Barça vs Mallorca: Preview

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Barça return to action against a desperate opponent needing three points to stay in the Top 4

FC Barcelona (3rd, 63pts) vs RCD Mallorca (16th, 32pts)*

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*Points and positions at the time of writing on Saturday

Competition/Round: 2021-22 La Liga, Matchday 34

Barcelona Outs & Doubts: Pedri, Nico González, Sergiño Dest, Óscar Mingueza, Martin Braithwaite, Sergi Roberto, Samuel Umtiti (out), Gerard Piqué, Ousmane Dembélé (doubt)

Mallorca Outs & Doubts: Aleksander Sedlar, Dominik Greif, Jaume Costa, Iñigo Ruiz de Galarreta, Vedat Muriqi (out)

Date/Time: Sunday, May 1, 2022, 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Sunday)

Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Referee: Pablo González Fuertes

VAR: Ignacio Iglesias Villanueva

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

How to watch online: ESPN+ (USA), LaLigaTV (UK), others

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Following a defeat at home to Rayo Vallecano and a rare full week of training and rest, Barcelona are back in La Liga action for the first of five games to finish the season as they welcome relegation candidates Mallorca to the Greatest Stadium on Earth on Sunday Night Fútbol.

This has been a tough few weeks for the team and the fans, with bad losses to inferior teams at home, a whole lot of injuries again and their biggest rivals winning the title this weekend. After experiencing paradise in February and March it is tough to be a Barça fan again, and we are all in desperate need of some good news.

This Sunday is a big opportunity to get some: Barça are just two wins away from confirming a place in next season’s Champions League, their priority for the season and something that didn’t seem too realistic just six months ago. If they do end up in the Top 4 in Xavi’s debut half-season this will absolutely be a success, but they need to finish the job first.

Mallorca come into this one in desperation mode in the thick of a relegation fight and running out of time to escape the drop. They’re also dealing with important injuries of their own and have lost seven in a row in the league away from home. They did win two of their last three, however, so this is a team in recent form hoping for a major upset to potentially save their season.

Barça could have up to nine absentees for this one, including Gerard Piqué and Ousmane Dembélé, but there is a major boost in the return of Ansu Fati who will be part of the squad and play a few minutes in the second half. The Prince is back at the right time, and don’t be surprised if he scores on his return. It’s kind of his thing.

Mallorca are fighting for their lives, Barça need to get back to winning ways and finish the season strong. This should be good.

Let’s dance.

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POSSIBLE LINEUPS

Barcelona (4-3-3): Ter Stegen; Alves, Araujo, Eric, Alba; F. De Jong, Busquets, Gavi; Adama, Aubameyang, Ferran

Mallorca (5-2-1-2): Rico; Maffeo, Raíllo, Valjent, Russo, Oliván; Baba, Sánchez; Rodríguez; Prats, Kubo

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PREDICTION

Despite the absences and the poor recent run of results, the week off has done very well to this team and they’ll be back to what we saw until a month ago: 3-0 to the good guys.

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Xavi talks Ansu Fati, Frenkie de Jong and Adama Traore

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Here’s the latest from the Barcelona boss

Xavi Hernandez was back in front of reporters on Saturday to preview his team’s next La Liga game against Real Mallorca on Sunday.

The Barcelona boss spoke about Ansu Fati’s imminent return, a chat he had with Frenkie de Jong as well as the club’s current injury sitation.

Here are the best bits:

Xavi on Barca’s week

This week has been great for us. We’ve been able to recover players and the team, mentally and physically. We were sad, angry, but we’ve started working to improve things. We’ve lost two great chances to qualify for the Champions League but there is another game at home tomorrow. We need those three points and to get the good feelings back. There’s a lot at stake in the last games of the season for everyone. We need a final effort, to achieve our objective.

Xavi on Ansu Fati

We will give the squad list tomorrow but Ansu will be in it. He’s feeling well, has good sensations, over the last 2 weeks we’ve seen a great improvement. If all goes well he will get some minutes tomorrow. He’s happy, he’s smiling, I’m happy to have him back. He’s a special player.

Xavi on Frenkie de Jong

I said it several times. Frenkie is a player who can make the difference in every game. We had a one to one chat and it was very good. I think after that he came out feeling calm. After that game he was frustrated, and I can understand that, Frenkie has had great performances for us, excellent games, he needs to be constant, try things. He’s strong physically, he can make the final pass, he can make the difference. I told him I don’t think I see other players like him. He needs to transmit that on the pitch. He’s an important player for now and the future.

Xavi on injuries

Pedri got injured, it’s a shame, he’s working by himself but we have to see how he goes. Pique has been managing a tendon issue for some months. Sergi Roberto’s operation went well but he’s had another muscular injury which might be 2-3 weeks. Nico has a fracture yesterday, he crashed into Ansu, it’s a shame. We need all of our squad. We also have two players out with Covid. Dembele had tonsillitis today as well.

Xavi on La Liga

Real Madrid can win the league today and if they do we’ll congratulate them. It’s not by chance. It’s such a long competition, normally won by the team who deserves it. Next season we will compete better.

Xavi on Ansu’s best position

He can play out wide and in the middle. On the wing he can run into space, he’s good on one on ones. In the middle he can combine with his teammates, he’s good at passing. A player who can score needs to be in the box. He has that instinct, you don’t know how it happens. When the team needs a goal Ansu is usually here. He needs to be close to the box whether it’s on the wing or out wide.

Xavi on Koeman’s comments

I wasn’t here. I can’t give my opinion, I don’t know what the situation was or how much support he had. I have great respect and admiration for him. He came at a very tough moment. Now we are here to try and turn things around. I have maximum respect for Ronald and the work he did, how Cule he is, the sacrifice he made coming here. I do feel the support of the club and the president.

Xavi on Real Mallorca

Aguirre is a man who always gets a great level of performance out of his team. He has great experience. He’s very humble, honest. He’s changed the system. He uses set pieces, they are very aggressive, they beat Atletico, they have won important games. It’s another tough team.

Xavi on the run-in

It’s a time to take a step forward. We have to be more united than ever and show personality. It’s not because of a bad attitude. It’s because of situations have gone against us. We have to improve.

Xavi on Adama Traore

I don’t want to talk about next season because we need to focus on what’s important right now. Adama is helping us, I told him you are going to help us, maybe you won’t play every minute but he’s helped when he’s come in, given assists, regardless of the minutes he’s played. He’s a pure winger who can get away from defenders, put the ball in. I’m very happy with him. I think he’s played well.

Xavi on how his team can improve

When you shoot 28 times on goal and the opponent shoots 3 and you don’t score but you do concede, you need to analyse what’s going on there. How important it is to take the lead instead of conceding. Cadiz and Rayo are games we needed to win.

Xavi on Riqui Puig

Pedri’s not there, Nico’s not there, we have four midfielders. So, yes, now with the players we’re missing, Riqui Puig has more chances of getting more minutes. Everyone has to be ready to play.

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Dembele a doubt for Barca’s clash with Real Mallorca

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

The winger has tonsillitis

Ousmane Dembele has emerged as a doubt for Sunday’s La Liga game against Real Mallorca at the Camp Nou as the forward is suffering from tonsillitis.

