Fermin Lopez opens up on Barcelona dream, Chelsea transfer rumours and Lamine Yamal recovery | OneFootball

While speculation around departures and transfer offers continues to surround several Barcelona players ahead of the summer, Fermin Lopez has made one thing absolutely clear that he had no intention of leaving the club.

The midfielder recently spoke in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, where he addressed the transfer rumours that linked him with a move away from Barcelona last summer, particularly interest from Chelsea. 

Opening up on potential exit

Despite the growing attention around him after his breakthrough season, Fermin insisted that his focus never moved away from staying at Barça.

Reflecting on the rumours and the possibility of another dramatic transfer window, the youngster made his feelings very clear. 

“I think you can rest assured. This happened last year. 

“There are always rumours and stories that can surface, but I was very calm because I wanted to stay at Barça. I’ve always shown that.”

The Spanish midfielder went even further when discussing his long-term future at the club. 

After renewing his contract once the previous transfer window closed, Fermin explained that remaining at Barcelona had always been his dream.

“I’ve always wanted to be here; it’s always been my dream, and now that I’m here, I’m trying to enjoy it to the full and make it last as long as God wills. 

“The truth is I’m very happy, and I hope I can stay here forever.”

On Lamine Yamal

Fermin has provided an update on Lamine Yamal’s fitness. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The interview also touched on the current injury situation involving Lamine Yamal, whose absence has worried many Barcelona supporters in recent weeks. 

Fermin admitted the youngster was initially frustrated after suffering the setback, but insisted the winger remains focused on returning stronger.

“He’s fine. When you get injured, you’re gutted at first because he’s an ambitious lad who loves to help out on the pitch and play. 

“With this injury, he won’t be able to play until the World Cup. He’s fine now and needs to focus on his recovery, and I think he’ll be in good shape by then.”

The Espanyol controversy

The Barcelona midfielder also addressed the criticism directed towards some Barça players following the derby celebrations against Espanyol. 

Some Espanyol supporters accused the team of showing disrespect after the victory, but Fermín strongly rejected those claims.

“Criticism is something you can’t control. I think it’s part and parcel of a derby. We didn’t disrespect anyone. 

“Some people have indeed come out to criticise us or say we were disrespectful, but I don’t think at any point, neither during the match nor afterwards, did we show any disrespect to Espanyol or their players,” he concluded.