الأربعاء، 30 يونيو 2021

Barca ready to take ‘drastic’ action with Umtiti - report

By  9:05 م  No comments
FC Barcelona v Granada CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

The defender is not wanted at the Camp Nou

Barcelona are reportedly willing to take “drastic action” with defender Samuel Umtiti and have a couple of ideas of how to offload the unwanted Frenchman.

The center-back has been deemed surplus to requirements by the Catalan giants who are determined to remove the Frenchman and his salary from the wage bill.

There been reports recently that Umtiti had finally acknowledged it might be time to look for a new team, but the latest update from Diario Sport suggests that’s not the case.

The Catalan daily report Umtiti wants to stay, doesn’t mind being on the bench and is convinced he can convince Ronald Koeman of his qualities.

Yet Barca aren’t having any of it and are determined to let Umtiti go. The plan is for more negotiations as they don’t want the center-back around by the time pre-season starts.

The first option is to cut his salary and seek a loan. Umtiti isn’t too keen on the idea and there’s talk of Lyon being interested. Marseille have been rumored but are said to be worried about Umtiti’s knee.

The Catalans think a move to France or Italy would work and “are going to try and force him out quickly.” There’s no mention of exactly how they plan to do that but Matheus Fernandes is cited as an example that Barca mean business this summer.

The club confirmed on Tuesday that Fernandes’s contract had been terminated and he’d been told he’s no longer wanted at the Camp Nou. The Brazilian only arrived last year on a five-year deal from Palmeiras.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3jwP7X4
Read More

Leeds United tipped to sign Junior Firpo this week

By  5:03 م  No comments
Granada v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Jeroen Meuwsen/Soccrates/Getty Images

The left-back could be packing his bags

Leeds United are close to signing FC Barcelona left-back Junior Firpo, according to The Athletic.

Left-back is a priority for the English club and they see Firpo as their number one choice. A medical is expected to be performed in Leeds before confirming the transfer.

The 24-year-old has failed to challenge Jordi Alba for the starting left-back berth at the Camp Nou since joining from Real Betis. The Catalans have reportedly been looking to move the Spanish youth international, who was born in the Dominican Republic, for a good fee.

After moving to Andalusia at age six, Firpo went up through local clubs before getting his breakthrough with Betis at the age of 18. Barcelona signed him for €18 million in 2019. However, he made only 41 appearances over two seasons for Barcelona.

Leeds are without a conventional left-back, having used Gjanni Alioski, normally a winger, in the position last year. In addition, Alioski has yet to renew his contract with Leeds. Therefore, they are desperate to sign a new left-back.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3hlLjoP
Read More

Barcelona offer Sergio Busquets 50% wage cut amid economic crisis

By  4:03 م  No comments
SD Eibar v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

The Catalans cannot afford to keep paying big wages

FC Barcelona are offering a new deal for Sergio Busquets that includes cutting his wages in half, as the Catalans attempt to survive an economic crisis after the coronavirus pandemic.

As per a new report, Busquets would extend his contract from two years to four years in the process.

In effect, he would be earning the same money, but spread across four years instead of two. However, he would get the chance to make up for it somewhat in the last two years of the contract, as he would be given extra money for meeting certain incentives.

It’s expected that the midfielder will agree to the terms, even though they constitute a significant economic reduction. He is a lifelong Barcelona player and does not want to leave.

New club president Joan Laporta is asking the veterans to accept pay cuts in order to remain at a club that is struggling to pay an enormous wage bill, particularly after the economic crisis that followed the pandemic last year.

Busquets is currently starting for Spain in the European Championship, and no agreement is expected to be reached so long as he is still a part of that competition.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/2TnotFd
Read More

Pep recommends Luis Enrique for a Barca return - report

By  3:03 م  No comments
Croatia v Spain - UEFA Euro 2020: Round of 16
Photo by Martin Rose - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

The coach has been chatting with Joan Laporta

Former Barcelona manager and current Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reportedly commented yet again on his old club this week. Pep is usually asked about the managerial situation and gives some sort of nonsense answer. This time around he recommended Spain’s current savior Luis Enrique.

This comes to us via Onze on Esport and outlines Pep’s recommendation to Barca president Joan Laporta. The two lads were apparently golfing and decided to chat about the interesting managerial situation at the club that saw Laporta end up deciding to keep Ronald Koeman.

Pep apparently told Laporta once again that he doesn’t want to come back to Camp Nou and take charge but thinks Lucho may be up for another stint as boss of the Catalan giants.

We’ll just have to see how long Koeman lasts before the rumors start coming out that Laporta is unhappy. Then perhaps he’ll take Guardiola up on his recommendation.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3ybsBa0
Read More

Barcelona kick off 2021-22 La Liga season against Real Sociedad

By  11:03 ص  No comments
FBL-ESP-LIGA-BARCELONA-REAL SOCIEDAD
Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images

The fixtures for the new campaign have been set

Barcelona will begin the 2021-22 La Liga season with a visit from Real Sociedad on Sunday, August 15.

The fixtures for the new campaign have been confirmed on Wednesday with Barca facing Imanol Alguacil’s side first up.

The game takes place at the Camp Nou and will, fingers crossed, be played in front of supporters. La Liga expects to begin the season with about 70% capacity at stadiums, according to ESPN.

Real Sociedad finished fifth last season and also won the delayed 2020 Copa del Rey just two weeks before Barcelona picked up the 2021 trophy.

Champions Atletico Madrid begin the defense of their title away at Celta Vigo, while Real Madrid open up away at Alaves.

Barca have also confirmed the dates of the two games against Espanyol which will take place at the Camp Nou on the weekend of 21 November and at the RCDE Stadium on 13 February 2022.

The dates for the two Clasico clashes against Real Madrid have also been confirmed, while Barca will head to Atletico Madrid in Week 8 (03/10/2021) and welcome the champions to the Camp Nou on Week 23 (06/02/2022).

The last weekend of the 2021-22 La Liga season will be on the weekend of the 22 May 2022, and Barca’s final fixture is another home game with Europa League winners Villarreal the visitors to the Camp Nou.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/2SDpkkR
Read More

Inter keen on Barcelona’s Sergi Roberto?

By  8:03 ص  No comments
FC Barcelona v Granada CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images

A fresh new transfer rumor

Serie A champions Inter are reportedly interested in signing Sergi Roberto and have been in touch with Barcelona to talk about a possible transfer.