The winger missed training on Saturday along with Gerard Pique who continues to struggle with injury and may also sit out the visit from Javier Aguirre’s side.

Xavi confirmed at his pre-match press conference that Dembele is suffering from tonsillitis, although the squad list will not be released until tomorrow.

Dembele has started Barca’s last eight games in a row, for the first time in his Barca career, but may now be forced out of the starting XI.

The Frenchman’s possible absence will be a blow but could be good news for Adama Traore. The loanee has struggled for game time recently, and it seems unlikely his loan deal will be extended, but could be given the chance to show what he can do.

Dembele is one of a host of players out of Sunday’s match. Pedri, Oscar Mingueza, Sergino Dest, Martin Braithwaite, Nico Gonzalez, and Sergi Roberto are also out.

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FC Barcelona News: 30 April 2022

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Huge challenges coming up in May - FC Barcelona
There are five huge games left for FC Barcelona this season with two main goals to aim for. First and foremost, to ensure a top four finish and a place in the Champions League next season. But a top two finish would be better still, as that would also secure a place in next season’s Spanish Super Cup.

Nico fractures toe in left foot - FC Barcelona
The first team player Nico González has fractured the fourth toe of his left foot. The blaugrana midfielder is unavailable for selection and his recovery will dictate his return.

Braithwaite medical announcement - FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona forward Martin Braithwaite has tested positive for Covid-19 but is in good health.

Araujo: 'I always wanted to stay' - FC Barcelona
Friday has been a big day at FC Barcelona with Ronald Araugo signing his new contract with the club until 2026. He did so beneath a poster saying The Future is Culer and with his family, and also president Joan Laporta at his side.

Joan Laporta anticipates Gavi will be the next to renew - SPORT
“Araujo is part of this generation of Araujo, Pedri, Nico and Ansu Fati. We hope we have good news with Gavi soon, it’s being worked on. There is a process,” said the president at Camp Nou.

Meeting over Javi Galan at Barcelona - SPORT
At Barcelona they are working on improving the squad for next season. On Thursday night there was a dinner at Barcelona where Joan Laporta and Mateu Alemany met the right hand man of Jorge Mendes, per Gerard Romero.

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How will Barça line up against Mallorca?

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Xavi’s men face a crucial league game on Sunday

After enjoying their first full week of training in a very long time Barcelona are back in action to finish off the La Liga campaign, starting with the visit of Mallorca to Camp Nou on Sunday.

Barça are coming off a tough loss at home to Rayo Vallecano which officially ended their small title hopes and made their job of qualifying for next season’s Champions League a little tougher going into the last five games of the season.

The Blaugrana need two more wins to confirm a Top 4 finish, and they badly need a reaction after a tough run of results against inferior sides. Mallorca are another team Barça should beat, but will come to Camp Nou in desperate need of a result in their fight against relegation. Let’s see how Barça could line up on Sunday.

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Defense

Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

Their first full week of training and rest was filled with some really bad news when it comes to absences: Xavi will have just six first team defenders available for Sunday’s match as Sergiño Dest will miss the rest of the season with a hamstring injury and Óscar Mingueza teting positive for Covid-19.

The only two available full-backs are Dani Alves and Jordi Alba, so they obviously start on Sunday. Gerard Piqué should be fully fit to return from a groin issue in this one and is likely to partner Ronald Araujo in the middle, with Eric García and Clément Lenglet on the bench.

Midfield

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

When it rains, it pours, and Barça got another piece of terrible injury news as Nico González suffered a bone fracture in his left foot and is also expected to miss the rest of the season, which is another blow to a Barça midfield already missing its best player in Pedri.

Only four first team midfielders are now available: Sergio Busquets, Frenkie De Jong, Gavi and Riqui Puig, who will most likely be the one left out of Sunday’s lineup. Xavi has no choice but to play Riqui at least a few minutes now, and the likes of Álvaro Sanz and Jandro Orellana could be called up from Barça B to make up the numbers without Pedri and Nico.

Attack

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Barça badly need some good news right now, and we’re getting it this Sunday with the much anticipated return of Ansu Fati who is expected to be included in the squad and play at least a few minutes as a substitute in the second half after missing nearly four months through injury.

Ansu’s return doesn’t change Xavi’s mind in regards to his starting front three for now as the Prince isn’t fit enough to start, but Ousmane Dembélé, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Ferran Torres should all be on notice. Fati was an undisputed starter before his injury issues, and if he can finally stay healthy he will fight for real minutes in the final five games. It’s a big boost to a Barça attack that’s been struggling recently, and maybe Ansu will score a big goal off the bench as he loves to do.

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Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Alves, Araujo, Piqué, Alba; F. De Jong, Busquets, Gavi; Dembélé, Aubameyang, Ferran (4-3-3)

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

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This Week in Barça B: Five-Star Performance

Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

A big response to a bad defeat to keep the Playoff hopes alive

Following a horrible defeat away to Atlético Baleares two weeks ago, Barça B returned home to face struggling Atlético Sanluqueño at the Johan Cruyff Stadium. Sergi Barjuan’s young troops badly needed a win to restore some confidence and finish the season strong, and any result would do after a 6-2 thrashing.

But the young Blaugrana put on a show for the small crowd at the Cruyff, with Ferran Jutglà shining once again and scoring two goals in the first half. Fabio Blanco, Antonio Aranda and Peque Polo joined the scoring party in the second, and Barça B won 5-0 with one of their best performances of the season.

Quina golejada vam viure ahir a l’Estadi Johan Cruyff Atlético Sanluqueño (5-0)

¡Manita de goles con doblete del pichichi de la categoria, @JutglaFerran! #ForçaBarça ❤️ pic.twitter.com/FbGIaEGNG4

— FC Barcelona B (@FCBarcelonaB) April 24, 2022

The brace against Sanluqueño makes Jutglà the top scorer in the Third Division, with an impressive tally of 17 goals which is made even tougher by the fact he spent almost the entire first half of the season playing for Barça’s first team with all the injuries in attack between November and February.

Jutglà is playing with big confidence and deserves a real shot at first team promotion next season if he can impress Xavi and his staff in preseason, but at the very least Jutglà should be loaned to a La Liga side or another first division team in Europe to get some experience. He is clearly too good for this level.

Barça climbed to 11th place in the table with last weekend’s win but are just two points behind the final promotion Playoff spot, and with five games to go they have a real shot at competing for something that seemed truly impossible just over a month ago. This Saturday’s clash against 12th-place San Fernando is crucial to stay alive in the playoff hunt, but it won’t be easy as Barça have struggled on the road all season long.

But if they can win this one and get even closer to a Playoff spot, then the final month of the season will be very, very interesting.

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Celta Vigo interested in Barcelona goalkeeper Iñaki Peña - report

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He’s currently impressing on loan

Celta Vigo are in the market for a new goalkeeper, and sporting director Luis Campos has one person in mind: Iñaki Peña. That is according to a new report which says Celta are interested in signing the FC Barcelona youth product, who is currently on loan to Galatasaray.

Celta’s current #1 is Matías Dituro, but the Argentine veteran won’t stay past his loan expiry, according to rumors. If he returns to his parent club - Chile’s Universidad Católica - then Celta will be forced to find a new keeper in the market.

