Barcelona midfielder, Fermín López, has reflected on the disappointment of missing Spain’s triumphant World Cup campaign, describing it as the most difficult period of his career after a foot injury denied him a place in the squad.
The young midfielder had enjoyed an outstanding season with the Catalan giants and was widely expected to feature for Spain at the tournament in the United States.
However, a foot injury suffered shortly before the competition forced him to withdraw, ending his hopes of representing his country on the biggest stage.
Now back in training with Barcelona during the club’s pre-season stay in England, Fermín says his recovery is progressing well. Speaking to Catalan radio, the 22-year-old revealed how emotionally challenging the setback was and credited those closest to him for helping him through the experience.
“It was the worst summer of my career. I got through it thanks to my family, my partner, and my friends. I needed help. I already had it before, but my [mental] coach helped me a lot to get through it.
“I didn’t watch the first few matches of the Spanish national team in the World Cup; I couldn’t. I wanted to be there, and towards the end, when I was feeling a bit better, I decided to go see the final live in New York.
“I’m feeling better every day. I have no discomfort, which is important. If everything goes well, I could play a few minutes in the Gamper.”
Despite the heartbreak of watching Spain lift the World Cup trophy without him, Fermín’s return to full fitness offers encouragement for both the player and Barcelona ahead of the new campaign. His positive recovery suggests he could soon make his first appearance since the injury, with a possible return during the Joan Gamper Trophy match.
Having overcome one of the toughest moments of his career, the midfielder will now focus on regaining his place for club and country, with the ambition of representing Spain at a future World Cup after narrowly missing out this time.
