Fermin Lopez reveals Hansi Flick’s request before Barcelona substitution

Fermin Lopez said Hansi Flick asked him to stay on despite being exhausted as Barcelona recovered their form with a 6-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves in La Liga.

The midfielder was named player of the match after scoring once and providing two assists in Barcelona’s sixth win of the league campaign, on matchday 11.

Speaking to Movistar LaLiga, in comments reported by Mundo Deportivo, Lopez said the result was an important response after a difficult week for the Catalan side.

“It was a difficult week for us because we were unable to win two high-profile matches,” he said. “They were very demanding games and many people considered them a real test for us, even though it is still October.”

The 23-year-old added that Barcelona could not have chosen a better setting in which to respond.

“I do not think there was a better occasion or place to put things right than playing at Camp Nou in front of our supporters,” Lopez said.

Barcelona took control after making an early breakthrough, with Lopez explaining that the opening goal helped them deal with Alaves’ defensive approach.

“We knew they would sit deep, form a low defensive block and close many of the passing lanes through the middle,” he said. “But we scored early, and I think that helped to create more space on the pitch.”

Lopez said Barcelona’s performance allowed them to rediscover the style and level they had been missing.

“We played well, found our form again and recovered our identity and our true level,” he said. “Now we have to continue playing in this way.”

He also welcomed his contribution in the final third, saying: “We must continue to feel happy about helping the team with assists.”

Despite his goal and two assists, Lopez admitted he had reached the limit of his energy before the final whistle. He said Flick had planned to replace Frenkie de Jong but wanted him to remain on the pitch for a little longer.

“I was completely exhausted,” Lopez said. “The coach, Hansi Flick, knew that I had used up all my energy, but he told me he was going to take off de Jong and asked me to hold on a little longer and remain calmer.”

Lopez also praised Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, who both scored twice in the victory.

“It is great for us because they help us enormously,” he said. “Lamine and Raphinha make the difference and are very important players for us. With them, we will certainly be able to achieve great things.”

The listed schedule includes a Copa del Rey meeting between Deportivo Alaves and Barcelona on 03 November 2026, as well as a Champions League fixture involving Aston Villa and Barcelona on the same date.