Fermin talks Flick, Mbappe, Vinicius, El Clasico, UCL heartbreak, La Liga title celebration
Fermin talks Flick, Mbappe, Vinicius, El Clasico, UCL heartbreak, La Liga title celebrationAs Barcelona prepare for another crucial El Clasico against Real Madrid, one of the players carrying enormous confidence into the game is Fermin Lopez.The Barcelona midfielder recently spoke to Mundo Deportivo about the title race, the rivalry with Real Madrid, his development under Hansi Flick, and the painful Champions League exit earlier this season.With Barcelona just one step away from a consecutive La Liga title, Fermin admitted the squad is desperate to deliver a major result against Real Madrid and celebrate with the supporters.Its a match that all of us players love to play in a Clasico and even more so given the situation were in.Were already looking forward to the match, to giving it our all and securing a win for the Culs.Barcelona could potentially secure another league title against their biggest rivals, but for Fermin, the timing is less important than simply getting the job done.It doesnt matter; the sooner the better. Ultimately, what matters is that weve been very consistent throughout the year, and we need to win it as soon as possible, whatever it takes.The disallowed goalFermin is excited to play against Real Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)The Spanish midfielder also reflected on his unforgettable disallowed goal from the previous Clasico, where he dribbled past multiple defenders before beating Thibaut Courtois with an excellent finish.Looking back on the controversial moment, Fermin admitted, I didnt quite understand it, but those are the decisions that get made.The goal was disallowed, but the important thing was that it stayed in the memory of all the Bara fans, who celebrated it as if it were a title.Despite the presence of world-class players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. at Madrid, Fermin believes Barcelonas success with young homegrown players makes the current project even more special.Theyre two absolutely brilliant players, but I think Madrid are our main rivals.They are a formidable opponent with top-class players, and its a real achievement that, with homegrown players weve brought through and given the team we are, we can win two consecutive La Liga titles.Idols and improvementThe midfielder also revealed that Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi were always his biggest inspirations growing up.Ive always looked up to Andres Iniesta and Leo Messi. Theyve been my two role models since I was a child.Its difficult to do what they did, I think its impossible, but within my own capabilities, I try to help the team with goals and assists, and this year its been going well for me, and Im very happy.The Barcelona midfielder also explained where he feels he has improved most under Flick this season.I think my decision-making has improved from one year to the next. As the years go by, you mature and come to understand the game better.Thanks to Hansi and my teammates, I think Ive been able to take another step forward in that area and Im helping the team in the game with goals and assists.UCL heartbreakFermin has nothing but praise for Flick. (Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/Getty Images)Fermin also touched on Barcelonas Champions League disappointment against Atletico Madrid.The Champions League comes down to small details, and I think we need to improve on those small details.Its a competition where you can be out at any moment, but I think the team is aware of that and we mustnt rush things either. I believe the Champions League will come.The midfielder also recalled the painful injury he suffered during the quarter-final clash after being struck in the face by Juan Musso.Yes, I did suffer. I suffered a lot because it was a hard blow.I was able to keep playing because thats my personality to give it my all and it was a Champions League tie and I couldnt just walk off and leave the team there.When asked about the stitches, he added, I think there were six about three inside for cosmetic reasons and three or four on the outside.I cant say for sure right now. Although for me it felt like a million because of the pain I felt.Finally, Fermin delivered strong praise for Flick amid discussions over a possible contract extension for the German manager.Hansi Flick is a very approachable, very ambitious and very demanding person. What everyone sees is what he conveys to the team.Were very happy with him; I think weve improved a lot both as a team and individually. The whole team is very happy with him, he concluded.