The Nerazzurri are after a replacement for Achraf Hakimi who is set to move to French side Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth around €70 million.

The news comes from Italy but Mundo Deportivo reckon they’ve been in touch with Roberto’s camp who have admitted there’s been contact from the Serie A side.

There’s been talk about Roberto’s future for a while now. The 29-year-old’s current deal expires next year and there have been conflicting reports about contract extensions.

It had been thought that Barcelona were willing to sell Roberto but had then decided to offer a contract extension as there had been no interest and the club didn’t want to run the risk of him leaving as a free agent next year.

Interest from Inter could change things once more, although there’s no indication yet of whether Roberto would be willing to leave the Camp Nou and head for a new challenge at Italy.

The versatile star has been a regular for Barca in recent seasons, mostly at right-back, but endured an injury-interrupted 2020-21 campaign and only played 17 times for the Catalans.

Ye there’s no guarantee he will be a regular going forwards either with both Sergino Dest and Emerson Royal set to challenge for the right-back slot.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3du2za4
Read More

Laporta calls for calm over Messi contract extension

By  5:07 ص  No comments
Athletic Club v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey Final
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The captain’s current deal is about to expire

Lionel Messi’s contract at Barcelona expires at midnight tonight but president Joan Laporta is remaining calm about the whole situation.

The president was met by various reporters at the club on Wednesday and, according to Mundo Deportivo, had a couple of words for those awaiting news on Messi’s future. “Be calm,” was the simple message from the president.

It seems almost certain that Messi will extend his stay at Barcelona with speculation suggesting he will sign on for another two years and then head to the MLS for a spell with Inter Miami.

Catalunya Radio report that negotiations are “well advanced” but is not completely confirmed yet and the “complexity of the contract is delaying everything.”

Yet the lack of an announcement is bound to generate headlines with the Barcelona captain set to become a free agent in under 12 hours unless an extension is finally announced before midnight.

Messi is currently away with the Argentina team at the Copa America and turned on the style last time out against Bolivia with two goals and an assist in a 4-1 win for La Albiceleste in Brazil.

The win means Argentina now face a quarter-final against Ecuador on Saturday night, and another victory would set up a sem-final tie against between either Colombia or Uruguay.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3x8MbUq
Read More

FC Barcelona News: 30 June 2021

By  3:03 ص  No comments
Olympique de Marseille Unveil New Signing Konrad de la Fuente
Photo by Jonathan Bartolozzi/Olympique de Marseille via Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

First two preseason friendlies confirmed | FC Barcelona

Barcelona have confirmed two pre-season friendlies ahead of the new season. The team will play Nastic on July 21 and Girona on July 24 at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.

Rafa Marquez to take over Barcelona’s Juvenil A side | Marca

Rafael Marquez is to take over Barcelona’s Juvenil A side with current coach Sergi Mila expected to be replaced as coach this summer.

Konrad de la Fuente: Barcelona youngster joins Marseille | AS

Konrad de la Fuente has left Barcelona and joined French side Marseille on a four-year contract. The 19-year-old winger moves for a fee of 3 million euros.

Matheus Fernandes’ contract terminated | FC Barcelona

Barcelona have terminated the contract of midfielder Matheus Fernandes and have told the Brazilian his services are no longer required.

Manchester United’s offer that disappeared after Ousmane Dembele injury | Sport

Manchester United were reportedly willing to pay 50 million euros for Ousmane Dembele before his latest injury but that offer has now disappeared.

Willian Jose reveals Barcelona and Manchester United wanted him | Football Espana

Real Sociedad striker Willian Jose has said that he was wanted by Mancester United and Barcelona but “things didn’t go well” and he ended up moving to Wolves instead.

Messi contract saga goes to the wire, but club still optimistic | Reuters

Lionel Messi has still not signed a new contract at Barcelona but the club remain optimistic he will continue his career at the Camp Nou.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3hqGJpo
Read More

الثلاثاء، 29 يونيو 2021

Pedri’s excellence and Lenglet’s season to forget are major headaches for Barcelona

By  11:04 م  No comments
FBL-ESP-LIGA-LEVANTE-BARCELONA
Photo by JOSE JORDAN/AFP via Getty Images

Two differing trajectories...

Two opposite sides of the same coin.

On the one hand we have Pedri. An absolute shining star for club and country and, injuries permitting, sure to go on and become a legend for both.

On the other is Clement Lenglet. A defender who, on his day, deserves his place at the heart of the Barcelona and French national team defences. However, his best days appear long gone.

The conundrum that both have presented Barcelona with too, is likely to cause the club all manner of problems for the 2021/22 campaign.

Looking at Lenglet’s situation first of all, his form has fallen so far over the cliff edge that he needs to be sold. This summer.

France v Switzerland - UEFA European Championship 2020, Round of 16 Photo by Baptiste Fernandez/Icon Sport via Getty Images

Far too often last season he was found wanting, even in the most basic aspects of defending. That’s just not good enough for Barca, and the squad have enough players in the position to be able to account for his permanent absence.

There are only so many times that you can make excuses for a player who is supposed to be of international class.

Pedri is at the opposite end of the scale.

The way he has seamlessly fitted in to Barca’s first-team and the Spanish senior side is nothing short of sensational.

However, that success is going to come at a price.

He has played non-stop virtually for the entirety of the 2020/21 campaign, is now spearheading Spain’s charge to a potential European Championship title, and will also be expected to turn out for his country at the Olympics.

Barca have lodged their arguments against that happening and well they might.

Croatia v Spain - UEFA Euro 2020: Round of 16 Photo by Martin Rose - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

The 18-year-old is an integral part of Ronald Koeman’s set-up, and the risk of burnout is very real indeed.

It’s clear Pedri needs a rest if he wants to be able to give his best throughout the upcoming campaign.

The RFEF are believed to have frowned upon Barca’s request to stop the player from participating, though perhaps the final decision should be left to the player, much like the club did when a certain Leo Messi wanted to appear for Argentina.

Pedri will know his body better than anyone else and from what we can deduce from post-match interviews and interviews more generally, he has an old head on young shoulders.

Of the pair, the more worrying situation is arguably Lenglet’s. Barca simply cannot afford to have this man as a bedrock of their back four for a moment longer.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3dtu9V4
Read More

Barcelona don’t want Pedri heading to Olympics - report

By  7:03 م  No comments
Spain v Poland - UEFA Euro 2020: Group E
Photo by Aitor Alcalde - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

The youngster has been included in the Spain squad

Barcelona have reportedly been in touch with the RFEF to request that young midfielder Pedri does not head off to the Tokyo Olympics this summer.

