Fermin Lopez confirms Real Madrid interest but says he was always going to chase 'big dream' of Barcelona stardom

Barca midfielder Lopez has confirmed that Real Madrid once showed interest in signing him before his professional breakthrough, but insists his heart was always set on Barca. Speaking in an interview with 3CAT, the 22-year-old revealed that Los Blancos tried to recruit him during his early years, though the idea never seriously crossed his mind.

“It’s true that there was that interest,” Fermin explained. “But my father told me very little. If he had asked me my opinion, I would have chosen Barça anyway, because it was my big dream.” 

The El Campillo-born midfielder added that achieving that dream still feels surreal: “I’m very happy to have made it come true, and I hope I can stay here for many years.”

Fermin’s revelation highlights how highly he was rated as a teenager, even by Barcelona’s fiercest rivals. But his loyalty and determination to wear the Blaugrana colours never wavered, and his rapid rise through the ranks is now being celebrated by fans and coaches alike.

Fermin also discussed Barcas preparations for the upcoming El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu, underlining his belief that the team is ready for one of the biggest games of the season. “Our confidence level from zero to ten? Ten,” he said “We’re Barca, and we have a great team. Everyone in the locker room is desperately eager to win the Clasico.”

The young midfielder acknowledged the magnitude of the game for both players and supporters. “There’s still a lot of La Liga to play for, but we know it’s a very important game for us and all the supporters,” he said. “We’ll give everything to win the game and bring joy to the Barca fans.”

His confidence comes after an outstanding run of form, including a Champions League hat-trick against Olympiacos that cemented his place in Flick’s plans. Fermin is now expected to play a key role at the Bernabeu, with the team two points behind Real Madrid and looking to close the gap in the title race.

Asked about Barcelona’s current approach and tactical evolution under Hansi Flick, Fermin expressed total trust in his manager’s system. “That’s for Hansi to decide, he’s the one in charge,” he said. “We just execute the game plan, but our style of play has given us good results, as seen last year. Regarding the fact that we’re not pressing as well now, I can say that these are moments of the season, and we’ve corrected what we weren’t doing well in recent games.”

Fermin also praised his midfield partner Pedri, calling him “an incredible footballer who will mark an era in the club and in the world of football.” Their partnership has been a cornerstone of Barca’s midfield balance this season. “Playing with him is a pleasure,” Fermin said. “We have a good relationship because he’s also a great teammate. I would like to play with him for many years.”

These comments reflect a growing sense of unity within the squad as Flick fine-tunes his system for another title push, balancing experience with a new wave of academy talent led by Fermin and Lamine Yamal.

Beyond football, Fermin shared some personal insights into his life and pre-match habits, showing a grounded, family-oriented side. “Yes, there is something special I do: pray,” he revealed. “My grandmother always tells me I should do it, and that’s why I do it.” The midfielder also mentioned his love for rapper Morad, whose music he listens to before games to get motivated.

His focus and humility have impressed Barcelona’s staff, who see him as the embodiment of La Masia’s values, hard work, character, and belief. Fermin’s mental composure has stood out this season, especially after recovering from injury and immediately delivering standout performances in Europe and LaLiga.

All eyes will now be on Fermin as Barcelona prepare for El Clasico at the Bernabeu. After scoring a hat-trick against Olympiacos, the midfielder admitted that doing the same against Real Madrid would be “incredible” but insisted the team’s success matters more. “Scoring a hat-trick in the Clasico? I don’t know, it would be an incredible feeling. I hope it happens, but it’s a very difficult game. I’m happy if the team wins. I don’t care if I score or not.”

Barca’s form under Flick has been solid, though not without its challenges. Injuries to key players like Dani Olmo and Raphinha have tested the squad’s depth, but the return of Lopez and Yamal has added fresh dynamism. With two points separating them from leaders Madrid, a victory this weekend could be key in shifting the momentum in the Spanish league.