Lopez Declares Long-Term Love Affair With Barca: The Club’s Next Homegrown Pillar
27 January 2026
Lopez makes Barça future his first choice
Fermin Lopez, Barcelona's young star, has sent a decisive message about his future, confirming his strong desire to stay at the Catalan club for the long term as he nears a new contract that could anchor him as a pillar of Hansi Flick's project.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 22-year-old explained that remaining at Barcelona has always been his top option, despite summer transfer interest, notably from Chelsea.
"I have been clear from the start: I want to stay at Barcelona, and that has always been my first choice. I spent a wonderful summer here and I have improved since last year," Lopez said.
The youngster highlighted that he is enjoying perhaps the best spell of his career, developing technically and mentally and growing more mature on the pitch.
His contributions in goals and assists aren't accidental but a natural result of his role and self-confidence, reaching double-digit numbers in both goals and assists this season.
Regarding competition within the squad, especially with Dani Olmo, Lopez stressed that it is healthy and positive, confident they can play together thanks to their strong chemistry. He also expressed full belief in Barcelona's ability to contend for all titles.
On the renewal talks, Lopez closed that negotiations are progressing well, insisting, "What matters most is staying at Barcelona, and I hope it will be settled soon."
Punchline 1: Loyalty should come with a contract extension and a bigger cap—barça are basically printing loyalty cards.
Punchline 2: If Lopez keeps this form, Chelsea’s rumors will need a bigger stadium to house all the gossip—and even then, Barca will still own the headlines.
