During the mid-season break, FC Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez returns to his hometown of El Campillo to celebrate Christmas with family and friends.
Diving deeper into his roots, the 22-year-old La Masia alum engaged in an in-depth interview with SPORT, where he shared insights on a wide range of topics, from his experiences in 2025 to his aspirations for 2026.
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Fermin Reflects on His Year
Fermin began by reflecting on the significance of 2025 in his life, stating:
“I have learned a lot, enjoyed myself immensely, and celebrated several titles, the first ones I’ve won with Barça as well as with the national team. I’ve realized many dreams this year while gaining invaluable lessons.”
“I hope 2026 will be just as good, if not better,” he added.
The La Masia product reminisced about his journey with Barcelona and the rapid changes he’s experienced.
“Personally, I believe I’ve matured a bit. Although I’m still young and have much to learn, things have progressed so quickly that I feel I’ve had to mature sooner than anticipated. That reflects the transition from my previous self to who I am now.”
He admitted that adapting to so many changes in a single year has been challenging:
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“It’s tough because everything happens so quickly, and there’s so much going on. It’s not that I don’t appreciate it, but there’s little time to reflect on what’s occurring and the achievements I’m making.”
“Sometimes, when I’m at home, I think about what’s happened, and I realize I’ve made my dream come true.”
Continuing, he expressed: “Often, I don’t pause to think about things. Since I practically experience it daily—playing with the first team, scoring goals—I don’t stop to reflect.”
“But there are moments, especially when I’m in bed, where I think, ‘Wow, just two or three years ago, I was in Linares, and now I’m in the first team, having won countless titles with more to come.’”
Highs and Lows of 2025
2025 has been a remarkable year for Fermin, who contributed to the team’s domestic treble in Spain. When asked about his standout moment from this year, he shared:
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“One of the days I cherished was the victory parade. I can’t even explain it. I was ecstatic, singing and jumping all around.”
“I witnessed people crying with joy after a long drought of titles. That moment was undoubtedly one of the best of 2025.”
Fermin has certainly experienced an unforgettable 2025. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
However, he also faced some difficult moments, particularly the Champions League semi-final loss to Inter Milan, which was a tough pill to swallow. Reflecting on that experience, Fermin stated:
“The day in Milan was incredibly challenging, and the following days were just as tough. The anticipation from everyone—from us, the club, the supporters—was immense.”
“To see it all unravel so swiftly and miss out on reaching the Champions League final was painful.”
Instead of letting that setback discourage them, it now serves as motivation, with Fermin and Barcelona determined to pursue success in the European tournament this time around.
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“We are a competitive group, and we will strive again. There’s a long journey ahead, and we’re progressing step by step, but we aim to reach the final and win it. That dream of winning the Champions League is very much alive.”
On Hansi Flick and His Influence
When discussing manager Hansi Flick and his impact on the team’s competitiveness, Fermin commented:
“The manager’s approach is very positive, which is extremely important. Regardless of whether things are going well or poorly, his message is always calm, reminding us to stay focused and fulfill his directives.”
“Most importantly, it’s about unity. The message in the locker room is clear, and we’re all on the same page; we’re in this together.”
On a personal note, he appreciates Flick’s clear instructions and the trust he shows in him, stating:
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“He encourages intensity, pressing, being direct, staying composed on the ball, maintaining possession, getting into the box, and shooting. It aligns with the style of play I strive for. He instills confidence in me, and I feel at ease with him.”
Fermin values the confidence Flick places in him. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Versatility is one of his key strengths, allowing Fermin to excel in various roles this season.
“Honestly, I’m happy just to be playing, whether it’s on the right wing, as a striker, on the left, or as an attacking midfielder. However, I feel most at home as a number ten, where I can best utilize my skills,” he explained.
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With intense competition within the squad, particularly for his position, Fermin believes it fosters a healthy team environment that motivates everyone to excel.
“Collectively, we handle competition very well. The coach decides who plays, and there’s no negativity. Everyone is supportive, even when vying for the same position,” he noted.
“Every player strives to perform their best in training and matches to earn their spot, and ultimately, the coach makes the decision. This dynamic strengthens us as a team.”
On Team Performance and Teammates
When asked if Barcelona can challenge for all titles again, Fermin confidently responded:
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“Absolutely. Aside from one or two reinforcements, we have virtually the same squad as last year, and we’re currently on a great streak, winning multiple matches in a row. This team, with our current squad, should aim for everything.”
The attacking midfielder pointed to the losses against Real Madrid and Chelsea as pivotal moments that have positively shaped the team.
“The defeat in the Clasico and the match in London were significant turning points for us. They are games we can lose, and it’s true we didn’t perform at our best,” Fermin acknowledged.
“Since those games, the team has evolved, returning to our form from last year. We are in an excellent groove, and we hope to maintain it until the season concludes.”
Fermin acknowledged that fluctuations in performance are inevitable over a lengthy season, asserting: “It’s unrealistic to expect to be at your peak all the time. While we strive for that, there will inevitably be matches where we don’t meet our standard.”
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“Take last November, for example. We went through a rough patch but still ended up winning the league, cup, and Super Cup. Those dips happen, but what’s crucial is that we remain united and respond.”
He also credited the return of key players, especially Raphinha, for making a notable impact on the team.
“He brings incredible energy, and that energy is contagious. When he plays, his pressing and movement inspire everyone to match his intensity,” he remarked.
“His absence was felt; he is undoubtedly a crucial player.”
Fermin appreciates Raphinha’s significant contribution to the team. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
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Fermin further remarked that playing alongside elite players such as Raphinha, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal enhances his game.
“Being around such talented players makes it easier for my own abilities to shine. They’re incredibly skilled, and it’s a joy to play with them.”
When asked if Barcelona is now the favourite in La Liga, given their four-point lead over Real Madrid, he replied:
“I don’t subscribe to the idea of being favourites or making comparisons with others. We are focused on our own performance.”
“While Madrid remains our formidable rival, if we maintain our level and execute things well, the results will come as the season unfolds.”
Aspirations for 2026
Looking ahead to the coming year, Fermin’s hopes for the future are straightforward: “I want 2026 to equal or surpass 2025, with numerous titles and the Champions League win. And of course, I’d also love to compete in the World Cup.”
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On whether the Champions League is the coveted title for every player, the Barcelona star expressed:
“I can’t say if it’s the best, but there’s something uniquely special about it that everyone desires. The club hasn’t claimed it for several years, and it remains a collective dream.”
“Moreover, our fans believe in our potential to win it, and that belief fuels us as we aim for success in 2026.”
Reflecting on last season, he added: “Absolutely; we were just moments away from the final and could have won it. That near success gave us strength, despite the challenging moments, affirming that we are capable and can try again.”
Concerning his long-term intentions, Fermin was clear, reinforcing his desire to remain with Barcelona for the foreseeable future.
“Yes, I certainly hope so,” he concluded.