الأحد، 31 يناير 2021

Koeman fumes at Messi contract leak after Barcelona win

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Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

‘There are people that want to do us damage’

Ronald Koeman sounded pretty furious about Lionel Messi’s contract being leaked when talking to reporters after Barcelona’s win over Athletic Club.

Messi and Antoine Griezmann were both on target at the Camp Nou for the Catalan giants to secure a result that moves the team into second place in the table.

Koeman spoke about the report from El Mundo after the game and made his feelings about the issue crystal clear.

“What came out in the press today was with malicious intent and wanting to do damage to a player that has done so much for Spanish football and for this club,” he said.

“We have to try and find out how Messi’s contract’s come out in the press. They are things that cannot come out. There are people that want to do us damage.

“If the leak is from within the club, that’s very bad. We have to help the players, the coaches to win games. If someone from inside the club has leaked it, they cannot have a future at the club.

“I don’t understand why they say he’s ruined Barca ... He’s spent years and years showing his quality as a footballer. We have to highlight what he’s done for this club. He’s helped make this club great and we have to stop with all this contract nonsense.

Source | Sport

Barcelona have already announced they plan to take legal action against El Mundo, while reports have suggested that Messi may do the same.

The captain certainly didn’t seem to be affected by all the talk about his contract. He brought up his 650th goal in style with a brilliant free-kick and put in a strong showing in a good win for the team.



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Griezmann: We are enjoying Messi, he’s a legend

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FC Barcelona v Athletic Club - La Liga Santander
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Both players were on target in the win

Antoine Griezmann spoke about captain Lionel Messi after Sunday’s 2-1 win over Athletic Club at the Camp Nou in La Liga.

The two players were both on target in the game to secure all three points and send the Catalan giants above Real Madrid and into second place in the table.

Griezmann was unsurprisingly asked about Messi after the win, in the wake of a leaked report about the captain’s contract, and was happy to discuss his team-mate.

“We are enjoying Messi, he’s a legend. Hopefully we can keep enjoying him and he can keep helping us win,” he said.

The World Cup winner also spoke about Ousmane Dembele, who was a constant threat down the right, and his team’s good form

“He’s doing very well, he’s taking care of himself and working really hard off the pitch,” he said.

“There’s a lot of games still be played. Our objective is to win as many games as we can between now and the end of the season

“We know that Athletic are a team that press well, but I think we deserved the three points.

“We are winning games, since the turn of the year we’ve been on a good run. We are just going to keep on fighting til the end.”

Source | Movistar

Griezmann’s goal continued a rich vein of form for the Frenchman since the turn of the year. The forward now has five goals and three assists in eight matches in 2021.



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Barça 2-1 Athletic: Recap

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FC Barcelona v Athletic Club - La Liga Santander
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

A hard-fought battle, and a key victory

Barcelona finished the month of January on a high note, reaching 10 games in a row without a loss in La Liga thanks to a hard-fought 2-1 win against Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou. Barça played a great first half, conceded a bad goal early in the second but continued to attack until Antoine Griezmann scored the winner and gave the Blaugrana three crucial points as they’ll finish the weekend equal on points with second place Real Madrid.

FIRST HALF

Barça were the better team from the beginning, matching Athletic’s physicality and intensity and not giving them any chance to play. The Blaugrana had the majority of possession and pressed high to recover the ball whenever they lost it, and Lionel Messi was especially active, chasing down opponents with the ball and always involved in everything.

He also scored a beautiful opening goal after a winning a free-kick at the edge of the box and placing a pearl of a curling shot into the top corner, without a chance for Unai Simón in the Bilbao goal. Barça continued to press and attack after the goal, and although they didn’t have a clear opportunity for a second they were always a threat.

Athletic simply couldn’t harm Barça’s defense, and found themselves chasing the game throughout the first half. At halftime, Barça had a narrow lead but were clearly the better team, and had a chance to stamp their authority in the second half.

SECOND HALF

The second half started with bad news for Barça as Jordi Alba scored an own goal after a cross from Raúl García, and it looked as though Athletic would gain momentum from the equalizer and cause more problems.

But Barça reacted well after conceding and continued to attack, with Griezmann and Ousmane Dembélé creating real issues with their movement, and Messi was still just as aggressive — and had to deal with a few rough fouls as a result.

Just as the Blaugrana started running out of steam and looking a little less intense, the game-winner happened: Óscar Mingueza made a great full-back run, received an excellent pass from Dembélé and gave Griezmann a tap-in inside the six-yard box, and the Frenchman put Barça ahead with 15 minutes to go.

Bilbao desperately searched for a late equalizer but couldn’t come up with any real danger, and Barça managed to hang on and get all three points when the final whistle came. This was as tough and intense as expected, and Athletic kicked the living hell out of Barça again, but the Catalans are winners this time.

Barcelona: Ter Stegen; Mingueza, Araujo, Umtiti, Alba; Pjanic (Roberto 66’), De Jong, Pedri; Dembélé (Braithwaite 87’), Messi, Griezmann (Lenglet 84’)

Goals: Messi (20’), Griezmann (74’)

Athletic: Simón; Capa (Lekue 84’), Yeray, Martínez, Yuri; De Marcos (Berenguer 66’), Vencedor (Vesga 66’), D. García, Muniain; Williams (Villalibre 84’), R. García

Goal: Alba (49’ OG)



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Messi scores 650th Barca goal with stunner vs Athletic

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FC Barcelona v Athletic Club - La Liga Santander
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Another great strike from the captain

Lionel Messi was back doing what he does best on Sunday after a day of headlines regarding his contract at the Camp Nou.

The captain was back in the starting XI in La Liga and back in the goals, opening the scoring with a stunning free-kick to net his 650th goal for the Catalan giants.

The strike was also the 49th time he’s scored a direct free-kick for Barcelona.

It was an important goal for Barcelona too, giving the hosts the lead on what is their first game at the Camp Nou in 2021 after a run of eight straight away matches.



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Barça vs Athletic: LIVE BLOG!

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FC Barcelona V RCD Espanyol de Barcelona - Primera Division Femenina
Photo by Marc G. Aloma / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

Join us for another Barcelona La Liga adventure!

WELCOME BACK TO CAMP NOU!!! For the first time in 2021 the Greatest Stadium on Earth will host a Barcelona match, and this is a big one as the Catalan giants welcome Athletic Bilbao for a huge La Liga game. Barça and Athletic face off for the third time this month, which each team winning once so far in two physical, entertaining battles. This will be no different, and Barça have a chance to make it 10 games in a row without a loss in the league. This will be fun, and you are welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. LET’S LIVE BLOG!!!

