The PFF has extended a national team invitation to FC Barcelona teenager Pedro “Dro” Fernández, opening the door for the highly-rated youngster to represent the Philippines on the international stage.
The Philippine Football Federation has extended a national team invitation to one of the most exciting young talents with Filipino roots.
The PFF reached out to Fil-Spanish teen Pedro “Dro” Fernández, who currently plays for football giants FC Barcelona, to join the Philippine Men’s National Football Team.
“From Spain to the Philippines! The PFF extends its invitation to Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez to join our Philippine Men’s National Football Team,” the federation announced on social media. “Hoping to see you on the pitch, Dro.”
At just 18 years old, Fernández has already carved out a unique place in football history.
He recently became only the second player of Filipino descent to debut for FC Barcelona, following the trailblazing Paulino Alcántara more than a century ago.
Born in Galicia to a Galician father and a Filipino mother, Fernández represents a rare bridge between Spanish and Philippine football heritage.
Fernández’s rise has been rapid after joining Barcelona’s famed academy as a 14-year-old in 2022, quickly climbing the ranks.
He announced himself to a wider audience with a stunning goal in a preseason match against Daegu FC before making his competitive debut in LaLiga against Real Sociedad.
His momentum only continued on Europe’s biggest stages.
Fernández earned a Champions League start against Olympiacos, where he set up a goal for Fermín López, becoming the second-youngest player to register an assist in the competition, behind only Giovanni Reyna.
Highly regarded by head coach Hansi Flick, Fernández has already made five first-team appearances this season.
He recently celebrated his 18th birthday during Barcelona’s return trip from their Spanish Supercopa final victory over rivals Real Madrid.
Amid his breakthrough, Fernández emerged as a major transfer storyline after reports said that the youngster informed Barcelona of his intention to leave the club by activating his €6 million release clause.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team is currently preparing itself for the 2026 Asean Cup set for July.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.