Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez is set for surgery after suffering a broken bone in his right foot, putting his place in Spain’s World Cup squad in serious doubt.
The 23-year-old picked up the injury during Barcelona’s 3 1 win over Real Betis on Sunday. The LaLiga champions confirmed on Monday that Lopez fractured the fifth metatarsal in his right foot.
Barcelona said the midfielder will now undergo surgery as he begins his recovery.
Lopez enjoyed one of his best seasons for Barca. He scored 13 goals and provided 17 assists in 48 matches in all competitions. His strong form helped Barcelona retain the LaLiga title and win the Spanish Super Cup.
The midfielder made his Spain debut in 2024 and has already earned seven international caps. He had been pushing for a place in Luis de la Fuente’s squad for next month’s World Cup.
Spain will begin their Group H campaign on June 15 against Cape Verde in Atlanta. They will then face Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
Spain are among the top contenders for the tournament, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Spain’s final squad for the World Cup will be announced on May 25.
