5 days ago
Anthony Gordon has only played five matches for Barcelona since joining in May, but the England winger is already making a big impression.
The former Newcastle United forward has provided four ****** ists in his first five games for the free-scoring Spanish giants.
The 25-year-old is still hunting his first goal, but has slotted seamlessly into Barcelona's attack - in a left-wing spot often filled by on-loan England team-mate Marcus Rashford last term.
And Gordon is not just making an impression on the pitch.
He delivered his welcome speech in Spanish - a language he said he learned with the help of one of Newcastle's Spanish physios - before adding a couple of phrases in Catalan when speaking with fans.
#Barcelona
The former Newcastle United forward has provided four ****** ists in his first five games for the free-scoring Spanish giants.
The 25-year-old is still hunting his first goal, but has slotted seamlessly into Barcelona's attack - in a left-wing spot often filled by on-loan England team-mate Marcus Rashford last term.
And Gordon is not just making an impression on the pitch.
He delivered his welcome speech in Spanish - a language he said he learned with the help of one of Newcastle's Spanish physios - before adding a couple of phrases in Catalan when speaking with fans.
#Barcelona
9 days ago
FC Barcelona's women's team, Barça Femeni, has once again been recognised among the leading clubs in the Ballon d'Or awards.
The Catalan side have been named among the five nominees for the 2026 Women's Club of the Year, an award that recognises the team considered to have achieved the most during the season.
Pere Romeu's Barça are among the nominees along with Bayern Munich, Club America, Manchester City and OL Lyonnes.
Barça Femeni's inclusion comes as little surprise given their continued status as one of the leading forces in European women's football.
The Catalan side also arrive as the reigning Women's Champions League holders, while they also won the Liga F, the Copa de la Reina, and the Supercopa de Espana, further strengthening their case for the award,
#team #ballon
The Catalan side have been named among the five nominees for the 2026 Women's Club of the Year, an award that recognises the team considered to have achieved the most during the season.
Pere Romeu's Barça are among the nominees along with Bayern Munich, Club America, Manchester City and OL Lyonnes.
Barça Femeni's inclusion comes as little surprise given their continued status as one of the leading forces in European women's football.
The Catalan side also arrive as the reigning Women's Champions League holders, while they also won the Liga F, the Copa de la Reina, and the Supercopa de Espana, further strengthening their case for the award,
#team #ballon
9 days ago
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho will make changes to his starting XI and host a familiar foe, one of his former clubs, in the Champions League on Tuesday night in Inter Milan.
The Italians were the last club Mourinho won the Champions League with in 2010, as an impressive treble convinced Florentino Perez to bring him to the Spanish capital and try and break up FC Barcelona dominance.
Mourinho is charged with completing the same task a decade-and-a-half later, as Madrid have finished the last two seasons trophyless while Barca mopped up five out of the six domestic pieces of silverware on offer.
And while he did it to some extent in 2012 by stopping Pep Guardiola from doing four in a row in La Liga, there were questions about his reign given a lack of glory in the Champions League.
Bringing a 16th big-eared crown to the Bernabeu would forgive whatever the Catalans are doing domestically, and the road to such a possibility begins here in the league phase.
#mourinho #Inter
The Italians were the last club Mourinho won the Champions League with in 2010, as an impressive treble convinced Florentino Perez to bring him to the Spanish capital and try and break up FC Barcelona dominance.
Mourinho is charged with completing the same task a decade-and-a-half later, as Madrid have finished the last two seasons trophyless while Barca mopped up five out of the six domestic pieces of silverware on offer.
And while he did it to some extent in 2012 by stopping Pep Guardiola from doing four in a row in La Liga, there were questions about his reign given a lack of glory in the Champions League.
Bringing a 16th big-eared crown to the Bernabeu would forgive whatever the Catalans are doing domestically, and the road to such a possibility begins here in the league phase.
#mourinho #Inter
10 days ago
The Wisconsin Badgers are in primetime to start the season, as they're taking on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Lambeau Field on Sunday, with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. on NBC.
Wisconsin is coming off a 4-8 season, which was their worst season by win percentage since 1990. But this year's Badgers are quite different, as the program added over 30 transfers in the offseason, while making a few organizational changes with the coaching staff and front office.
Wisconsin's offense will be at the forefront of the conversation, as the Badgers are now led by Old Dominion transfer quarterback Colton Joseph, who threw for 2,624 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 10 touchdowns last year as the Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year. He also added over 1,000 yards and double-digit scores on the ground as a dual-threat quarterback.
The defense looks improved as well, with freshmen sensations Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano now transitioning to full-time roles as sophomores. Wisconsin made a lot of changes in the secondary, bringing in starters at cornerback and safety. They will be tested up front in the trenches against a strong Notre Dame offense, though.
The Fighting Irish are on a mission after missing the College Football Playoff last season with a 10-2 record. They return a ton of production defensively, while quarterback C.J. Carr is a Heisman candidate in his second year as the full-time starter.
#badgers #season #year #irish
Wisconsin is coming off a 4-8 season, which was their worst season by win percentage since 1990. But this year's Badgers are quite different, as the program added over 30 transfers in the offseason, while making a few organizational changes with the coaching staff and front office.
Wisconsin's offense will be at the forefront of the conversation, as the Badgers are now led by Old Dominion transfer quarterback Colton Joseph, who threw for 2,624 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 10 touchdowns last year as the Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year. He also added over 1,000 yards and double-digit scores on the ground as a dual-threat quarterback.
