Fermin Lopez has been overshadowed by Lamine Yamal’s stunning start to life with the Barcelona first squad. However, it was all for the best because the experience just fueled the youngster’s desire to do better when given the chance.
The 20-year-old is currently a fixture in Xavi Hernandez’s lineup. With injuries in the centre of the pitch stacking up, his importance has only grown in recent weeks.
Lopez talked up on numerous parts of his season under Xavi in a recent interview (h/t FCB World).
The La Masia starlet was first quizzed about Xavi Hernandez’s goal of taking the team to the quarterfinal of the UEFA Champions League, and whether it was an underwhelming target considering that Joan Laporta sees the team going all the way.
“Xavi’s message is correct. We have to go step by step, the first goal is to top the group and reach the next round and then play every match as if it were the last,” Lopez said, backing his manager on the topic.
“But that doesn’t mean my desire isn’t to win all the titles and have that ambition. We have a strong team to do well this season,” he added.
He then spoke about the more immediate future in the form of El Clasico, and the team’s chances against the league leaders.
“We have a very good team, and now unfortunately this has coincided with the injury of many important players, but it is time to overcome this. We have to show that we are Barcelona. I think both teams are in good shape and it will be a great match for sure.”
Lopez also gave his two cents on Jude Bellingham and how the Englishman has adapted perfectly to life in Spain. After all, the two talents will lock horns later this month in the Clasico.
“He adapted wonderfully to the league. He’s a great player, he’s already shown that before in Dortmund and with the England national team,” he said.
Finally, the midfield star was quizzed about his footballing idols. Unsurprisingly, he chose two of Barcelona academy’s best-ever graduates as his inspirations.
“Messi and Iniesta, I’ve always liked them and they were the two footballers that impressed me the most,” he revealed.