Fermin Lopez is expected to miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup after sustaining a fractured foot during FC Barcelona’s 3-1 victory over Real Betis on Sunday.
The 23-year-old midfielder suffered a fracture to the fifth metatarsal in his right foot and was substituted at half-time before later undergoing surgery.
Barcelona confirmed that the operation was successful but did not specify how long the Spanish star will remain sidelined.
Lopez later shared an emotional message on Instagram, revealing that his dream of playing at the World Cup had been cut short.
“The surgery went well, and I’m already focused on returning stronger physically and mentally,” he wrote.
“Football and life can sometimes be cruel when you least expect it. Still, these moments are part of the journey.
“This is another difficult challenge in my career, but one I’m determined to overcome.
“For now, I’ll be supporting the national team and my teammates from home.”
The midfielder had been widely tipped to make coach Luis de la Fuente’s final Spain squad for the tournament set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Spain are scheduled to announce their final squad on Monday and will begin their Group H campaign against Cape Verde on June 15 before taking on Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
Despite battling two separate groin injuries this season, Lopez enjoyed an impressive campaign under manager Hansi Flick. He scored 13 goals and registered 17 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions as Barcelona clinched the La Liga title.
Only teammates Eric Garcia and Gerard Martin featured more often for the club this season, while Lopez finished level with Lamine Yamal as Barcelona’s joint-highest assist provider.
Lopez has earned seven caps for Spain and was part of the country’s victorious Euro 2024 squad, making one substitute appearance during the tournament.