Midfielder Fermín López confirmed this Wednesday (20) that he will miss the next World Cup after undergoing surgery on his right foot.
The Barcelona player suffered a fractured fifth metatarsal during the 3-1 victory over Real Betis, last Sunday (17), in the Spanish Championship.
In a statement on social media, Fermín stated that the procedure was successful, but regretted losing the chance to compete in the tournament with the Spanish team.
“The surgery went very well and I’m already thinking about coming back stronger, physically and mentally. Life and football can be cruel when you least expect it”, wrote the athlete.
“It’s a very difficult moment for me, another challenge in my career, but I will overcome it. Now it’s time to support the team and my teammates.”
Fermín López lived with the expectation of being called up after a standout season for Barcelona. The Spaniard scored 13 goals and provided 17 assists in all competitions, helping the club win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup.
Current champions of Europe, the Spain national football team debuts in the World Cup on June 15, against Cape Verde, in Group H. The team will also have Saudi Arabia and Uruguay as opponents.
Coach Luis de la Fuente is expected to announce the final squad list next Monday (25).