The defense looks improved as well, with freshmen sensations Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano now transitioning to full-time roles as sophomores. Wisconsin made a lot of changes in the secondary, bringing in starters at cornerback and safety. They will be tested up front in the trenches against a strong Notre Dame offense, though.
The Fighting Irish are on a mission after missing the College Football Playoff last season with a 10-2 record. They return a ton of production defensively, while quarterback C.J. Carr is a Heisman candidate in his second year as the full-time starter.
#badgers #season #year #irish
10 days ago
MADRID (AP) — Barcelona stayed perfect in the Spanish league by cruising to a 5-0 win at Valencia on Sunday, with Lamine Yamal scoring another brace for the Catalan club.
Arsenal rallied to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League, while Manchester United was stunned in added time to draw 2-2 at Everton.
Augsburg moved to the top of the Bundesliga by winning 4-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt, and American midfielder Giovanni Reyna scored in Strasbourg's 6-2 rout of Troyes in France.
Barcelona won its fourth game in a row at the start of the Spanish league and is the only team with a perfect record after four rounds.
Yamal scored a goal in each half following his first two goals of the season in the win against Rayo Vallecano in the previous round.
#perfect #madrid
Arsenal rallied to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League, while Manchester United was stunned in added time to draw 2-2 at Everton.
Augsburg moved to the top of the Bundesliga by winning 4-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt, and American midfielder Giovanni Reyna scored in Strasbourg's 6-2 rout of Troyes in France.
Barcelona won its fourth game in a row at the start of the Spanish league and is the only team with a perfect record after four rounds.
Yamal scored a goal in each half following his first two goals of the season in the win against Rayo Vallecano in the previous round.
#perfect #madrid
11 days ago
Barcelona faced off against Valencia at the Mestalla Stadium earlier today as they hoped to secure all three points on the road in La Liga. The Catalan club made a bright start to the game and got their noses ahead in the sixth-minute thanks to Lamine Yamal's effort. Fermin Lopez doubled his team's advantage in the 22nd minute as Barcelona went into the half-time break 2-0 up on the scoreline.
Raphinha put daylight between the two sides in the 50th minute before Pedri made it 4-0 for Hansi Flick's team in the 79th minute. Yamal got himself another goal just five minutes later as the Catalan giants earned a dominant 5-0 win away from home.
Let's take a look at how each Barcelona player fared during the clash against Valencia.
He made a couple of solid saves at the back and did enough to secure the clean sheet.
RB: Eric Garcia – 6.5/10
#stadium
Raphinha put daylight between the two sides in the 50th minute before Pedri made it 4-0 for Hansi Flick's team in the 79th minute. Yamal got himself another goal just five minutes later as the Catalan giants earned a dominant 5-0 win away from home.
Let's take a look at how each Barcelona player fared during the clash against Valencia.
He made a couple of solid saves at the back and did enough to secure the clean sheet.
RB: Eric Garcia – 6.5/10
#stadium
11 days ago
Barcelona remain perfect to start the season and have won their fourth straight La Liga game to open up a three-point lead at the top of the table thanks to a dominant 5-0 win over Valencia at Mestalla on Sunday afternoon. The Blaugrana put on another attacking show and created over a dozen giant chances, and Lamine Yamal (twice), Raphinha, Fermín López and Pedri found the net to give the leaders three more points in spectacular fashion.
Barça played a fantastic opening period, establishing their dominance from the opening whistle and creating huge chances early and often against Valencia's low block.
Lamine Yamal scored a brilliant first goal and had a second disallowed for a very narrow offside, and came very close three other times. Fermín López also found the net with a powerful finish in the box, and almost scored a glorious solo goal but was denied by the keeper and the post.
The Catalans had a couple of scares at the back but Joan Garcia was up to the task with a couple of big saves. Barça were in control for the entire half, however, and dominated midfield thanks to Rodri, who was simply fantastic in the opening 45 minutes of his first start.
There was only one piece of bad news when a freak accident caused Eric Garcia to suffer a broken nose in a collision with Rodri in the box, but Barça were fully in control and had a deserved two-goal lead at the break.
#opening #lamine #yamal #start
Barça played a fantastic opening period, establishing their dominance from the opening whistle and creating huge chances early and often against Valencia's low block.
Lamine Yamal scored a brilliant first goal and had a second disallowed for a very narrow offside, and came very close three other times. Fermín López also found the net with a powerful finish in the box, and almost scored a glorious solo goal but was denied by the keeper and the post.
The Catalans had a couple of scares at the back but Joan Garcia was up to the task with a couple of big saves. Barça were in control for the entire half, however, and dominated midfield thanks to Rodri, who was simply fantastic in the opening 45 minutes of his first start.
There was only one piece of bad news when a freak accident caused Eric Garcia to suffer a broken nose in a collision with Rodri in the box, but Barça were fully in control and had a deserved two-goal lead at the break.
#opening #lamine #yamal #start
11 days ago
Frenkie de Jong is currently the most notable player on Barcelona's injury list, after the midfielder picked up a knock in the summer.
De Jong opted for a conservative treatment, a decision Barcelona did not agree with but respected nonetheless.
The Catalans wanted the midfielder to go through surgery. But de Jong's conservative process meant the player has been out longer than expected.
