Fermin Lopez has expressed a keen interest in having Lionel Messi return to Barcelona, indicating he’d readily take a backseat if necessary. The 22-year-old has proven to be a reliable player for the team this season, yet he is willing to forego opportunities to play if it means Messi can come back for a grand farewell in Catalunya.
Dream signing? Fermin will always pick Messi
Messi, who spent his entire career at Barca until 2021, left for Paris Saint-Germain due to well-documented financial issues at the Catalan club. Now playing with Inter Miami, Messi has extended his contract with the MLS Cup champions until 2028, making a return to Europe as a player seem unlikely.
Fermin, who hails from Barcelona’s La Masia academy, shared his ambitions when he stated: “If it were up to me to sign someone for Barca, I would sign Leo Messi. If they bench me for Messi, so be it!”
Pay rise: Fermin discussing new Barcelona contract
Even though Fermin has faced rotation in the starting lineup, he remains a favored choice of head coach Hansi Flick, having recorded 10 goals and an equal number of assists this season, including a hat-trick in the Champions League.
He is currently in talks for a new contract that might see him stay at Barcelona until 2031, with an expected pay rise and a raised release clause following previous interest from Premier League’s Chelsea.
Fermin mentioned: “Yes, things are going pretty well, there are still a few things to sort out, but I intend to stay at Barca, which is the most important thing for me. And the truth is that I hope it happens soon and I’m very happy.”
Friendly rivalry: Fermin battling with Olmo
Fermin also expressed his competitive spirit as he juggles playing time with teammate Dani Olmo, emphasizing their healthy rivalry and positive relationship: “I have a very good relationship with Dani. He’s a great player and, at the end of the day, we’re at Barca and there’s always a lot of competition. I hope we can play together more often on the pitch.”
Trophy bids: Barcelona’s targets for 2026
Looking ahead, Fermin shared his confidence as Barcelona pursues titles in La Liga and the Champions League in 2026: “We are Barca, and I think we have a very good squad. We want to win everything.”
As they continue their campaign, Barcelona sits just one point ahead of their rivals Real Madrid in the league standings, preparing for a significant match against FC Copenhagen in the Champions League.
