Fermin Lopez was by far the most surprising addition when Luis de la Fuente announced his 29-man preliminary Spain squad for the upcoming European Championship.
Despite little to no experience in international level, Fermin was called up to the national team. Although the final squad will see three players bow out of the squad, Fermin is still part of the team which has started preparations for Euro 2024.
In a recent interview with the media of the Spain national team, Fermin Lopez talked about his rapid rise to prominence while describing his relationship with Lamine Yamal.
Fermin Lopez on Lamine Yamal
Fermin notably suggested that he and Yamal have healthy competition and share a close bond.
“I have to pinch Lamine’s ear from time to time otherwise he will relax. The truth is that we have a very good relationship and we are like little brothers here,” he said.
It must be noted that Yamal and Fermin are technically direct competitors when it comes to seeking a place in Spain’s first XI. The two, nevertheless, remain good friends and will play a vital role for Barcelona next season.
Fermin on his rapid rise to prominence
When asked about his unprecedented breakthrough in La Liga this season, Fermin acknowledged the support he received from friends and family.
After all, last season he was playing on loan at Linares in the third division and is now a Barcelona first-team member and could make his Spain debut.
“Last year I was playing in the third division and now I’m here. It’s hard to imagine but I’m very happy,” Fermin said.
“I remember my family, they are the people who were with me in the worst times, from a distance I know they will be watching me and I hope they will enjoy it.”
The Barcelona star was also asked about his loan spell at Linares. The attacking midfielder added that the loan spell served as a test for him.
“It was a test for me. The situation was difficult at the beginning, but I adapted there. In Barcelona I had all the capabilities and in Linares perhaps not. It was a real test and helped me mature and become a man. They helped me a lot and I was able to become the person I am now,” he said.
Recalling the year as a whole, Fermin acknowledged it was a successful one for him and the selection in the Spain team was a cherry on top.
“It was a very nice year and I got called up from the national team. I never imagined it after everything I went through, but well it was good and worth it,” Fermin said.