(Note: the comments will be open only when the team news come out, because our commenter people love commenting and sometimes there are too many comments in the comments section)

MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: 2020-21 La Liga, Matchday 21

Date/Time: Sunday, January 31, 2021, 9pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 8pm GMT (UK), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 1.30am IST (India, Monday)

Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz

VAR: José Luis Munuera Montero

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM LA LIGA

How to watch on TV: beIN SPORTS (USA & Canada), LaLigaTV (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), Movistar LaLiga (Spain), Not Available (India), others

How to stream: FuboTV (USA), Premier Player (UK), Facebook Live (India), Movistar+ (Spain), others

Matchday Thread Rules

We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads:

Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, no swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another.

Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!



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Barcelona Femeni cruise to Clasico win

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FC Barcelona v Real Madrid - Primera Iberdrola
Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images

Another big win for the league leaders

Barcelona Femeni enjoyed a comfortable 4-1 Clasico win over Real Madrid on Sunday to continue their 100% record in the league this season.

Alexia Putellas struck the opener with a powerful left-footed shot from just outside the penalty area after just 14 minutes.

The goal was also a landmark for the 26-year-old as it was her 100th league goal for Barcelona.

The hosts did not have to wait too long to double their lead. Jenni Hermoso made it 2-0 midway through the first half with a simple finish into an empty net after good work from Asisat Oshoala.

Oshoala then got her name on the scoresheet to ensure Barca went in with a healthy 3-0 lead at half-time. The Nigeria international tapped home a low cross from Caroline Graham Hansen at the far post

Barca’s fourth also came from Oshoala, while Madrid goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez was sent off minutes later for handling the ball outside the area.

The visitors did manage to pull one back in the closing stages from the penalty spot as Barca also finished the game with 10 after Mapi Leon picked up a second yellow card.

The win makes it 13 straight league victories for Barcelona and means they are five points clear of Levante with two games in hand. Lluís Cortés’s team have now scored a massive 73 goals in those games and conceded just three.



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Barcelona respond to Lionel Messi contract leak

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Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

The club have issued a statement

Barcelona released a statement on Sunday after El Mundo published a report that leaked details of Lionel Messi’s current contract at the Camp Nou.

The report claims Messi’s four-year contract is worth €555 million and is the biggest deal ever paid to an individual athlete.

Here’s a look at some of the numbers reportedly involved in Messi’s contract which expires at the end of the season.

Barcelona have been quick to respond to the report, denying any involvement in the leak and threatening legal action against the Spanish daily newspaper.

Here’s the club statement in full.

“In view of the information published today in the newspaper El Mundo, in relation to the professional contract signed between FC Barcelona and the player Lionel Messi, the club regrets its publication given that it is a private document governed by the principle of confidentiality between the parties.

“FC Barcelona categorically denies any responsibility for the publication of this document, and will take appropriate legal action against the newspaper El Mundo, for any damage that may be caused as a result of this publication.

“FC Barcelona expresses its absolute support for Lionel Messi, especially in the face of any attempt to discredit his image, and to damage his relationship with the entity where he has worked to become the best player in the world and in football history.”

Source | FC Barcelona

Messi is also said to be ready to take legal action, according to local reports. The captain’s lawyers are considering filing a lawsuit for making the details of his contract public. The few people at the club who knew the details will also be reported, according to Cadena SER.



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Barcelona squad named for Athletic

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FC Barcelona v Real Betis - La Liga Santander
Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images

Ronald Koeman has called up 22 players for Sunday’s match

The next Barcelona match is upon us! The Blaugrana welcome Athletic Bilbao to Camp Nou for a huge La Liga game, and Ronald Koeman has called up the following 22 players for Sunday’s clash:

Goalkeepers: 1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 13. Neto, 36. Arnau Tenas

Defenders: 4. Ronald Araujo, 15. Clément Lenglet, 18. Jordi Alba, 20. Sergi Roberto, 23. Samuel Umtiti, 24. Junior Firpo, 28. Óscar Mingueza

Midfielders: 8. Miralem Pjanic, 12. Riqui Puig, 16. Pedri, 19. Matheus Fernandes, 21. Frenkie De Jong, 27. Ilaix Moriba

Forwards: 7. Antoine Griezmann, 9. Martin Braithwaite, 10. Lionel Messi, 11. Ousmane Dembélé, 17. Francisco Trincão, 29. Konrad De La Fuente

There’s some good news for this one as Sergi Roberto returns after more than two months on the sideline with a muscle injury, and Roberto’s return is important since Sergiño Dest is once again missing with a thigh problem. Ansu Fati (knee), Gerard Piqué (knee) and Philippe Coutinho (knee) are also out due to injury, while Sergio Busquets will not play because of suspension.

Predicted starting XI (4-3-3):

Ter Stegen; Mingueza, Araujo, Lenglet, Alba; De Jong, Pjanic, Pedri; Dembélé, Messi, Griezmann

The match kicks off at 9pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 8pm GMT (UK), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 1.30am IST (India, Monday), and you can join us to follow and comment all the action.

VISCA EL BARÇA!



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FC Barcelona News: 31 January 2021

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FC Barcelona v Rayo Liga Iberdrola - Spanish Women’s League
Photo by Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and transfer rumors

10 things that have changed in the world since the last game at Camp Nou - FC Barcelona
32 days, 8 games and 7,818 kilometres later, Barça are back at Camp Nou. Yes, that’s eight games in January, and not one of them was played at home! Now, for the first time since December 29, a 1-1 draw with Eibar, the stadium is opening its doors again to welcome Athletic Club (Sunday 9.00pm CET).

Further preparations for Athletic - FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona were back at training on Saturday morning as preparations continue for the visit of Athletic Club (Sunday 9.00pm CET), in the first game at CampoNou in 2021.

When and where to watch Barça v Athletic - FC Barcelona
Global guide to times and broadcasters of this weekend's Liga fixture at Camp Nou

Dest 'followed his heart' to Barça - FC Barcelona
In an interview with LaLiga, the young American describes his feelings after his first few months at the club

Women's Clásico live on Barça TV+ - FC Barcelona
There's a massive game at the Estadi Johan Cruyff this Sunday as the Barça and Real Madrid women's teams meet in the Liga Iberdrola. It's a game between the runaway leaders, who have yet to be beaten, and the side that is in second place, five points adrift and having played two games more.



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السبت، 30 يناير 2021

Barça vs Athletic: Preview

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FC Barcelona v Valencia CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Barça play their first home game of 2021 looking to make it 10 in a row without a loss in the league against a very difficult opponent

FC Barcelona (4th, 37pts) vs Athletic Bilbao (10th, 24pts)*

*Points and positions at the time of writing on Saturday

Competition/Round: 2020-21 La Liga, Matchday 21

Barcelona Outs & Doubts: Ansu Fati, Gerard Piqué, Philippe Coutinho, Sergio Busquets (out), Sergi Roberto, Sergiño Dest (doubt)

Athletic Outs & Doutbs: Peru Nolaskoain, Mikel Balenziaga (out), Iñigo Martínez (doubt)

Date/Time: Sunday, January 31, 2021, 9pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 8pm GMT (UK), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 1.30am IST (India, Monday)

Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz

VAR: José Luis Munuera Montero

How to watch on TV: beIN SPORTS (USA & Canada), LaLigaTV (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), Movistar LaLiga (Spain), Not Available (India), others

How to stream: FuboTV (USA), Premier Player (UK), Facebook Live (India), Movistar+ (Spain), others

Following a comeback win over Rayo Vallecano in midweek to move on to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals, Barcelona turn their attentions back to La Liga for a crucial match against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday at the Greatest Stadium on Earth.

