Fermin Lopez: Rodri will give Barcelona ‘a lot’ after praising world’s best defensive midfielder

Fermin Lopez believes Rodri can make a major contribution to Barcelona, describing the Manchester City midfielder as the best defensive midfielder in the world as the Spain international completes his medical ahead of a proposed move to the Catalan club.

Rodri is currently undergoing medical tests before his transfer to Barcelona can be formally completed. Fermin, who plays alongside him for Spain, said the midfielder’s quality and experience would be a significant asset to the club.

“Rodri is a great player, a Ballon d’Or winner and a world champion,” Fermin told the club’s television channel. “I play with him for the national team and he is the best defensive midfielder in the world. He will give us a lot.”

Fermin also explained his decision to take Barcelona’s number seven shirt. The number became available and has previously been worn by several important players in the club’s history.

“I have always liked wearing number seven and great players in our history have worn it,” he said. “Since it became available, I asked for it and I am happy to wear it. I felt a little sad to leave number 16 because I had become attached to it, but I am convinced it will remain in good hands.”

The Spain international was also asked about Julian Alvarez, who plays for Atletico Madrid. Fermin said he admired the Argentina forward but was unwilling to discuss the possibility of a move in detail.

“I like Julian Alvarez a lot and he is a great player, but in the end he is an Atletico Madrid player and I cannot go into this matter any further,” he said. “However, considering the way we play, I think he would certainly fit in well with us.”

Barcelona are preparing for life after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, with Fermin acknowledging that responsibility for scoring goals will be shared across the squad.

“Who will score after Lewandowski and Ferran leave? I do not know,” he said. “But Gordon can also play as a centre-forward, while Dani Olmo, Raphinha and I can score too. If another signing arrives, I do not know, but we have many players capable of scoring goals.”

Fermin also praised head coach Hansi Flick for the influence he has had on his development since arriving at Barcelona.

“My relationship with Flick is very good,” he said. “Since he arrived, he has helped me a lot both personally and as a footballer. Over these two years I have developed considerably because of what he asks of me on the pitch, and I have performed well under his guidance.”

He added that Flick expects him to make attacking runs, contribute in the final third and remain composed in possession.

“Flick asks me to attack spaces and get into the penalty area, to shoot, provide the final pass and not lose the ball,” said Fermin. “He knows my capabilities.”

Barcelona will face الاهلي in the Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday in their final friendly before the 2026-27 season begins.