The 18-year-old has been included in the 22-man squad for the tournament which starts in July shortly after the end of Euro 2020.

Pedri is currently playing for Spain at the Euros and faces a frantic summer if he does end up playing at the Olympics as well.

According to Cadena SER, Barca are worried about Pedri taking part in the Olympics after his exertions at the Euros where he’s emerged as a key player for Luis Enrique’s side.

Barca have asked the RFEF to leave him out of the squad as they want him to have more rest before the start of the new La Liga season in mid-August.

Pedri was rested at the end of last season by Barca after making 52 appearances in all competition for the Catalan giants in his first season at the club. He missed the final La Liga game of the campaign against Eibar after being granted permission to take an early holiday.

Yet Barcelona’s request does not seem to have gone down too well. Onda Cero report that the RFEF want Pedri to take part and aren’t at all keen on leaving him out.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3w6lUVx
Read More

Barcelona looking into a Sergi Roberto contract extension - report

By  3:03 م  No comments
Levante UD v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

A two-year deal is being considered

One of the many players who seem to be involved in a different sort of rumor each summer is Barcelona’s Sergi Roberto. The Barca midfielder seems to be either among the massive list of players Barcelona are planning on selling or a key part of the future.

This time around it's a bit in between. Barcelona are reportedly interested in a contract extension with Roberto. His contract expires next summer and so far Barcelona haven’t been able to find any suitors in the price range they’re looking to sell him for.

Which puts them in an interesting situation. They don’t want him leaving for free next summer, but they’re also sure he can’t continue at the club with his current contractual situation. The next best option to selling might just be a renewal at a decreased price.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3vZKyHe
Read More

Sweden vs Ukraine: LIVE BLOG!

By  12:03 م  No comments
Sweden v Ukraine - UEFA Euro 2020: Round of 16
Photo by Jan Kruger - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

The final game of the Round of 16 is here!

It’s time for the final match of the Euro 2020 Round of 16! The knockout stages have been amazing so far, and we conclude the Last Sixteen with the least glamourous but a very intriguing tie between Sweden and Ukraine in Glasgow.

Sweden come into this one as the favorites after a strong group stage, winning Spain’s group without defeat. They have Real Sociedad striker Alexander Isak leading the line and a very well-organized team behind him, while Ukraine come into this one as the worst third-placed side but with enough individual talents to pull off the upset in this one.

This should be fun. Here we go!

LINEUPS

SWEDEN

Starting XI: Olsen; Lustig, Lindelöf, Danielson, Augustinsson; Larsson, Olsson, Ekdal, Forsberg; Kulusevski, Isak (4-4-2)

Bench: Johnsson (GK), Nordfeldt (GK), Bengtsson, Berg, Svensson, Helander, Sema, Krafth, Claesson, Jansson, Quaison, Cajuste

UKRAINE

Starting XI: Bushchan; Karavaev, Zabarnyi, Kryvstov, Matviyenko; Sydorchuk, Stepanenko, Zinchenko; Yarmolenko, Yaremchuk, Shaparenko (4-3-3)

Bench: Pyatov (GK), Trubin (GK), Sobol, Malinovskyi, Marlos, Makarenko, Tsygankov, Mykolenko, Bezus, Besedin, Tymchyk, Dobvyk

MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: UEFA Euro 2020, Round of 16

Date/Time: Tuesday, June 29, 2021, 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Wednesday)

Venue: Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland

Referee: Daniele Orsato (ITA)

VAR: Massimiliano Irrati (ITA)

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM EURO 2020 ONLINE

How to watch on TV: ESPN (USA), BBC One (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), others

How to watch online: ESPN+, FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), others

LIVE BLOG



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3hkGtYK
Read More

Lautaro seems to have worn Messi’s good luck charm before scoring

By  11:03 ص  No comments
Bolivia v Argentina: Group A - Copa America Brazil 2021
Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images

Martínez was in a goal drought but scored with his first touch since apparently receiving the gift

Lautaro Martínez scored a fortunate goal against Bolivia that ended his personal goal drought for Argentina, with his first touch after coming in as a substitute in the albiceleste’s 4-1 win.

The striker was presented with an open net from point-blank range, and he did not miss, boosting his confidence as Copa América is about to enter the knockout stage.

And while it has not been confirmed, it seems that Lionel Messi may have played a hand in Martínez’s change in fortune.

In training prior to the match, he was seen with a red ribbon around his wrist, something unusual for the Inter Milan forward.

That has led to speculation that it’s Messi’s lucky red ribbon which was given to him at the previous FIFA World Cup. A journalist gave it to the star player after explaining his mother gave it to him for good luck. Argentina were facing elimination and Messi had missed a penalty against Iceland. Argentina would win the next match, with Messi scoring a trademark goal.

The ribbon has then been seen on Messi’s teammates who were undergoing a bad run of form, like fellow FC Barcelona forward Philippe Coutinho and Argentina compatriot Paulo Dybala. Dybala scored his first goal for the national team against Chile after being given the charm.

”Messi gave me the red ribbon before the match to give me luck. I ended up scoring my first goal for Argentina, it worked and I thank him,” Dybala said.

Martínez has not publicly commented on the picture but the scenario (a teammate undergoing a goal drought) fits with this pattern.

He wore long sleeves during the match against Bolivia so it was not possible to tell if he wore the ribbon around the wrist. In addition, he may have worn it around his ankle under his sock, as Messi did during matches.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3dsY1Rn
Read More

OFFICIAL: Konrad leaves Barcelona for Marseille

By  11:03 ص  No comments
RCD Espanyol B v FC Barcelona B - Segunda Division B
Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

The teeenager has moved on a permanent transfer

Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday that Konrad de la Fuente has left the Camp Nou and moved to Ligue 1 side Marseille.

The transfer has been rumored for a few days now but has finally been made official with the 19-year-old going for a fee of €3 million.

Here’s the official statement:

“FC Barcelona and Olympique de Marseille have reached an agreement for the transfer of Konrad de la Fuente for 3 million euros. Barça will retain a percentage of any future sale of the the player.”

It’s been reported that Konrad has signed a four-year deal with Marseille and Barca will receive 50% of any future transfer.

The youngster was on the fringes of the first team last season and made two appearances in the Champions League for Ronald Koeman’s side as well as featuring for Barca B.

