Fermin Lopez will undergo surgery on a fractured fifth metatarsal sustained during Barcelona's 3-1 La Liga win over Real Betis, dealing a severe blow to Spain's World Cup preparations. The 23-year-old midfielder was substituted at half-time and medical scans have confirmed the severity of the foot injury, ruling him out of the tournament starting in June.
The Barcelona academy product picked up the damage in his right foot during Sunday's match at the Spotify Camp Nou. Club officials moved swiftly to release a statement on Monday, confirming the need for surgical intervention. Recovery from a fractured fifth metatarsal typically spans six to eight weeks, a timeline that leaves no margin for Fermin to prepare before Spain's opening fixture against Cape Verde on June 15th.
Spain's Squad Selection in Turmoil
Luis de la Fuente faced mounting pressure naming his final World Cup squad, scheduled for announcement on Monday, with Fermin's injury forcing an immediate reshuffle of his midfield options. The loss of the energetic midfielder represents more than a numbers game—Fermin had become integral to La Roja's tactical approach, offering both defensive coverage and attacking thrust from the centre of the park. His ability to drive transitions and contribute goals from deep positions made him a cornerstone of De la Fuente's system.
The injury compounds existing concerns plaguing the Spanish squad. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is already sidelined by a hamstring issue, leaving the national team dealing with multiple absences ahead of their World Cup campaign. These absences force the coaching staff to rely on alternative options in key areas.
For Barcelona, Fermin's absence extends beyond the World Cup. He will miss the club's final La Liga match against Valencia next weekend, depriving head coach Carlo Ancelotti of options as the campaign concludes. The club's primary focus now shifts to managing his rehabilitation effectively, ensuring he returns to full sharpness during pre-season preparation for the 2026-27 campaign. Fermin's injury caps a difficult end to what had been a promising season for both player and club.
