Radical and unexpected change at FC Barcelona. What seemed like a market deal on track has ended in a major setback for Diego Simeone. Atlético de Madrid had marked Fermín's name in red as its star signing to strengthen its midfield this summer. However, the homegrown Barça player has made a bold move and made a decision that no one, not even Hansi Flick, saw coming at the start of preseason.
The surprise has been total. Fermín, who started as a rotation player without a guaranteed leading role, has managed to change his fate with high-level performances in preseason. His performance has been the most pleasant news of the summer for Barça. So much so that Flick is already planning to give him a very important role in the 2025/26 season. The player, far from being tempted by the offer from the red-and-white club, has chosen to stay at the club of his life.
At Atlético de Madrid, the blow has been hard. Simeone saw in him a footballer capable of providing attacking threat, character, and an immediate connection with the fans. The offer was ready, the sporting project was attractive, and the plan was to make him a key piece in the midfield. However, the player's refusal has blown up any possibility of negotiation.
Barça gems that are important
The Argentine will have to look for alternatives in the market, aware that he has lost a top target. Hansi Flick's bet on Fermín López is clear. The German coach, who arrived with the intention of revolutionizing the starting eleven and giving opportunities to young players, has found in the homegrown player a profile that fits perfectly with his idea of play.
Intensity, late runs from midfield, and a rare goal-scoring instinct for a midfielder. All this has led the coach to communicate internally that the player will be an active part of the main rotation. This change of plans has left Barça with an unexpected reinforcement "from within."
Simeone faces a refusal
Instead of having to go to the market to strengthen the midfield, the club has found that one of its talents has taken a step up. This strengthens the sporting project. Meanwhile, Fermín knows that he is facing the opportunity to finally establish himself as a starter. The outcome is not only a setback for Diego Simeone, but also a message to the rest of the clubs: Barça is not willing to let its young prospects slip away.
Even less so if their performance shows that they are ready to be protagonists. Fermín López's "no" to Atlético de Madrid is, in reality, a resounding "yes" to FC Barcelona, which wants to recover its identity and trust in La Masia. Flick, who has already started to shape his new team, has one more invaluable piece.