Fermin Lopez, a La Masia graduate who had been overlooked by Xavi Hernandez, spent the 2023‑24 season on loan at Linares, where he posted impressive numbers. A voice note from a friend alerted the manager to Lopez’s form, prompting a recall to Barcelona’s pre‑season squad.
After a single training session, Xavi was convinced of Lopez’s quality and included him in the United States tour, where he debuted against Arsenal. In his second match, a 2024‑25 fixture against Real Madrid, Lopez scored a stunning goal and delivered an assist, cementing his place as a key midfielder for club and country.