However, Konrad’s chances of playing regularly next season looked slim after Barca brought in Memphis Depay and Sergio Aguero and he’s now opted for a fresh challenge.

The youngster will take the No. 20 shirt at Marseille and will be hoping he can go on and make an impact under coach Jorge Sampaoli in the French top flight.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3hovYnw
Read More

England vs Germany: LIVE BLOG!

By  9:03 ص  No comments
England v Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Round of 16
Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Join us for a huge game at Wembley!

It’s time for the conclusion of the Euro 2020 Round of 16! It has been a spectacular knockout stage so far in these European Championships, and four teams fight for the final two spots in the quarterfinals today.

We begin with the big one at Wembley Stadium, as England face Germany in front of the home crowd. England and Germany go back a long way when it comes to facing each other in big tournaments, and the Germans almost always end up finding a way to win. Will it happen again?

This is going to be all kinds of fun. Here’s hoping it matches the fun of yesterday. Here we go!

LINEUPS

ENGLAND

Starting XI: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire; Trippier, Rice, Phillips, Shaw; Saka, Kane, Sterling (3-4-3)

Bench: Ramsdale (GK), Johnstone (GK), Grealish, Henderson, Rashford, Mings, Coady, Sancho, Mount, Foden, James, Bellingham

GERMANY

Starting XI: Neuer; Ginter, Hummels, Rüdiger; Kimmich, Goretzka, Kroos, Gosens; Müller, Werner, Havertz (3-4-3)

Bench: Leno (GK), Trapp (GK), Halstenberg, Volland, Gnabry, Musiala, Süle, Neuhaus, Sané, Gündogan, Can, Koch

MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: UEFA Euro 2020, Round of 16

Date/Time: Tuesday, June 29, 2021, 6pm CET (Barcelona), 5pm BST/WAT (UK), 12pm ET, 9am PT (USA), 9.30pm IST (India)

Venue: Wembley Stadium, London, England

Referee: Danny Makkelie (NED)

VAR: Pol van Boekel (NED)

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM EURO 2020

How to watch on TV: ESPN (USA), BBC One (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), others

How to watch online: ESPN+, FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), others

LIVE BLOG



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/363jyMi
Read More

Barcelona confirm Matheus Fernandes has been released

By  6:04 ص  No comments
Cornella v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The Brazilian’s contract has been terminated

Barcelona have confirmed they have terminated the contract of Brazilian midfielder Matheus Fernandes.

Here’s the club’s official, and pretty brief, statement:

“FC Barcelona has informed Brazilian player Matheus Fernandes that the club no longer requires his services and is terminating the contract he had until June 2025.”

The 22-year-old only arrived at the club from Palmeiras in 2020 on a five-year contract for a fee of €7 million, plus €3 million in variables. The deal included a buyout clause set at €300m.

Fernandes went out on loan afterwards to Real Valladolid before returning to Barcelona for the 2020-21 campaign. However, it was a tough season for the midfielder who only managed 17 minutes of action in all competitions.

The youngster gave an interview to Mundo Deportivo in May where he revealed he’d been told by Ronald Koeman that he “didn’t have the quality to play for Barça” but insisted he wanted to stay and fight for his place.

Yet Fernandes’s career with Barcelona is now over and he’ll need to look for a new club ahead of the 2021-22 campaign.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3x4jLLj
Read More

Barcelona trio called into Spain squad for Tokyo Olympics

By  6:04 ص  No comments
Spain v Poland - UEFA Euro 2020: Group E
Photo by Aitor Alcalde - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

It’s a busy summer for the youngsters

Barcelona trio Eric Garcia, Pedri, and Oscar Mingueza have all been called into the Spain squad for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Luis de la Fuente has called up 22 players for the tournament which is due to start in Japan next month.

Here’s the full list:

Of course, both Garcia and Pedri are currently away with the Spain squad at Euro 2020 and were part of the team that helped beat Croatia 5-3 on Monday to move into the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Spain go on to face Switzerland next on Friday with the semi-finals scheduled for 6-7 July and the final due to take place at Wembley Stadium on July 11.

The Spain Olympic squad is due to fly out to Japan on July 13 and will play a friendly four days later before their first game of the tournament on July 22.

It means an incredibly busy summer for the trio, particularly Pedri, who was given an early holiday at the end of the last campaign after featuring 52 times in his debut season.

The new La Liga season is due to kick off on August 14-15.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3vYZbdX
Read More

Barcelona receive offer from Granada for Alena - report

By  4:06 ص  No comments
Granada CF v Getafe CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Fermin Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

The midfielder is out of contract in 2022

Barcelona have reportedly received an offer from Granada for midfielder Carles Alena and are currently thinking it over.

According to Catalunya Radio, Granada have made an offer “based on variables” that would also include a percentage of any future sale.

Alena is out of contract in 2022 and spent the second half of last season on loan at Getafe where he made 22 appearances in La Liga.

Barca plan to study the offer carefully because they are also aware of interest in the young midfielder from Valencia, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The 23-year-old is one of the players that could potentially be used in a deal to bring left-back Jose Luis Gaya to the Camp Nou.

Barca have been linked with Gaya for a while but any transfer is likely to need players included in the deal.

Valencia are said to like both Alena and Martin Braithwaite who has also been linked with a summer exit following the arrival of attackers Memphis Depay and Sergio Aguero.

Yet any decision on Braithwaite’s future may have to wait until Denmark’s involvement in Euro 2020 is over. The Danes will play Czech Republic in the quarter-finals on Saturday.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3w4s9ZZ
Read More

FC Barcelona News: 29 June 2021

By  3:03 ص  No comments
Bolivia v Argentina: Group A - Copa America Brazil 2021
Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Messi sets Argentina appearances mark in Copa America match vs. Bolivia | ESPN

Lionel Messi became Argentina’s most capped player of all time when he made his 148th appearance for his country against Bolivia.

Leeds in advanced talks with Barcelona to sign Junior Firpo | Marca

Premier League side Leeds United are in advanced talks with Barcelona over a summer move for back-up left-back Junior Firpo.

Forward Memphis Depay will be presented at Barça after some time off | Sport

Memphis Depay will be officially presented at Barcelona after taking a holiday following the Netherlands’ exit from the European Championship.

Dembélé out for four months | FC Barcelona

Ousmane Dembele underwent successful surgery in Finland on Monday on a dislocated distal tendon in the femoral biceps of his right knee and will be out for four months.