De Jong picked up a knock in the summer. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
A recent report from Mundo Deportivo has offered a fresh update on the fitness of Frenkie de Jong, suggesting that the midfielder could return in October.
#player #picked #conservative #Barcelona
De Jong opted for a conservative treatment, a decision Barcelona did not agree with but respected nonetheless.
The Catalans wanted the midfielder to go through surgery. But de Jong's conservative process meant the player has been out longer than expected.
De Jong picked up a knock in the summer. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
A recent report from Mundo Deportivo has offered a fresh update on the fitness of Frenkie de Jong, suggesting that the midfielder could return in October.
#player #picked #conservative #Barcelona
12 days ago
Barcelona made an enquiry about Lautaro Martinez during the summer, but Inter Milan were clear about their stance on their captain.
Inter president Giuseppe Marotta has now confirmed that the Catalan club did make contact over the Argentine striker, although the response from both the Italian side and the player was decisive.
Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Ciancaphoto Studio/Getty Images
Speaking to DAZN Italia ahead of Inter's meeting with Napoli at San Siro, Marotta addressed Barcelona's interest in Martinez and made it clear that the forward remains central to the club's plans.
"The news about Barcelona's enquiry regarding Lautaro is true, but the response was decisive from us and from the player to continue together."
#martinez
Inter president Giuseppe Marotta has now confirmed that the Catalan club did make contact over the Argentine striker, although the response from both the Italian side and the player was decisive.
Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Ciancaphoto Studio/Getty Images
Speaking to DAZN Italia ahead of Inter's meeting with Napoli at San Siro, Marotta addressed Barcelona's interest in Martinez and made it clear that the forward remains central to the club's plans.
"The news about Barcelona's enquiry regarding Lautaro is true, but the response was decisive from us and from the player to continue together."
#martinez
13 days ago
Barcelona came closer to exploring an Aymeric Laporte transfer this summer than previously understood, with The Athletic revealing that the Spain international was interested in joining the Catalan club.
Laporte emerged as a potential solution to one of Barcelona's clearest recruitment priorities: finding a left-footed centre-back capable of filling the role previously occupied by Inigo Martinez.
As per the outlet, the club initially believed a deal could be possible for around €15 million.
However, that expectation changed once Athletic Club made their financial demands clear, which were considerably higher.
Barcelona considered the asking price too high and withdrew before the idea developed into formal negotiations, meaning Laporte never came particularly close to becoming a Barça player.
#Athletic
Laporte emerged as a potential solution to one of Barcelona's clearest recruitment priorities: finding a left-footed centre-back capable of filling the role previously occupied by Inigo Martinez.
As per the outlet, the club initially believed a deal could be possible for around €15 million.
However, that expectation changed once Athletic Club made their financial demands clear, which were considerably higher.
Barcelona considered the asking price too high and withdrew before the idea developed into formal negotiations, meaning Laporte never came particularly close to becoming a Barça player.
#Athletic
16 days ago
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, FC Barcelona consider their transfer window closed, in terms of incoming, following the arrival of Gabriel Jesus earlier today.
The Brazilian striker was signed from ****** nal in a deal worth €10 million plus €4 million in add-ons, and has penned a three-year contract until 2029.
And, as per Romano, this will be it for the Catalans as far as new signings are concerned, with no other incomings expected on the transfer deadline day.
If true, it would mean that Barcelona have already given up on their efforts to sign Ruud Nijstad from FC Twente.
The sporting department, led by Deco, has identified the 18-year-old defender as a key target to add a left-footed centre-back to the squad before the window closes.
#Barcelona #window #fabrizio #gabriel
The Brazilian striker was signed from ****** nal in a deal worth €10 million plus €4 million in add-ons, and has penned a three-year contract until 2029.
And, as per Romano, this will be it for the Catalans as far as new signings are concerned, with no other incomings expected on the transfer deadline day.
If true, it would mean that Barcelona have already given up on their efforts to sign Ruud Nijstad from FC Twente.
The sporting department, led by Deco, has identified the 18-year-old defender as a key target to add a left-footed centre-back to the squad before the window closes.
#Barcelona #window #fabrizio #gabriel
16 days ago
With not a lot of time left before the summer transfer window slams shut, FC Barcelona are still working to finalise a couple of last-minute operations.
One such operation involves out-of-favour midfielder Marc Casado, with the Blaugrana keen on parting ways with the academy graduate and trim the squad during the final hours of the transfer window.
The Catalans have been working hard to find a solution for the midfielder, who has known his situation for months and has been ******* sing the various offers received with his representatives.
Now, according to SPORT, Deportivo La Coruna have made a strong late push to sign Casado on loan from Barcelona. The proposal has emerged almost at the last minute, but the midfielder is seriously considering it.
Deportivo La Coruna make a push for Casado. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
#casado #coruna #transfer #working
One such operation involves out-of-favour midfielder Marc Casado, with the Blaugrana keen on parting ways with the academy graduate and trim the squad during the final hours of the transfer window.
The Catalans have been working hard to find a solution for the midfielder, who has known his situation for months and has been ******* sing the various offers received with his representatives.
Now, according to SPORT, Deportivo La Coruna have made a strong late push to sign Casado on loan from Barcelona. The proposal has emerged almost at the last minute, but the midfielder is seriously considering it.
