Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez reflects on La Masia journey and life away from football

Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez reflects on La Masia journey and life away from football Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has reflected on the people and experiences that shaped his football journey, revealing how his first coach recognised his potential and why his parents have remained central to his success.  In an interview with GQ (h/t SPORT ), the Spaniard also discussed his childhood in El Campillo, his move to La Masia and the simple routines that help him unwind away from football. His reflections come during a period in which Fermin is enjoying success both personally and professionally, following a difficult summer disrupted by an injury that ruled him out of representing Spain at the 2026 World Cup. Fermin recalls early signs of his footballing potential Fermin’s journey began in El Campillo, where his first coach , Rafael, quickly recognised that the youngster possessed qualities that could take him far in the game. “My first coach at El Campillo, from the moment he saw me, always told my parents that he saw something different in me. “His name is Rafael and I think he was the first person to coach me who saw something special in me, as well as the potential to go far in football,” he said. Football was already central to Fermin’s childhood, with much of his free time spent playing with friends.  Fermin Lopez has looked back at his early career. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) His memories of those early years reflect a passion that extended well beyond organised training. “We used to play on the pitches; we’d sneak off to play, and I always had footballs in my room. The ball has always been my best friend, and football has been with me ever since.” Barcelona midfielder credits parents for his development Moving to La Masia at the age of 13 marked a major change in Fermin’s life, taking him away from the familiar surroundings of home.  Throughout that transition and the challenges that followed, he identified his parents as his most dependable source of support. “Ever since I went to La Masia at the age of 13, I’d say my parents have been a cornerstone in my life and throughout my entire journey.  “Whenever I’ve been feeling down, I’ve turned to them and they’ve supported and helped me. I’d say they’re two cornerstone figures who’ve always been there for me and have stood by me throughout this process.” Their encouragement has remained important throughout his development into a Barcelona first-team midfielder.  FIFA, Fortnite and time with his partner Fermin likes to switch off from football every once in a while. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Away from training and competition, Fermin prefers relatively straightforward ways to spend his limited free time.  Walking his dog and going out with his partner provide opportunities to relax and take a break from the demands of professional football. “I really enjoy going for walks with my dog. I’ve said it many times, but I really do enjoy it.  “I like going out just with my partner, chatting, switching off. I play video games, watch TV series – the usual sort of things.” Gaming is another favourite pastime, although the midfielder admitted that his competitive personality follows him away from the pitch. “The two games I play most are FIFA and Fortnite. At the moment I’m playing a lot of FIFA with my Barça teammates… I’m very competitive and I get quite annoyed, ” he concluded.