Ludovit Reis joins Hamburger SV | FC Barcelona

Ludovit Reis has agreed to join German side Hamburger SV from Barcelona. The club will receive a series of variables and 25% of any future sale.

Busquets: Spain showed ambition, character | Sky Sports

Spain captain Sergio Busquets says his side showed ambition and character to beat Croatia 5-3 after extra-time at Euro 2020 and secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Iniesta ‘picks’ between Erling Haaland & Kylian Mbappe for Barcelona | Sport

Andres Iniesta thinks PSG star Kylian Mbappe would be a better fit for Barcelona than Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3hwYnYD
Read More

الاثنين، 28 يونيو 2021

Messi shines as Argentina cruise past Bolivia in group stage finale

By  7:03 م  No comments
FBL-2021-COPA AMERICA-BOL-ARG
Photo by DOUGLAS MAGNO/AFP via Getty Images

The captain set an appearance record and put on a show

Lionel Messi and Argentina are through to the Copa América quarterfinals as Group A winners thanks to an easy 3-0 victory over Bolivia in the group stage finale in cold, rainy Cuiabá. Messi set the all-time appearance record with his 148th cap for his country, and he marked the occasion in style with a vintage Messi performance.

Argentina dominated from the get-go, and it took just six minutes to break down the Bolivian defense thanks to a gorgeous assist from Messi and a great finish by Papu Gómez.

The Albiceleste continued to dominate possession and create chances against the worst team in the tournament, and Gómez was brought down by Ibáñez inside the box to win a penalty. Messi stepped up to the spot and scored with ease to make it 2-0.

Then came the goal of the match as Sergio Agüero played a gorgeous pass over the pass to put Messi one-on-one with the keeper, and the captain scored a gorgeous chip from outside the box for the third.

With the win and first place in the bag, Argentina didn’t get out of first gear in a second half that was still fun to watch as Bolivia tried to attack and score a consolation goal, which they got when Justiniano’s cross found Saavedra for a nice finish.

Argentina responded immediately with a goal for Lautaro Martínez to make it 4-1, and the Albiceleste had chances to make it five or six but the Bolivian defense managed to make some important blocks.

The final whistle came and Argentina are through with 10 points from four games, an impressive tally in what looked like a tricky group when the tournament began. Ecuador is up next in the quarterfinals next Saturday, and Argentina will be big favorites to advance to the semis.

And Messi looks in the mood.

Speaking of the quarterfinals, these are the four matchups to look forward to this weekend, with a couple of really interesting knockout games that will send two big teams home early:

Argentina vs Ecuador
Uruguay vs Colombia
Brazil vs Chile
Peru vs Paraguay

The fun times start on Friday!



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3AcDFWu
Read More

Barcelona make offer to renew Ousmane Dembélé’s deal - report

By  6:03 م  No comments
SD Eibar v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

FC Barcelona will offer 50% of what he currently earns

FC Barcelona have sent an offer to renew Ousmane Dembélé’s contract, which would bring down his wage by a considerable amount, according to the latest reports.

The French winger is currently out with a long term injury suffered on national team duty. It has been rumored that Dembélé would join Juventus on a free transfer should Barcelona allow his contract to expire.

The offer represents a significant reduction in terms of wages for the pacy winger. His original deal is rising to more than 20 million euros in this upcoming fifth and final year from the original agreement.

Barcelona are offering around 50% of that, and offering it only for four years instead of five, which is the usual amount the Catalans offer a player his age.

It’s not known to what extent teams such as Juventus have backed off from Dembélé after this most recent in a string of long-term injuries, but it’s expected to have given them some amount of pause.

That could put pressure on Dembélé to sign a renewal offer that despite being quite low compared to what he was set to earn, is still slightly over 10 million euros in wages.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/2U8pUYj
Read More

Bolivia vs Argentina: LIVE BLOG!

By  5:03 م  No comments
Argentina v Paraguay: Group A - Copa America Brazil 2021
Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images

Messi, Agüero and the Albiceleste finish the group stage looking to clinch first place

Welcome to the Copa America group stage finale! The final two group matches take place at the same time to conclude Group A and we’ll find out the four quarterfinal matches at the end of the night.

Argentina face Bolivia in Cuiabá, knowing that they’re already locked in a top-two spot. First place in the group means Ecuador in the quarterfinals, while second place means a meeting with Colombia. It’s quite clear which matchup would be easier for the Albiceleste, so they will not take tonight for granted and will look to beat the worst team in the tournament.

But they might not need to. If Paraguay fail to beat Uruguay in the other game, Argentina will be first with a draw. But if they can’t beat Bolivia and Paraguay defeat Uruguay, then Argentina will be second. So a win is what they need to not depend on the other game and secure an easier quarterfinal opponent.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Agüero start for Lionel Scaloni’s side, and this should be a good one. Vamos!

LINEUPS

BOLIVIA

Starting XI: Lampe; Saavedra, Haquin, Jusino, Fernández; Justiniano; Chura, Vaca, Cespedes, Ibáñez; Álvarez (4-1-4-1)

Bench: Cordano (GK), Rojas (GK), Quinteros, Sagredo, Flores, Vaca, Wayar, Villarroel, Sánchez, Arce, Moreno, Ramallo

ARGENTINA

Starting XI: Armani; Montiel, Pezzella, Lisandro M., Acuña; Correa, Palacios, Rodríguez, Gómez; Messi, Agüero (4-4-2)

Bench: Marchesín (GK), Musso (GK), M. Quarta, Tagliafico, Otamendi, Paredes, De Paul, Domínguez, Lo Celso, González, Lautaro, Álvarez

MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: Copa America 2021, Group A, Matchday 4

Date/Time: Monday, June 28, 2021, 9pm local time, 2am CET (Barcelona, Tuesday), 1am BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria, Tuesday), 8pm ET, 5pm PT (USA), 5.30am IST (India, Tuesday)

Venue: Arena Pantanal, Cuiabá, Brazil

Referee: Andrés Rojas (COL)

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM COPA AMERICA 2021

How to watch on TV: Fox Sports 1 (USA), TSN 2 (Canada), BBC Red Button (UK), Canal+ Sport 3 (Nigeria), SONY TEN 2 (India), others

How to watch online: FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), others

LIVE BLOG



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3dkm30Q
Read More

Umtiti agrees for the first time to leave Barcelona

By  4:03 م  No comments
FC Barcelona v Granada CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

He could join another team on loan - Olympique de Marseille

Samuel Umtiti has reportedly agreed to leave FC Barcelona in order to get his career back on track. The World Cup winner has been ravaged by persistent knee injuries that have kept him away from his best form, and the Catalans have been anxious to find someone who will take on his massive wages.

