Barcelona rising star seeks redemption with Spain after missing World Cup triumph

FC Barcelona attacking midfielder Fermin Lopez was forced to watch the World Cup from home when everything suggested he would play an important role in Luis de la Fuente's Spain side.

A fracture to the fifth metatarsal in his right foot, suffered in May, required surgery and ruled him out of the tournament in North America, even as La Roja went on to lift the trophy.

Four months later, the picture has changed completely. Fermin is back at his best and has once again become one of the standout players in Hansi Flick's Barcelona side in the 2026/27 season.

His start to the season has been particularly impressive, with five goals and two assists in his first six appearances. Those numbers have quickly strengthened his case for a return to the national team, reports SPORT .

On Friday, De la Fuente will announce his Spain squad for the upcoming international break. And, unless there is a major surprise, Fermin is expected to be among those selected .

Fermin has made a brilliant start to the season. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

From missing the World Cup to forcing his way back in

What happened in May was one of the toughest setbacks of the La Masia midfielder's young career. And his response on the pitch has been nothing short of emphatic.

Fermin returned at the start of the season and quickly rediscovered the form that had made him such an important player for Flick.

In the first game of the campaign, when Barcelona defeated Elche 5-0, Fermin scored twice, demonstrating his ability to make late runs into the box and find himself in scoring positions.

He followed that with goals against Athletic Club and Valencia . His contribution goes beyond the goals, however. He also provides creativity and the ability to break forward from midfield.

Friday's squad announcement could therefore carry particular significance for Fermin. It will mark his return to Spain's squad after missing the World Cup that his country ultimately won.

Redemption time. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Spain will begin their first Nations League campaign as world champions with a training camp starting on 22 September. Their schedule includes matches against England , Croatia and the Czech Republic.

And, Fermin wants to be there and establish himself as an important part of the team after the World Cup heartbreak.