Peña signed with Galatasaray in the winter transfer window after their longtime goalkeeper, Fernando Muslera, went down injured. Since then, the 23-year-old has impressed, particularly with his saves against Barcelona at Camp Nou in the Europa League.

Peña’s future is set to be decided this summer. His contract expires in 2023.

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PSG put pressure on Dembélé to respond to their proposal - report

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The Parisians want him to make a decision

Paris Saint-Germain are putting pressure on Ousamane Dembélé to respond to their offer while the forward negotiates a possible contract renewal with FC Barcelona, according to the latest rumors.

Desde hace varios días, Dembélé tiene sobre la mesa propuesta escrita del PSG: ~17M netos anuales + prima fichaje

⏳ El PSG no ha recibido respuesta y apremia al galo a decir sí/no. En ~20 días debe resolverse

Dembélé prioriza seguir y espera la oferta final del FCB pic.twitter.com/S9BAHjXvFz

— Toni Juanmartí (@tjuanmarti) April 29, 2022

PSG are offering 17 million euro net each season plus a signing fee to get the Frenchman to sign for them on a free transfer.

It’s understood Dembélé wants to remain at FC Barcelona if possible, but it’s clear the Catalans have no intention of matching those wages.

However, Barcelona is said to be preparing an improved offer to show him and his agent, Moussa Sissoko. Dembélé reportedly understands that Barcelona cannot match the proposal made by PSG, but because he would rather stay, he would be willing to renew his deal if the Catalans improve their offer enough.

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Riqui Puig says he’s still determined to succeed at Barca

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The midfielder has spoken about his future

Riqui Puig has been talking about his situation at Barcelona and remains determined to succeed at the Camp Nou despite a lack of game time.

The 22-year-old has only made 11 appearances in La Liga this season and 10 of those outings have come off the bench.

Puig told YouTuber Ibai that it’s been a tough season for him but he will continue working hard to try and get more chances in the first team.

“Yes, as you have said, it has been a difficult season,” he said.

“It is true that Xavi has come in a situation where it is also difficult for him to put me on and take out the people who are playing, who are having a lot of minutes and giving a high level especially in midfield. The truth is that I will continue working in training to see if I have any more opportunities.

“Barcelona is my city, I have my family, my friends, I’m very happy and I want to succeed here. It’s true that now people are in a bit of a hurry because at 20 years old you already have to be a starter at Barça but you have to go calmly.”

It remains to be seen what Puig will do in the summer. Offers are likely to arrive for the midfielder who could face another frustrating season largely on the bench in 2022-23 if he does stay.

Meanwhile, Puig will be hoping to see some game time in Barca’s final five matches, particularly as Xavi’s midfield options have been limited as both Pedri and Nico Gonzalez are out injured.

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Martin Braithwaite tests positive for Covid-19

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Another positive test for Xavi’s side

Barcelona confirmed on Friday that striker Martin Braithwaite has tested positive for Covid-19 and will be out for the foreseeable future.

Braithwaite’s positive test is the second in two days at Barca as he joins Oscar Mingueza on the sidelines. Barca have confirmed that both players are in good health.

LATEST NEWS | Martin Braithwaite has tested positive for Covid-19. The player is in good health. pic.twitter.com/ZuHIb23rDt

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 29, 2022

Braithwaite is enduring a tough season at the Camp Nou in 2021-22. The striker underwent knee surgery in September and has struggled for game time since returning to full fitness.

The Denmark international has only made five appearances in all competitions and it’s widely expected he will leave the club in the summer transfer window.

Meanwhile, Xavi will be hoping there are no further positive tests as Braithwaite and Mingueza join a growing list of absentees at the Camp Nou.

Sergino Dest and Sergi Roberto have both been ruled out for the rest of this season with injuries, while there are also doubts over Gerard Pique and Dani Alves.

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FC Barcelona News: 29 April 2022

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Players bond over lunch in the La Masia gardens - FC Barcelona
Bonding time over lunch at Can Barça. After the Thursday training session at the Ciutat Esportiva, the first team squad and staff gathered for lunch together in the gardens of La Masia. President Joan Laporta and vice-president Rafael Yuste also dropped in for a visit.

Second session of the week - FC Barcelona
Preparations for the match against RCD Mallorca continue. Today's session saw Xavi and the squad train for the upcoming LaLiga matchday 34 game at Camp Nou this Sunday, kick-off 9pm CEST.

Òscar Mingueza medical announcement - FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona defender Òscar Mingueza has tested positive for Covid-19 but is in good health.

When and where to watch FC Barcelona v RCD Mallorca - FC Barcelona
Following defeats to Cádiz and Rayo Vallecano, Barça will be aiming to put an end to their negative run at Camp Nou as they take on relegation-threatened Mallorca this Sunday at 9.00pm CEST.

Koeman: I hope Laporta backs Xavi more than he supported me - SPORT
Ronald Koeman hopes Joan Laporta will give Xavi Hernandez more time and support than he was afforded during his time as the Barcelona coach. Koeman was sacked in October after a defeat at Rayo Vallecano and on Thursday spoke publicly for the first time since being fired.

Koeman: Madrid had eight point gap when I left, now it's nearly double - SPORT
Ronald Koeman has given his first public appearance in Barcelona since being sacked as the club's coach in October after a 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano. "When I left we were eight points behind Real Madrid, now it is nearly double," the Dutch coach said at the presentation of the Koeman Cup golf event, with proceeds going to the Cruyff Foundation.

Ousmane Dembele ready to take financial hit to stay at Barcelona - SPORT
There is still a long way to go in the Ousmane Dembele contract saga but the latest meeting between Barcelona and the player's agent, Moussa Sissoko, was positive.

Alemany met with Lewandowski's agent in Barcelona on Wednesday! - SPORT
Barcelona's director of football Mateu Alemany had dinner in the Catalan city on Wednesday with Robert Lewandowski's agent, Pini Zahavi, as revealed by Gerard Romero on Jijantes.

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Javi Martinez thinks Lewandowski to Barca is possible

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The striker’s been linked with a Camp Nou move

Former Bayern Munich star Javi Martinez has been talking about Robert Lewandowski and thinks there is a chance the striker could sign for Barcelona.

The Poland international’s future is uncertain as he’s yet to agree a contract extension at the Allianz Arena and there is speculation he is wanted at the Camp Nou.

Martinez played alongside Lewandowski for many years and thinks the striker could be keen on a new challenge away from Germany’s top flight.

“Just today I spoke to him. He told me: ‘every day you have more gray hair’. Bayern’s issue is that there is no clause. If they don’t want to sell you, you’re screwed,” he said.

“I think that there is some possibility. I think he believes that playing in Spain he would have had a Ballon d’Or or two. And that’s why he wants to try.

“He has the feeling that he deserved the Ballon d’Or. It’s not the same to play in the Spanish league, in Barça or Madrid, as it is in the German league.”

Source | El Larguero

The latest rumors have suggested Bayern don’t want to sell Lewandowski at all and he will have to try and force his way out if he is to move. The striker’s contract at the Allianz Arena expires in 2023.

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Barcea enjoy team bonding session ahead of Mallorca clash

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The team need to get back to winning ways

Barcelona players and staff indulged in a spot of team bonding on Thursday ahead of Sunday’s La Liga match against Real Mallorca at the Camp Nou.

