29 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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
2 months ago
Earlier today, word broke that Barcelona were emerging as dark horses to sign Goncalo Inacio from Portugal this summer.
The player, after all, has been linked with a move away from Sporting for a long time now and has a relatively affordable release clause priced at €60 million.
That sum, needless to say, is not out of Barcelona's reach and word spread that the Catalans are considering a surprise move for the centre-back.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano in a recent update, there is nothing agreed between Barcelona and Inacio as matters stand, and a transfer is not on the cards.
Not a priority for Barcelona. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
#Barcelona #earlier #catalans
The player, after all, has been linked with a move away from Sporting for a long time now and has a relatively affordable release clause priced at €60 million.
That sum, needless to say, is not out of Barcelona's reach and word spread that the Catalans are considering a surprise move for the centre-back.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano in a recent update, there is nothing agreed between Barcelona and Inacio as matters stand, and a transfer is not on the cards.
Not a priority for Barcelona. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
#Barcelona #earlier #catalans
2 months ago
The future of Hector Fort is expected to be resolved in the coming week, with Borussia Dortmund firm favourites to secure his services.
Dortmund and Barcelona are currently in talks to finalise a move that could see Fort join the Bundesliga giants on a permanent deal, with the Catalans holding a percentage of the player's rights.
But the deal is far from done and the two clubs are yet to reach an agreement, potentially leaving the door open for other teams.
Sociedad eyeing a late move for Fort. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
According to MARCA, Real Sociedad have not given up on signing Fort and are looking to take advantage of the fact that Dortmund are yet to get a deal over the line.
#bundesliga
Dortmund and Barcelona are currently in talks to finalise a move that could see Fort join the Bundesliga giants on a permanent deal, with the Catalans holding a percentage of the player's rights.
But the deal is far from done and the two clubs are yet to reach an agreement, potentially leaving the door open for other teams.
Sociedad eyeing a late move for Fort. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
According to MARCA, Real Sociedad have not given up on signing Fort and are looking to take advantage of the fact that Dortmund are yet to get a deal over the line.
#bundesliga
2 months ago
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#castleford #tigers
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Listen: Super League commentaries
#castleford #tigers
2 months ago
Barcelona are gearing up for the new season, with the Catalans slated to take on Elche CF in their opening match tomorrow.
Heading into this game, there were question marks over who will serve as the team's third-choice goalkeeper behind Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny.
That question has now been answered, as revealed by Barça's training preparations in the lead up to the contest.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Eder Aller is going to serve as Barcelona's third-choice goalkeeper for their league opener vs Elche CF.
Eder Aller will be Barcelona's third-goalkeeper this weekend. (Photo courtesy: X/FCBMasia)
#Third #question #catalans
Heading into this game, there were question marks over who will serve as the team's third-choice goalkeeper behind Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny.
That question has now been answered, as revealed by Barça's training preparations in the lead up to the contest.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Eder Aller is going to serve as Barcelona's third-choice goalkeeper for their league opener vs Elche CF.
Eder Aller will be Barcelona's third-goalkeeper this weekend. (Photo courtesy: X/FCBMasia)
#Third #question #catalans
2 months ago
Fermin Lopez says he can play false nine for Barcelona following the exits of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres this summer.
Barcelona are still in the hunt for a new striker before the transfer window closes, but it remains to be seen if the Catalans will land a new frontman for the new campaign.
Lopez has now been asked if he'd be happy to play false nine next season and offered up the following response.
"I can adapt, yes. I have played as a false nine in the lower categories of Barça," he told ARA. "It's a position similar to my favorite, which is attacking midfielder. I can also play wide on the left wing, but my best version is as an attacking midfielder.
Lopez was also asked who he thinks will score the goals next season for Barcelona and says Hansi Flick has plenty of options.
#Barcelona #false #nine #following
Barcelona are still in the hunt for a new striker before the transfer window closes, but it remains to be seen if the Catalans will land a new frontman for the new campaign.
Lopez has now been asked if he'd be happy to play false nine next season and offered up the following response.
"I can adapt, yes. I have played as a false nine in the lower categories of Barça," he told ARA. "It's a position similar to my favorite, which is attacking midfielder. I can also play wide on the left wing, but my best version is as an attacking midfielder.
Lopez was also asked who he thinks will score the goals next season for Barcelona and says Hansi Flick has plenty of options.
