Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez admits he's pinching himself over his breakthrough this season.

The youngster has quickly won over Barca coach Xavi after his breakthrough in preseason.

He told Marca: "As you say, it's a pretty big change. Last year I did not expect to be able to experience all this and I am very grateful and happy for the opportunity.

"More or less I'm assimilating it naturally. I am happy, enjoying the moment and the opportunity.

"I have always experienced a bit of the ugly side of football. I know where I come from and what I've had to go through to get here. Also, from home they push me hard, I don't relax, I've never been like that and I don't think I'll be like that now."

Fermin added: "Comparing myself to Andrés (Iniesta) are big words, but I did arrive at the same age. It's true that at first it can be hard because you separate from your family and it was a little small. But La Masía and the colleagues I have had have been a family to me, they have made me have a better time. I have also been very happy at La Masía."