Fermin Lopez is out of the FIFA World Cup this summer after suffering a serious foot injury in Barcelona’s recent La Liga match against Real Betis.
Barcelona said on Monday that the 23-year-old midfielder suffered a fracture to the fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot during the club’s 3-1 victory over Real Betis. The club also announced that Lopez will undergo surgery, ruling him out for several months.
The injury comes as a major blow to both Barcelona and the Spain national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Lopez had become one of Spain’s rising stars after impressive performances for Barcelona over the last two seasons. He played a key role in Barcelona’s La Liga title-winning campaign this season, contributing important goals and assists in midfield.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente had reportedly planned to include Lopez in the World Cup squad following his strong form and growing influence in the national team setup. The midfielder has already earned seven senior caps for Spain.
The injury adds to Barcelona’s growing injury concerns this season, with several key players struggling with fitness problems during the demanding campaign.
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Football analysts say Lopez’s absence could affect Spain’s midfield depth at the World Cup, especially because of his energy, creativity and attacking movement.
Barcelona supporters and Spanish football fans have since flooded social media with messages wishing the midfielder a quick recovery ahead of next season.