It’s taken literally an entire month for Barcelona to play a home game after eight straight road trips in the first 30 days of January, but the Blaugrana are back in their stadium for what promises to be a very tough match against what’s quickly becoming a renewed rivalry for Barça.

Back when Athletic were the best team in Spain these two clubs didn’t like each other, and after the two previous games between them this month after Marcelino García Toral took over as manager at San Mamés, this is starting to feel a lot like a team that Barça players and fans REALLY dislike.

The physical Spanish Super Cup final was a hard-fought battle that ended in pain for Barça and the first red card of Lionel Messi’s Barça career after enduring 120 minutes of near brutality from the Bilbao players. Athletic are a defensive, counter-attacking team under Marcelino who are already really good and looking to climb up the table in La Liga after a rough start with the previous coach.

Barça don’t need to be warned about the challenge facing them this Sunday. Athletic are good and tough and looking for points in the league, but the Blaugrana could make it 10 straight games unbeaten in the league and finish the weekend equal on points with second place Real Madrid if they win.

This will be tough and probably frustrating, but Barça can definitely win. And they must shut up Athletic. They’re too annoying already.

Let’s dance.

POSSIBLE LINEUPS

Barcelona (4-3-3): Ter Stegen; Mingueza, Araujo, Lenglet, Alba; De Jong, Pjanic, Pedri; Dembélé, Messi, Griezmann

Athletic (4-4-2): Simón; Capa, Yeray, Núnez, Yuri; De Marcos, D. García, Vencedor, Muniain; Williams, R. García

PREDICTION

You know what? I really want Barça to destroy Athletic on this one and even though I think the game will be close, I’m going with 4-1 to the good guys, Messi hat-trick. I want this to feel cathartic.



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Marcelino discusses Athletic’s Messi plan ahead of Barca clash

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FC Barcelona v Athletic de Bilbao - Spanish Super Cup
Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

The two teams meet again on Sunday

Athletic boss Marcelino spoke about the threat Lionel Messi poses his side ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Barcelona at the Camp Nou.

Messi scored twice in the reverse fixture at San Mames at the start of the year but was subsequently sent off when the two teams meet in the Spanish Super Cup final.

Marcelino says his team won’t man-mark the Barca captain but will do all they can to stop him influencing the game in the hosts’ favor.

“We are not going to mark Messi individually, but we must limit his participation as much as possible and be attentive to the ball and where it can reach him.

“We will try to ensure that Messi has the minimum possible participation and when he does, it should be as limited as possible in time and space.”

The Athletic coach also spoke about Messi’s performance in the Super Cup final, when he came back from injury, and also offered his thoughts on Barca’s other attacking threats.

“In the final, it seemed that Messi was weakened and he was not so decisive, and we hope that in this third game it will be the same again. With Messi, Barça is more difficult to counter. There is a footballer who is above the rest and it’s Messi. The statistics and the games we all see make us think so. They have other good players; there’s one who is in an extraordinary moment, De Jong. Pedri played a spectacular game, Dembélé and Griezmann are very good. These are players we can’t give a meter or a second to.”

Messi heads into the match after making a goalscoring return to action in the Copa del Rey win over Rayo Vallecano in midweek. If the captain does score on Sunday it will be his 650th goal for Barcelona.



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Dembele tells Barcelona he wants to stay - report

By  12:03 م  No comments
Elche CF v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images

The Frenchman’s contract expires in 2022

Ousmane Dembele has reportedly told Barcelona he wants to stay at the club and renew his current contract.

The Frenchman’s current deal expires in 2022 and he has informed the Catalan giants he’s happy at the Camp Nou and is now willing to extend his stay, according to Sport.

Dembele is also said to be in “no hurry” to sign a new deal which is just as well seeing as Barca still don’t have a president and are in a perilous financial position.

The report reckons that Barca may actually struggle to offer Dembele a higher salary in his contract extension or offer as much as other clubs.

Previous reports have suggested Dembele could be sold in the summer if he doesn’t renew because the club want to avoid him going into the last year of his contract and potentially leaving as a free agent.

Manchester United have again been linked with Dembele this week. The Red Devils were keen on the forward last summer and may reportedly try again if they fail to sign top target Jadon Sancho.



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Koeman talks Umtiti, Mingueza & Todibo ahead of Athletic

By  10:03 ص  No comments
Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

The latest from the Barcelona boss

Ronald Koeman faced the press on Saturday to talk about Barcelona’s next La Liga match against Athletic at the Camp Nou.

The Barca boss was asked lots of questions about Eric Garcia, offered an update on Sergi Roberto and also talked about defenders Samuel Umtiti, Oscar Mingueza and Jean-Clair Todibo.

Here are the best bits:

Koeman on Athletic

We’ve talked about the game in the final of the Super Cup which they won. We know they are a very physically strong team, are strong at set-pieces, perform well at those types of plays. We need to be focused. We have to play our style, we create chances when we do that.

Koeman on leaked list of unwanted players

It’s always important to have someone at the club who’s working on improving the team. that’s normal. It doesn’t bother me because it’s a job that the club has to do. I don’t think the players should be bothered. We speak with the players daily, players get minutes and things like this happen at every club.

My job is to prepare the team for our matches and move forward. Ramon Planes' job is to try and improve our team. I don't know exactly what happened. The only thing I’m interested in is the match tomorrow.

Koeman on Umtiti & Mingueza

A Barca player always has to be prepared for everything. Umtiti has been out for some time because of injury. I think he’s recovered well and we are counting on him. We’ve had Mingueza for some games, he’s come up, playing at right-back and center-back. We’ll see what happens in the future.

Koeman on Eric Garcia

I have said before. This is a season where we are making changes. We are opting for young players. Today Barca are not quite there to win everything. We are battling, we are improving, but we also have to be realistic from where we’ve come, what we’ve done and the young players improving.

Koeman on winning trophies

We know our situation in La Liga. There’s a pretty big difference in points, it’s going to be tough, but until it’s mathematically impossible we just have to win our games. Regarding the Champions League, I don’t think there’s a clear favorite. We know we have two matches against PSG and we will try to go through. That’s our job.

Koeman on Barca’s schedule

It would have been good to play at home in the Copa del Rey. Barca is the most important team in most competitions and they want to find a time where everyone can see the game on TV. It’s not worth complaining anymore. There hasn’t been any change and we have to accept it and play the game.

