Fermín reveals Flick’s huge influence before Newcastle showdown

Barcelona travel to England knowing that knockout football often hinges on fine margins, and López believes the team must rely on collective strength if they want to reach the later stages of Europe’s biggest club competition.

Champions league ties can turn on seconds

Barcelona’s upcoming round of 16 match against Newcastle represents another major European test for a squad aiming to return to the Champions League final.

According to UEFA in comments reported by Mundo Deportivo, López emphasised that success in the tournament often depends on the smallest details during a match.

"We have to stay united, both on and off the pitch. In the end the Champions League is decided by small details, by just seconds of play. We all believe in ourselves and in our abilities."

Read also: FIFA breaks silence on World Cup delay fears amid Middle East war

The Spanish midfielder explained that knockout football can be unpredictable, where a single moment can decide the outcome of an entire tie. Because of that, he believes Barcelona must remain united both on the pitch and in the dressing room if they want to overcome a difficult opponent.

López also reflected on the lessons Barcelona learned from last season’s Champions League campaign. According to Mundo Deportivo, he recalled the painful semifinal elimination against Inter, a result that left a strong impression on the squad.

"That day was very tough, but we learned a lot because we were so close to reaching the Champions League final."

The midfielder suggested that the experience helped the players understand what is required to compete at the highest level in Europe. Losing so close to the final, he said, forced the squad to analyse their mistakes and identify areas that needed improvement.

Read also: Tennis teen erupts as critics question rising bad behavior in the sport

A breakthrough campaign in europe

Fermín López has emerged as one of Barcelona’s most productive midfielders during this Champions League season.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the attacking midfielder produced a standout performance in the group stage with a hat trick against Olympiacos and two additional goals against Slavia Prague. Those performances earned him multiple player of the match awards and significantly raised his profile across European football.

For López, those achievements represent a dream scenario that he once considered almost impossible when he was working his way through the youth system.

"For me it is a dream come true to achieve these things with Barcelona, to play in the Champions League, to be named player of the match and to score a hat trick."

Read also: City must show identity in Bernabéu test, says Guardiola

He explained in the UEFA interview that playing for Barcelona in Europe’s top club competition had always been one of his biggest ambitions. Being able to contribute goals and decisive performances makes the experience even more meaningful.

Despite the individual recognition, López stressed that his primary goal remains helping the team succeed rather than focusing on personal milestones.

"The Champions League is a very difficult competition. Every team makes things complicated."

According to the midfielder, every opponent in the Champions League is capable of creating problems, which means Barcelona must remain focused and consistent throughout the competition.

Read also: Jon Jones raging: Dana White is lying

Hansi flick’s impact on his development

López also highlighted the role Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has played in accelerating his development as a professional footballer.

According to the interview with UEFA reported by Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish midfielder believes the German coach has helped him refine several aspects of his game during the current season.

"I have improved a lot since Hansi arrived. I think he has helped me develop many aspects of my game."

He explained that Flick demands a high level of concentration and tactical discipline from his players, something that has pushed López to become more complete as a midfielder.

Read also: Former Premier League midfielder arrested as police issue statement

The Barcelona player said the coach has worked closely with him on improving decision making during matches, maintaining defensive awareness and becoming more efficient in front of goal.

"I think he has helped me in almost every aspect as a player."

According to López, Flick’s demanding approach has been balanced by his openness and communication with players. That combination has helped build trust within the squad while also raising the competitive standards inside the team.

From linares loan to Barcelona’s first team

López’s current success represents a remarkable turnaround compared with the uncertainty he faced earlier in his career.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the midfielder admitted he once believed his future might lie away from Barcelona after spending time on loan at Linares. At that stage, leaving the club permanently appeared to be the most realistic option.

"In football you need a little bit of luck, and maybe I had it, but I think I worked very hard."

He explained that while luck can play a role in football careers, persistence and hard work were equally important in his journey.

After returning from his loan spell, López was invited to participate in Barcelona’s preseason preparations with the first team. That opportunity ultimately changed the trajectory of his career.

He still remembers the emotions surrounding his first appearance for the senior squad, which came in a match against Villarreal.

"At first I was a little nervous in my debut against Villarreal."

According to López, stepping onto the pitch alongside world class teammates quickly helped him settle into the match environment.

Learning alongside Barcelona’s biggest stars

Sharing the field with experienced international players has also played a key role in his development.

According to the interview reported by Mundo Deportivo, López said playing with teammates such as Frenkie De Jong, Pedri, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha has helped accelerate his growth as a player.

Training and competing alongside elite talent has allowed him to observe different styles, improve his tactical understanding and raise the intensity of his performances.

For a player who once doubted whether he would remain at the club, the opportunity to represent Barcelona at the highest level continues to feel extraordinary.

Sources: UEFA, Mundo Deportivo