A voice note from Domingo alerted Xavi Hernandez to Fermin Lopez’s strong performances at Linares, prompting the manager to add him to Barcelona’s provisional pre‑season squad. Lopez was called up for the U.S. tour, impressed in training, and earned a debut against Arsenal.
In his second game, a Real Madrid clash, Lopez scored a stunning goal and provided an assist, cementing his place as a key, goal‑scoring midfielder for both club and country.