Manchester City have reportedly expressed an interest in signing Barcelona’s Sergi Roberto in the summer transfer window.
The 29-year-old’s future at Barcelona is in doubt and it’s thought he could be sold after a tough 2020-21 season at the Camp Nou.
Roberto missed chunks of the season through injury, he also tested positive for Covid-19 and struggled badly for form when he did return.
Yet none of that seems to have put off Manchester City who tried to land Roberto last summer and could try again this year too, according to Sport.
The report claims Pep Guardiola thinks Roberto “would be a useful addition to his squad” and “values his professionalism, attitude and work rate.”
Roberto would rather stay but is out of contract next year and Barca would quite like to get his hefty salary off the wage bill.
Barca are also expected to bring in Emerson Royal from Real Betis, who will compete with Sergino Dest for the right-back slot, meaning Roberto seems very much surplus to requirements.
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Barcelona president Joan Laporta was full of praise for new signing Sergio Aguero at the Argentine’s unveiling at the club on Monday.
Laporta welcomed the striker to the Camp Nou and went on to explain why the Catalan giants had been so keen to bring Aguero to the club.
“Welcome to FC Barcelona, it is a pride to have you as a Barça player. You have always been a player desired by Barça, for your quality, way of playing. You had that genuine style of playing that fits with our team,” he said.
“The signing of Agüero is because because he is an exceptional player, he plays in a position that is very important in any system and in ours too.
“Obviously we also want Leo Messi stay and he knows that. He is the first of a series of signings you will see in the coming month.”
Aguero’s signing is the start of what could be a busy week for Barcelona. Former defender Eric Garcia is expected at the club on Tuesday as he also moves on a free transfer from Manchester City.
There is also speculation that Barca have paid out the €9 million needed to bring Emerson Royal in from Real Betis on Monday. The Brazilian could also be announced as a Barca player this week.
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Sergio Aguero was unveiled as a Barcelona player on Monday at the Camp Nou and admitted in his press conference he’s hoping to line up alongside his good friend Lionel Messi next season.
Messi’s future remains uncertain, with the captain out of contract next month and yet to extend, but Aguero is optimistic the captain will stick around and extend his stay at the Camp Nou.
“Of course I hope to play with Messi. What happens with Leo is a decision that he and the club will make. It is a pride to play with him. I’ve played with him in the national team. If he stays here, which I think he will, we will try to give our best for the club.
“I’ve spoken with Messi, I speak with him every day. But I can’t tell you what we talk about. The last message was that he congratulated me, but we continued to talk about other things, which I can’t share.”
President Joan Laporta was also asked if Aguero had been brought in to make Messi happy and offered the following answer.
“The signing of ‘Kun’ Agüero is because he is a desired player and an exceptional player. Because of his quality and the way he plays in our system, he will go well,” he said.
“The signing of ‘Kun’ Agüero is for ‘Kun’ Agüero, because we want a very competitive team. It is the first of a series of signings that you will get to know. Naturally, we want Messi to continue.”
Laporta said on Friday that things were progressing well with Messi’s contract extension but that it is not done yet. Meanwhile, Aguero is now set to link up with Messi again as he joins up with the Argentina squad.
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The striker leaves Pep Guardiola’s side as the club’s all-time record goalscorer and with a host of trophies after winning five league titles, the FA Cup and six League Cups.
Aguero will now link up with good friend and Argentina international teammate Lionel Messi at the Camp Nou after signing a two-year contract.
Here are the details:
“FC Barcelona and Sergio ‘Kun’ Agüero have reached an agreement for the player to join the Club from 1 July when his contract with Manchester City expires.
“The player will sign a contract until the end of the 2022/23 season and his buy out clause is set at 100 million euros.”
We will hear more from Aguero later today when the striker is officially presented as a Barcelona player. The Argentine is then due to jet off to link up with the Argentina squad for the Copa America.
Welcome to Barcelona, Sergio Aguero!
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The midfielder is on international duty with Netherlands
Frenkie de Jong is giving nothing away when it comes to the possibility of Georginio Wijnaldum and Memphis Depay signing for Barcelona this summer.
The two players have both been heavily linked with a Camp Nou move on free transfers which would see them play alongside Netherlands teammate De Jong.