Deportivo La Coruna make a push for Casado. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
#casado #coruna #transfer #working
18 days ago
Gabriel Jesus now appears to be closing in on an **** nal exit, with Barcelona reportedly expecting the Brazilian striker in Spain on Monday to undergo a medical examination.
According to reports, negotiations between **** nal and Barcelona are at an advanced stage, with the Gunners having already given Jesus permission to travel to the Catalan capital.
The report claims the cost of the deal is expected to be around €10 million, while Barcelona have offered the 29-year-old a two-year contract with the option of a further season.
This represents a significant development in the striker's future after it appeared Napoli were the club most likely to offer him a route away from the Emirates.
As we reported on Friday, the Serie A side had shown concrete interest in Jesus but needed to move another attacker out of their squad before being in a position to complete a deal.
#deal #spain
According to reports, negotiations between **** nal and Barcelona are at an advanced stage, with the Gunners having already given Jesus permission to travel to the Catalan capital.
The report claims the cost of the deal is expected to be around €10 million, while Barcelona have offered the 29-year-old a two-year contract with the option of a further season.
This represents a significant development in the striker's future after it appeared Napoli were the club most likely to offer him a route away from the Emirates.
As we reported on Friday, the Serie A side had shown concrete interest in Jesus but needed to move another attacker out of their squad before being in a position to complete a deal.
#deal #spain
18 days ago
The 2026-27 season is already underway, with Barcelona enjoying a splendid start to the campaign.
In the matches so far, the Catalans have donned both the home kit and the Kobe Bryant-inspired Mamba away kit.
Attention has now turned to future designs, with an early look at the club's third kit for the 2027-28 season, which is expected to feature a distinct orange colour.
Reliable football kit news platform FootyHeadlines has leaked the likely colours of Barcelona's third kit for the 2027-28 campaign.
According to the report, the Nike-designed shirt is expected to bring back a vibrant orange base, a classic alternative colour deeply rooted in the club's history.
#bryant
In the matches so far, the Catalans have donned both the home kit and the Kobe Bryant-inspired Mamba away kit.
Attention has now turned to future designs, with an early look at the club's third kit for the 2027-28 season, which is expected to feature a distinct orange colour.
Reliable football kit news platform FootyHeadlines has leaked the likely colours of Barcelona's third kit for the 2027-28 campaign.
According to the report, the Nike-designed shirt is expected to bring back a vibrant orange base, a classic alternative colour deeply rooted in the club's history.
#bryant
18 days ago
FC Barcelona is wasting no time and is already going all in for Gabriel Jesus. After the definitive 'no' from Atlético de Madrid for Julián Álvarez, the sporting department has radically changed its target. The departure of Robert Lewandowski has left a huge void in the box, and the Brazilian ***** nal striker is the chosen one to fill the role of the reference No. 9, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
At 29 years old, the Seleçao forward is not comfortable with his secondary role in London, where fierce competition has limited his playing time. This lack of prominence has led the player to ask to leave the Premier League in search of a project where he can truly feel important.
His desire to wear the Blaugrana shirt is nothing new. Back in his Palmeiras days, before making the leap to Europe in 2016, Gabriel Jesus dreamed of playing at Camp Nou. Now, the striker is putting maximum pressure on the English club so that talks move forward and his arrival in the Catalan capital is finalized as soon as possible.
There was some caution in the club's offices regarding his physical condition due to the serious knee injury he suffered at the start of 2025. However, Barça's medical staff have reviewed all his reports in detail and confirm that the Brazilian is 100% fit and fully recovered to compete at the highest level from day one.
Gabriel Jesus' numbers speak for themselves: 95 goals for Manchester City under Pep Guardiola and more than 30 goals with the Gunners. Gabriel Jesus brings goals, spark, experience in big matches, and that Brazilian street-football flair that can get the Barça fans buzzing.
#time #forward #Barcelona
At 29 years old, the Seleçao forward is not comfortable with his secondary role in London, where fierce competition has limited his playing time. This lack of prominence has led the player to ask to leave the Premier League in search of a project where he can truly feel important.
His desire to wear the Blaugrana shirt is nothing new. Back in his Palmeiras days, before making the leap to Europe in 2016, Gabriel Jesus dreamed of playing at Camp Nou. Now, the striker is putting maximum pressure on the English club so that talks move forward and his arrival in the Catalan capital is finalized as soon as possible.
There was some caution in the club's offices regarding his physical condition due to the serious knee injury he suffered at the start of 2025. However, Barça's medical staff have reviewed all his reports in detail and confirm that the Brazilian is 100% fit and fully recovered to compete at the highest level from day one.
Gabriel Jesus' numbers speak for themselves: 95 goals for Manchester City under Pep Guardiola and more than 30 goals with the Gunners. Gabriel Jesus brings goals, spark, experience in big matches, and that Brazilian street-football flair that can get the Barça fans buzzing.
#time #forward #Barcelona
19 days ago
Barcelona now know the road they must go through in the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League league phase, with Hansi Flick's side beginning their European campaign at home before facing a potentially decisive trip to Paris shortly before the first Clasico of the season.
The Blaugrana will open their Champions League campaign against Feyenoord at Spotify Camp Nou on Wednesday, September 9, with kick-off scheduled for 6.45 pm.
Barcelona had already learned the eight opponents they will face in the competition, but UEFA has now confirmed the order of fixtures and dates, giving Flick and his players a clearer picture of the challenges ahead.