#Barcelona #false #nine #following
2 months ago
Following the loan departure of Ronald Araujo, it was repored that FC Barcelona will enter the market for a new defender.
The Blaugrana, led by sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick, were understood to be looking for a left-footed centre-back, giving ways to links with several names.
While Aymeric Laporte of Athletic Club was touted as a key target, another name on the La Liga champions' radars was Natan of Real Betis.
Natan was expected to be one of the main figures in Real Betis' transfer window, but so far his prominence has come more from rumours than concrete offers.
Los Verdiblancos have not received the bids they were expecting for the Brazilian, although his name continues to circulate in the market, especially with Barcelona, with his agent, Andre Cury, even admitting contacts with the Catalans.
#Barcelona #natan #real
The Blaugrana, led by sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick, were understood to be looking for a left-footed centre-back, giving ways to links with several names.
While Aymeric Laporte of Athletic Club was touted as a key target, another name on the La Liga champions' radars was Natan of Real Betis.
Natan was expected to be one of the main figures in Real Betis' transfer window, but so far his prominence has come more from rumours than concrete offers.
Los Verdiblancos have not received the bids they were expecting for the Brazilian, although his name continues to circulate in the market, especially with Barcelona, with his agent, Andre Cury, even admitting contacts with the Catalans.
#Barcelona #natan #real
2 months ago
Mikel Arteta has continued to push for the signing of Julian Alvarez and recently called the attacker again to reiterate that he wants him at ***** nal, where he believes the player would have an important role.
Alvarez has been one of the world's best attackers since his time at Manchester City, which led to his big-money move to Atletico Madrid. However, the forward now wants to leave the Spanish club.
The team Alvarez dreams of joining is Barcelona, and the Catalans have asked Atletico Madrid to sell him. However, Atletico have refused and insist that Alvarez will not be moving to any club this summer.
Alvarez has been one of the most reliable players in the Atletico team, and the club have strengthened their squad as they look to challenge for trophies at the end of this season. Despite that, the attacker's desire to leave has kept the transfer situation in focus.
Arsenal still want to sign Alvarez before this transfer window closes, and the Gunners believe the attacker could probably join them if they manage to convince him. Arteta therefore remains keen to make a personal effort to change the player's mind.
#attacker #wants
Alvarez has been one of the world's best attackers since his time at Manchester City, which led to his big-money move to Atletico Madrid. However, the forward now wants to leave the Spanish club.
The team Alvarez dreams of joining is Barcelona, and the Catalans have asked Atletico Madrid to sell him. However, Atletico have refused and insist that Alvarez will not be moving to any club this summer.
Alvarez has been one of the most reliable players in the Atletico team, and the club have strengthened their squad as they look to challenge for trophies at the end of this season. Despite that, the attacker's desire to leave has kept the transfer situation in focus.
Arsenal still want to sign Alvarez before this transfer window closes, and the Gunners believe the attacker could probably join them if they manage to convince him. Arteta therefore remains keen to make a personal effort to change the player's mind.
#attacker #wants
2 months ago
Former Real Madrid player, coach and sporting director Jorge Valdano has weighed in on Barcelona's signing of Rodri, arguing that the Spanish midfielder would have had an even greater transformative effect had he ended up at Real Madrid.
Speaking on Movistar Plus Deportes, Valdano offered an unusual way of ***** sing the significance of the transfer. In his view, Rodri undoubtedly improves Barcelona, but preventing Madrid from acquiring a midfielder with his particular qualities carries considerable value of its own.
"For me, Rodri's contribution to Barcelona is worth 35 million, and what remains for Real Madrid is worth 40 million," Valdano said.
It is a striking ***** sment, but one that speaks to the different needs of the two teams.
Barcelona already have a clearly established footballing identity under Hansi Flick, and Valdano does not believe Rodri's arrival will fundamentally alter the way the Catalans play. Instead, he sees the midfielder as someone capable of reinforcing the principles already in place.
#rodri #worth #million #former
Speaking on Movistar Plus Deportes, Valdano offered an unusual way of ***** sing the significance of the transfer. In his view, Rodri undoubtedly improves Barcelona, but preventing Madrid from acquiring a midfielder with his particular qualities carries considerable value of its own.
"For me, Rodri's contribution to Barcelona is worth 35 million, and what remains for Real Madrid is worth 40 million," Valdano said.
It is a striking ***** sment, but one that speaks to the different needs of the two teams.
