Fermín López has declared his readiness to operate as a false nine for Barcelona, offering manager Hansi Flick a tactical solution following the departure of the club’s established strikers.
Speaking to Ara, the Spanish midfielder confirmed he would accept a central attacking role if required, drawing on experience gained within the club’s academy ranks. Although capable of featuring on the left flank, he maintains that attacking midfield represents his strongest position, allowing him to display his best form.
The player’s willingness to shift position comes after Barcelona lost both Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, with the latter completing a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. López described his former colleague’s exit as unfortunate but respected the move as a personal decision, revealing he sent a farewell message rather than attempting to dissuade him from joining the French side.
Attacking options reshaped
With established forwards no longer available, López pointed to alternative goal sources within the squad. He identified himself alongside Dani Olmo and Raphinha as players capable of contributing offensively, while noting Anthony Gordon’s ability to perform through the middle.
The 21-year-old praised recent acquisitions Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, suggesting their profiles offer qualities previously absent from the squad. He also commended Manchester City midfielder Rodri as a great player who would strengthen the team significantly, adding that the midfielder would bring substantial value to the group.
Regarding Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez, López acknowledged the Argentine would suit Barcelona’s playing style but accepted that the forward remains under contract at the Metropolitano, limiting further comment.
Flick’s developmental impact
López attributed his personal and professional growth over the past two years to Flick’s guidance. The German coach has encouraged him to exploit spaces behind defences, arrive in the penalty area with greater frequency, attempt more shots, deliver decisive passes and maintain mental resilience by quickly overcoming errors during matches.
This combination of tactical versatility and managerial trust positions López as a potential stopgap solution in attack, even as he continues to view his long-term future in an advanced midfield capacity. His adaptability provides Flick with additional flexibility during a transitional period for the club’s forward line.