Koeman on if he’s spoken to Pep about Eric Garcia

I spoke to Pep to congratulate him on his 50th birthday but we haven’t spoken about Eric, it’s not my job. We already know he will probably arrive in the summer. If it’s not possible this January, then we’ll accept it and move on.

Koeman on Sergi Roberto

I’ve seen him motivated, ready for tomorrow’s game, he could be in the squad list. We’ll see the list tomorrow and then you will see.

Koeman on if Todibo could return

I’ve said before Todibo is a Barca player technically but I’m not counting on him.

Koeman on Barca’s defense vs Athletic

We have to defend well. It’s part of their style to look for fouls. The referee is important because they have to decide and one of the plays last time there was no foul. We have to talk to our defenders and midfielder about not making unnecessary fouls so they can take advantage from set-pieces.



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Three Keys to the Game: Barcelona vs Athletic

By  7:03 ص  No comments
FBL-ESP-SUPER CUP-BARCELONA-ATHLETIC
Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP via Getty Images

Barca face a familiar foe on Sunday with Athletic coming to town

Revenge for the Supercopa is on the Sunday menu, but more importantly, an opportunity for Barcelona to keep an impressive domestic winning streak going.

Even if the realist in you has a hard time believing that Barca can catch Atletico at the top the table, the recent success has been significant in keeping them solidly in the top four.

Can they continue the momentum as the calendar turns?

Here are some keys to the game.

1. Have an answer for Athletic’s physicality

FBL-ESP-SUPER CUP-BARCELONA-ATHLETIC Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP via Getty Images

Athletic always play a physical game. Last time around, emotions boiled over and Lionel Messi paid the price for retaliating.

The Basque men aren’t out there looking for a fight. It’s part of the game plan. And it’s nothing new.

Right-back Ander Capa is this ethos personified. No one gets past that guy. And if you go in for a challenge, just ask Antoine Griezmann, it may not end well.

How will Barca respond to that?

You’re not going to beat them at their own game. Barcelona players at the moment don’t have the temperament. Long gone are the days of Javier Mascherano, the lion of the midfield.

It starts with defensive fundamentals, and they need to be much better than they were in the Supercopa final.

Especially when defending set-pieces.

Athletic has players who are big and tough, but you still need to stand tall, mark them tightly, and fight to be the first person to the ball.

Jordi Alba in particular had a horrendous defensive showing on that day. Yes, he ducked under the ball. It wasn’t a good look, and it cost the team the game.

The good news is that Alba, like the rest of the team, are usually the superior talent with the ball at their feet. So take care of the defensive basics, and neutralize your opponents' physicality by leveraging tactics on the attacking end.

2. Move the ball quickly

Elche CF v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Tired of being kicked, pushed, and knocked to the ground?

Here’s a reminder that the ball moves faster than the person.

So move the ball quickly.

This is good advice no matter who Barca is playing. It’s what made tiki-taka unstoppable.

Barcelona still loves possession. Against Athletic they had 68%, and 66% against Elche.

These days the old habit does more to get them into trouble than provide an advantage.

Against Elche, it helped establish dominance. But it took too long for the heavy possession to result in danger in front of goal. No goals means it’s not working.

Possession can’t look like you’re taking a walk in the park. It needs to be paired with urgency, intensity, and the intention of building into the final third as soon as is possible.

And when you get there, don’t turn around!

Best way to do that is to pass the ball more quickly. Get the defense chasing. Back to the one and two-touch passing.

Without Sergio Busquets it’s more of a challenge, but to be honest oftentimes he’s the one slowing down the rhythm on the pivot. Riqui Puig would be an intriguing replacement because of his direct style of play.

3. Start the game on the front foot

FBL-ESP-SUPER CUP-BARCELONA-ATHLETIC Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP via Getty Images

Looking back at the Supercopa final, the thing you may remember is that Barca squandered a lead in the final minutes.

The ending, however, is misleading.

Barca did manage to open the scoring with a goal by Griezmann in the 40th minute. They were fortunate.

From the beginning, Athletic was the motivated team. That’s why they were able to score equalizing goals twice, and eventually the game winner off a screamer from Inaki Williams in the opening minutes of extra time.

The question for Barca is how badly they want to win. It has not yet been answered.

Under Marcelino, Athletic look energized. They fight.

Will we see the same fighting spirit from the Barca players? In order to continue the good run of form they will need it, and it will be required on a consistent basis.

Ronald Koeman will need to do a better job demanding it. Leaders on the team like Messi could also do a better job setting the example.

Against Athletic, we will know within the first five minutes who wants to win more, and it will likely make all the difference.



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FC Barcelona News: 30 January 2021

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Argentina v Germany: 2010 FIFA World Cup - Quarter Finals
Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and transfer rumors

Todibo and Matheus Fernandes close to leaving Barcelona | Marca

Jean-Clair Todibo and Matheus Fernandes are close to leaving Barcelona on loan. Elche and Alaves are keen on Fernandes, while Todibo is expected to join Nice.

Guardiola: Barça candidates talk too much about Eric García | AS

Pep Guardiola did not want to talk about Eric Garcia’s potential exit when asked about the defender because he thinks there’s been too much talk about the deal already.

Tevez’s warning to Barcelona over keeping Messi | Marca

Carlos Tevez has been talking about Lionel Messi’s future and says the Argentine has a difficult decision to make about whether to stay at Barcelona.

Rivaldo: Barcelona made a mistake by not selling Messi | AS

Rivaldo thinks Barcelona made a mistake by not selling Lionel Messi in the summer and feels they should have cashed in on their captain.

Araujo: “I watch the videos with Koeman to improve” | Mundo Deportivo

Ronald Araujo has given a big interview where he has talked about his team-mates at Barcelona and what he is doing to try and improve his game.

OFFICIAL: El Prat - Barça B postponed due to Coronavirus | Sport

Barcelona B’s clash this weekend has been postponed due to coronavirus. The RFEF have confirmed the game is off after El Prat confirmed a positive test.



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How will Barcelona line up against Athletic?

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FC Barcelona v Athletic Club - Supercopa de Espana Final
Photo by Berengui/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

The two teams meet for the third time in January

Barcelona return to La Liga action on Sunday and, after a run of eight consecutive away games, are finally back at home and able to play at the Camp Nou.

The Catalan giants will be back in familiar surroundings and are also facing familiar opponents as Athletic Club are the visitors.

The two teams have already met twice this month, in La Liga and in the Super Cup, with both games ending 3-2 and each team enjoying one victory each.

Let’s look at how Barcelona might line up:

Defense

FC Barcelona v Athletic de Bilbao - Spanish Super Cup Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Barcelona could welcome Sergi Roberto back from injury on Sunday at right-back which may come at a good time. Oscar Mingueza has done a solid job as back-up but certainly looks a far better option in central defense.

Ronald Araujo looks set to continue in the heart of the backline and may be joined by Samuel Umtiti after Clement Lenglet put in another less than impressive performance in midweek.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen will return in goal after getting a breather in the Copa del Rey, while Jordi Alba will come back into the starting XI in place of Junior Firpo.

