FC Barcelona is ramping up preparations for the crucial La Liga match against Atlético Madrid this weekend at the Metropolitano. Head coach Hansi Flick has called up two academy players—17-year-old Toni Fernandez and 20-year-old Brian Farinas—to train with the first team.
Toni Fernandez draws particular attention. The 17-year-old winger already made his first-team debut last season under Flick in a Copa del Rey match against Barbastro and has been a regular starter for Barça Atlètic this season. He has contributed eight goals and two assists in 21 appearances for the B team, averaging 1.4 shots and one key pass per game.
With Raphinha sidelined for about five weeks due to injury, Fernandez stands as a strong candidate to step up in attack. According to Mundo Deportivo, Flick considers him a viable option to fill the Brazilian’s role. Previously, fitness concerns limited his first-team chances, but now Toni appears fit to make the most of the opportunity.
Thus, Fernandez’s inclusion in first-team training signals Flick’s trust and offers the young La Masia talent meaningful playing time in the upcoming matches. Given the busy schedule and squad challenges, this could be a pivotal moment in his career.
For Barcelona fans, this move confirms the club’s commitment to integrating youth talent, securing internal depth amid injuries and fixture overload. Fernandez’s success would add fresh attacking options as the season approaches its critical phase.
