Fermín López Ruled Out of the World Cup After Surgery Is Confirmed
Fermín López suffered a fracture in his right foot during the match between Barcelona and Betis, an injury that will require surgery and will almost certainly keep him out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Spain.
The Spanish national team received a major blow ahead of the 2026 World Cup after it was confirmed that Fermín López will undergo surgery following a fracture to the fifth metatarsal in his right foot.
The Barcelona midfielder suffered the injury during the match against Betis, in a game where the issue initially appeared to be only a minor discomfort. However, medical tests later confirmed the fracture, which will require surgery and several weeks of recovery.
The news represents a significant setback both for the Catalan club and for the Spanish national team coached by Luis de la Fuente, especially considering the outstanding form the player had shown in recent months.
A Major Loss for Spain Ahead of the World Cup
Although Fermín López was not an undisputed starter for Spain, he had become an important piece thanks to his intensity, movement, and attacking ability.
The Spanish midfielder enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career with Barcelona, recording 13 goals and 16 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions.
Beyond the numbers, Fermín consistently stood out because of his pressing, physical energy, and ability to appear in decisive moments, qualities that had turned him into one of the most valuable options for Spain heading into the World Cup.
Initial medical reports indicate that the recovery period after surgery will range between six and eight weeks, leaving virtually no realistic chance of him arriving fully fit for the tournament.
Barcelona and Spain Continue Dealing With Injury Concerns
The injury to Fermín López adds to other physical concerns currently affecting both Barcelona and the Spanish national team ahead of the World Cup.
One of the most worrying situations remains that of Lamine Yamal, who is still recovering from muscle discomfort and has not yet secured his place for the opening matches of the tournament.
Meanwhile, the Catalan side regrets losing one of its most consistent and explosive players just before the end of the season.
Now, Spain’s coaching staff will need to reconsider part of the final World Cup roster while searching for alternatives capable of replacing a player who had rapidly become increasingly important for both club and country.
