Barcelona have their task cut down as they approach 2024 on the back of poor form and economic instability.
At a time when the club have been unable to sign new players in the market, players like Fermin Lopez have been a boon for Barça.
The youngster has emerged as a first-team regular for the Catalans this season and in a recent interview with Mundo Deportivo, he has talked about his rapid rise to prominence, while discussing Barcelona’s form heading into 2024.
“We have had a streak of negative results, but well, I think there have also been moments when we have been good and playing well. Let’s hope we can reverse the situation and return to winning ways and good play,” Fermin said on Barcelona’s form.
“We had a few very good performances, we beat Porto, we beat Atletico Madrid, we beat Antwerp and Betis and then there are games that cost much more. For example, that of Girona or Antwerp in Belgium,” he added.
When asked about the pressures of the first team, the attacker added, “I expected the pressure. In the end, we are in the elite and it is seen that it is very difficult. It’s time to continue working together and united as always.”
Barcelona are indeed coming on the back of poor results and desperately need to get back to winning ways, heading into 2024.
Explaining the club’s inconsistent performances, Fermin said, “Well, it is a part of the season. Maybe now it costs a little more because we are not fully concentrated, but also many times we have received a lot of punishment, we have had little effectiveness and then the games have also become complicated for us because the rival teams also play well.”
Fermin Lopez was asked about Xavi as well. The Barcelona boss has faced immense pressure during this period, with many questioning his position as the head coach.
“He is always very positive. He makes us self-criticize, above all, but always with positivity, to look forward, correct and continue on our path,” Fermin said when asked about Xavi.
Formerly of the Real Betis youth academy, Fermin Lopez had always harboured the dream of playing for Barcelona. “It was my dream as a child and I have been able to fulfil it, training every day, going out to play in Montjuïc. Everything that Barca moves is incredible for me,” he said.
However, when asked about the worst part of playing for Barça, the attacker added, “The pressure here is more than what you get in other clubs, both internally and externally, but hey, you have to know how to handle those things and be focused on your football and working.”
Lopez has contributed in total goals for Barcelona this season, two of which have come in the Champions League.
With Barcelona topping the group stage, Fermin was asked whether or not the Catalans have it in them to win the competition this season.
Fermin sounded optimistic, adding, “We always aim for the best. Yes, we indeed have to correct mistakes to avoid making them in a Champions League match, which is at a high level. But I believe that we do have aspirations for any title and we have to correct and continue working.”
The Spaniard went to reveal his best mate in the Barcelona team. “I have said it many times. I get along well with everyone, but I have spent a lot of time with Gavi since he was younger and he is the best friend I have,” he said.
“I try to help as much as I can. In the end, we are like brothers and whatever he needs, I am there,” he added.
Fermin Lopez also addressed an important question – his role in the Barcelona squad and whether or not it is sustainable in the long run.
“Obviously, it’s Barça and every day is a test. I aspire to be able to stay on the team, it is what I have always fought for and what I will continue fighting for,” Fermin said.
Finally, the Barcelona youngster talked about his recent partnership with Under Armour. “I am very happy for the commitment they have made and the trust they have placed in me and very grateful, I hope to achieve many successes with them,” he said.
“I think it is a brand that, apart from the sports theme, pays a lot of attention to people, to people’s values. And I think I fit into that range of values and what Under Armor believes,” he added.
Fermin Lopez signed a contract with Under Armour earlier this week, in what was a key milestone for the young attacker.