The Catalan side will play Manchester City, Aston Villa, Feyenoord and Como at home, while PSG, Sporting CP, Galatasaray and Sabah FK await away from Barcelona.
The standout fixture from Barcelona's Champions League schedule is undoubtedly the away match against Paris Saint-Germain.
#side
The Blaugrana will open their Champions League campaign against Feyenoord at Spotify Camp Nou on Wednesday, September 9, with kick-off scheduled for 6.45 pm.
Barcelona had already learned the eight opponents they will face in the competition, but UEFA has now confirmed the order of fixtures and dates, giving Flick and his players a clearer picture of the challenges ahead.
The Catalan side will play Manchester City, Aston Villa, Feyenoord and Como at home, while PSG, Sporting CP, Galatasaray and Sabah FK await away from Barcelona.
The standout fixture from Barcelona's Champions League schedule is undoubtedly the away match against Paris Saint-Germain.
#side
19 days ago
Manchester City has joined the race for Julian Alvarez in a stunning twist to the future of the Argentinian star, who insists on leaving Atletico Madrid, Metro Sport reports.
Arsenal has shown the strongest interest in Alvarez outside Spain after Atletico vowed that he would not be sold to Barcelona, no matter what. The Catalans are his dream club, and the team he insists he wants to join, but Atletico is committed to denying him the opportunity to play for them.
The Madrid club is now looking to ensure that they keep Alvarez, but if he insists on leaving, they will sell him to a club outside Spain. That decision would hand ***** nal an advantage as they continue to pursue the highly rated attacker.
However, City has now made a late entrance into the race to re-sign Alvarez, having been the team that sold him to Atletico and his first club in Europe. Their interest represents a significant development in the battle for his signature.
Alvarez won all the main club trophies when he played for City, and the club now wants to deny ***** nal the chance to add a top attacker to their squad this summer. Their decision to enter the race could therefore make Alvarez's future even more difficult to predict.
#club #city #madrid
Arsenal has shown the strongest interest in Alvarez outside Spain after Atletico vowed that he would not be sold to Barcelona, no matter what. The Catalans are his dream club, and the team he insists he wants to join, but Atletico is committed to denying him the opportunity to play for them.
The Madrid club is now looking to ensure that they keep Alvarez, but if he insists on leaving, they will sell him to a club outside Spain. That decision would hand ***** nal an advantage as they continue to pursue the highly rated attacker.
However, City has now made a late entrance into the race to re-sign Alvarez, having been the team that sold him to Atletico and his first club in Europe. Their interest represents a significant development in the battle for his signature.
Alvarez won all the main club trophies when he played for City, and the club now wants to deny ***** nal the chance to add a top attacker to their squad this summer. Their decision to enter the race could therefore make Alvarez's future even more difficult to predict.
#club #city #madrid
19 days ago
Today's sports front pages, August 29, are packed with major talking points: Kylian Mbappé is in the Madrid spotlight after his brilliant start, Barça are looking for tactical solutions after the "Flick Spirit," and Julián Álvarez's situation continues to make headlines ahead of the big Sevilla-Atlético clash.
The newspaper AS devotes its front page to Kylian Mbappé under the headline "MBAPPÉ EYES THE BALLON D'OR", highlighting the French forward's ambitions to win the individual award after his hat-trick against Real Sociedad and his performances for Real Madrid.
The big surprise of the transfer market comes from MARCA with its headline "THE SUMMER'S BLOCKBUSTER", announcing the presentation of Álvaro Morata by CD Leganés.
In the Catalan press, MUNDO DEPORTIVO praises the "FLICK SPIRIT", hailing the dynamism and collective pressing of the Blaugrana side despite not having an out-and-out No. 9.
For its part, SPORT goes a step further and states that "RAPHINHA WILL BE THE '9'" as the main alternative in the German coach's system.
#madrid
The newspaper AS devotes its front page to Kylian Mbappé under the headline "MBAPPÉ EYES THE BALLON D'OR", highlighting the French forward's ambitions to win the individual award after his hat-trick against Real Sociedad and his performances for Real Madrid.
The big surprise of the transfer market comes from MARCA with its headline "THE SUMMER'S BLOCKBUSTER", announcing the presentation of Álvaro Morata by CD Leganés.
In the Catalan press, MUNDO DEPORTIVO praises the "FLICK SPIRIT", hailing the dynamism and collective pressing of the Blaugrana side despite not having an out-and-out No. 9.
For its part, SPORT goes a step further and states that "RAPHINHA WILL BE THE '9'" as the main alternative in the German coach's system.
#madrid
20 days ago
Amid 48 hours when the Julian Alvarez saga brought a media storm in Spain, **** nal are continuing to work away in the background. The hope is that a big calculation may yet pay off.
Mikel Arteta has long been aware that Alvarez's first choice was Barcelona, and respects that, but his club were also aware that their Catalan rivals would struggle to do the deal. Even as far back as May, it was known that Barca had a lot to do to make the finances work, and that was before a deteriorating relationship with Atletico Madrid reached this dismal nadir.
On Thursday, it was finally communicated that Atletico's official position is that they will "never , ever" sell Alvarez to Barcelona. This was as key representatives of both clubs - as well as **** nal - were at the Champions League draw in Monaco. That naturally fostered a lot of intrigue, as well as some mirth, for those present.