Barcelona already have a clearly established footballing identity under Hansi Flick, and Valdano does not believe Rodri's arrival will fundamentally alter the way the Catalans play. Instead, he sees the midfielder as someone capable of reinforcing the principles already in place.
#rodri #worth #million #former
2 months ago
Barcelona fans are getting closer and closer to the day they get to see Ballon d'Or winner Rodri unveiled wearing Blaugrana.
The Catalans reached an agreement with Manchester City for a €76.5 million package deal that would see Rodri move to Barça this summer.
After around 10 days of prolonged club-to-club negotiations, the English club finally gave in and decided to let the 30-year-old leave for the Blaugrana.
Rodri is undoubtedly Barça's biggest signing since they signed Robert Lewandowski back in 2022, and the excitement could not be more palpable.
Now, according to Alex Pintanel, Hansi Flick personally told Rodri that his experience and quality would make him an important part of his project.
#closer #catalans #manchester
The Catalans reached an agreement with Manchester City for a €76.5 million package deal that would see Rodri move to Barça this summer.
After around 10 days of prolonged club-to-club negotiations, the English club finally gave in and decided to let the 30-year-old leave for the Blaugrana.
Rodri is undoubtedly Barça's biggest signing since they signed Robert Lewandowski back in 2022, and the excitement could not be more palpable.
Now, according to Alex Pintanel, Hansi Flick personally told Rodri that his experience and quality would make him an important part of his project.
#closer #catalans #manchester
2 months ago
The Joan Gamper Trophy is traditionally Barcelona's curtain-raiser to the new season, and the Catalans played their final pre-season friendly ahead of that clash last night against FC Basel.
The first-half of the game was rather tight and ended with both sides level with a 1-1 scoreline. Barcelona created the better chances, but Karim Adeyemi's opener was crossed out by a Jean Doucoure banger.
After the break, however, Barcelona ran away with the game as Hamza Abdelkarim put them ahead with a lethal finish and Lamine Yamal made it 3-1 from the penalty spot.
Basel themselves earned a penalty soon after to make it 3-2, but young sensation Jesse Bisiwu scored twice in two minutes to put the icing on the cake and end the game with a 5-2 win.
Barça Universal brings you three takeaways from Basel 2-5 Barcelona.
#game
The first-half of the game was rather tight and ended with both sides level with a 1-1 scoreline. Barcelona created the better chances, but Karim Adeyemi's opener was crossed out by a Jean Doucoure banger.
After the break, however, Barcelona ran away with the game as Hamza Abdelkarim put them ahead with a lethal finish and Lamine Yamal made it 3-1 from the penalty spot.
Basel themselves earned a penalty soon after to make it 3-2, but young sensation Jesse Bisiwu scored twice in two minutes to put the icing on the cake and end the game with a 5-2 win.
Barça Universal brings you three takeaways from Basel 2-5 Barcelona.
#game
2 months ago
Barcelona have reportedly agreed a €10 million fee with Braga for 19-year-old midfielder Tommy Marques on a busy day of transfer activity for the Catalan giants.
According to The Athletic, the Catalans will receive an initial €10 million fee for their academy graduate and could earn another €2m in add-ons from the deal.
Marques still has to agree personal terms with Braga but there are not expected to be any issues on that front and it's expected he will shortly seal a transfer to the Portuguese side.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona also have the right of first refusal if any future bids come in for Marques.
The move comes just hours after reports emerged that Barcelona had agreed a deal with Manchester City for Rodri. The World Cup winner is now expected to complete his move to Barca in the coming days.
#expected #braga #move
According to The Athletic, the Catalans will receive an initial €10 million fee for their academy graduate and could earn another €2m in add-ons from the deal.
Marques still has to agree personal terms with Braga but there are not expected to be any issues on that front and it's expected he will shortly seal a transfer to the Portuguese side.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona also have the right of first refusal if any future bids come in for Marques.
The move comes just hours after reports emerged that Barcelona had agreed a deal with Manchester City for Rodri. The World Cup winner is now expected to complete his move to Barca in the coming days.
#expected #braga #move
2 months ago
Barcelona have agreed a deal with Manchester City for midfielder Rodri and are now set to welcome the World Cup winner to Camp Nou.
The midfielder was into the final year of his contract at City but has chosen to head back to Spain. Real Madrid were keen on Rodri but he's decided to head to Barcelona instead.
