Fermín López Returns to Fitness — Available for Selection This Weekend
Good news for Barcelona and Xavi’s options: Fermín López has recovered from his recent muscle issue and is back with the squad ahead of the upcoming fixture. Expect him to be included in the matchday squad, although staff will manage his minutes carefully.
What happened
Fermín López has been undergoing recovery after a muscle problem that kept him out of several matches. Medical and coaching staff have monitored his progress closely and the midfielder has returned to group training in recent sessions, paving the way for him to be available this weekend. 0
Coach & team context
Head coach Hansi Flick and the fitness team have reiterated caution: while López is now fit for selection, he — like Lamine Yamal — is not expected to be used for the full 90 minutes immediately. The club will look to reintroduce him gradually to avoid setbacks. 1
How he can be used this weekend
- Impact substitute: Introduced around the 60–70 minute mark to add energy and creativity in the final third.
- Short starter option: Could start but be replaced early to protect fitness and manage load.
- Tactical flexibility: Offers Xavi an option to rotate the midfield dynamics depending on the opponent and match state.
Fan reaction & broadcast notes
Fans have welcomed the news online, and media outlets reporting on Barcelona’s training updates list López among the returning names to the squad this week. As always, final confirmation will come on matchday when the official squad list is published. 3
Quick facts
Player: Fermín López — attacking midfielder (FC Barcelona)
Status: Recovered, available for selection this weekend (minutes managed)
What to watch: Whether he starts or comes off the bench; look for 20–30 minutes initially if introduced. 4
