Barcelona star Fermin Lopez explains his preferred role under Luis de la Fuente: ‘That’s where I can make the most of my strengths’

Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has offered insight into his preferred role under Luis de la Fuente after Spain’s 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday. 

The 23-year-old also expressed his ambition to score his first international goal as Spain prepare for Sunday’s decisive meeting with England, with the Group A3 top spot still to be settled.

Fermin started the victory in Prague as Spain maintained their perfect record in the competition. 

Speaking after the match, the Barcelona midfielder discussed his performance, identified the position where he feels most effective and acknowledged the challenge awaiting La Roja in Madrid.

Fermin identifies his preferred position in Spain’s midfield

Although Fermin has demonstrated his versatility by operating in different midfield roles, and even on the wings, the Barcelona academy graduate made his preference clear when asked where he performs best.

“I’ve always preferred playing as an attacking midfielder; that’s where I can make the most of my strengths,” he stated, as per Mundo Deportivo.

At the same time, however, he was equally clear that his personal preference would not influence his responsibilities within the national team.

“Wherever the manager puts me, that’s where I’ll play,” he concluded.

Barcelona midfielder wants his first Spain international goal

Fermin also spoke about his individual ambitions after helping Spain secure another victory. 

Despite establishing himself as an increasingly important attacking option, he is still waiting to open his international goalscoring account.

“I’m eager to score my first goal for Spain. Hopefully, it happens on Sunday vs. England,” he added.

About the 2-0 win, the midfielder felt Spain could have made their victory more comfortable against the Czech Republic.

“We knew they’d put us under pressure at home; we played well but could have scored a few more goals to give us some breathing space.”

He subsequently highlighted the defensive concentration required to avoid giving opponents opportunities from dead-ball situations.

“They had a couple of set-piece opportunities that they could have converted. We need to be alert and put that right.”

England test offers Spain chance to secure group leadership

Fermin acknowledged the quality of Spain’s next opponents, recognising that England will provide a significantly demanding test.

“We know what sort of opponents they are; they have top-class players and it will be a very difficult match. 

“Hopefully we can win in Madrid and secure top spot,” he concluded.

It is to be noted that Spain have collected 15 points from five matches and remain unbeaten in Group A3. 

England are their final opponents on November 15 at the Metropolitano, with a draw sufficient to guarantee Spain first place.