Barca found a 'treasure', Philippines could only look up

Pedro “Dro” Fernandez becomes La Masia's new phenomenon

Philippine football is living in exciting days as Pedro “Dro” Fernandez unexpectedly shined on Barcelona’s Asian tour. At just 17 years old, Dro made his mark with a stunning goal against Vissel Kobe on July 27, right in his first-team debut.

The Galician boy suddenly became a media "phenomenon", not only in Spain, but also in his mother's country - the Philippines, where fans consider Dro's appearance a source of pride.

With a Filipino mother, he is fully qualified to play for the Asian national team. Carles Cuadrat, the head coach of the Philippines, could not hide his admiration and also cherished that “dream”.

Cuadrat, a son of La Masia, made his name in Asia when he led Bengaluru FC to glory in India. He understands the value of rough diamonds trained in Barca's football philosophy.

However, looking at reality, the possibility of Dro playing for the Philippines is extremely small. The 17-year-old player plays for Spain's U16 and U17 teams, and is considered a "piece" of the future of the Spanish national team.

The Spanish Football Federation is not afraid to use teenage talent, as Luis de la Fuente called up Lamine Yamal when he was just 16, or Luis Enrique gave Gavi a chance at 17. With his current potential, it is only a matter of time before Dro is placed alongside the young names shaping the new generation of La Roja.

Dro's strength is his versatility on the left wing.

Dro's strength lies in his versatility on the left flank - where he can play as a winger or an attacking midfielder with his right foot. His confident demeanor, technical ability and tactical vision have led to Hansi Flick immediately giving him a chance on this tour, despite Barca's star-studded squad, especially after the arrival of Marcus Rashford.

Even if he doesn’t make it to the first team, Dro will continue to be honed under Juliano Belletti at Barca Atletic. This further reinforces the view that La Masia is not out of “gold mine”. Dro’s first steps are a testament to the perfect combination of natural talent and a standard training environment.

Football has never been the number one sport in the Philippines, but whenever a player of Filipino descent shines in Europe, pride is felt. Local media even called Dro’s recruitment a “fantasy dream”, but just hearing his name in La Liga is enough to make them feel like “a part of their blood” is flowing in the top-flight football stream.

Dro is at a crucial crossroads in his career. While the prospect of playing for the Philippines seems unlikely, the affection of his mother's homeland is undeniable. With Barca rejuvenating rapidly, Dro's name not only brings hope to Camp Nou but also an inspiring story about the power of dreams - from La Masia to the footballing hearts of Manila.

Source: https://znews.vn/barca-tim-thay-bau-vat-philippines-chi-biet-nguoc-nhin-post1571132.html