Another Huge Blow For Spain As Barcelona’s Fermín López Is Ruled Out Of 2026 World Cup
Barcelona's Fermín López Ruled Out of 2026 World Cup by Injury
Barcelona midfielder Fermín López will miss the 2026 World Cup after fracturing the fifth metatarsal in his right foot. The 23-year-old was substituted at half-time during the club’s 3-1 La Liga victory over Real Betis. The club confirmed Monday that López requires surgery to repair the injury.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente now faces a selection decision before announcing his squad next Monday. López had been expected to be included. He will also miss Barcelona’s final league fixture against Valencia this weekend.
A metatarsal fracture typically requires six to eight weeks of recovery. That timeline means López would be unavailable when Spain opens its World Cup campaign against Cape Verde on June 15.
The midfielder’s absence removes a player valued for energy and goal contributions from midfield. Spain will need to identify a replacement ahead of the tournament.