The first team had lunch in the gardens of La Masia after their training session. President Joan Laporta and vice-president Rafa Yuste also stopped by and joined in.

Barca have just five La Liga games left of 2021-22 but still have work to do if they are to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

A little team-building BBQ in the gardens at La Masia pic.twitter.com/GRXP1FrM0F

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 28, 2022

Xavi’s side are second in the table, level on points with Sevilla, but will know only five points separate them from Real Betis in fifth.

The Catalan giants also need to try and turn recent results around after suffering three straight defeats at the Camp Nou in a season for the first time ever.

Next up are Real Mallorca which offers Barca a good chance to get back to winning ways. The Catalans ran out 1-0 winners when the teams met at Son Moix back in January.

Barca then travel to Copa del Rey winners Betis before heading back home to take on Celta Vigo. The team’s final away game is against Getafe before Barca sign off at home to Villarreal.

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Oscar Mingueza tests positive for Covid-19

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Another player sidelined

Barcelona have confirmed that Oscar Mingueza is out of action after testing positive for Covid-19 ahead of Sunday’s game against Real Mallorca.

The 22-year-old is said to be in good health but will obviously miss Sunday’s game as Barca get back to work in La Liga.

Mingueza has struggled for game time in 2021-22, and has only played six times since the turn of the year, but could have come into contention due to the team’s injury problems.

Xavi is without Sergino Dest for the rest of the season because of an injury problem, while it’s also been reported Sergi Roberto won’t play again after suffering a setback in his recovery.

Barca also have doubts over Gerard Pique and Dani Alves in defense which means Xavi may have to shuffle his pack for the visit of Javier Aguirre’s side.

Mallorca head to the Camp Nou in 16th place in the table, just two points off the bottom three with only five games remaining.

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Podcast: Barca’s summer stinginess and poor form with Kevin Williams

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Talking all things Barcelona

This week on the Barca Blaugranes podcast, I chat with Kevin Williams from the BarcelonaFootballBlog. We chat about the transfer window this summer and the poor form the club has found itself in. What’s to blame?

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

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Koeman: I hope Laporta gives Xavi the support I did not have

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The Dutchman has shared his thoughts

The much-maligned former Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman spoke out about his former club again this week. The Dutchman feels very spurned by president Joan Laporta and the higher-ups at the club for how he was treated and hasn’t been shy about sharing his thoughts.

This time around he spoke about how he hopes Xavi gets the support he didn’t receive while he was boss. To be fair, constantly changing managers isn’t the solution for the long-term success at the club, so I’ll give Koeman that much.

“Barcelona’s situation is the same as when I was there,” he said. “Changing is not always the solution. The only thing I ask is that they support Xavi.

“I hope the president (Laporta) gives him the support that I did not have. Xavi is a legend at Barça and deserves confidence. He’s not to blame for how the club is.”

Koeman | Source

I’ll see you next time on the Koeman bashes Laporta interview, until then!

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Barcelona to play at Olympic Stadium for 2023-24 season

Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Work will begin on the Camp Nou in June

Barcelona have confirmed plans to renovate the Camp Nou and have announced the team will spend the 2023-24 season at the Olympic Stadium in the Montjuic area of the city.

The work will initially start in June, after the end of the current campaign, after members approved a €1.5 billion funding package to regenerate the famous old stadium.

It’s expected it will take four years for all the work to be completed which will mean Barcelona having to move out for one season to the Olympic Stadium which used to be home to local rivals Espanyol.

The words of Barça President, @JoanLaportaFCB pic.twitter.com/KzQUXAmvf6

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 28, 2022

Barcelona will be able to play at the Camp Nou next season and will operate at “virtually full capacity” but the team will then have to take a year off. Fixtures are scheduled to resume at the Camp Nou for 2024-25 but the team will have to play with “capacity reduced by approximately 50%” because of the construction work.

The new stadium will feature a retractable roof covered in solar panels which will help power a new 360-degree screen that will run around the entire interior of the stadium.

You can read full details of Barcelona’s plans here.

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Sergi Roberto injured again, will miss rest of season - reports

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Another setback for the veteran

Sergi Roberto’s season is reportedly over after the 30-year-old picked up a fresh injury that will keep him out for around six weeks.

The versatile Barcelona man had been close to a comeback after undergoing thigh surgery in December but has suffered another injury, according to Diario Sport.

Roberto will now undergo more tests to “determine the exact extent of the injury” but it seems certain his season is over.

Barca’s fourth captain has only made 12 appearances this season in all competitions, scoring twice and picking up an assist.

The report adds that even though Roberto won’t play again in the current campaign. his new contract extension with the club is not in danger.

It has already been reported that Roberto will sign on for another year after agreeing a notable pay-cut.

Roberto’s latest injury adds to Xavi’s problems ahead of the final five games of the league campaign.

Xavi has also lost Sergino Dest to injury, while Gerard Pique is also struggling. Yet Xavi may be able to call up Ansu Fati for Barca’s next game against Real Mallorca on Sunday.

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FC Barcelona News: 28 April 2022

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A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Back at training - FC Barcelona
After resting for two days, the FC Barcelona squad were back at the training ground on Wednesday to prepare for the upcoming Liga game at home to Mallorca on Sunday.

Lucas Hernandez, Barcelona's impossible (?) dream - SPORT
Barcelona want to strengthen the defence for next season. They are searching for players on the market who will fit Xavi’s system and one of those is Bayern Munich’s Lucas Hernandez.

Jordi Cruyff a little less emphatic than before on Frenkie de Jong future - SPORT
Jordi Cruyff spoke at the inauguration of the Cruyff Court Constanti about FC Barcelona. The advisor to Joan Laporta and future sporting director of Barcelona recently said that Frenkie de Jong would stay at Barcelona. However he was not as certain this time.

Bayern keeping tabs on Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong - SPORT
Frenkie de Jong can become one of the summer market’s big names. The Dutch midfielder, despite his irregular performance at Barcelona has always had high stock and big clubs want him. Manchester United and PSG are interested, while Bayern Munich are also alert to the midfielder’s future.

The two young stars Barcelona watched closely at the UEFA Youth League final - SPORT
Barcelona’s sports department are working to keep track of all of the potential stars in world football. They were therefore paying close attention to the UEFA Youth League final in Nyon.

Imminent meeting between Bayern and Lewandowski camp in Munich - SPORT
The final stages of the Robert Lewandowski situation are beginning. His agent Pino Zahavi is set to meet with Bayern Munich in the coming hours to discuss the Polish forward’s future. At Bayern they are sure his agent will propose a transfer but they want to keep the striker.

PSG alert to the future of Frenkie de Jong at Barcelona - SPORT
The uncertainty over Frenkie de Jong’s future has awoken interest from various teams across Europe. SPORT already revealed Manchester United’s interest, while Bayern Munich have also followed him. Per media in France, PSG are also interested and have told the player’s people they will move for him if he wants to leave and Barcelona decide to sell. He will have various offers on the table.

Celta Vigo defender Javi Galan a Barça player if deal can be struck - SPORT
Celta Vigo defender Javi Galan is a Barcelona target and will come to the Catalan club if they can strike a deal wit Celta Vigo. The price is around 10 million euros and could be lowered if a player is included.

