#espanyol-derby

#espanyol-derby

Barcelona's 2-0 victory over Espanyol may have drawn plenty of attention towards Joan Garcia because of his personal history at the RCDE Stadium, but focusing solely on the goalkeeper would mean overlooking the player who truly changed the direction of the match. That player was Fermin Lopez. With the derby drifting towards a frustrating goalless draw, Fermin emerged from the bench in the second half and transformed the game with intensity, personality, and decisive quality.

With just 48 hours left before the derby, the players were due to train this evening at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper to begin the first session of 2026 and the penultimate workout ahead of the match against their city rivals. But Lamine was not part of the session. While the academy graduate did arrive at the club's facilities, he left a few minutes later and was unable to take part in the collective session led by Hansi Flick.

"Mentally, I'm doing well. I've always been a very focused guy. They have helped me a lot at home. "The desire to keep improving also helps. It's difficult to do it every three days, but if you give it your all, you'll always be rewarded."

FC Barcelona played their final game of 2025 this past Sunday, defeating Villarreal 2-0 away from home at Estadio de La Ceramica. The Blaugrana did so without one of their most important players in Pedri, as he missed the game due to mild muscular discomfort, as confirmed by the club. The midfielder picked up the issue during the Copa del Rey tie against CD Guadalajara and was unable to train with the group leading up to the Villarreal trip.

Everything I did, kissing the badge, I did because that's how I felt at the time. I spent many years at Espanyol, I suffered a lot, but I also enjoyed myself a lot. Last year was particularly difficult. We weren't safe until the very last day. These are things that just come out; in the end, you have a lot of affection for the club and you've suffered a lot.