Pedro “Dro” Fernández put the world on notice as he scored a goal in his debut during the friendly match between FC Barcelona and Japan’s Vissel Kobe last July 27, 2025.
A Child Shines Amongst Men in a Friendly Match
Sent on in the 79th minute of Sunday’s pre-season friendly against J-League side Vissel Kobe in Tokyo, the Filipino-Spanish attacker capped the Blaugrana’s 3-1 victory with a deft half-volley in the 89th minute, latching on to a loose ball at the edge of the box to give Barça their third goal after Roony Bardghji’s earlier brace.
Dro Fernández Origins
Fernández was born in Nigrán, Galicia, to a Galician father and a Filipina mother.
He joined La Masia from local club Val Miñor in 2022. A versatile, right-footed creator who can operate between the lines or drift in from the flank, he tallied double-digit goals for Barcelona’s U-15s in his first season and now features for the U-19s on a deal that runs until 2027.
His senior team debut against Vissel Kobe came after a fortnight of first-team training in which, according to Spanish reports, he “left veterans speechless” with quick feet and inventive passing. New manager Hansi Flick rewarded those displays by naming the teenager to the Asian tour squad, then greeted his late strike with a jubilant touchline celebration.
The Second Coming of Paulino Alcántara?!
Prior to Dro getting the spotlight, there was once upon a time when a Filipino-born player was considered a “legend” for the FC Barcelona squad.
Paulino Alcántara, born in Iloilo, made his debut for the senior squad at the age of 15 years old and played from 1912 up until July 1927.
He scored 395 goals and is acknowledged by FIFA as one of the greatest football strikers in history, and arguably, the best Asian footballer ever. And now, 98 years later, another Filipino player has made his mark in the history of football.
It isn’t confirmed if he will get rotational minutes from the team for the upcoming 2025-2026 campaign, but he has already received high praise from their Manager, Hansi Flick, for his performance.
“Dro trained with us at the end of last season,” said Flick, according to Foot Africa. “He’s a gifted player with immense potential. I want to congratulate La Masia for the outstanding work they’re doing.”
Under the Radar for the Philippine Men’s National Team
Fernández’s breakthrough may not just allow him to crack minutes for his team but earn himself a spot for the Philippine Men’s National Football Team soon.
Considering that he has only represented Spain at the youth level and not yet in their national team, it won’t be much of a surprise if we see him under the guidance of PMNFT Head Coach Carles Cuadrat.
It’s also worth noting that the PMNFT is prioritizing its youth talent in its current roster. Sandro Reyes is 22 years old and was part of the ASEAN All Stars versus Manchester United. Bjørn Kristensen is 23 years old and scored 2 goals in their match against Tajikistan in the Asian Cup Qualifier. And that’s all only for the senior squad.
Recently, the U-23 team of the Philippines finished 4th place against Thailand in the ASEAN U-23 Championship. Still, the 18-year-old, Otu Banatao, was given the Rising Star award after his three-goal performance of the entire tournament.