It’s understood that a loan is what’s most likely right now. Olympique de Marseille has been rumored as a possible destination.

This deal could be a loan in which OM would only pay part of Umtiti’s salary, and Barcelona would pay the remaining sum. The goal would be to lessen the blaugrana’s ludicrously large wage bill. At the moment, it’s hard to find a buyer willing to take on the defender’s huge salary considering his injury record.

Barcelona B forward Konrad de la Fuente is said to already be well on the way to joining the same team in France.

Barcelona continue trying to find buyers for some of their unwanted players, many of whom are earning a considerable sum.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qJBvcB
Read More

Griezmann, France knocked out of Euro 2020 on penalties

By  3:03 م  No comments
FBL-EURO-2020-2021-MATCH41-FRA-SUI
Photo by FRANCK FIFE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Les Bleus had a 3-1 lead but let it slip and are gone from the tournament at the Round of 16

Euro 2020 might just be the best international tournament in recent history, and we’re not even done with the Round of 16 yet. A tournament full of great knockout matches saw another classic and another upset on Monday as defending World Cup winners France are out thanks to a memorable 3-3 draw and a loss on penalties to Switzerland in Bucharest.

The late game on Monday was very similar to the one we saw earlier between Croatia and Spain, with the underdogs jumping to a quick lead: Steven Zuber played a cross from the left, and Haris Seferovic dominated Barcelona’s Clément Lenglet, the surprise starter in the French team, to head home the opener.

Lenglet was in the team because Didier Deschamps wanted to change formations to a back three to match Switzerland’s system, but France looked disjointed from the jump and couldn’t put together a meaningful attack in the entire first half.

Deschamps took off Lenglet at halftime to bring on Kingsley Coman, and the change worked as the French looked more natural and comfortable on the pitch. And then, within five minutes early in the second half, the game changed.

VAR spotted a penalty from Benjamin Pavard on Zuber, and Ricardo Rodriguez stepped up to try and make it 2-0 from the spot but his penalty was saved by Hugo Lloris. Four minutes after that miss, France were already 2-1 up thanks to two goals from Karim Benzema, the second coming after a gorgeous interplay between Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann.

France then made 3-1 with a screamer from Paul Pogba, and France looked ready to advance with 15 minutes to go.

But just like we saw in Croatia vs Spain, the underdogs were not ready to die yet. Seferovic scored another powerful header in the box to make it 3-2, and substitute Mario Gavranovic scored a beauty to send the game to extra-time:

France were the better team in the additional 30 minutes and had excellent chances to score the winner, the big one falling to Mbappé inside the six-yard box but the PSG phenom somehow missed it.

We went into a penalty shootout, and the first nine takers scored perfect penalties, leaving Mbappé with the responsibility to make it 5-5 and keep France alive. He stepped up, and Yan Sommer came up big to make the save and eliminate the favorites:

Switzerland are moving on to face Spain in the quarterfinals, ending a memorable day of international football with 14 goals, 240 minutes and a massive upset. Wow.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3A9SdFZ
Read More

Sergio Busquets wins two man of the match awards in a row

By  1:03 م  No comments
Croatia v Spain - UEFA Euro 2020: Round of 16
Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images

In his only two games so far, the Spanish captain has shown his quality

Sergio Busquets has been named man of the match once again, making it two out of the two games he has played in the European Championship.

The Spain captain missed the first two games due to a positive coronavirus test, but since recovering, he has helped la roja get back to winning ways.

Spain were without Busquets in their 0-0 draw with Sweden and their 1-1 draw with Poland. But he was back amongst the starters for Spain’s 5-0 demolition of Slovakia and their 5-3 quarterfinal win over Croatia. The FC Barcelona legend was man of the match in both wins.

Today, Spain had to struggle through a comical own goal and letting a two goal lead slip in the dying minutes of regular time before they were able to decisively pull away in extra time.

The 32-year-old played 102 minutes and helped the Spanish side to 67% possession over the Croats.

They will now face the winner of the match between France and Switzerland.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3dnIFgU
Read More

Spain beat Croatia in Euro 2020 classic, advance to quarterfinals

By  12:03 م  No comments
Croatia v Spain - UEFA Euro 2020: Round of 16
Photo by Martin Rose - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

Game of the tournament. Maybe the game of all tournaments.

The Euro 2020 knockout stage has been fantastic so far, and the first Round of 16 match on Monday didn’t disappoint either. Spain and Croatia gave us an asbolute instant classic in Copenhagen, and La Roja came away with an incredible 5-3 win after 120 minutes of memorable football.

Eric García, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Pedri all featured for Spain, and the two midfielders were crucial in the victory.

Spain’s early dominance in the game’s opening 15 minutes wasn’t rewarded with a goal thanks to a bad miss by Koke after a wonderful pass by Pedri, and La Roja was punished by another pass from Pedri, this time to his own goalkeeper Unai Simón who couldn’t control the ball and redirected it against his own net for a bizarre opener.

Spain weren’t affected by the circumstances of Croatia’s goal and continued to attack relentelessly, looking especially dangerous on the left side. That’s where José Gayà fired a shot on goal that was saved by Livakovic, and then Pablo Sarabia was first to the rebound to make it 1-1 seven minutes before halftime.

Luis Enrique’s side continued to dominate at the start of the second half, and it didn’t take long for them to complete the comeback thanks to a great run by Pedri, an excellent cross by Ferran Torres and a firm header by César Azpilicueta.

Then it was Ferran Torres’ time to join the scoring party as he was on the receiving end of a spectacular long pass by Pau Torres and calmy beat his defender and the keeper to make it three for Spain.

Croatia never gave up and created chances of their own even as Spain looked like the better team and had a two-goal lead, and their persistence paid off as Mislav Orsic came off the bench to change the game. First he scored a scruffy goal to make it 3-2, and then he played a perfect cross to Mario Pasalic for an injury-time equalizer.

This game deserved more than 90 minutes, and we got more of the same in extra-time. Both teams went for it in the additional period, with Simón making a sensational save and Dani Olmo having a sure goal blocked by the Croatia defense on the line before they had played 10 minutes in extra-time.

Then, it was time for redemption for the much-maligned Álvaro Morata who fired a rocket into the back of the net in the 100th minute to make it 4-3 for Spain.

