Barcelona starlet Fermin Lopez has opened up about his decision to reject a move to Chelsea earlier in his career, insisting he is exactly where he wants to be. The Barca academy graduate is currently enjoying a breakout season that has reportedly caught the eye of Manchester United, but his focus remains firmly on domestic and European dominance with the Catalan giants.

Barcelona star Fermin Lopez has warned his team-mates to prepare for a battle as they shift their focus to a daunting Champions League trip to Newcastle's famous St James' Park stadium. The Catalan giants secured a gritty 1-0 victory over Athletic Club in La Liga on Saturday night, but the celebrations were short-lived as the squad immediately turned their attention to the looming challenge of facing Newcastle.

Fermin Lopez would love to see Lionel Messi welcomed back to Barcelona, even if that means dropping down to the bench. The 22-year-old has become one of the Blaugrana’s most consistent performers this season, but he would happily give up a playmaking post at Camp Nou if an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner could be returned to Catalunya for an emotional farewell tour.

Barcelona have confirmed influential midfielder Pedri is set to be ruled out of action for around a month after he was forced out of a Champions League clash with Slavia Prague. Boss Hansi Flick delivered a worrying update after the game on the Spain international, who completed just over an hour of that continental contest before picking up an injury. His manager admitted “it is not good news” on the fitness front, with the La Liga leaders now without one of their most important players.

Barcelona recovered from a nightmare start to beat Slavia Prague 4-2 in the Champions League on Wednesday night. Fermin Lopez scored twice in the first half, while Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski were also on target for Hansi Flick's side to keep their hopes of a top-eight finish - and automatic qualification to the knockout stages of the tournament - alive going into the final round of group fixtures.

Barcelona opened up a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga courtesy of late strikes from substitutes Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski in a hard-fought 2-0 Catalan derby win over Espanyol. And there were also two world-class saves from former Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia to help secure the three points in what was a thrilling clash at the RCDE Stadium.