Midfield

Cornella v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

There’s no Sergio Busquets for this one due to suspension which should mean a rare start for Miralem Pjanic, although Riqui Puig is also an option. The summer signing from Juventus has only made three La Liga starts so far but has a good chance here to try and impress Koeman.

Goal machine Frenkie de Jong looks set to continue in his more advanced role and Pedri should also start after getting a bit of a rest against Rayo. The teenager started on the bench but was needed in the second half after Barca had gone 1-0 down.

Attack

Elche CF v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images

Ousmane Dembele is another player who came off the bench against Rayo but will be hoping to be back in the starting XI. Captain Lionel Messi will also return to La Liga action after missing the win over Elche due to suspension.

Antoine Griezman should complete the line-up and comes fresh from teeing up Messi in midweek to pick up his fourth assist of 2021. The Frenchman will also need no reminding he bagged a brace last time out against Athletic.

Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Roberto, Araujo, Umtiti, Alba; De Jong, Pjanic, Pedri; Dembele, Messi, Griezmann.

How do you think Barcelona should line up against Athletic? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!



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الجمعة، 29 يناير 2021

Gossip: Messi, Todibo, Umtiti, Mingueza & Emerson latest

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Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

A look at the latest gossip

Messi ‘closer to staying’ at Barcelona

Today’s rumors start with a report that Lionel Messi is still mulling over his future and is now closer to staying at Barcelona than he was a few months ago.

Deportes Cuatro reckon the Barca captain is starting to believe in Barca again and sees some ‘green shoots’ emerging at Camp Nou both in the team and at management level.

Messi is also growing increasingly aware that even if he does decide to call time on his Barca career there’s no guarantee he will win the Champions League elsewhere.

Todibo close to Nice

Jean-Clair Todibo’s move to Nice appears to be edging closer and should be completed before the transfer window shuts at the end of January.

ESPN report that the center-back will leave his loan spell with Portuguese side Benfica and head to France for the rest of the season.

His new loan deal with the Ligue 1 team will include a purchase option which is expected to be around €8 and 10 million.

Ramon Planes report leaked

Over at Catalunya Radio there is news that a report from sporting director Ramon Planes has been leaked which discusses Barca defenders.

The report recommends Barca sign Eric Garcia from Manchester City in the winter transfer window to help cover the team’s defensive shortcomings.

Planes claims Gerard Pique is still two months away from a return, Samuel Umtiti cannot be relied on because of injury and Oscar Mingueza isn’t ready for big games.

Emerson to PSG?

And today’s final rumor comes from Cadena COPE who reckon PSG are determined to land Barcelona/Real Betis defender Emerson.

Sporting director Leonardo has already met with the player’s representatives to talk about a possible move to the Ligue 1 side.

Emerson would rather go to Barca but is not ruling out PSG. The French club would be willing to pay Barca €25 million which may go down well due to their financial problems.



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Di María: my wife said if Messi comes to PSG, I should stay even if only as a cook

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France v Argentina: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images

He is overjoyed at the idea

Ángel di María has come out and spoken favorably about the idea of Lionel Messi moving to Paris Saint-Germain. The proposed move is for now just a rumor but the possibility has ignited the imaginations of not just football fans, but players as well.

“I always had the dream of playing with Messi in a club team. Every time we go to the Argentine national team, it seems very short. I always had the dream of playing with him, having him by my side every day,” he said.

“I had, at one time, chances to go to FC Barcelona, but it was not possible. It seems that there is another chance, but my contract is ending here. I don’t know what could happen, but I would love it, and I would be very happy.”

“I had the chance to play with Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Kylian Mbappé. Playing with Leo ... I could retire happily,” said the Argentine.

“My wife told me ‘if Leo comes, we stay and at the very least you can stay on as a cook.’ That tells you everything. [...] It would be the best. I couldn’t ask for anything more in football.”

Messi publicly declared he wanted to leave FC Barcelona last season but ultimately was denied permission, and he agreed to stay at least for one more year rather than enter a protracted league battle. Now, it remains to be seen whether the star player will attempt once again to leave in the summer.



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Barca receive mixed injury news ahead of Athletic clash

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FC Barcelona v Athletic de Bilbao - Spanish Super Cup
Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Good and bad news from the training ground

There was mixed news from the Barcelona training ground after Friday’s session ahead of the weekend’s visit from Athletic in La Liga.

Sergi Roberto took part in the session and left feeling good which suggests he will get the medical green light before the match, according to AS.

The 28-year-old has not featured since picking up a thigh injury in November but could be set to make his first appearance of 2021.

Roberto’s chances of starting have also increased as Sergino Dest did not train with the group and instead did work in the gym.

The right-back is struggling to shake off a thigh injury and looks set to miss out again at the weekend.

Oscar Mingueza has been filling in at right-back but could make way for Roberto, while there will also be changes in midfield as Sergio Busquets misses out through suspension.



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Koeman attempts to light a fire under Trincao - report

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FBL-ESP-LIGA-BARCELONA-REAL SOCIEDAD
Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images

The youngster is yet to find his best form

Francisco Trincao has had an interesting run at Barcelona thus far. The winger hasn’t really found a great place at the club as of yet, and Ronald Koeman seems to want to light a fire under him.

The Barca boss reportedly met with Trincao after the Copa del Rey win over Cornella to discuss his performance. The match overall was a bit of a struggle for Barca, and Trincao equaled that difficult performance.

Despite starting the match, he wasn’t all that productive. His overall performance wasn’t horrible, he just didn’t look effective at all and was taken off in the second half for Ousmane Dembele who went on to break the deadlock in extra-time.

The report reckons Koeman asked Trincao to improve his decision-making and “to be brave in the final third.” The coach also “reiterated his confidence” in the player despite his difficult start.

The hope from Koeman is that Trincao can improve and that Barca can find strength in depth from their squad players. A boost in performance from Trincao would be huge.



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Pep gives Eric Garcia update amid Barca rumors

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Manchester City Players Return to Pre-Season Training
Photo by Matt McNulty - Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images

The Manchester City defender’s future keeps making headlines

Pep Guardiola is consistently asked many questions in his Manchester City press conferences. Usually it revolves around the health of Sergio Aguero and the under performing nature of his club. However, as of late, the City boss and Barca legend has been consistently asked about Eric Garcia.

The nature of the Eric Garcia, Barca, and City love triangle has been a fun one to watch. Like Pep, I’m sure the rest of us are ready for this saga to end. At the very least we can look forward to this summer.

“I don’t want to talk about this case. People talk a lot. He is our player. The transfer window finishes in a few days. We are fully committed to having him [Garcia] here because he is an exceptional player and guy.”

Guardiola | Source

The chances of Garcia arriving in January look increasingly slim with Barca struggling financially and only days left in the current window.



