In a pre-match press conference for FC Barcelona’s upcoming Champions League game against AS Monaco, head coach Hansi Flick acknowledged a sense of responsibility for midfielder Fermin Lopez’s injury setback.
Fermin had made a quicker comeback than anticipated from a quadriceps injury suffered while playing for Spain’s U21 team. Regrettably, during his initial training session on Monday, he sustained an injury to his opposite leg, prompting the club to predict a three to four-week recovery period.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Flick expressed regret for not intervening earlier to possibly prevent Fermin’s selection for the U-21 squad earlier this month.
“We have been progressively incorporating players who are returning from injury, making sure they manage their workload cautiously,” Flick stated.
“Gavi has resumed training and is taking part in rondos alongside Frenkie de Jong. It is important to closely monitor his recovery.
Fermin’s situation is regrettable, particularly following his involvement in two tournaments over the summer. I do feel some guilt as we may have contacted the U-21 coach regarding this matter.”
