Fermin Lopez delivered a standout performance for Barcelona in their 7-2 Champions League win over Newcastle, with the midfielder previously snubbing interest from Manchester United
Former Manchester United target Fermin Lopez has twisted the knife in the club's unsuccessful pursuit of him following his Champions League masterclass against Newcastle United this week. The 22-year-old midfielder was courted by United last summer alongside other Premier League sides but his devotion to Barcelona meant he never entertained leaving his current club.
And the Spanish heavyweights will be deeply thankful for his choice, as he produced one of the most impressive performances in their 7-2 demolition of Newcastle United this week with Hansi Flick's team rampant at the Camp Nou.
Whilst Lopez netted just once, his impact extended well beyond that, as he brought tempo and intensity to Barcelona's midfield throughout the evening. His goal celebration demonstrated his profound affection for the club, as he copied Barca icon Lionel Messi.
United, meanwhile, who are battling to secure a return to the prestigious Champions League, will have observed from a distance after failing to land him last year.
Back in August, Spanish publication Sport claimed United were ready to table a £61million bid for the Spain international.
However, he later told Mundo Deportivo that his passion for Barca meant he had no intention of departing.
"Well, in the end my priority has always been to be at Barca," he previously said. "I arrived when I was 12-years-old, it was my dream to be here, to be able to reach the first team.
"It is always a compliment that there is interest from other clubs, but the truth is that I always had the idea of staying at Barca and being able to triumph here."
"Those conversations [with Hansi Flick] are private, but yes, we spoke. We trust each other - he trusts me, and I trust him. When your coach shows faith in you and makes you feel important, that matters. It makes you feel valued.
"What we discussed was staying united and following the same path as last year to win titles together.
"I see myself fulfilling my contract until 2029 at Barcelona. I don't want to leave. I love this club."
Over 38 matches in all competitions, Lopez netted 12 goals and supplied 16 assists.
Following the spectacle in Catalonia, the Spaniard and his teammates will take on La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals, with the two legs set for next month.