Key Takeaways:
- Fermin Lopez suffered a fracture to the fifth metatarsal in his right foot during Sunday’s encounter with Betis
- The Barcelona forward will be sidelined for six to eight weeks, ruling him out of the upcoming World Cup in North America
- Spain’s 26-man squad for the tournament will be announced by Luis de la Fuente next Monday, 25th May
World Cup Blow for Spain’s European Champion
Spain will be without the talents of Fermin Lopez at the World Cup, as head coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed he cannot select the Barcelona forward following an injury sustained over the weekend. Lopez picked up a knock to his foot during Sunday’s league fixture against Betis and was forced off at the interval.
Injury Details and Recovery Timeline
A statement released by Barcelona on Monday revealed that Lopez has a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot. The recovery protocol requires the player to undergo surgery, and medical assessments indicate that he will be unavailable for six to eight weeks. This confirmed absence rules Lopez out of contention for the forthcoming World Cup hosted in North America.
🚨🚨| 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Fermín Lopez has a fracture in his right foot and he will MISS the World Cup. He'll be OUT for 3 MONTHS! [@mundodeportivo] #fcblive 💔 pic.twitter.com/QINfMPZB6s
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) May 18, 2026
Aims and Achievements Interrupted
Lopez, hailing from El Campillo, has enjoyed immense success this year, clinching both the European Championship and Olympic gold medal with Spain in 2024 and contributing decisively to Barcelona’s La Liga triumph. He was hoping to round off the year by participating in the World Cup, with aspirations of securing an international treble. However, his major tournament appearance will now have to wait until 2030.
Looking Ahead: Spain’s Squad Announcement
The final selection of 26 players who will carry Spain’s hopes at the World Cup will be unveiled by Luis de la Fuente on Monday, 25th May. The squad announcement is eagerly anticipated, as Spain seek to replicate their European success on the global stage without one of their integral young stars.
