Barcelona have been handed a major fitness boost as Fermin Lopez edges closer to a comeback. The 22-year-old midfielder, sidelined since late-September with a muscle injury, has resumed individual training on the pitch. His expected return after the international break against Girona will be a welcome lift for Hansi Flick, who has faced mounting injury concerns.

Fermin Lopez has shut down rumours of a rift with Gavi, insisting that the two remain close friends despite months of speculation linking their supposed fallout to personal disputes and training-ground clashes. The Barcelona midfielder says he is focused on maturity, mental strength and loyalty to the club as the noise around his relationship with Gavi refuses to die down.

Fermin Lopez joked Real Madrid were not among the clubs trying to sign him in the summer as he admitted that he received more offers than just Chelsea's late bid. The midfielder insisted that leaving Barcelona was never an option, though, as he looks to become a crucial figure for Hansi Flick's side following another injury upset.

Fermin Lopez left the field looking visibly distraught after Barcelona's league win against Getafe. The midfielder dropped to the pitch, holding his groin and the back of his leg, before leaving the field as coach Hansi Flick hugged him. The club have now received the test results, and the 20-year-old is slated to be sidelined for around three weeks.

Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez was in visible pain as he lay down after the final whistle of his side's 3-0 win against Getafe on Sunday, prompting the medical team to check on him. Lopez was seen holding his leg and left the pitch crying as coach Hansi Flick consoled him. The club confirmed they are soon going to conduct tests.