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Extending Araujo’s contract was vital for Barca

Photo by Sergio Ruiz / Pressinphoto / Icon Sport

The center-back is a future captain

It’s often said that the best title-winning sides are built on a solid defence.

Goals win games of course, and there’s plenty of strikers willing and able to cash in on a regular basis.

Finding central defenders of the highest quality is becoming increasingly difficult, however.

Barca are a perfect example of that.

Clement Lenglet has lost his mojo and isn’t likely to be anywhere close to the player the club signed again.

Samuel Umtiti? Incredible to think that he was once, deservedly, in the elite bracket.

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Gerard Pique remains the consummate professional but Old Father Time is fast catching up with him, whilst the jury is still out on Eric Garcia and more so on Oscar Mingueza.

With all of that in mind, it was vital that the club were able to secure Ronald Araujo for the long term.

The Uruguayan colossus has been a beacon of hope in a couple of seasons that has left a lot to be desired.

That he evidently never wanted to go anywhere else bodes well for the future of the club, and almost certainly puts him in line to become a team captain sooner rather than later.

He still has much to learn of course, but he is that rare breed of defender that has it all. His particular set of skills need only a little refinement in certain areas.

At just 23 years of age, there is plenty of time for development, and it’s surely not difficult to imagine him to be as important for the Blaugranes in time as Virgil van Dijk is for Liverpool at the present moment.

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Rarely dribbled past, both players are quick across ground, positionally sound for the most part, great distributors of the ball, excellent in the air in both a defensive and attacking sense and can bring the ball out of the back line with ease.

Make no mistake, the Uruguayan will be the bedrock of Barcelona’s defence for years to come.

It’s also another superb piece of business from the board, and that shouldn’t go unnoticed either.

The building blocks are astutely being put in place and, as we move forward from the seemingly never-ending debacle of the Josep Maria Bartomeu presidency, the long term health of the club seems assured.

If they can find a defensive partner for Araujo of equal value in a footballing rather than financial sense, don’t be surprised to see silverware quickly return to the trophy cabinet.

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Rumors: Lucas, Romagnoli, Javi Galan & Adama latest

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A look at the latest gossip

Lucas Hernandez is Barca’s ‘impossible dream’

Today’s rumors start with news that Bayern Munich left-back Lucas Hernandez is Barcelona’s “impossible dream” ahead of the summer transfer window.

Diario Sport have the update and report on how Barca love his profile and his versatility but certainly not his price tag which is likely to be way out of the club’s reach.

Lucas joined Bayern from Atletico for €80 million and “wouldn’t mind returning to Spain,” although it’s difficult to see him rocking up at Barca any time soon.

Barca to do Javi Galan deal?

Diario Sport are also reporting that Barca could land Javi Galan if they can manage to do a deal with Celta Vigo.

Galan is available for around €10 million but that number could be reduced if Barca fancy including a player in the deal.

Riqui Puig and Martin Braithwaite are the two players mentioned who could possibly be used but salary issues are likely to complicate any such deal.

Alemany in Romagnoli talks

Over at Diario AS there is word that Mateu Alemany is in talks to bring Alessio Romagnoli to Barcelona on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Romagnoli’s name has been mentioned several times in the past and Barca are said to be exploring the possibility of landing the 27-year-old when his deal expires.

The Catalans think Romagnoli could be a great partner for Ronald Araujo, while his agent Mino Raiola is a big pal of president Joan Laporta.

Adama’s chances of staying receding

AS also have an update on Adama Traore and reckon the chances of the winger extending his stay at Barcelona are rapidly receding.

The forward arrived on loan in January on a deal that includes a purchase option, but Barca aren’t thinking about taking it up or trying to do a swap with Francisco Trincao.

Adama’s situation is looking increasingly bleak, particularly with Ousmane Dembele potentially staying and Barca hopeful of landing Raphinha from Leeds United.

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Moussa Wague trains with Barcelona first team

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The right-back is on the recovery trail

Moussa Wague was spotted in Barcelona training on Wednesday as the team got back to work after a few days off.

Wague only returned to action in January after a long spell out following a horror injury suffered while on loan with Greek side PAOK and is yet to play competitively.

However, the 23-year-old joined Xavi’s side and was given a warm welcome. The team also celebrated Ronald Araujo’s contract extension that was announced on Tuesday.

✅ @RonaldAraujo_4 prolonge jusqu'en 2026 au Barça
✅ @Moussa_WagueOff reprend l'entraînement
Ça mérite un petit cadeau pic.twitter.com/qWYa0cU5BL

— FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) April 27, 2022

Barcelona offered a brief update on Wague via the club’s official website.

“With the sun doing its best to peep between the clouds over the Tito Vilanova field at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, the big news was the sight of Moussa Wague working out with the group as he makes good progress with his recovery programme.”

Xavi is short of options in defense ahead of Barcelona’s final five La Liga games of the season.

Sergino Dest’s campaign looks to be over after he picked up a hamstring injury against Rayo, while Dani Alves has been struggling with an ankle problem.

Center-back Gerard Pique is also having issues and it’s not clear how much he will play between now and the end of the campaign after missing the defeat to Rayo.

Xavi can move Araujo out to right-back, and has done so a few times recently, but would surely prefer the Uruguayan in his favored position in the heart of the backline.

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Barca considering whether to open Lisandro Martinez talks - report

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Mateu Alemany could be heading to Amsterdam

Lisandro Martínez is on the Barcelona radar again according to a report from Sport. The Argentine defender has been in solid form at Ajax of late and a possible transfer is something Barca are keen on.

The report goes so far as to say that Barca director Mateu Alemany is possibly on his way to Amsterdam to get an idea from Ajax what a transfer would look like. Given his current deal runs till 2025, a deal would probably be a bit difficult. Ajax would look for quite the transfer sum and it goes without saying that complicates things for 2022 Barcelona.

A move for Martinez would solve a plethora of problems Barca have at center-back right now. Both in terms of quality and depth Martinez would be a massive signing.

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Decisive Lewandowski meeting set to take place - report

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The striker’s future remains unclear

A vital meeting between Bayern Munich and Robert Lewandowski’s agent is reportedly set to take place in Munich this week. Pino Zahavi, Bob’s agent, is set to chat with the Bavarian giants about the relationship between the Polish striker and the club.

Zahavi is apparently going to suggest a transfer out, but Bayern really want to keep Robert, at least for another year. Given the fact they weren’t able to sign Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland, the Bundesliga champs are probably going to offer him a new deal.

The striker’s current contract runs until 2023 and the bottom line is that unless Bayern are prepared to offer him an extension that is for at least two more seasons, it’s likely Lewandowski will request a move out of Germany. That’s where Barcelona can potentially make a move.

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Cruyff talks Lewandowski and De Jong transfer rumors

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A response to the current speculation

Jordi Cruyff has been talking to reporters on Wednesday and, unsurprisingly, has been asked about some of the current transfer rumors swirling around Barcelona.

The Catalan giants continue to be linked with a move for Robert Lewandowski, after seemingly giving up on Erling Haaland, and Cruyff offered his thoughts on the possibility of Barca landing a new striker.

“I haven’t ruled out anyone. I’m not very willing to talk about names. There will be others who respond,” he said. “The only thing you do is annoy the clubs where they play, I’m more concerned about the squad. They’re all great players”.