Atletico are refusing to negotiate with Barcelona, opening the door to **** nal to make a late move (Getty)
There was also some seriousness, as Atletico's Gil Marin spoke about how Alvarez was enduring "a difficult situation on both a personal and professional level", from "people who have taken it upon themselves to deceive him, to confuse him".
#julian
Mikel Arteta has long been aware that Alvarez's first choice was Barcelona, and respects that, but his club were also aware that their Catalan rivals would struggle to do the deal. Even as far back as May, it was known that Barca had a lot to do to make the finances work, and that was before a deteriorating relationship with Atletico Madrid reached this dismal nadir.
On Thursday, it was finally communicated that Atletico's official position is that they will "never , ever" sell Alvarez to Barcelona. This was as key representatives of both clubs - as well as **** nal - were at the Champions League draw in Monaco. That naturally fostered a lot of intrigue, as well as some mirth, for those present.
Atletico are refusing to negotiate with Barcelona, opening the door to **** nal to make a late move (Getty)
There was also some seriousness, as Atletico's Gil Marin spoke about how Alvarez was enduring "a difficult situation on both a personal and professional level", from "people who have taken it upon themselves to deceive him, to confuse him".
#julian
20 days ago
Raphinha and Fermin Lopez goals helped Spanish champions Barcelona beat Athletic Bilbao 2-0 on Thursday in La Liga to continue their perfect start to the season.
The Catalan giants eased to a solid victory over their Basque visitors in their first game of the season at the partially-rebuilt Camp Nou, with new arrival Rodri coming on for his Barca debut.
Raphinha rounded the goalkeeper and slid home in the 37th minute to give Barca the lead, and Lopez netted after 82 minutes to secure the points, with the Catalans missing several chances for more goals and twice hitting the woodwork.
"Very happy to play my first game, happy with the victory, we've got two from two," Rodri told DAZN.
"It's important to keep building up rhythm and adapting to this great team. My first minutes and (I had some) good feelings."
#first #raphinha #minutes
The Catalan giants eased to a solid victory over their Basque visitors in their first game of the season at the partially-rebuilt Camp Nou, with new arrival Rodri coming on for his Barca debut.
Raphinha rounded the goalkeeper and slid home in the 37th minute to give Barca the lead, and Lopez netted after 82 minutes to secure the points, with the Catalans missing several chances for more goals and twice hitting the woodwork.
"Very happy to play my first game, happy with the victory, we've got two from two," Rodri told DAZN.
"It's important to keep building up rhythm and adapting to this great team. My first minutes and (I had some) good feelings."
#first #raphinha #minutes
20 days ago
Barcelona's game against Athletic Club last night may well have been as dominant as the team's win over Elche, but the scoreline did not reflect the same.
The Catalans were the dominating side by some distance once again and barely gave the visitors any chances at all. However, their efficiency in front of goal was not as clean as the previous time around, and that made all the difference.
Raphinha opened the scoring in the first half with a cold finish, handing the team the lead at half-time and putting in a captain's shift once more. The team, however, struggled to find the second goal for long time.
Eventually, Fermin Lopez delivered by poaching a goal in the 81st minute to make it 2-0 and put the result beyond doubt.
Barça Universal brings you the player ratings from Barcelona 2-0 Athletic Club.
#time #once #half #catalans
The Catalans were the dominating side by some distance once again and barely gave the visitors any chances at all. However, their efficiency in front of goal was not as clean as the previous time around, and that made all the difference.
Raphinha opened the scoring in the first half with a cold finish, handing the team the lead at half-time and putting in a captain's shift once more. The team, however, struggled to find the second goal for long time.
Eventually, Fermin Lopez delivered by poaching a goal in the 81st minute to make it 2-0 and put the result beyond doubt.
Barça Universal brings you the player ratings from Barcelona 2-0 Athletic Club.
#time #once #half #catalans
21 days ago
Barcelona will play their first home LaLiga fixture of the season at the Camp Nou on Thursday, hosting Athletic Club in a midweek encounter.
The hosts arrive in excellent form after an emphatic 5-0 victory over Elche that launched their campaign. Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona have displayed sharp tactics and a potent attacking threat. They have claimed three wins in their past five league outings, with their forward play clicking — averaging just over two goals per game during that period.
FC Barcelona look set to hand a long-awaited club debut to high-profile summer signing Rodri, who has completed successive training sessions following a minor back operation and is expected to be named among the substitutes.
Flick appears ready to tweak his back line at the Spotify Camp Nou, with Pau Cubarsí, Jules Koundé and João Cancelo likely to return to the starting XI after being rested last time out.
The Catalans do, however, face a midfield concern as Gavi is doubtful after suffering a heavy knee contusion against Elche; scans excluded a serious ligament injury, but he missed the squad's final training session.
#flick #training #thursday
The hosts arrive in excellent form after an emphatic 5-0 victory over Elche that launched their campaign. Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona have displayed sharp tactics and a potent attacking threat. They have claimed three wins in their past five league outings, with their forward play clicking — averaging just over two goals per game during that period.
FC Barcelona look set to hand a long-awaited club debut to high-profile summer signing Rodri, who has completed successive training sessions following a minor back operation and is expected to be named among the substitutes.
Flick appears ready to tweak his back line at the Spotify Camp Nou, with Pau Cubarsí, Jules Koundé and João Cancelo likely to return to the starting XI after being rested last time out.
