Fermin Lopez To Miss World Cup For Spain

Fermin Lopez has confirmed that a fractured foot will prevent any World Cup involvement, despite successful surgery. The Barcelona midfielder left the pitch at half-time in the 3-1 victory over Real Betis, and medical tests after the match revealed the extent of the injury.

The setback ends a standout club season for Fermin, who has been central to Hansi Flick’s LaLiga title winners. Fermin has played 48 matches in all competitions, with only Eric Garcia and Gerard Martin, on 50 appearances each, featuring more often for Barcelona across the campaign.

Fermin has been productive in attack, providing 17 assists, the same number as Lamine Yamal, which is the highest in the squad. The midfielder has also scored 13 goals, underlining the scale of the absence for both Barcelona and Spain ahead of the World Cup.

Spain enter the World Cup rated as favourites by the Opta supercomputer, which gives Luis de la Fuente’s side the title in 16% of pre-tournament simulations. Spain will face Cape Verde in their opening Group H match on 15 June, then play Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.

De la Fuente is scheduled to announce the Spain squad on 25 May. Spain will then play two warm-up friendlies, against Iraq and Peru, before travelling to the tournament. Fermin had hoped to be involved, having already made three appearances in Spain’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

"The surgery went very well, and I'm already thinking about coming back stronger, both physically and mentally," Fermin, who made three appearances in Spain's World Cup qualifying campaign, said in a post on social media. "Life and football can be cruel when you least expect or deserve it, but you have to accept that it's all part of the journey. It's a very tough time for me, and another challenge in my career that I will overcome; have no doubt about it. Now it's time to support the national team and my team-mates from home. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone for your support and kind messages."

Spain now prepare for the World Cup without Fermin, who will follow the tournament from home while focusing on recovery. The situation removes one creative option for De la Fuente, but also offers Fermin a clear target as Barcelona and Spain plan beyond this summer.