Cruyff was then asked specifically about Lewandowski and replied, “He is a player who has a contract, we are the last to decide. Dreaming is free.”

The topic of conversation then moved on to Frenkie de Jong who continues to be linked with a move away from Barca despite Xavi and Cruyff previously making it clear he’s not for sale.

Cruyff said after the defeat to Rayo that De Jong is going nowhere and didn’t really want to talk about the midfielder yet again.

“I said that given the criticism he received, he is a highly valued player at the club, in the world of football, you know that too, and that this is not the time to talk about something that is above everything else, about the future. The main thing is to meet the minimum objectives that we had to do this season.”

Source | Mundo Deportivo

The technical adviser was also asked for an update on contract extensions for Ousmane Dembele and Gavi but said only the club are hoping they duo will follow Ronald Araujo in committed their futures to the club.

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Barcelona reignite interest in Grimaldo - report

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The club want to bring in a new left-back

Alex Grimaldo has regularly been linked with a move back to Barcelona and the rumor mill is at it again as we head towards the summer transfer window.

The latest update comes from Mundo Deportivo who are reporting Barca are stepping up their search for a left-back and have been in touch with Grimaldo’s representatives.

Barca want to find out Grimaldo’s intentions as the defender is out of contract at Portuguese side Benfica in 2023.

Grimaldo has received a contract renewal offer from Benfica but hasn’t accepted yet because he’s apparently waiting to see if any more proposals come his way.

MD say the 26-year-old’s “priority” would be to return to the Camp Nou and add that Benfica aren’t ruling out a sale if he does not renew.

The Portuguese side would want around €10 million for Grimaldo, although Barca are also looking at other options such as Javi Galan, Alex Moreno and Nicolas Tagliafico.

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FC Barcelona News: 27 April 2022

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A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Agreement for new contract for Ronald Araujo - FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona and the player Ronald Araujo have reached an agreement to renew his contract until 30 June 2026. The buy out clause stipulated is set at €1bn.

10 things you need to know about Ronald Araujo - FC Barcelona
A look at some interesting facts and stats about the young Barça defender

The first photographs of Barcelona's 2022-23 shirt are leaked online - SPORT
The new design for Barcelona's first team shirt for next season is now a reality. The website 'Footy Headlines' has leaked the first photographs of the 2022-23 jersey.

Inter Milan want Barça midfielder Miralem Pjanic on the cheap - SPORT
Barcelona will soon have to deal with Miralem Pjanic's future again. Besiktas will not make his loan move to Turkey permanent and Barça will have to find a new home for the midfielder, whose not in the club's plans despite having a contract until 2024.

Bayern Munich monitoring Frenkie de Jong's situation at Barcelona - SPORT
Frenkie de Jong could star in one of the sagas of the summer. The Dutch midfielder, despite his inconsistent form at Barcelona, has always had a good reputation elsewhere and there are big clubs keeping an eye on his situation at Barcelona.

Jorge Mendes paving the way for Ruben Neves to come to Barça - SPORT
Barcelona need to shake up their squad and the idea is to focus on certain areas. There are some signings made, and others that seem discarded that could suddenly be reactivated. One of those is Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves at Wolves

Robert Lewandowski has to force the issue if he wants to leave Bayern for Barça - SPORT
The decisive moment is arriving in Robert Lewandowski’s future. The forward, along with his agent Pino Zahavi, are sure that changing club is the best thing for him after winning it all with Bayern Munich. The main problem is that the German club are against selling him and don’t seem to want to change their mind.

The trade deal Manchester United are proposing for Frenkie de Jong - SPORT
Erik ten Hag’s arrival at Manchester United next season has awoken interest in Frenkie de Jong at the English club. The Dutch midfielder is being criticised at Barça for his poor performances, and the sports department could receive a significant offer from England which makes them rethink his future. Publicly, at least, they say they don’t want to sell the ex-Ajax man.

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Barcelona’s Miralem Pjanic linked with Inter move

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The midfielder is on loan at Besiktas

Miralem Pjanic is set to return to Barcelona at the end of the season when his current loan deal with Turkish side Besiktas expires.

Yet the Catalans will be keen to move Pjanic on again as Xavi’s side are well served for midfielders already and have also struck a deal to bring in Franck Kessie on a free transfer.

Mundo Deportivo are reporting that a return to Serie A and a move to Inter could be a possible option for Pjanic next season.

The report reckons the Nerazzurri have already been in touch with Pjanic’s agent to express interest in the 32-year-old.

Inter CEO Guiseppe Marotta is also said to be a big fan of Pjanic, and indeed helped bring him to Juventus during his time in Turin, which could also help the midfielder return to Italy.

It’s thought that Pjanic could take over from Arturo Vidal. The Chilean is expected to depart at the end of the current campaign which would free up a space in the squad for Pjanic.

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Adria Pedrosa responds to Barcelona transfer rumors

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The left-back has discussed his future

Barcelona are expected to bring in a new left-back in the summer to provide back-up and competition for 33-year-old Jordi Alba.

Espanyol’s Adria Pedrosa is one of several defenders to have been linked with a move to the Camp Nou and has now been asked about the transfer rumors.

Here’s what he has had to say:

“Nothing has come to me, there is news that comes out but I don’t know anything,” he said. “I’ve been here for eight years and I’m very happy, with my friends, at home, I’m from Castelldefels. I want to continue here but we’ll see.

“It may be a problem for the club but not for me. I pay attention to what I do, I try to do my best to stay. There are five games left, I have to give it my all until the end and when the season is over we’ll sit down.

“We have to listen to the projects from above, like all players we have ambition and it is a point that must be taken into account. I am very well here but you never know and more so in the world of football.”

Source | Cope

Reports in Spain have claimed Xavi is pretty keen on Pedrosa. The defender is out of contract at Espanyol in 2023 and the club could be tempted at the end of the season to sell if he does not renew.

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New pictures of Barcelona’s 2022-23 home kit emerge

Photo credit should read LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images

It’s all change for Xavi’s men

Barcelona’s home kit for the 2022-23 will be revealed very soon but in the meantime some fresh pictures have emerged of what we can expect to see.

This season’s kit provoked plenty of mixed reactions, particularly the half and half shorts, but next year’s effort will be very different indeed.

We’ve already seen a few kit leaks but the latest has a lot more detail and also shows the Spotify logo which replaces current sponsors Rakuten on the front of the kit.

Next season’s effort features dark blue (or “obsidian” as it is apparently called) across the shoulders and on the sleeves as well as a dark blue stripe to go with the traditional blaugrana.

You can check it out below:

Lewandowski 9.

Sextete y no estoy de coña. pic.twitter.com/unEjx4jft7

— Fer (@ryghtanPlus) April 26, 2022

The good folks at Footy Headlines have also provided some photos of what fans can expect from the whole kit. It looks as though the team will be wearing dark blue shorts and socks to match the shirts.

| Barcelona's home kit for the 2022-23 season. It is expected to be released in May.

Via: @Footy_Headlines pic.twitter.com/QWu4Gj4t3w

— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) April 26, 2022

What do you think of next season’s kit? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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Mendes working a deal for Neves to join Barca - report

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Another midfielder at the Camp Nou?

