Barcelona Demolishes Valencia 6-0 in Stunning Display Without Star Yamal
Barcelona controlled the match completely and crushed Valencia 6–0 in their home opener before 6,000 spectators at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.
With double strikes from Fermín López, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona sailed to an easy win against a deeply disappointing Valencia team that fell apart entirely after halftime. Hansi Flick's squad overwhelmed their opponents, outpacing them 24 shots to two, while Joan García dealt with only a single shot on target throughout the evening.
Following three lackluster displays to open the campaign, Barcelona's championship pursuit has gained momentum. Flick's team finally resembled the squad that ruled Spanish football last season and will now look to capitalize on this showing with their 2025–26 Champions League opener approaching.
Here are three key observations from Barcelona's commanding triumph.
Fermin Lopez Demonstrates His Value
There was considerable discussion about Fermín López potentially departing Barcelona for Chelsea during the final days of the summer transfer period. Tonight, the academy product demonstrated why releasing him would have been a catastrophic error.
Fermín was central to everything positive Barcelona accomplished against Valencia. He initiated the scoring with a beautifully curved strike into the distant corner and sealed his double in the second period with a powerful effort from his weaker foot at range. Beyond his goals, he orchestrated Barça's offensive play, topping the team in successful dribbles and generating two threatening opportunities—one resulting in Raphinha's second strike of the evening.
The 22-year-old consistently earns selection over Dani Olmo in the starting eleven. His technical ability matches his determination and relentless pressure that aligns perfectly with Flick's attacking philosophy. Simply stated, he's developing into an exceptional, complete attacking midfielder.
"I never questioned my commitment to remaining at Barcelona," Fermín commented post-match. "There was speculation, but ultimately I always desired to stay here and I will compete to remain here for many seasons."
No Lamine Yamal, No Issue
Lamine Yamal was unavailable against Valencia due to an injury sustained while playing for Spain the previous week. Last season, this would have been a crushing setback, but tonight, Barcelona demonstrated they are far better prepared to manage their star's unavailability.
Roony Bardghji made his Barcelona first appearance starting in Yamal's customary right-wing position. While the 19-year-old couldn't create substantial influence, he displayed promising moments and minimally proved his capability in that role when Yamal requires rest.
However, it's Marcus Rashford's contribution that genuinely impressed. The England striker didn't deliver a spectacular display, but it represented his finest showing since arriving at the club and he capped it by recording his inaugural assist for the Catalans.
The primary advantage of having Rashford is the tactical flexibility he provides Barcelona. With the Manchester United loan player on the left flank, Flick could position Raphinha on the right wing—his preferred location. The Brazilian excelled in the second half, netting a brace from Yamal's typical position.
The two Barcelona summer additions may not be the most glamorous signings, but they'll serve a crucial function in providing squad depth and coverage at positions the team lacked last season. Tonight, it became crystal clear that Barcelona are now a more balanced squad, better equipped to handle the demanding campaign ahead.
Welcome Back Marc Bernal
On an evening when Barcelona scored freely and produced their finest display of the new campaign, perhaps the most significant highlight was the return of La Masia prospect Marc Bernal.
Precisely 383 days after rupturing his ACL in Barcelona's third match of the 2024–25 season, Bernal stepped back onto the field with 10 minutes remaining against Valencia. Five minutes afterward, he claimed his first professional assist when he created Barcelona's sixth goal.
The 18-year-old featured in Barcelona's opening three matches last season and was anticipated to form a midfield partnership with Pedri during the early weeks of the campaign before his setback. Bernal led the academy teams alongside Yamal and Pau Cubarsí's generation and is regarded by many as Sergio Busquets's successor in Barça's midfield.
Flick will probably manage Bernal's playing time carefully going forward, but the youngster possesses the talent and promise to contribute meaningfully when the season reaches its conclusion.