All three players are currently on international duty ahead of the Euros, and De Jong has been asked about the current speculation. He told NU, “It remains to be seen what they do. I don’t know how serious it is. And maybe I do, but then I won’t tell, haha.”
De Jong also spoke about Lionel Messi and is hoping the captain will stay on at Barcelona and extend his contract which expires in June.
“I feel he is happy at Barcelona. I really hope he stays, because that helps us. He is still by far the best player,” he said.
“It’s special to play with him. When I was twelve years old, he was already the best in the world. I looked up to him and now I’m still humble. When the positions are the same and I can choose between playing Messi. or somebody else, I always choose Messi. It would be foolish not to. He’s the best ever.”
The Barca midfielder hasn’t had too much time to rest after the end of Barcelona’s season but insisted he is “not tired” and is looking forward to the Euros. Netherlands kick off their campaign on June 13 against Ukraine.
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The Catalans would be willing to offer players in exchange
Barcelona are reportedly keeping an eye on Jules Kounde’s situation at Sevilla in case there is any chance of doing a deal over the summer.
Kounde has hinted recently that he could be open to a move away from Sevilla and would undoubtedly draw interest from a host of top clubs including Barca.
“Regarding my future, it’s certain that I will perhaps have to change clubs this summer. But nothing has been finalised yet. I have not decided anything.
‘My goal is to play for a big club, to try to always progress and to win trophies. It’s true that I might have to move but that’s not relevant today.”
Barca are said to want to bring in another defender, as well as Eric Garcia, but obviously the club’s huge debts make potential transfers pretty tricky.
Mundo Deportivo report that Barca are thinking about Kounde and could be willing to offer players as part of a potential deal.
Kounde has a release clause set at €75 million and is contracted to Sevilla until 2024, but his recent comments suggest it wouldn’t be a great surprise if he did secure a move away this summer.
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Barcelona defender Sergino Dest has responded to rumors he could leave. He said, “I will stay. My time at the Camp Nou has just started and I’m only thinking about Barcelona,”
Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s reinforcements will start to arrive at Barcelona from the start of this week. Eric Garcia and Sergio Aguero are expected to be the first to join.
Georginio Wijnaldum refused to deny he has been in talks with Barcelona over a summer move on a free transfer but gave little else away about his future.
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
But the defender’s not interested in a move
Arsenal, Juventus and Bayern Munich have reportedly all shown an interest in Barcelona right-back Sergino Dest ahead of the summer transfer window.
Dest only joined Barca in October from Ajax and went on to make 41 appearances for the club in all competitions in 2020-21.
According to Diario Sport, the USMNT drew interest from Arsenal, Juve and Bayern but have been told by the defender, “I’m only thinking about Barca.”
The report reckons the clubs were thinking a move could be possible because of Barca’s delicate financial position and that it might be possible to tempt him away from the Camp Nou.
However, Dest is said to be not even interested in listening to offers and is instead determined to succeed at Barcelona.
The 21-year-old picked up his first trophy as a Barcelona player in April, when the club lifted the Copa del Rey, and will be hoping more can follow in the future.
Dest is currently on international duty with the USMNT after being called up to the squad for the 2021 Concacaf Nations League.
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Same problems on the backline, but hope for the future
In this season review series, we’re going to look back at the Barcelona squad and reflect on their contributions to the team in 2020-21.
For fun we’re going to give a score of 1-10 based on individual performance, but given the way the season ended, it’s important to acknowledge that the evaluation that truly matters is the one given to the team as a whole.
This season fell well short of the high Barca standards. At the same time, it’s hard to say whether it fell short of expectations given the uncertainty and instability surrounding the club.
We can all agree big change is needed.
No better place to start than with the defenders.
Center-Backs
Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images
Gerard Pique - 6
We always expect a lot of Pique, but he spent most of the season injured, which calls into question how much he can contribute going forward.
At his best, he continues to be a vocal leader on a team that lacks leadership. He also has continued the tradition of being a center-back who can calmly and effectively insert himself into the build-up offensively.
But the game has changed, and it’s faster and more physical than ever. Pique never had this profile, and as he gets older he becomes more vulnerable to getting beaten on counter-attacks and set pieces.
Clement Lenglet - 4
One big problem with Lenglet during his tenure is that too much was asked of him.
