Fermin Lopez is entering the final stages of his recovery and has impressed with his physical and technical condition during Barcelona’s preparations at St George’s Park in England.
The 23-year-old midfielder was one of the most notable surprises in the squad that travelled to England on 27 July, having completed his recovery from a fracture to the fifth metatarsal of his right foot.
Lopez suffered the injury during Barcelona’s La Liga match against Real Betis in May. He subsequently underwent surgery, which ruled him out of competitive action and prevented him from taking part in the World Cup.
His return began gradually at Barcelona’s Joan Gamper Training Ground in Sant Joan Despi, where he completed light fitness sessions. Once the club’s touring party arrived in England, however, he was able to rejoin full team training.
The midfielder has coped well with the demands of the sessions and has taken part in every workout at a high tempo and intensity. His performances have indicated that he has recovered both his physical fitness and his technical sharpness.
Missing the World Cup had a significant psychological effect on Lopez, but that disappointment has helped drive his determination to return in the best possible condition.
As part of Hansi Flick’s plans, the Spain international is expected to receive some playing time in Barcelona’s next friendly. The club are taking part in a three-team tournament in Italy, where they will face Udinese and Nottingham Forest.
Flick’s main objective is to have Lopez ready for the start of Barcelona’s La Liga campaign. They begin the new season against Elche on 23 August.
However, the player’s involvement will depend on the progress of his recovery and his medical condition. Flick has no intention of rushing the German midfielder back into action, with Lopez’s fitness set to remain the decisive factor.
Lopez, a graduate of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, is regarded as an important part of Flick’s plans after an outstanding 2025-26 campaign, particularly during its closing stages.
His versatility is one of his main strengths. He can operate as a central midfielder, an attacking midfielder or on the wing, while he is also capable of making late runs into the penalty area.
The Spaniard combines a high defensive work rate with considerable enthusiasm and the ability to link play between the lines. His movement and technical qualities also allow him to break through defensive structures and contribute in advanced areas.
Barcelona will hope his return can provide an additional attacking and creative option as they complete their preparations for the new campaign. For now, the club’s priority is to manage his recovery carefully while allowing him to regain match sharpness step by step.
