Why didn't Xavi play Fermin instead of Sergi Roberto v Bilbao? Explained

Many Barca fans wanted Xavi to sub Fermin on in the second half of the Athletic Club clash or at least in the extra time.

However, the rules didn't allow it as a maximum of three academy players could be on the pitch at the same time in Copa del Rey. In Barca's case, they were Hector Fort, Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal.

The only way Xavi could've played Fermin was to sub one of the three academy players off. The Barca boss wanted to keep Yamal in the game, so he decided to replace Pedri with Sergi Roberto. Sadly, the captain was to blame for Bilbao's third goal of the night.

After Barca conceded the third, Xavi replaced Yamal with Marc Guiu.