Rodri and Fermín embody two complementary sides of football’s “middle class”

Rodri and Fermín are presented as two figures in football’s “middle class”: players with contrasting profiles who can complement each other. The idea forms part of a wider reflection on team balance, which Enric Bañeres regarded as essential. The work of Barça’s technical staff, led by Deco, is also praised in this analysis.

Rodri represents a player whose quality comes through in the ease of his game. Àlex Corretja wrote about him on X: “Rodri is so good and makes it look so easy that he doesn’t even seem good.” At the other end of the spectrum is Fermín, whose profile is described as different. The suggestion that he resembles Pedrito recalls Xavi’s remark at a tribute to Pedro Rodríguez, when he called him a highly underrated player.

Fermín’s path adds context to the comparison: he was at Linares in Primera RFEF before Xavi brought him back. The reflection points to the importance of players who may not be grouped with the stars but whose work matters to the team.

Mothers also feature in the piece. Ana Merodio, Koke’s mother, died this week. Lamine Yamal’s mother, Sheila Ebana, is described as having sacrificed her life for her son’s dreams; Lamine has now been able to repay her.