Mikel Oyarzabal made it 5-3 just three minutes later to give Spain a two-goal lead, and that really deflated Croatia who couldn’t produce much in the final 15 minutes of extra-time. Spain ran out the clock, and the final whistle sadly came to end one of the greatest European Championship games ever.

Lucho’s Spain are moving on and will take the winner of France vs Switzerland in the quarterfinals. What a game.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3dp9elT
Read More

France vs Switzerland: LIVE BLOG!

By  11:03 ص  No comments
Training Session France - European Championship 2020
Photo by Christian Preda/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Antoine Griezmann and Les Bleus face a good Swiss team looking for a place in the quarterfinals

It’s time for the second Euro 2020 Round of 16 match of the day! After a sensational clash between Croatia and Spain, it’s time for France and Switzerland to find a way to follow that.

And there are two Barcelona players in action as Clément Lenglet and Antoine Griezmann start for Les Bleus, who come in as favorites but won’t have it easy against a talented Swiss team with stars from the Bundesliga and Premier League.

This is gonna be really good. Here we go!

LINEUPS

FRANCE

Starting XI: Lloris; Varane, Lenglet, Kimpembe; Pavard, Pogba, Kanté, Rabiot; Griezmann; Benzema, Mbappé (3-4-1-2)

Bench: Mandanda (GK), Maignan (GK), Lemar, Giroud, Tolisso, Zouma, Sissoko, Coman, Hernández, Ben Yedder, Dubois, Thuram

SWITZERLAND

Starting XI: Sommer; Elvedi, Akanji, Rodríguez; Widmer, Freuler, Xhaka, Zuber; Shaqiri; Seferovic, Embolo (3-4-1-2)

Bench: Mvogo (GK), Kobel (GK), Mbabu, Zakaria, Vargas, Sow, Fassnacht, Benito, Mehmedi, Gavranovic, Fernandes, Schär

MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: UEFA Euro 2020, Round of 16

Date/Time: Monday, June 28, 2021, 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Tuesday)

Venue: National Arena Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Referee: Fernando Andrés Rapallini (ARG)

VAR: Juan Martínez Munuera (ESP)

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM EURO 2020

How to watch on TV: ESPN (USA), ITV 1 (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), others

How to watch online: ESPN+, FuboTV (USA), ITV Hub (UK), others

LIVE BLOG



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3x2NeoX
Read More

Barca confirm Dembele out for four months after surgery

By  9:03 ص  No comments
SD Eibar v FC Barcelona - La Liga Santander
Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Another long lay-off for the Frenchman

Barcelona announced on Monday that Ousmane Dembele has undergone “successful” surgery on a knee injury and will now be out of action for four months.

Dembele suffered the injury while on international duty with France at Euro 2020 after coming on as a substitute against Hungary.

The forward has now gone under the knife in Finland, and Barca have offered an update on Dembele’s injury.

“Ousmane Dembélé has successfully undergone surgery on a dislocated distal tendon in the femoral biceps of his right knee. Performed in Turku (Finland) by Doctor Lasse Lempainen and under the supervision of the FC Barcelona Medical Services, the operation means the French striker will be side-lined for about four months.”

Source | FC Barcelona

Monday’s update is a blow and means Dembele will miss the start of the 2021-22 campaign and we’re unlikely to see him in action again before November.

Barcelona will reportedly receive around €1.8 million in compensation from UEFA as Dembele’s injury occurred while he was on international duty.

The club must also make a decision on Dembele’s future this summer. The 24-year-old is out of contract next year and there had been talk he would be sold if he did not renew.

A sale is not impossible now but looks unlikely with Dembele once again on the comeback trail from a serious injury.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/2Te8N7a
Read More

Croatia vs Spain: LIVE BLOG!

By  8:03 ص  No comments
Spain v Poland - UEFA Euro 2020: Group E
Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Luis Enrique’s troops face a tough test on the road to the quarterfinals

It’s time for Spain vs Croatia in the Euro 2020 Round of 16! Luis Enrique and his troops face a tough test against the 2018 World Cup runners-up on the road to the quarterfinals.

We’ve already seen the Netherlands and Portugal exit the tournament in the Round of 16, and despite their inconsistent group stage Croatia still have more than enough talent to pull off the next upset of this round. Spain were great in their last game but the first two were a concern, and they must be at their best to advance.

Eric García, Sergio Busquets and Pedri start for La Roja, and the two Barcelona midfielders will be especially crucial against Luka Modric and a strong Croatian midfield. Jordi Alba and Dani Olmo are on the bench, which is a big surprise. This should be good. Vamos!

LINEUPS

CROATIA

Starting XI: Livakovic; Juranovic, Vida, Caleta-Car, Gvardiol; Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic; Vlasic, Petkovic, Rebic (4-3-3)

Bench: Kalinic (GK), Sluga (GK), Vrsaljko, Brekalo, Kramaric, Budimir, Pasalic, Skoric, Orsic, Badelj, Bradaric, Ivanusec

SPAIN

Starting XI: Simón; Azpilicueta, García, Laporte, Gayà; Koke, Busquets, Pedri; Torres, Morata, Sarabia (4-3-3)

Bench: De Gea (GK), Sánchez (GK), D. Llorente, Pau Torres, M. Llorente, Gerard, Thiago, Rodri, Fabián, Alba, Olmo, Oyarzabal

MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: UEFA Euro 2020, Round of 16

Date/Time: Monday, June 28, 2021, 6pm CET (Barcelona), 5pm BST/WAT (UK), 12pm ET, 9am PT (USA), 9.30pm IST (India)

Venue: Parken Stadium, Copenhagen, Denmark

Referee: Cüneyt Çakir (TUR)

VAR: Bastian Dankert (GER)

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM EURO 2020

How to watch on TV: ESPN (USA), ITV 1 (UK), SuperSport (Nigeria), others

How to watch online: ESPN+, FuboTV (USA), ITV Hub (UK), others

LIVE BLOG



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/2SxHMLH
Read More

Junior Firpo close to leaving Barcelona for Leeds - report

By  7:04 ص  No comments
Sevilla v FC Barcelona - Spanish Copa del Rey
Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

The defender is wanted by the Premier League side

Junior Firpo looks to be finally closing in on an exit from Barcelona and could be heading to the Premier League and Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United.

Sport reckon Leeds have “convinced” Firpo to head to Elland Road and a transfer could even be sealed “within the next 48 hours.”