He was always supposed to back up Pique and Samuel Umtiti, and instead was converted into the first choice center-back because of his ability to stay healthy, and at least in the beginning, was relatively reliable.
For a second season running, he was over-utilized (out of necessity), and was a liability in important moments.
Being a center-defender on this team is challenging because of the exposure with the high backline, and minimal help from Sergio Busquets.
Lenglet will never be the exceptional defender that Barca needs to compensate for it.
Samuel Umtiti - 5
The sad and curious case of Umtiti is that, even when healthy, he doesn’t look physically capable of defending for 90 minutes at the top level.
This for a defender who made his name by playing with intensity and physicality. His powers have been taken from him, and they’re not coming back.
Barca will be desperate to see him move on and save money on wages.
Ronald Araujo - 7
Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
There is plenty of hope for the future in the form of Ronald Araujo.
He has the technical ability expected of a Barca defender, but also the strength and speed that’s been missing on the defensive line for years.
He also is the rare Barca defender with the ethos to defend set pieces, and provide a threat in the air offensively.
One question that was raised is his ability to stay healthy. He hasn’t suffered a serious injury, but it’s worrisome how often he pulls up with smaller knocks.
Let’s hope the Uruguayan stays healthy and is able to anchor the defense for years to come.
Oscar Mingueza - 8
Few people knew his name when the season began.
Oscar Mingueza did more with the opportunities given to him this year than anyone else on the roster, save for an extraordinary young center-midfielder from the Canary Islands.
But let’s be clear about what Mingueza is, and what he isn’t.
Mingueza cannot be the first choice center-defender over the course of a full season. We don’t want him turning into another Lenglet by being given a role bigger than he can handle.
He can be an important utility player given his versatility.
Whether it’s in the center, or as a full-back. On a four-man backline, or even as a wing-back if you really need it from time to time, Mingueza is a hard working player who will get the job done.
Full-backs
Photo by Aitor Alcalde Colomer/Getty Images
Jordi Alba - 7
Of all the veteran players put on notice a year ago, Alba had the best bounce back year.
For all of the faults on the defensive end, he continues to be confident and effective rampaging down the left wing.
He recorded huge goals in the Copa del Rey comeback thriller against Granada, continues to do well setting up goals with precise passes through the box.
Alba’s hard work and determination earned himself a spot on the national team under Luis Enrique, and another year as the left back for Barca.
Sergino Dest - 6
Dest has tons of potential, but he’s going to need the right manager to bring it out of him.
Ronald Koeman put him on a rollercoaster of emotion, and Dest never knew where he stood, or what was expected of him.
The American is at his best when he’s allowed to play free and run at defenders.
Dest has flair, and is fun to watch when he’s empowered to take risks.
Towards the end of the campaign, however, it looked like his confidence was shot, and he was more concerned about not making mistakes.
I’m looking for a bounce back year with a manager who recognizes his strengths and deploys them strategically to give the team a threat down the right wing.
Sergi Roberto - 3
It’s sad to see legends fall from grace.
Sergi Roberto has had iconic moments with the club, but never should have been more than a role player.
Bad judgement and management from the club put him on a pedestal he never deserved.
Hopefully he gets an opportunity to play and rebuild his reputation with a new team. I think he could do well with a change of scenery.
Junior Firpo - 5
Seldom used, but had a few good moments that were never rewarded by Koeman.
In the end, the narrative persists that Junior is not the right fit for Barca.
Other clubs may be interested in seeing what they can get out of him at a bargain price.
Goalkeepers
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
Marc Andre Ter Stegen - 6
I’m a big fan of Mats.
His job is difficult because statistically he doesn’t take as many shots as other goalies, but when they come they’re usually in very challenging situations.
When Barca lost this season, it was by small margins. Usually because of a defensive mistake that allowed for a goal on the counter attack.
Many times, Ter Stegen was asked to make impossible saves.
Other times, however, he looked indecisive, and was even beaten at the near post.
Surely this was not his best campaign, and we can all expect him to come back better and determined to be the superstar in goal we know he can be.
Neto - 7
Honestly, a pretty strong backup keeper to have.
He did a good job to start the year while Ter Stegen was injured.
Will likely look to move on in search of more minutes, and he’ll probably do very well for himself and the new club that acquires him.
