header, Fermin made a key impact in the game, particularly with his off-the-ball runs.
Fermin Lopez’s rapid rise at Barça
Fermin Lopez’s performance against Valencia was yet another indicator of his growing influence at Barcelona.
The player who was playing on loan in the third division of Spanish football last season, has become one of Barcelona’s ‘big-game players’ this season.
Indeed, Fermin has stepped up to the plate against tough opposition this season, with his last four goals coming against Napoli, Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid and Valencia respectively.
Overall, the forward has racked up eight goals and one assist in all competitions, which is quite significant for a player who has minimal experience in top-flight football.
What’s next?
It is safe to say that Fermin has exceeded expectations with his contributions to Barcelona this season.
Thanks to his performances, Barcelona now reportedly see him in a different light. He was one of the candidates to be sold in the coming summer. But it appears Fermin has earned himself a spot in Xavi’s plans for the season ahead.
Although Fermin will have a tough task battling for a place in the first-team next season, he will remain a reliable option for coach Xavi in the attacking third.
One would expect Fermin to improve his game further next season, as he eventually looks to compete with the likes of Gavi and Pedri, in the years to come.