The report adds that Barcelona hope to “make around €15 million on the transfer.” Firpo was keen on a move to Italy but AC Milan only offered a loan.

ESPN are also reporting that Leeds “are leading the race” to sign Junior and say the former Real Betis man “is keen” on joining the Premier League side.

However, their report states a price has not yet been agreed and it’s still to be decided if it will be a straight sale or a loan “with a clause to make the move permanent next summer.”

There is also a bit more detail on the finances involved. The report adds Barca “want to pay off the amortisation on that transfer, which is somewhere between €10.8m and €18m.”

Junior was signed from Real Betis in August 2019 on a five-year deal for a fee of €18 million euros plus €12 million in variables.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3jlddDP
Read More

FC Barcelona News: 28 June 2021

By  4:06 ص  No comments
Slovakia v Spain - UEFA Euro 2020: Group E
Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Lluís Cortés announces decision to step down as manager | FC Barcelona

Lluis Cortes has stepped down as manager of Barcelona Femeni after winning the treble in 2020-21. The coach says he does not have the energy to continue.

West Ham need to offer player pay rise to seal signing | Sport Witness

West Ham are keen on Martin Braithwaite but the only way the striker will leave Barcelona for East London is if he’s offered a better contract.

Man City defender Laporte edges further away from Barcelona | Sport

Barcelona’s chances of signing Aymeric Laporte from Manchester City are slipping away as the club struggles to offload players this summer.

OGC Nice exercises right to purchase Jean-Clair Todibo | FC Barcelona

Jean-Clair Todibo has sealed a permanent move to Nice. The French club has paid 8.5 million euros plus 7 million in variables for the defender.

Memphis Depay: My knee injury has helped me deal with disappointment | Marca

Memphis Depay has said a serious knee injury that saw him miss half of the 2019-20 season has helped him to learn with disappointments on the pitch.

Internal debate at Barcelona rages on over Iñaki Peña’s future | Sport

Inaki Pena’s future at Barcelona is the subject of some debate. There is disagreement over whether he should be the club’s No. 2 goalkeeper next season.

Jordi Alba makes clear statement on his future amid transfer links | Football Espana

Jordi Alba is not interested in leaving Barcelona despite speculation the club is willing to sell and there is interest from Serie A champions Inter.

Maximum tension as Barcelona negotiate Umtiti’s exit from club | Sport

Barcelona have told Samuel Umtiti to look for a new club but the defender does not want to leave. The Catalans have not ruled out taking “drastic measures.”



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3dmoVKK
Read More

No rest for Lionel Messi at the Copa America

By  2:03 ص  No comments
Argentina Training Session
Photo by Gustavo Pagano/Getty Images

The captain will play against Bolivia

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed at his news conference on Sunday that Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero will both start Monday’s final group game at the Copa America.

La Albiceleste have already secured their place in the next round which had led to suggestions that Messi could be rested against Bolivia.

However, Scaloni has named his team which will include both Messi and his new Barcelona teammate Aguero.

Scaloni has made six changes and has rested all the players, including Emiliano Martinez, Leandro Paredes, Joaquin Correa and Lautaro Martinez, who were a booking away from a suspension.

Messi had looked exhausted towards the end of the win over the Paraguay, although it’s worth noting the team has had a week to rest since the game.

Argentina are already guaranteed a top-two finish in Group A. If they top the group they’ll play Ecuador next but a second-place spot will mean a tie against Colombia.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3y1iQuY
Read More

الأحد، 27 يونيو 2021

Frenkie de Jong tries to explain Netherlands’ Euro 2020 exit

By  10:09 م  No comments
Holland v Czech Republic -EURO
Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images

The midfielder’s season is finally over

Netherlands and Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong shared his thoughts on his team’s exit from Euro 2020 after being dumped out of the tournament by the Czech Republic.

The Oranje were reduced to 10 men when Matthijs de Ligt saw red early in the second half and went on to lose 2-0 to the Czechs in Budapest.

The Czech Republic now go on to face Denmark in the quarter-finals, and De Jong tried his best to explain where it had all gone wrong for his team.

“It seemed like we were tired. We didn’t play well in the first half. It was a tough game, I don’t know why either,” he said.

“This may have been the biggest game of their career for some players, but our game never got off the ground. After the red card it became even more difficult.

“It’s not that we weren’t prepared tactically. We were focused, and we certainly didn’t underestimate them. We just couldn’t get our game going. Sometimes you have days like that.

“After that red card, you can feel it slipping away. Especially when they make it 1-0. From 2-0 it gets really difficult. We just couldn’t break free and I didn’t get much free time. It felt very heavy. I don’t know how. This was not our best game. In the end, this is just a bad tournament, if you go out now.”

Source | Voetbal international

The result is obviously a huge disappointment for the Netherlands who had topped Group C with maximum points after wins over Ukraine, Austria, and North Macedonia.

Yet from a Barcelona perspective it does mean that De Jong, and new signing Memphis Depay, finally get to rest after what has been a long 2020-21 campaign.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qC5CT1
Read More

Lucho praises ‘unique’ Pedri ahead of Spain vs Croatia

By  7:03 م  No comments
Spain v Poland - UEFA Euro 2020: Group E
Photo by Aitor Alcalde - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

The Barcelona midfielder is ‘totally different’

Spain boss Luis Enrique has once again praised Barcelona midfielder Pedri ahead of the team’s last 16 clash with Croatia at Euro 2020.

Pedri has started all three of Spain’s games so far and looks set to continue in the starting XI on Monday against the 2018 World Cup finalists.

Lucho explained why Pedri is so important to his team and also reckons he’s a dab hand at table tennis too.

“There are times when facts define a situation much better than words,” he said.

“Pedri is a unique player, totally different to what else we have. He can seem a shy player, but he has humour. He’s even a breath of fresh air when he plays table tennis and from what I’ve seen he’s very good at that too.”

Source | Sport

Atletico Madrid captain Koke also spoke about Pedri at the news conference and praised the youngster’s maturity.

“I am surprised by how mature he is at 18 years old . And that he is a starter at Barça and in the Spanish national team. He has a lot of quality and he is going to be a very important player for Spain. In the present and in the future.”

Spain started the tournament with disappointing draws against Sweden and Poland but hit form last time out with a 5-0 demolition of Slovakia. Meanwhile, Croatia lost to England, drew with the Czech Republic and beat Scotland in Group D.



from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qt7n53
Read More
.