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Lluis Cortes’s side had already clinched the league title and the Champions League and made it a clean sweep with victory at Butarque.
The opening goal came after just four minutes when Patri Guijarro headed home Lieke Martens’s cross from the right to get Barca off to the perfect start.
The two goals put Barca in charge and a third arrived just before the half-hour mark from another header. This time it was Marta Torrejon applying the finishing touch to yet another Martens delivery.
Levante were in all sorts of trouble but managed to regroup and will feel they should have had a goal back before half-time. Sandie Toletti saw two headers fly past the post, while Estefanía Banini fired wide when she really ought to have hit the target.
After a slow start to the second half, the game exploded into life when Levante scored twice in eight minutes to get right back into the game. Alba Redondo gave Levante a lifeline by rounding goalkeeper Cata and slotting home just before the hour mark.
Banini then made it 3-2 on 67 minutes with a strong shot on the half-volley from inside the box after the ball fell kindly to her following a save from Cata.
Barca looked to be wobbling but hit back minutes later through Alexia’s second of the match to make it 4-2. The goal came after Levante gifted the 27-year-old the ball and she took full advantage by firing across goal and into the back of the net.
The goal seemed to knock the stuffing out of Levante’s comeback as Barca saw out the final stages comfortably. Indeed the Catalans almost made it 5-2 but Ana Crnogorcevic was denied by the woodwork.
The result caps a dream season for Barca Femeni and means the Catalans become the first club to have won trebles with both their men’s and women’s teams.
Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
The Dutchman says he takes the blame for the campaign
Frenkie de Jong has been talking about Barcelona’s 2020-21 season and offered his thoughts on what was an eventful campaign for the Catalan giants.
Ronald Koeman’s side suffered a poor start but recovered and went on to win the Copa del Rey and end up in the fight for the title.
However, a poor end to the campaign saw the team’s double dreams disappear, and De Jong says it was simply not good enough.
“I can hardly put a mark on it, but I give myself no more than half a point higher than last season. Also because I think that we as a team, despite a revival, ultimately did not perform well. You want to become a champion at Barcelona. We won the cup, nice, but in the end it is not enough. I also blame myself for that.”
De Jong also offered his thoughts on Koeman and, unsurprisingly, made it clear he is hoping the 58-year-old stays on in charge at the Camp Nou.
“I personally hope that Koeman stays. I have a good relationship with him. But I don’t have much influence on that, I think. I also just have to wait and see what happens,” he said.
“Simply because Barcelona is one of the biggest clubs in Spain. You are always expected to become a champion. By the press and the public, but as a player you want that too. If you fail then, you have not done well in people’s eyes. That’s how it works.”
Source | Algemeen Dagblad
The Barcelona midfielder was one of the team’s better performers last season and emerged as a key figure playing in both midfield and defense when needed.
The midfielder is now with the Netherlands squad for the Euros after joining up with the national team on Sunday after enjoying a few days off after the end of the season.
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Join us to follow and comment as Barça Femení go for a historic Treble!
It’s time for the 2021 Copa de La Reina Final! After winning the Spanish league and the Champions League over the last two weeks, Barcelona’s all-conquering women’s team takes on Levante in the Spanish Cup title match.
Barça can win their second straight Copa and the fourth in the last five years tonight, and a win would clinch the first ever Women’s Treble in club history. But it won’t be easy against a Levante side that’s third in the league table and beat one of the strongest teams in the country, Atlético Madrid, in the semifinal.
This could be a historic night for the Blaugrana Ladies, and you’re welcome to follow along with us. LET’S LIVE BLOG!!!
How to stream: BarçaTV+ (international), ESPN+ (USA), others
Matchday Thread Rules
We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads:
Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another.
Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!
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Georginio Wijnaldum was pretty coy when asked about rumors he is on the brink of completing a move from Liverpool to Barcelona.
The midfielder is on international duty with the Netherlands and told reporters it was too early to congratulate him on sealing a switch to the Camp Nou.
“You can’t congratulate me yet. I can’t say anything about it yet. It’s not finished yet, so there is no news. We will see,” he said.
“I am still busy saying goodbye to Liverpool. I am still emotional because I got a goodbye that not many players got before me.”
Barcelona are reportedly set to send their medical staff to the Netherlands camp to complete Wijnaldum’s medical before the start of the Euros. The Dutchman is expected to sign a three-year deal at the Camp Nou.