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Barca to face Granada in Copa del Rey quarter-finals

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Granada CF v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Javier Montano/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

The draw’s been made!

Barcelona will take on Granada in the quarter-finals of the 2020-21 Copa del Rey with the tie set to be played next week.

The draw was made on Friday and saw the Catalan giants drawn away to Diego Martínez’s men.

Granada hammered third-tier side Navalcarnero 6-0 on Thursday to book their place in the last eight.

Here’s a look at the full draw:

Granada vs Barcelona

Real Betis vs Athletic

Levante vs Villarreal

Almeria vs Sevilla

Barcelona made the trip to Los Carmenes at the start of the year and ran out 4-0 winners with Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann both scoring twice.

The hosts ended the game with 10 men after Jesus Vallejo was sent off in the second half.



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FC Barcelona News: 29 January 2021

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Atletico de Madrid v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and transfer rumors

Sergi Roberto’s return to be determined on Friday | Marca

Sergi Roberto will train with the team on Friday which will allow the coaching staff to determine whether he’s fit enough to make his comeback against Athletic on Sunday.

Pochettino: “Would I like Messi at PSG? What do you think?!” | AS

Mauricio Pochettino has been asked about Lionel Messi moving to PSG again and spoke of his admiration for the Barcelona captain.

Yerry Mina on spell at Barcelona: I didn’t get the game time I needed | Marca

Former Barcelona defender Yerry Mina has reflected on his brief time with the Catalan giants and says he didn’t get the game time he needed at the Camp Nou.

De Jong’s former coach Jos Bogers on his attacking shift | Sport

Frenkie de Jong’s former coach Jos Bogers, who worked with the midfielder at Willem II, feels the Dutch star is happier in his more advanced role at Barca.

‘Super Champions League’: UEFA plans new tournament from 2024 | AS

UEFA is planning a revamped version of the Champions League and is negotiating with top clubs. The new tournament already has FIFA’s backing.

Roger Riera happy to sign for Barca despite club situation | Sport

Roger Riera has spoken about his happiness at returning to Barca B after sealing a move this week. The center-back says he’s “happy, excited and looking forward to starting.”

Todibo with plenty of options as Benfica exit draws near | Football Espana

Jean-Clair Todibo is close to leaving Benfica after struggling for game time. Nice are favorites but St-Etienne, Milan, Napoli, Parma and Lazio are all reportedly keen.

Ter Stegen, Pedri and Riqui Puig bring hope to three sick children | FC Barcelona

Barcelona stars Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Pedri and Riqui Puig all took time to have an online chat this week with three children suffering from serious illness.



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الخميس، 28 يناير 2021

Jean-Clair Todibo in talks with Nice: report

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Estrela Amadora SAD v SL Benfica - Portuguese Cup 2020/21
Photo by Paulo Nascimento/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The defender could be on the move

Jean-Clair Todibo could be on the move again before the close of the transfer window and may be heading back to France.

The Barcelona center-back left for a loan spell with Benfica in October but has struggled for game time in Portugal and has only managed two appearances so far.

According to various reports, Todibo is now in talks with Nice over a move to the Ligue 1 side for the rest of the 2020-21 season.

French daily newspaper Nice-Matin reckons a deal is so close to being done but probably not in time for Todibo to face St-Etienne on the weekend.

There’s also no mention of whether it will be a loan or a permanent deal, although Barca would probably prefer a sale given their financial situation.

Nice are currently in 12th place in the table and are managed by Adrian Ursea who took over in December after Patrick Vieira was sacked after two and a half years.



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Who could Barca draw in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals?

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Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

The Catalans are into the last eight

Barcelona safely made it through to the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey with victory over Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday and will take their place in Friday’s draw.

The tournament represents Barca’s best chance of silverware this season and is already missing some big names with Real Madrid and Atletico having suffered early exits.

Real Sociedad are the latest big name to be eliminated. The Basque side, who still have to play the 2019-20 final against Athletic, went out after defeat to Real Betis in the last 16.

Here’s a look at the seven other teams bidding for glory alongside Barcelona.

Real Betis

Almeria

Sevilla

Levante

Villarreal

Granada

Athletic Club

The quarter-final ties will be played next week from 2-4 February and will be single-leg games. Extra-time and penalties will be used for any games that are level after 90 minutes.

You can watch the draw live from 13:00 CET/12:00 GMT/7:00 ET via the RFEF’s YouTube channel.



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Joan Laporta and Carles Tusquets in conflict over Eric García signing

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FC Porto v Manchester City: Group C - UEFA Champions League
Photo by Matt McNulty - Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images

The interim president accused the leading candidate of putting himself above the club

Joan Laporta, the leading candidate for FC Barcelona’s presidency, has reportedly responded to a message from Carles Tusquets, the interim president, which accused him of putting his own interests above the club’s.

The disagreement stems from the proposed signing of Eric García (Manchester City) this winter. Victor Font, another candidate, reportedly agreed with the signing. Another candidate, Toni Freixa, reportedly responded with a neutral tone to the idea.

But Laporta disagreed, apparently arguing that the team had no money and should sign the defender on a free transfer in the summer. He publicly told a newspaper the defender should make more of an effort to come to Barcelona, and that he did not see a reason to strengthen a rival economically if he could come for free.

Tusquets reportedly wrote a letter to Laporta, accusing the former president of “threatening” him, and sending a harsh message that Laporta should put the interests of the club above his own electoral interests.

Laporta’s reply was shared with a Spanish newspaper, and it reads, in part: ‘’I am sorry that you have considered my good faith requests, reflections, suggestions, proposals and warnings as threats. It couldn’t be further from my intention.”

García’s signing this transfer window is up in the air and Laporta could be one of the people who holds it up. Is he making the right choice?



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BB Podcast: Barca debts, elections, and a CL date with PSG

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UEFA Champions League”FC Barcelona v Paris Saint Germain”

Talking all things Barca

This week on the Barca Blaugranes podcast, I chat about Barcelona’s recent run of good form. Then dive into the upcoming presidential elections and remind myself what they mean for the future of the club.

Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more here.



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Five talking points from Rayo Vallecano 1-2 Barcelona

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Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

Ronald Koeman’s men are into the quarter-finals

Frenkie the goal machine

Another game and another goal for Frenkie de Jong who has transformed himself into something of a goal machine in recent weeks. The Dutchman hit the winner against Rayo Vallecano with what was his fifth of the season.

There’s no doubt at all that De Jong is in red-hot form in front of goal right now.

De Jong might have scored earlier in the game but hit the crossbar, something Riqui Puig and Lionel Messi also managed, as Barca struggled in front of goal to start with.

Yet the visitors sprang into life after going behind with De Jong thumping home the winner from close range following a Jordi Alba cross with 10 minutes left to play.

It was an important strike too which ensured Barca avoided playing extra-time for the fourth time this month and instead safely took their place in the quarter-finals.

