The training ground at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper was buzzing with energy on a crisp January morning. Just a few days after their triumphant Supercopa de España victory, the Barça squad returned to work with their eyes now set on another prestigious goal: the Copa del Rey.
Luca stepped onto the pitch feeling both nerves and excitement. After Raphinha's injury against Real Madrid, he knew he had a chance to start again, this time in a high-pressure knockout match against Real Betis in the Round of 16.
Hansi Flick and his coaching staff had the squad assembled early. The intensity of the drills reflected the seriousness of the challenge ahead. Betis was no easy opponent—quick, structured, and dangerous on the break. Flick made it clear this would be a test of both discipline and creativity.
"Alright everyone," Flick called out, his sharp German accent cutting through the morning air. "We're going into this match without two important players, but that doesn't change our identity. We press, we move the ball fast, and we stay connected. Luca, you'll start on the left wing."
A few murmurs ran through the group, not of surprise but of support. Lamine smiled and gave Luca a nudge. "You're earning it, bro."
Lewandowski added, "Let's get you another goal, eh?"
The warm-ups began with rondos. The players passed quickly in tight circles, pushing each other's reactions and awareness. Luca's footwork was sharper than ever, and Flick noticed.
Then came the tactical phase. The assistant coach, Rául Verdú, helped organize the players for shape drills and transitions.
Projected Starting Lineup:
GK: Wojciech Szczęsny
DEF: Koundé, Araujo, Iñigo Martínez, Balde
MID: Pedri, De Jong, Fermín
FWD: Lamine Yamal, Lewandowski, Luca Herrera (#80)
Szczęsny, recently brought in to reinforce the squad's defensive structure, was vocal and commanding in training. His chemistry with Araujo and Koundé developed quickly as they practiced line coordination and handling long balls from Betis-like simulations.
Luca worked heavily on his link-ups with Balde and Lewandowski. Flick wanted their left-wing triangle to be dangerous and unpredictable. They drilled overlapping runs, sharp cuts inside, and crossing patterns. In one sequence, Luca whipped a perfect ball to Lewandowski's head, prompting applause from the staff.
"Like that!" Flick shouted. "Use your pace, but don't rush. Feel the space."
The group broke into 11v11 match simulations. The training game mirrored Betis's compact midfield setup. Flick called for high pressure and quick switches. Luca found himself pressed hard but began adapting, using one-touch passes and opening spaces for Lamine on the opposite side.
Fermín, energetic as always, delivered a standout performance in midfield, linking up well with Pedri and providing solid coverage.
As the session winded down, Flick gathered the squad.
"We are building something together. You've seen what we can do. Betis will fight, but we don't panic—we play our football. Luca, you've earned your spot. Now make it count."
After practice, the players hit the gym for recovery, while Luca stayed on the pitch with Lamine to practice finishing. They challenged each other with volleys and crosses, laughing between drills.
Luca felt the pressure—but he also felt ready. His father watched from the edge of the training center, proud and silent, as always.
Tomorrow, the spotlight would return. This time, Luca wouldn't just be a hopeful talent. He'd be a starter. And he intended to make that count.