The Catalans do, however, face a midfield concern as Gavi is doubtful after suffering a heavy knee contusion against Elche; scans excluded a serious ligament injury, but he missed the squad's final training session.
#flick #training #thursday
21 days ago
FC Barcelona star Gavi, who is recovering from a minor injury after playing 45 minutes in a 5-0 win over Elche, has sent a message of support to a child who was hurt by a police officer prior to the start of the game.
A video showed several fans being hit by police using batons outside the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero after pro-Catalan independence flags, known as Esteladas, were confiscated on Sunday.
Yesterday, a photo published by the Penya Barcelonista de Sant Antoni, a Barcelona fan group, appeared to show the youngster smiling with a bandage on his head.
And today, Gavi left a comment which was simply four emojis: flexed bicep, flexed bicep, blue heart, red heart. The meaning was simple as well – sending strength and love to a fellow culé.
Club President Joan Laporta called the police actions "disproportionate and violent."
#police
A video showed several fans being hit by police using batons outside the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero after pro-Catalan independence flags, known as Esteladas, were confiscated on Sunday.
Yesterday, a photo published by the Penya Barcelonista de Sant Antoni, a Barcelona fan group, appeared to show the youngster smiling with a bandage on his head.
And today, Gavi left a comment which was simply four emojis: flexed bicep, flexed bicep, blue heart, red heart. The meaning was simple as well – sending strength and love to a fellow culé.
Club President Joan Laporta called the police actions "disproportionate and violent."
#police
22 days ago
Dominik Livaković is set to sign for FC Barcelona, although it's still not clear whether he'll play for the Catalans this season or join Dinamo Zagreb on loan.
Barcelona already have Wojciech Szczęsny and Joan Garcia as goalkeepers, and there are rumors that they wanted to loan Livaković for a season while Szczęsny remains as backup to Garcia. However, competing whispers say that he could stay with Barça as Garcia's backup without going on loan first.
"I'm very happy to be here," the keeper said, having landed in Barcelona. When asked whether he would stay or go out on loan, he simply said, "we'll see."
The main deciding factor is reportedly whether Barça will have enough **** e within the FIFA Fair Play salary limit. If there's room, he'll stay, if not, he'll go out on loan and re-join in a year.
The keeper comes from Fenerbahçe, it's understood Barcelona will pay four million euro to sign him from the Turkish giants.
#he 'll #szcz
Barcelona already have Wojciech Szczęsny and Joan Garcia as goalkeepers, and there are rumors that they wanted to loan Livaković for a season while Szczęsny remains as backup to Garcia. However, competing whispers say that he could stay with Barça as Garcia's backup without going on loan first.
"I'm very happy to be here," the keeper said, having landed in Barcelona. When asked whether he would stay or go out on loan, he simply said, "we'll see."
The main deciding factor is reportedly whether Barça will have enough **** e within the FIFA Fair Play salary limit. If there's room, he'll stay, if not, he'll go out on loan and re-join in a year.
The keeper comes from Fenerbahçe, it's understood Barcelona will pay four million euro to sign him from the Turkish giants.
#he 'll #szcz
22 days ago
FC Barcelona are considering abandoning a ceremony that planned to celebrate seven players' involvement in Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup victory as political tensions continue to rise amongst the club's fanbase.
Sunday's trip to Elche, which saw Barcelona claim a convincing victory to kickstart their LaLiga campaign, was marred by an act of violence that saw police officers use disproportionate force to detain a fan – believed to be a minor – who had an Estelada flag draped over his shoulders.
The Estelada is a version of the Catalan senyera flag that features a star and represents the fight for independence from Spain.
FC Barcelona confirmed on Monday that they are awaiting "explanations corresponding to the events and reserves the right to take actions that it considers fit to defend the integrity, the rights, and the freedom of expression of its members and fans."
It appears that one of those actions may involve scrapping plans to showcase the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy at the Spotify Camp Nou ahead of Thursday's LaLiga match against Athletic Club. Seven Barça players were part of Luis de la Fuente's squad that claimed victory over Argentina in North America last month, and the club planned to pay homage to their achievements.
#Barcelona #victory #club #planned
Sunday's trip to Elche, which saw Barcelona claim a convincing victory to kickstart their LaLiga campaign, was marred by an act of violence that saw police officers use disproportionate force to detain a fan – believed to be a minor – who had an Estelada flag draped over his shoulders.
The Estelada is a version of the Catalan senyera flag that features a star and represents the fight for independence from Spain.
FC Barcelona confirmed on Monday that they are awaiting "explanations corresponding to the events and reserves the right to take actions that it considers fit to defend the integrity, the rights, and the freedom of expression of its members and fans."
It appears that one of those actions may involve scrapping plans to showcase the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy at the Spotify Camp Nou ahead of Thursday's LaLiga match against Athletic Club. Seven Barça players were part of Luis de la Fuente's squad that claimed victory over Argentina in North America last month, and the club planned to pay homage to their achievements.
#Barcelona #victory #club #planned
23 days ago
Barcelona have been on a striker hunt since the start of the summer transfer window, with the club focusing on getting Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid.
However, Los Colchoneros have refused to negotiate with the Catalan club and have insisted that the 26-year-old is not for sale, especially to Barça.
Meanwhile, Barça have gone through various striker options like Joao Pedro, Eli Junior Kroupi, Luis Suarez, Lautaro Martinez and Viktor Gyokeres, among other names.
