Fermin talks Flick, Mbappe, Vinicius, El Clasico, UCL heartbreak, La Liga title celebration

The disallowed goal

Fermin is excited to play against Real Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The Spanish midfielder also reflected on his unforgettable disallowed goal from the previous Clasico, where he dribbled past multiple defenders before beating Thibaut Courtois with an excellent finish.

Looking back on the controversial moment, Fermin admitted, “I didn’t quite understand it, but those are the decisions that get made.

“The goal was disallowed, but the important thing was that it stayed in the memory of all the Barça fans, who celebrated it as if it were a title.”

Despite the presence of world-class players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. at Madrid, Fermin believes Barcelona’s success with young homegrown players makes the current project even more special.

“They’re two absolutely brilliant players, but I think Madrid are our main rivals.

“They are a formidable opponent with top-class players, and it’s a real achievement that, with homegrown players we’ve brought through and given the team we are, we can win two consecutive La Liga titles.”

Idols and improvement

The midfielder also revealed that Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi were always his biggest inspirations growing up.

“I’ve always looked up to Andres Iniesta and Leo Messi. They’ve been my two role models since I was a child.

“It’s difficult to do what they did, I think it’s impossible, but within my own capabilities, I try to help the team with goals and assists, and this year it’s been going well for me, and I’m very happy.”

The Barcelona midfielder also explained where he feels he has improved most under Flick this season.

“I think my decision-making has improved from one year to the next. As the years go by, you mature and come to understand the game better.

“Thanks to Hansi and my teammates, I think I’ve been able to take another step forward in that area and I’m helping the team in the game with goals and assists.”

UCL heartbreak

Fermin has nothing but praise for Flick. (Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/Getty Images)

Fermin also touched on Barcelona’s Champions League disappointment against Atletico Madrid.

“The Champions League comes down to small details, and I think we need to improve on those small details.

“It’s a competition where you can be out at any moment, but I think the team is aware of that and we mustn’t rush things either. I believe the Champions League will come.”

The midfielder also recalled the painful injury he suffered during the quarter-final clash after being struck in the face by Juan Musso.

“Yes, I did suffer. I suffered a lot because it was a hard blow.

“I was able to keep playing because that’s my personality – to give it my all – and it was a Champions League tie and I couldn’t just walk off and leave the team there.”

When asked about the stitches, he added, “I think there were six – about three inside for cosmetic reasons and three or four on the outside.

“I can’t say for sure right now. Although for me it felt like a million because of the pain I felt.”

Finally, Fermin delivered strong praise for Flick amid discussions over a possible contract extension for the German manager.

“Hansi Flick is a very approachable, very ambitious and very demanding person. What everyone sees is what he conveys to the team.

“We’re very happy with him; I think we’ve improved a lot both as a team and individually. The whole team is very happy with him,” he concluded.