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Fermín López and the Toughest Night at La Masia That Almost Changed Everything
Before establishing himself in Barça’s first team, Fermín came close to giving up. There were tears, doubts, and a decision that could have changed his story forever.
From Tears to Belief
When Fermín López signed his first professional contract with FC Barcelona at just 16, the talent was there—but his body had not caught up yet. Physically, he was well below many of his teammates in the youth ranks, turning his journey into a true test of endurance. More than once, he felt inferior, invisible, and far from the dream that had brought him to La Masia.
The midfielder himself admitted that his cadet years were especially difficult. He never truly thought about quitting football, but he did consider going back home. He cried in silence, struggled emotionally, and even thought about throwing in the towel. Daily demands, lack of playing time, and constant comparisons with other prospects took a toll on his confidence.
A Turning Point Away from Camp Nou
Everything began to change during his loan spell at Linares Deportivo. Away from the spotlight, Fermín matured both as a person and as a player. He gained confidence, minutes, and character. Upon returning, he had options to join clubs in Spain’s Second Division, but chose to stay and fight for his place.
His physical development came late—between the ages of 17 and 18—but it proved decisive. During preseason with the first team, he announced himself with a stunning long-range goal against Real Madrid, a moment that confirmed he was ready to compete at the highest level. His energy, dynamism, and ability to appear all over the pitch quickly became his trademark.
Energy On and Off the Pitch
Inside the locker room, teammates highlight his intensity. Players like Ronald Araújo have even told him he plays “too fast,” something Fermín admits with a smile. Off the pitch, his lifestyle is low-key: football, his girlfriend, his dog, video games, the occasional bowling outing, and familiar meals—ranging from sushi to his grandmother’s lentils.
He is not superstitious, though he admits to small habits when a match goes well. And if he were ever in charge of transfers, he would not hesitate: he would bring back Lionel Messi. His ambition, however, remains unchanged—to win every possible trophy, including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup with Spain.
