Fermin Lopez backs Deco to decide on Barcelona No. 9 after 5-0 Elche rout

Fermin Lopez handed responsibility for any potential No. 9 signing to Barcelona sporting director Deco after the Catalan club opened their 2026/27 La Liga campaign with a 5-0 demolition of Elche in the second round.

Asked directly about the possibility of bringing in a new striker, Lopez kept his answer brief and diplomatic. The midfielder said Deco would do what is best for the club, pointed to the options already available within the current squad, and made clear the decision was not one for the players to make.

On the performance itself, Lopez was more forthcoming. He said Barcelona finished the match feeling good, executed their attacks well and delivered a strong overall display, adding that the team must continue working in the same manner to sustain that level.

Lopez also offered a candid assessment of his own physical state. He admitted he finished the game exhausted and said he still needs to regain his match rhythm after what he described as a very tough summer. The comments suggest the Spain international is still building towards full fitness despite featuring in a comfortable victory.

His remarks leave the striker question firmly in the hands of Deco and the club’s hierarchy. Whether Barcelona move in the remaining days of the transfer window or rely on their existing forward options remains to be seen, but Lopez’s words signal that the playing squad is content to leave that call to those above them.