2026 World Cup: hard blow for Spain, Fermin Lopez forced into operation

Hard blow for La Roja. FC Barcelona’s Spanish midfielder Fermin Lopez, who went out injured on Sunday in La Liga against Betis Sevilla, suffers from a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot, his club announced on Monday, three weeks before the start of the 2026 World Cup. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, fundamental this season at Barça where he established himself as a starter with a decisive impact (13 goals, 17 assists), will have to undergo surgery, specifies the Catalan club.

According to the Spanish press, which mentions an absence of several months, he should be forced to withdraw from the World Cup. The European champion and 2024 Olympic champion was guaranteed to be part of the La Roja list, one of the favorites for the tournament, which will be announced on May 25 by coach Luis de La Fuente.

Others injured

His absence would leave a place to be taken in midfield, which could push the Spanish technician to recall his favorite Gavi, 21, back as a starter at Barça after two seasons truncated by injuries.

Beyond the case of Fermin Lopez, Spain has several major players injured or currently recovering within less than one month of entering the fray, including Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao) and Mikel Merino (Arsenal).