Jorge Mendes is reportedly backroom working a deal for Ruben Neves to make his way to Barcelona this summer. Seemingly, the actual football fit has been signed off on by Xavi and the decision-makers at Barcelona.

As is the case with all of Barcelona’s summer moves, the finances are making things problematic. A loan is a potential option and so are some player swaps. The good news for Barca is that the history between Wolves and them regarding transfers business is pretty good. Specifically recently involving the Adama Traore loan deal just a few months ago.

Never could grow into a great fit at Barcelona in midfield, although it’s an area where the club already have plenty of options and should have one more when Franck Kessie arrives on a free transfer. Personally, I would love to see this move happen. Some midfield depth and stability are needed and Neves could make that happen.

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Araujo: Staying at Barcelona is a ‘huge happiness’

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The defender has agreed a contract until 2026

Ronald Araujo has opened up on just how happy he is to renew his contract at Barcelona and commit his long-term future to the club.

Barca have confirmed a new four-year deal has been agreed and that Araujo will put pen to paper on his contract on Friday.

Araujo is clearly delighted to continue his career at the Camp Nou and made it clear just how good he is feeling about life right now.

“It is an enormous happiness to be able to stay here, to be able to renew with this club and stay for many more years. It is the result of a lot of work and thank God this possibility is given,” he said.

“I thank my family, the club and my teammates who always made everything much easier for me and the coaches who always helped me from the beginning that I arrived.

“When I arrived at Barça B it was something tremendous, everything looked very great, moving up to the first team was quite complicated and today being here in the first team, having played more than 75 games, being able to renew, is a huge happiness.”

The Barcelona defender also paid tribute to the club’s fans and how he loves one chant in particular.

“It is a great happiness that people shout ‘Uruguayo’. I remember that, when I went to the Camp Nou for the first time, they shouted it to Luis Suárez, I thought that ‘I hope they shout it to me sometime,’” he added.

“The fans have always supported from the beginning and it makes me feel happier, doing my job well and feeling supported behind it. Hopefully many titles can come to give all these people joy.”

Araujo’s renewal is some much-needed good news for Barca after a tough few weeks which has brought some disappointing results. Barca now look set to focus on contract discussions with Ousmane Dembele, Gavi and Sergi Roberto.

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Barca confirm Araujo has agreed new four-year deal

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The defender signs on until 2026

Barcelona have confirmed that center-back Ronald Araujo has agreed a new four-year deal with the Catalan giants and will sign his contract on Friday.

The extension has been in the works for a few months but is now officially official and will be a huge boost to Xavi’s side.

Here are the details:

“FC Barcelona and the player Ronald Araujo have reached an agreement to renew his contract until 30 June 2026. The buy out clause stipulated is set at €1bn.

“The signing of the new contract will take place on Friday 29 April at 1.30pm CEST.”

Source | FC Barcelona

Araujo will put pen to paper on his deal on Friday and will then speak at a press conference along with president Joan Laporta.

The defender joined Barcelona B from Uruguayan side Boston River in 2018 for a fee of just €1.7 million (£1.43 million) plus add-ons.

Araujo has gone on to become a regular in the first team and is now a key player under Xavi.

The defender joins Ansu Fati and Pedri in committing his future to Barcelona with 17-year-old midfielder Gavi expected to follow suit shortly.

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FC Barcelona News: 26 April 2022

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Injury update on Sergiño Dest | FC Barcelona

Sergino Dest has been ruled out of action after picking up hamstring injury during Barcelona’s 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.

Sergi Roberto agrees to new Barcelona proposal to sign extension | Sport

Sergi Roberto has agreed a new contract extension at Barcelona. The 30-year-old will sign a deal that runs until 2023 and includes a notable pay cut.

Australia, see you in a month! | FC Barcelona

Barcelona will play a friendly in Australia for the first time in their history against an Australian League All Stars team at the Accor Stadium in Sydney on 25 May.

Messi will end his contract with PSG | AS

Lionel Messi has decided to see out his two-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain and will not return to Barcelona, according to reports from Argentina.

Barcelona will reinforce up to seven positions this summer | Sport

Barcelona want to reinforce seven positions this summer to strengthen the squad, although the club’s financial difficulties remain an issue

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Sergi Roberto agrees one-year Barcelona extension - report

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

The veteran will sign on until 2023

Sergi Roberto has reportedly agreed a contract extension with Barcelona and will sign on with the Catalan giants until 2023.

The veteran is out of contract at the end of the season and talks over a new deal had stalled over recent weeks and months.

However, Diario Sport reckon it’s now a done deal and report “the renewal is for one year with a significant reduction on his current wage.”

Coach Xavi Hernandez appears to have played a key role in Roberto’s new deal. The “coach’s intervention was decisive for Barcelona to resume negotiations.”

The report also reckons that Roberto thought the renewal offer was not “ideal” but has “prioritised the sporting aspect over anything else.”

Roberto has been out of action since October but is close to being given the green light to play again after returning to full training.

The veteran’s return could some at a good time with Sergino Dest likely to be out for the rest of the season and Dani Alves also having picked up a knock against Real Sociedad.

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What are Barcelona playing for now?

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

With summer looming the Blaugrana are losing motivation

At a club like Barcelona it’s hard to stay motivated when trophies are no longer on the line.

Real Madrid have an insurmountable lead at the top of the table. Barcelona are out of Europe. Culers watched on as Real Betis earned a feel-good Copa del Rey title.

Since Xavi’s arrival, the main goal was to earn a top-four finish. Even after shocking home defeats to Cadiz and Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona are still in second place. Six points are protecting them from missing a place in the Champions League.

With five games to go in La Liga, this team looks comfortable with where they stand, maybe too comfortable.

A victim of their own success after flying up the table for months.

Xavi has already exceeded the world’s expectations. It’s essentially mission accomplished, barring a total collapse down the stretch.

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

But that’s the thing about expectations. They’re not stagnant. People never stop wanting more.

Being knocked out of the Europa League was a problem because that was the only prize left to fight for. Say what you want, but a trophy in any competition is still a trophy. It’s what Barcelona live for.

With that taken away, what’s left to motivate these Barcelona players?

Xavi will want them to believe that winning every game for the sake of it is it’s own prize.

But in reality everyone will be looking to the future now.

Pedri is out for the season.

Two of the best remaining players in Ousmane Dembele and Frenkie de Jong will shift their focus to planning their next moves.

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

It will be hard to conjure up intensity and a killer instinct unless the race for the top four becomes close again. For Barcelona, losing one more game will accomplish just that.

But the person with the most thinking to do is Xavi.

Soon, he will earn the relief of knowing he did what he came here to do in his first season, but it will be an anti-climax.

He will have done it depending on players who may not be at the Camp Nou next year, and the players he is stuck with are supporting actors at best.

Even Ronald Koeman won a trophy in his first season. Next year, Xavi will be expected to win silverware too.

He won’t want to get too far ahead of himself now, but surely his mind will be on fortifying his army this summer.

It seems like he counts on Dembele more than anyone else at the moment. Maybe now is the time, behind the scenes, to start campaigning for all parties to reach a renewal.

If that falls through, it will be back to square one.

Pray that Pedri gets and stays healthy, and find new pieces to build around him. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned in the past few games, it’s that this team is not the same without the young prodigy.