Messi loves playing Rayo

Barcelona’s equalizer had come from the feet of Lionel Messi who was back in the team after a two-match suspension and making his 76th appearance in the Copa del Rey, a new Barcelona record.

The Argentine also got his team back on level terms from an Antoine Griezmann cross after Fran Garcia had given the hosts a shock lead. That’s now 15 for the season for Messi, something he has done many, many times before.

The skipper also played a big role in De Jong’s winner. It was Messi’s ball out to Jordi Alba that created the chance, while he probably ought to have added a third late on but dwelt too long on the ball.

Messi looked happy to be back in action and certainly seems to enjoy taking on Rayo Vallecano. He now has 18 goals in just 11 appearances against the Madrid-based side.

Barca making hard work of the Copa del Rey

Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

Barca may be safely into the quarter-finals but there’s no doubt they made life hard for themselves again in the Copa del Rey. Koeman’s men needed extra-time to see off Cornella in the last round and the coach had to call on the cavalry once again after seeing his team go behind.

Pedri, Ousmane Dembele, and Jordi Alba all came off the bench after Barca had gone 1-0 down and helped the team to victory. Alba was a vast improvement on the left and set up the winner, while a great pass to Messi from Pedri should have resulted in a third.

Of course Barca had been a little unfortunate in front of goal before the substitutions. The visitors hit the woodwork three times, while Francisco Trincao might have won a penalty (or even two) on another night.

Lenglet, Junior struggles continue

Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

Barca also had difficulties in defense where Clement Lenglet was back in the team in place of Samuel Umtiti but continued to struggle. The Frenchman is in the midst of a difficult season and again cost his team a goal.

Lenglet was beaten far too easily by Alvaro for the opener, and Koeman will surely be concerned about the Frenchman’s continued poor form.

Junior Firpo also failed to impress at left-back in a performance that will surely push him closer to the Barca exit door. The 24-year-old was poor going forward, something that was highlighted further when Alba arrived and promptly delivered some quality into the final third.

Riqui & Trincao earn Koeman praise

Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

There was also more game time for Riqui Puig and Trincao who both started the match as Koeman made changes to his starting XI. Puig was hooked at half-time last time out against Cornella but did make it out for the second half this time around.

After opening his account for Barca at the weekend he almost scored his second but was denied by the crossbar. Trincao also could have got his name on the scoresheet but saw a shot saved by Stole Dimitrievski when he probably ought to have passed.

Both players were taken off after Barca went behind but still did enough to earn praise from their manager after the match.

“They played a good game. Trincao has created danger and Riqui has been good between the lines where there were a lot of people and the field was not good but he has worked a lot. The changes have been to give freshness.”

The jury’s still out on Trincao who is yet to score for Barca in 24 appearances, while Koeman’s comments suggests Puig may slowly be finally winning over his manager.



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FC Barcelona News: 28 January 2021

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FC Barcelona v Valencia CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and transfer rumors

Rayo Vallecano 1-2 Barça: Safely through to the quarters - FC Barcelona
Second division Rayo Vallecano proved a very tough opponent to break down in Wednesday’s Copa de Rey tie. Barça may have dominated but the opening goal just didn’t want to come, and were made to pay when the home side ended up scoring first.

Messi surpasses Samitier as the Barça player with the most Copa del Rey matches played - FC Barcelona
This Wednesday, in Vallecas, Leo Messi has surpassed Barça legend, Josep Samitier, in the list of FC Barcelona players with the most matches played in the history of the Copa del Rey. Messi now has 76 appearances in the competition, one more than the player of exactly a century ago.

Ronald Koeman on Frenkie de Jong: "He's more complete now than when he played for Ajax" - Football Espana
Barcelona beat Segunda side Rayo Vallecano 2-1 this evening at Vallecas to progress to the quarter-final of the Copa del Rey. The competition is more important than usual to Barcelona given they’re off the pace in La Liga and unconvincing in Europe.

Barça midfielder De Jong: “We're growing every week & in every game” - SPORT
De Jong is enjoying the more advanced role that coach Ronald Koeman has handed to him. "I am getting into the area more and for that reason I am scoring more goals," he told Barça TV. "Although it's a little soon to say I have added that aspect to my game."

Barcelona closely monitoring Argentine wonderkid - Football Espana
Barcelona are continuing to follow the progress of Argentine wonderkid Thiago Almada according to journalist Nico de la Rua and carried by Diario Sport. The 19 year-old, currently at Velez Sarsfield, is the subject of interest from a host of European clubs, with Marseille said to be intent on taking him across the Atlantic this transfer window.

Esport 3: Barcelona make contact with Valencia for left-back Gaya - SPORT
Barcelona are targeting Valencia left-back Jose Luis Gaya, according to a report on Catalan television channel Esport 3. Barça have supposedly already been in contact with Valencia to sound out the terms of a possible deal for the Spain defender.



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How do Barcelona solve their left-back problem?

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Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

Firpo has to go

Another tough night against a supposedly inferior team, but Rayo deserve an awful lot of credit for staying in the game as long as they did and taking the lead.

That they did so was due in no small part to Junior Firpo being in a different district of Madrid.

In fact, he wasn’t on his team-mates’ wavelength for much of the match, and Messi’s first half-reaction when Firpo fell over the ball rather than play a one-two told its own story.

Let’s be crystal clear. Junior Firpo isn’t a Barca player. Never was, never will be. He was brought in for Quique Setien and should go the same way as our former manager. Out of the nearest exit.

Elche CF v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Fortunately, his replacement on the night, Jordi Alba, delivered the goods.

Great as he was in his brief cameo, it only highlights the issue that Barca have had for years in that position and that is there is no-one to challenge Alba on a weekly basis.

If we want to scale the heights domestically and in Europe again, we need genuine competition for places, and the one area where we are woefully short in that regard is the left side of defence.

Barca B star, Alejandro Balde, has been talked up in dispatches, and some watchers would have you believe that he’s ready to make the step up.

He’s strong, athletic and quick and has all of the attributes a left-back at the club should have, however, with respect, it might still be just a little too early for him.

FC Barcelona B v RCD Espanyol B - Segunda Division B Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

I’m all for another La Masia graduate coming through the ranks, but can we honestly say we would want a defence with Araujo, Mingueza and Balde in situ at this point?

Are we that brave?

It’s important that we shield our young jewels, develop them and unleash them when the time is right, not before. Though it is worth posing the question as to whether Koeman can afford to ignore his claims?

It’s a shame that more consideration in the past wasn’t given to the likes of Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Grimaldo or others.

We’ll never know if they would’ve made the cut, but they were the right age and could’ve slotted into the team nicely.

With rumours now doing the rounds that there’s interest in Jose Gaya, there’s a glimmer of hope that Alba may soon be looking over his shoulder, but even at a reported €15m, Barca will surely have to sell in the summer before they can buy.



