Fermín López Admits Mixed Feelings After Giving No. 16 Shirt To Rodri

Fermín López Admits Mixed Feelings After Giving No. 16 Shirt to Rodri

Barcelona midfielder Fermín López has admitted that he felt “a bit sad” after giving up his beloved No. 16 shirt to new signing Rodri.

Rodri, the Spanish international and 2026 World Cup standout, has joined Barcelona from Manchester City in a major transfer reportedly worth £65 million. His arrival prompted a reshuffle of squad numbers at the Catalan club. Fermín will now wear the No. 7 shirt, which became available following Ferran Torres’ move to Paris Saint-Germain. The 23-year-old said he had always liked the number and was pleased to take it, despite his attachment to No. 16.

The midfielder, however, welcomed Rodri’s arrival and praised his new teammate as a Ballon d’Or winner and world champion, describing him as one of the best midfielders in the world.

Fermín also said he believes Rodri can make a major contribution to Barcelona’s ambitions following his move from Manchester City.

Squad numbers can carry strong sentimental value for players, particularly when they are associated with important stages of their careers. For Fermín, the change marks both the end of one chapter and the beginning of another as he takes on the iconic No. 7.

Fermín may be losing the number he cherished, but he is gaining a prestigious new shirt—and welcoming one of football’s biggest midfield names to Barcelona.