Now, according to Cadena SER, Barça have made a firm decision over their striker search: if Julian Alvarez cannot be signed, the club will not bring in another centre-forward this summer.
The Catalans have reviewed the market and concluded that none of the available alternatives justify moving away from their priority target.
#club #alvarez
However, Los Colchoneros have refused to negotiate with the Catalan club and have insisted that the 26-year-old is not for sale, especially to Barça.
Meanwhile, Barça have gone through various striker options like Joao Pedro, Eli Junior Kroupi, Luis Suarez, Lautaro Martinez and Viktor Gyokeres, among other names.
Now, according to Cadena SER, Barça have made a firm decision over their striker search: if Julian Alvarez cannot be signed, the club will not bring in another centre-forward this summer.
The Catalans have reviewed the market and concluded that none of the available alternatives justify moving away from their priority target.
#club #alvarez
24 days ago
Arsenal made a good deal when they sold Folarin Balogun to AS Monaco in 2023, and they could be about to benefit from the agreement this summer.
The striker is one of the best players to come through their academy and has been performing well in France, which could lead to him leaving the club this summer. Several clubs have shown interest in signing him, with **** nal hoping he moves so they can benefit from the 17.5% sell-on clause included in the deal that took him to France.
The striker has been linked with a move to Tottenham, while the latest team to show interest in his signature is Barcelona, according to Fichajes.
The Catalans want a new striker after Robert Lewandowski left them as a free agent at the end of last season, and they see Balogun as a player who can replace him.
Balogun could be keen on the move as he wants a new challenge after spending the last three years on their books. The striker believes he needs a fresh challenge, and a move to Barcelona could provide him with the opportunity to continue his career at another major club.
#deal
The striker is one of the best players to come through their academy and has been performing well in France, which could lead to him leaving the club this summer. Several clubs have shown interest in signing him, with **** nal hoping he moves so they can benefit from the 17.5% sell-on clause included in the deal that took him to France.
The striker has been linked with a move to Tottenham, while the latest team to show interest in his signature is Barcelona, according to Fichajes.
The Catalans want a new striker after Robert Lewandowski left them as a free agent at the end of last season, and they see Balogun as a player who can replace him.
Balogun could be keen on the move as he wants a new challenge after spending the last three years on their books. The striker believes he needs a fresh challenge, and a move to Barcelona could provide him with the opportunity to continue his career at another major club.
#deal
24 days ago
Arsenal have been given encouragement that a Julian Alvarez deal may be possible before the end of the window, as the Premier League champions actively work on a deal.
Atletico Madrid want €150m (£128.4m) for the attacker, who enjoyed a fine World Cup with Argentina, including an extra-time screamer to help down Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
There is still a long way to go before any deal is possible, but the London club are attempting to negotiate that price down, while the Kroenke ownership are taking the view they did on Vinicius Junior, which is that they are willing to back the right big move.
There is naturally awareness that ****** nal could get caught in similar Spanish football politics as they did with the Real Madrid star, since Alvarez's long-desired stance has been to stay in the country and go to Barcelona.
Atletico have nevertheless remained unmoved in their stance that they absolutely will not sell to their Catalan rivals, which has caused some re-assessments from the 26-year-old, who was loudly booed by his fans after entering the game against Villarreal at the weekend.
#arsenal #possible #stance #alvarez
Atletico Madrid want €150m (£128.4m) for the attacker, who enjoyed a fine World Cup with Argentina, including an extra-time screamer to help down Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
There is still a long way to go before any deal is possible, but the London club are attempting to negotiate that price down, while the Kroenke ownership are taking the view they did on Vinicius Junior, which is that they are willing to back the right big move.
There is naturally awareness that ****** nal could get caught in similar Spanish football politics as they did with the Real Madrid star, since Alvarez's long-desired stance has been to stay in the country and go to Barcelona.
Atletico have nevertheless remained unmoved in their stance that they absolutely will not sell to their Catalan rivals, which has caused some re-assessments from the 26-year-old, who was loudly booed by his fans after entering the game against Villarreal at the weekend.
#arsenal #possible #stance #alvarez
24 days ago
Alejandro Balde was omitted from Barcelona's matchday squad against Elche last night amid growing uncertainty over his future.
The 22-year-old was among three players to have been left out for Barcelona's La Liga opener, along with Marc Casado and Hector Fort.
Fabrizio Romano revealed towards the end of last week that Manchester United had approached Balde's agents to gauge whether a deal would be feasible this summer.
They are in the market for a young but proven left-back, and the Catalan giants are seemingly looking to cash in while their academy graduate has suitors interested.
Reports over the weekend have even suggested that Balde has already privately green-lit a switch to Old Trafford, despite wanting to stay at Barcelona past the deadline.
#last #elche #marc #fort
The 22-year-old was among three players to have been left out for Barcelona's La Liga opener, along with Marc Casado and Hector Fort.
Fabrizio Romano revealed towards the end of last week that Manchester United had approached Balde's agents to gauge whether a deal would be feasible this summer.
They are in the market for a young but proven left-back, and the Catalan giants are seemingly looking to cash in while their academy graduate has suitors interested.
Reports over the weekend have even suggested that Balde has already privately green-lit a switch to Old Trafford, despite wanting to stay at Barcelona past the deadline.
#last #elche #marc #fort