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

With five games to go, what should Barcelona aim for now?

Maybe it’s a good time to experiment with new tactics and formations. Give players a chance who have been sidelined. See who rises to the top.

One thing’s for sure, the formula that brought this team success is now looking stale.

Give Adama Traore, who was the spark that started the fire, a chance to audition for a place in the team next year.

Memphis Depay also deserves a bigger role to see if he can work his way into Xavi’s plans.

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

For me, it was disappointing to see Nico chosen over Riqui Puig against Rayo Vallecano when a late goal was needed. But why not give them both an opportunity to compete for their future careers at Barcelona?

Xavi has done enough to give himself space to experiment. It might even be what the moment requires.

With so little left to play for, the best thing to do is to challenge the players to compete with one another.

The future at the club continues to be uncertain, but there is so much potential on the roster.

I’d like to see as much of it as possible in action going forward.

And for the manager, it could be an invaluable opportunity to collect data.

Information that could help inform critical decisions that must be made over the summer.

Decisions that could make or break Xavi’s tenure as manager.

Time to look to the future.

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Barcelona confirm Sergino Dest out with a hamstring injury

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The defender has been sidelined again

Barcelona confirmed on Monday that right-back Sergino Dest is out of action after picking up a hamstring problem.

The USMNT star started Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano but was replaced at half-time and now faces more time out of the team.

Here’s Barcelona’s update:

“Tests carried out on the first team player Sergiño Dest have confirmed that the player has injured the semitendinosus muscle in his right hamstring. The player is unavailable for selection and his recovery will dictate his return.”

The Catalans have once again offered no indication of how serious the injury but it’s being reported he could miss 4-6 weeks which means his season could be over.

Dest’s injury is another blow for Xavi ahead of the last five matches of the campaign.

Gerard Pique is also struggling with injury and missed the defeat to Rayo, while Dani Alves also didn’t feature after picking up a knock against Real Sociedad.

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Five talking points from Barcelona 0-1 Rayo Vallecano

Photo by Joan Valls/Urbanandsport /NurPhoto via Getty Images

Another bad night for Xavi’s side at the Camp Nou

Barcelona make horrible history

Barcelona’s La Liga defeat to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday followed on from home losses to Eintracht Frankfurt and Cadiz to ensure the Catalans lost for a third straight game at the Camp Nou.

The famous old stadium has long been a fortress but there is no doubt at all that Barca are wobbling at home right now. In fact it’s the first time in the club’s entire history that the team have lost three games in a row at home in the same season.

‼️ HISTORIC ‼️

Barça have lost THREE CONSECUTIVE official fixtures at Camp Nou (Eintracht, Cádiz and Rayo), during the same season, for the FIRST TIME in their history.

They had lost 3 in a row over 2 seasons (the last 2 games of 97-98 and the first of 98-99). pic.twitter.com/MU82vDHDU7

— MisterChip (English) (@MisterChiping) April 24, 2022

A single goal from Alvaro Garcia was enough for Rayo to secure a smash and grab and pile more misery on Barca by completing an unlikely league double over the Catalans.

Xavi’s side were flying before the international break but have struggled since returning to action and still look as though they haven’t recovered mentally from the Eintracht Frankfurt loss.

Yet Barcelona need to get back on track quickly if they are to secure second place and still have three home games left to play. Real Mallorca are up next at the Camp Nou, while Celta Vigo and Villarreal will visit before the end of the campaign.

Xavi facing real challenge

Barca’s poor run of form has presented Xavi with his first real challenge since taking over as manager. There is no doubt that the 42-year-old has done a superb job so far but he needs to find a way to recover his team’s form quickly to prevent the campaign fizzling out entirely.

pic.twitter.com/jRYB7X9PVe

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 24, 2022

Injuries have not helped Barca’s cause, with Gerard Pique and Pedri missed again on Sunday, but what will be more worrying to Xavi will be the lack of energy and inspiration from his players as well as seeing his team repeatedly give the ball away.

Xavi spoke honestly after the match about how he “made a mistake” in not being able to motivate his players for the match and told his team, “we have to match the desire of our rival.”

Barca’s performance was miles away from what Xavi will want from his players. The team gave away an early goal and then found themselves unable to break down a time-wasting Rayo side who had managed just nine points away from home all season before pitching up at the Camp Nou.

Why no penalty on Gavi?

A frustrating night for Barcelona was summed up by the denial of a clear penalty late in the game when Gavi was pushed over by Alejandro Catena. For some reason referee Isidro Díaz de Mera didn’t think it was a foul and VAR didn’t even bother to check.

No pen for Barca pic.twitter.com/lMC5x45if3

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 24, 2022

The push got clearer with every television replay which also confirmed that there was no offside in the build-up. Barca’s protests were understandably loud and even saw one of Xavi’s technical staff handed a red card.

Xavi only spoke briefly about the decision after the game, saying reporters should “ask the referee” why the decision hadn’t been given. We all know that in football decisions sometimes go against teams but it was simply baffling why this one wasn’t given.

Frenkie shows his frustrations at Barca

Barcelona’s frustrations were also embodied by Frenkie de Jong who struggled to make much impact on the game, although he certainly wasn’t the only one who struggled, and was hooked after an hour at the Camp Nou.

The Dutchman looked understandably far from happy as he walked off the pitch and headed for the dressing room before later reappearing and taking his spot on the bench.

Frenkie de Jong after being subbed off. pic.twitter.com/jJzU81ucRC

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 24, 2022

De Jong’s frustrations come at a time when speculation over his future continues to make headlines despite Xavi backing him before the match and Jordi Cruyff insisting after the game he won’t be sold.

The Dutchman has also made it clear repeatedly he doesn’t want to leave but that will not stop the rumor mill churning. De Jong is one of Barca’s most saleable assets which means, particularly given the club’s financial situation, his name will keep on cropping up.

Barca’s goals dry up

Barcelona were scoring goals for fun earlier in the season during their hot streak, firing four past Real Madrid, Atletico, Valencia, and Napoli but have now drawn blanks against Cadiz and Rayo.

Xavi’s side have endured real problems breaking down teams who defend well despite the vast array of attacking options available. The loss of Pedri has robbed Barca of some creativity and it’s perhaps a little surprise Riqui Puig hasn’t been afforded a few more chances.

Ousmane Dembele has been able to feature regularly, starting 8 games in a row for the first time in his Barca career, but the Frenchman’s shooting has been wayward and he now has only one assist in his last six games.

Ferran.
- 0 Duels Won.
- No Chance Created/Received.

Aubameyang.
- Just 17 Touches.
- No Chances Created/Received.
- 50% Duels Won.

Dembélé.
- 0/17 Successful Crosses.
- Bad Accuracy In Shooting.
- 47% Duels Won.
- 25 Times Possession Lost.

Bad outing for Barça's forwards.. pic.twitter.com/bWspyguBnI

— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) April 25, 2022

Ferran Torres and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were also ineffective against Rayo, while Xavi ended up throwing pretty much all of his attackers on in a desperate bid to try and grab a goal or two.

Luuk de Jong, Adama Traore, and Memphis Depay all featured from the bench as Barca huffed and puffed but didn’t really create too many clear-cut chances and ended up with only five shots on goal all night.

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