Top News

Spain have been dealt yet another serious injury setback, with Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez set to undergo surgery for a fractured metatarsal, effectively ruling him out of the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

The 23-year-old sustained the injury during Barcelona’s 3-1 La Liga victory against Real Betis, forcing him off the pitch and leaving national team coach Luis de la Fuente with a major selection dilemma just days before announcing his final squad.

Severe injury dampens celebrations for Barcelona and Spain

Barcelona’s end-of-season mood has been overshadowed by the news that Fermin has suffered a significant foot injury, likely keeping him out of the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder, who has played an increasingly crucial role for both club and country, picked up the injury during Sunday’s 3-1 La Liga win over Real Betis.

He was substituted at half-time at the Spotify Camp Nou after showing visible discomfort. While initial expectations were that his withdrawal was a precautionary measure, medical scans later confirmed the seriousness of the injury, leaving both the player and supporters heartbroken as the summer approaches.

Barcelona confirm surgery for Fermin Lopez

The Catalan club moved promptly to provide clarity through an official statement on Monday. Unfortunately, the update confirmed the worst fears, as Barcelona revealed that the La Masia academy graduate will need surgery to repair the fracture in his right foot.

In their statement, the club said: “The first team player Fermin Lopez suffered a fracture to the fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot in the game against Betis. The player will undergo surgery.”

World Cup 2026 dream shattered

Although Barcelona have not specified an exact recovery timeline, such injuries generally require six to eight weeks of rest and rehabilitation. With Spain’s opening World Cup fixture against Cape Verde scheduled for June 15th, the timing of the injury leaves Fermin with no realistic chance of recovery before the tournament.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente had been expected to include the dynamic midfielder in his final squad announcement next Monday. His absence now forces De la Fuente to find an alternative option. Additionally, Fermin will miss Barcelona’s concluding La Liga match of the season against Valencia next weekend.

Huge setback for Spain’s World Cup plans

Fermin’s injury represents a major blow for La Roja, as the Barcelona star had become a key part of the tactical system, known for his ability to score and create from midfield. His unavailability adds to Spain’s growing injury concerns, with teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal also sidelined due to a hamstring problem. For Barcelona, the immediate focus will be on ensuring Fermin’s recovery progresses smoothly so that he can rejoin the team in full fitness ahead of the 2026-27 pre-season.