Fermin Lopez Reflects on Rapid Rise at Barcelona and Upcoming Match Against Atletico Madrid
Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has shared insights into his swift ascent to the first team, the impact of former manager Xavi Hernandez, and the challenges ahead as the team prepares to face Atletico Madrid.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 23-year-old reflected on his increasing market value, noting that while he appreciates the recognition of his performances, financial valuations hold minimal meaning for him.
Fermin’s rise is particularly notable considering his earlier loan at Linares, where he initially struggled to find his place. Now, he has emerged as a key attacking midfielder under manager Hansi Flick.
Fermin explains why market value means little to him
During the interview, Fermin responded to a question about his surprising market valuation of €110 million while he was still with Linares. He contrasted this with Harry Kane’s €60 million valuation despite his achievement of winning the Ballon d’Or.
“No, never. I’ve always said so. When I went out on loan, I never imagined I’d end up at Barça, let alone think about these things and these statistics.
Fermin Lopez says he has nothing but respect for Xavi. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
“But at the end of the day, they’re just numbers: that Harry Kane has won a Ballon d’Or and is valued at 60 million, whilst I’m valued at 110 million.
“It’s also nice to see your work recognised, but ultimately they’re just numbers and things I can’t control. It doesn’t really bother me much either.”
Barcelona midfielder credits Xavi for his development
Fermin also spoke about Xavi’s pivotal role in his evolution from a promising academy player to a first-team talent.
The former Barcelona coach provided him with an opportunity in 2023 and fostered his self-confidence on the pitch.
“I’m very grateful to Xavi because he gave me the chance to break into the first team and, above all, he helped give me the confidence to play my own game and develop my own style.
“I think during my first spell with him I was a bit green, but he gave me the confidence to develop that style and showcase my qualities on the pitch.”
Fermin recalls painful Atletico Madrid elimination
Discussion then shifted to Barcelona’s impending clash with Atletico Madrid, a match that holds significant weight for Fermin, given that Atletico eliminated Barcelona from both the Copa del Rey and Champions League last season.
“We’re not particularly looking forward to it. At the end of the day, it’s just another match, but we know it’s important – they hurt us last season, knocking us out twice.
“We know they’re a great side who’ll make life very difficult for us. We’ll have to get every detail right, play our own game, and hopefully win there, as it would be a crucial victory to take us to the top of the table.”
Fermin also recounted a painful injury he endured during Barcelona’s last visit to the Metropolitano, when a split lip required stitches and forced him to leave the game.
“Yes, along with the one against Inter, that one is also among the most painful – the blow itself, which required stitches and hurt a lot – and above all because we were knocked out.
“What hurt the most was that, and the fact that if that shot had gone in (his effort against Musso that left him injured), it might have been a different match.
“You start thinking about all sorts of things. It wasn’t a good moment, but you learn from everything,” he concluded.
