23-year-old midfield star closing in on Barcelona return with Hansi Flick monitoring progress | OneFootball

Fermin Lopez is nearing the end of his recovery and remains hopeful of playing a part in FC Barcelona’s upcoming preseason camp in England.

The midfielder missed the 2026 World Cup after suffering an injury late last season, but his rehabilitation has now entered its final stage.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Fermin has already started joining parts of first-team training and his recovery is progressing as expected.

The 23-year-old’s immediate objective is to travel with the squad to England for the camp between July 27 and August 3.

Fermin is also hoping to receive some minutes in the friendly matches there, although Barcelona have no intention of rushing him back.

His rehabilitation has been carefully managed through an individual programme designed by the club’s medical and physical staff. The priority throughout has been to allow the injury to heal fully and reduce the risk of another setback.

Hansi Flick is following his progress very closely, which is understandable given how important Fermin became last season.

Barcelona need his energy back

For Barca, a fully fit Fermin would be a major boost before the official season begins.

His intensity, movement into the box and ability to contribute goals from midfield give Flick a profile that is difficult to replicate elsewhere in the squad.

The setback that ruled him out of the World Cup was a cruel one, particularly after such a strong campaign, but the midfielder has remained committed throughout his recovery.

He even travelled to the United States to watch Spain’s World Cup final against Argentina, despite being unable to take part in the tournament himself.

Now the focus is firmly back on Barcelona.

There is still no reason to force the return, but the signs are positive. If Fermin can take part in the England camp and gradually build match rhythm, he should have a realistic chance of being ready for the start of the competitive season.