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الأربعاء، 27 يناير 2021

Koeman: De Jong now ‘more complete’ than he was at Ajax

By  11:03 م  No comments
Rayo Vallecano V FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Irina R. Hipolito / Europa Press Sports via Getty Images

The midfielder was the match winner in the Copa del Rey

Ronald Koeman was happy with his team after seeing them come from behind to beat Rayo Vallecano in the Copa del Rey and book their place in the quarter-finals of the competition.

Goals from Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong were enough for victory, and Koeman was particularly happy with the Dutchman’s display.

“I know Frenkie has a lot of quality as a player to help build from the back but he has also had to give the team more offensively. We have talked about this and that he had to score more goals than just one per season. I think he is more complete than at Ajax.

“Although he tries to help with Busquets in the construction, his arrival and depth of arriving at the right time helps us more in creating and scoring goals. It is the player himself who has changed. He is playing higher and we needed a midfielder that would reach the area more.”

Koeman also offered some rare praise to Riqui Puig and Francisco Trincao. Both players started the game but came off in the second half as the coach made a triple substitution that helped turn the game.

“They played a good game. Trincao has created danger and Riqui has been good between the lines where there were a lot of people and the field was not good but he has worked a lot. The changes have been to give freshness.”

Source | Mundo Deportivo

Barca now head into Friday’s draw and join La Liga rivals such as Sevilla, Real Betis, Levante, and Villarreal who are also through.



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Barcelona linked with José Luis Gayà again

By  7:03 م  No comments
Atletico de Madrid v Valencia CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

The Valencia fullback has been linked with a big move for a while

FC Barcelona is once again thinking about José Luis Gayà. Several reports point to the Valencia left-back possibly joining next summer, after Barcelona sell Junior Firpo. He would compete with Jordi Alba, another former Valencia player, for the starting position, if he were to sign.

Gayà has been linked with a move to either Barcelona or Real Madrid for a very long time, but it’s never quite come to pass.

A Spanish international, the 25 year old is considered to be both young and with lots of quality. For a rumored 15 million euros plus bonuses, he could potentially be quite a good deal.

Of course that first depends on actually getting a good deal for Firpo first, as Barcelona are not exactly flush with cash at the moment.

Alfonso Pedraza, the 24-year-old Valencia fullback, is considered a backup option. He spent last season on loan to Real Betis and is having a good term this time around. He is a former Spanish youth international, who came through Villarreal’s academy.

Angeliño is also considered an option, but he could be harder to land as he plays for Manchester City, and the English club don’t necessarily need to sell. He’s another 24-year-old former Spanish youth international. He was signed as a youth player from Deportivo La Coruña. He has bounced around on loan many places but is making a name for himself with RB Leipzig,



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De Jong & Araujo react to Barca’s Copa del Rey win

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Juventus v FC Barcelona: Group G - UEFA Champions League
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The visitors came from behind to beat Rayo Vallecano

Frenkie de Jong and Ronald Araujo both offered their thoughts on Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday.

The visitors were forced to come from behind against the Segunda Division side. Lionel Messi equalized before De Jong hit the winner late on.

The Dutchman seemed pretty happy to have made it through to the quarter-finals and is hoping Barca can go all the way in the competition.

“It was really important for us. We really want to win the cup this year because it’s a trophy so today was an important game for us. I don’t know how many more goals I’ll score

“We created enough chances and we played quite well. We’re feeling good and we’re getting better each week, so we have to continue like this. It’s very important to have made it to the next round.”

Araujo was also in the starting XI again versus Rayo Vallecano and admitted it had been a tough match.

“The truth is that it was a difficult game, I think we should have sealed the game before. The important thing is to progress and that is what we have done.

“We want to fight for this Copa del Rey and it is important for us. Winning away was something that we had pending but this month has changed. The results are the result of the work we are doing. Let the streak continue.”

The match was Barca’s eighth in a row away from home. The team now heads back to the Camp Nou for Sunday’s La Liga clash against Athletic.



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Rayo 1-2 Barça: Recap

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Real Valladolid v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

A big scare from Rayo, but Barça got the job done

Barcelona are through to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals thanks to a 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano in Madrid in a one-off Round of 16 tie that was highly entertaining. Rayo took a shocking lead in the second half, but Barça kept attacking and found the winning goals to advance to the Last Eight.

FIRST HALF

It was a good first half to watch, unlike the last Copa game at Cornellá. Barça had a stronger team and Rayo came to play early on, pressing high up the pitch and forcing the Blaugrana into bad passes in their own half, though the Vallecas side couldn’t translate those mistakes into chances.

Barça spent most of the time in Rayo’s half but had to be patient against a solid defense, but they still managed to create three big chances: the first came on a cross by Junior Firpo that Frenkie De Jong got to before the goalkeeper, but the Dutchman’s shot hit the crossbar; the second and third chances came in the same play after Francisco Trincão won the ball on the right, carried into the box and tried to score it himself, but Dimitrievski made a big save and Riqui Puig seized on the rebound but saw his shot deflected into the bar.

There was also a strong penalty shout early on for Barça as Catena appeared to hit Trincão’s leg inside the box, but both the referee and VAR saw no foul and ignored Barça’s appeals. At halftime, a good match was goalless but it seemed as though the game would open up in the second half.

SECOND HALF

The second half was intense and physical, and Barça kept attacking and hit the crossbar for a third time on a Lionel Messi free-kick. The Blaugrana started to amp up the pressure and get closer to the opening goal, and then disaster happened: a lightining quick counter attack from Rayo ended with a deflected cross and a tap-in for Real Madrid loanee Fran García to give the home team the lead.

But Barça reacted quickly thanks to a brilliant pass from De Jong to find Antoine Griezmann, and the Frenchman gave Lionel Messi a tap-in for the equalizer. With 10 minutes to go, Barça found the winner: another brilliant pass, this time from Messi to find Jordi Alba, and Alba gave De Jong a tap-in to put the Blaugrana ahead.

The visitors had a chance to make it 3-1 in injury time when Pedri put Messi all alone in front of goal, but the captain tried to round the keeper and a defender in the goal line and missed a golden chance. Rayo tried pressing for a late equalizer but couldn’t find it, and the final whistle came to give Barça the win.

It is rare to see a comeback from Barça against any team, so they deserve credit for not letting their heads drop after Rayo’s goal. Frenkie De Jong was huge again, and Koeman’s decision to start him was justified. We’re onto the quarterfinals, and no extra time in this one.

Rayo: Dimitrievski; Hernández (Advíncula 83’), Saveljich, Catena, Martos (Isi 83’); Trejo, Comesaña; Martín (Suárez 71’), Montiel (Álvaro 56’), García; Qasmi (Antoñín 71’)

Goal: García (63’)

Barcelona: Neto; Mingueza, Araujo, Lenglet, Firpo (Alba 68’); De Jong, Busquets, Puig (Pedri 68’); Trincão (Dembélé 68’), Messi, Griezmann (Braithwaite 85’)

Goals: Messi (69’), De Jong (80’)



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