FC Andorra Signs Villarreal's Hugo López on Loan Until 2027

FC Andorra has signed 19-year-old forward Hugo López on a season-long loan from Villarreal, with no option to buy for the Principality club.

The Murcia-born player, who turned 19 in March, arrived from Villarreal's B team after captaining Spain's Under-19s to the UEFA European Championship title this summer. He started four of five matches, including the final, and scored twice—once to open the scoring against Germany. López, from Alcantarilla, joined Villarreal's youth setup as a pre-teen and progressed through the ranks. Last season with the reserves in Primera RFEF, he played 36 games, scoring three goals and providing four assists.

A technically gifted attacker, López typically plays as a central striker but can feature on the left wing or as a second striker. His vision and ability to create chances through passes or late runs make him a versatile addition to the Tricolors' frontline ahead of their Segunda División opener against Ceuta in Encamp on Saturday.

New teammate Lautaro Spatz, presented on Thursday and a former Villarreal B colleague, praised the arrival. "It thrilled me—he's a good guy and will contribute a lot on the pitch," Spatz said, adding that Andorra represents "a good place for him to make the growth step he's seeking on loan."

The deal fills a gap in attack after winger Josep Cerdà's departure, which coach Carles Manso described as positive while emphasizing squad needs. The club has also added winger Enes Sali, who impressed on debut against Huesca.

López has senior experience with Villarreal's first team: two La Liga outings against Espanyol and Getafe, two Copa del Rey ties, and a full second half in a Champions League loss to Bayer Leverkusen.

With the transfer window open until 23:59 on 1 September, FC Andorra continues seeking a disruptive winger and possibly a centre-back due to Gael's long-term injury. No further major signings are planned unless opportunities arise or key players depart—currently not on the table.

Spatz, meanwhile, credited a call from majority shareholder Gerard Piqué for swaying his move. The Argentine defender, who joined late in preseason at Villarreal's request, said adaptation has been swift and he is ready to lead the backline in a style suiting his qualities. Already registered, he could feature on Saturday if selected by Manso.