Former Barcelona youth coach explains the hard work behind Fermin Lopez’s rise: ‘He was physically weaker…’ | OneFootball

Fermin Lopez’s rise at Barcelona has not surprised one of his former youth coaches, with Oscar Lopez revealing that the midfielder had already developed a distinctive approach to the game long before establishing himself under Hansi Flick.

Lopez, who previously coached the Barça midfielder, believes Fermin’s current performances are the result of years of work rather than a sudden breakthrough. 

His physical development, movement and technical improvement have all played a part in turning him into an increasingly influential attacking option.

Fermin’s development started with his physical limitations

Speaking to SPORT, Oscar Lopez began by highlighting the consistency that has followed Fermin throughout his development.

“Fermin is a player who always performs,” the former Barça coach said, particularly when considering the midfielder’s physical qualities.

That was not always the case. As a youth player, Fermin had to overcome physical limitations that made his progression more difficult.

Fermin Lopez has made it to Barcelona’s first-team. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Reflecting on those early years, Lopez explained: “He was already performing well years ago, when he was physically weaker and found it very hard.”

The midfielder’s challenges forced him to develop other aspects of his game alongside his physical strength.

Hard work changed Fermin’s style

Lopez believes those difficulties ultimately helped Fermin build a more complete footballing profile.

“His physical limitations have meant he has had to work in a unique way on his resilience and many footballing details, such as running into space and other technical aspects like playing one-touch or multi-touch football, shooting and a thousand other things.”

That development helps explain why Lopez is not surprised by Fermin’s ability to contribute in different circumstances.

“He knows how to link up with others and make the most of his physique, something he exploits to the full, whether he plays for ten minutes or starts the match.”

Fermin’s personality helps him compete

Fermin Lopez’s former coach has revealed his struggles. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Fermin’s intensity is not limited to his football. Lopez also discussed the midfielder’s personality, particularly his appearance of being angry or highly emotional during matches.

“Although he sometimes seems angry, that’s just his nature and his way of focusing to perform,” he added.

That mentality has become part of Fermin’s identity at Barcelona, where competition for attacking positions remains intense under Flick.

Fermin’s development is a useful reminder that his emergence did not happen overnight. 

The physical and technical work highlighted by Lopez has helped develop a midfielder capable of making an impact regardless of his minutes.