The Catalans have agreed to pay €76.5million (£65.3m; $87.8m) for Rodri, according to David Ornstein at The Athletic. The fee breaks down into an upfront fee of €60m (£51.2m; $68.8m) plus add-ons.
Ornstein says that €11m of the bonuses are "highly achievable" so Barcelona are set to pay at least €71.5m for Rodri.
Rodri is now set to sign a four-year contract with Barcelona and will hope to add more ***** les to his already impressive collection during his time in Catalunya.
#city #contract #manchester
The midfielder was into the final year of his contract at City but has chosen to head back to Spain. Real Madrid were keen on Rodri but he's decided to head to Barcelona instead.
The Catalans have agreed to pay €76.5million (£65.3m; $87.8m) for Rodri, according to David Ornstein at The Athletic. The fee breaks down into an upfront fee of €60m (£51.2m; $68.8m) plus add-ons.
Ornstein says that €11m of the bonuses are "highly achievable" so Barcelona are set to pay at least €71.5m for Rodri.
Rodri is now set to sign a four-year contract with Barcelona and will hope to add more ***** les to his already impressive collection during his time in Catalunya.
#city #contract #manchester
2 months ago
Joao Cancelo is set to re-join Barcelona in the coming days after agreeing to terminate his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
The defender has been given the green light to head to Barcelona after finally reaching an agreement with Al-Hilal, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The news will be a big boost to both player and club ahead of the start of the new La Liga season. Cancelo has made it clear he wants to stay, while Barcelona can now sign him on a free transfer.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Cancelo is expected to sign his contract at Barcelona on Tuesday and will put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Catalans.
The Portugal international will then start a third spell with Barcelona after enjoying two previous stints on loan under Xavi Hernandez and Hansi Flick.
#contract #sign
The defender has been given the green light to head to Barcelona after finally reaching an agreement with Al-Hilal, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The news will be a big boost to both player and club ahead of the start of the new La Liga season. Cancelo has made it clear he wants to stay, while Barcelona can now sign him on a free transfer.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Cancelo is expected to sign his contract at Barcelona on Tuesday and will put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Catalans.
The Portugal international will then start a third spell with Barcelona after enjoying two previous stints on loan under Xavi Hernandez and Hansi Flick.
#contract #sign
2 months ago
Barcelona have completed the sale of Ferran Torres to PSG, with the Spanish forward leaving to reunite with Luis Enrique.
The Catalan club ran the risk of seeing the World Cup hero leave for free at the end of next season and chose to cash in after he expressed his desire to move.
Ferran leaves after four and a half seasons at the Catalan club, which were a mixed bag, but after arguably his two best seasons at Barça.
Now, according to SPORT, the former Manchester City forward's move to PSG has handed Barça a massive financial boost.
The operation is expected to generate around €50 million in FFP for the Catalans, which could help them with their own signings this summer.
#ferran #club
The Catalan club ran the risk of seeing the World Cup hero leave for free at the end of next season and chose to cash in after he expressed his desire to move.
Ferran leaves after four and a half seasons at the Catalan club, which were a mixed bag, but after arguably his two best seasons at Barça.
Now, according to SPORT, the former Manchester City forward's move to PSG has handed Barça a massive financial boost.
The operation is expected to generate around €50 million in FFP for the Catalans, which could help them with their own signings this summer.
#ferran #club
2 months ago
There was something irrational about Barcelona signing Ferran Torres from Manchester City in December 2021.
The club were drowning in debt. President Joan Laporta had revealed only months earlier that Barça owed €1.35 billion.
Lionel Messi had departed because the club could not make the numbers on a new contract work, and La Liga had imposed a spending limit on the Blaugrana that season.
Barcelona could buy Ferran, but even registering him for the La Liga campaign required further financial manoeuvring.
Yet the Catalans found €55 million, with another €10 million potentially payable in variables, and spent it on a 21-year-old forward from Manchester City.
#manchester #city #december #president
The club were drowning in debt. President Joan Laporta had revealed only months earlier that Barça owed €1.35 billion.
Lionel Messi had departed because the club could not make the numbers on a new contract work, and La Liga had imposed a spending limit on the Blaugrana that season.
Barcelona could buy Ferran, but even registering him for the La Liga campaign required further financial manoeuvring.
Yet the Catalans found €55 million, with another €10 million potentially payable in variables, and spent it on a 21-year-old forward from Manchester City.
#manchester #city #december #president