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The striker is close to completing his move
Sergio Aguero is expected to complete a medical at Barcelona on Sunday ahead of finalizing a move to the Camp Nou on a free transfer.
The striker’s season with Manchester City came to an end on Saturday night as the Citizens tasted defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League final in Porto.
Aguero came on for the last 13 minutes, on what was his final appearance for the club, but couldn’t conjure a goal and looked pretty distraught after the match.
The latest update on his future comes from Fabrizio Romano who claims the striker’s already put pen to paper on a deal.
Sergio Agüero will be in Barcelona in the next few hours in order to undergo his medical. Contract until June 2023 already signed. Eric Garcia set to be announced too. Gini Wijnaldum deal will be officially completed in the next few days, here-we-go confirmed. #FCB#Barça
Meanwhile, RAC1 are reporting that Eric Garcia will also be at Barca shortly. The Man City defender is expected at the club on Tuesday for a medical and could be presented afterwards.
Garcia will spend a few days in Barcelona with his family and then head off on international duty to join up with the Spain squad for the Euros.
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Barcelona’s contract renewal offer to Lionel Messi is for 10 years and will see him earn €240m net across four seasons. His salary will then drop once his playing career ends.
New Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri wants to bring Miralem Pjanic back to the club from Barcelona. The midfielder has struggled for game time in his first season at the Camp Nou.
Eric Garcia has confirmed he will return to Barcelona from Manchester City in the summer on a free transfer and says it’s a “brave decision” to come back to the Camp Nou.
Barcelona are working hard on bringing in sponsorship money with contracts with Rakuten and Beko both up soon. The club is looking at lots of options with regards shirt sponsorship.
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The defender is out of contract in 2022
Ronald Araujo is currently away with the Uruguay national team but has been talking about his future at Barcelona and is hoping he can stay at the Camp Nou for a long time.
The 22-year-old is coming off a strong 2020-21 season with Barca. He missed chunks of the campaign through injury but still ended up making 24 La Liga appearances.
Araujo is actually out of contract next year but says he is hopeful he can stay at the Camp Nou for a long time to come.
“I am very happy to be in Barcelona, I hope to be there for many years and give my best in each season. I have one more season left on my contract, which runs until 2022; I still do not know the issue of renewal, my representative is in charge of that, I am calm, I hope I can continue in the club.
“I think I had a good season and it is nice that they speak well of me, they talk about renewing but I am now focused on the national team and the qualifiers, then we will see what happens at the club.”
Araujo also spoke about some of his Barcelona team-mates, revealing that he was “a bit astonished” when he first started training with captain Lionel Messi “but then you get used to it.”
The defender also took time out to talk about Antoine Griezmann and heaped praise on Ansu Fati too.
“Antoine is a crack, he knows how to mate better than many Uruguayans, he drinks mate almost all day, he’s a great person too. Ansu is a tremendous player, a spectacular kid, he has already shown that he is a great player in every game he played, he is a gem of the club and I hope they take good care of him.”
Araujo also spoke about his current fitness and insisted he has put his injury problems behind him ahead of Uruguay’s World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Venezuela.
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While Koeman’s future remains in doubt it’s still uncertain who Laporta might be thinking about to take his place as first-team boss.
There are rumors flying about that Laporta’s not convinced it’s the right time to go for Xavi, while Belgium coach Roberto Martinez has also been linked in recent days.
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Memphis Depay has said that a summer move to Barcelona does not depend on coach Ronald Koeman staying at the Camp Nou.
The Dutchman’s future is in the spotlight after a disappointing end to the season and it’s not clear if he will see out the second year of his contract.
Depay has been heavily linked with a move to Barca and says he hopes Koeman stays on but that a possible transfer does not depend on the coach keeping his job.
“The interest is there. I don’t think that should matter if Barcelona is interested in you. It’s a great club, but there are more great clubs. Regardless of where I go I would like it if he stays with Barcelona. For himself anyway.”
The managerial situation has become a little tricky with president Joan Laporta making it pretty clear in his press conference on Friday that Koeman is not his top choice for the job.
Koeman has already insisted he wants to stay on but needs the club’s backing which he doesn’t really seem to have. More talks are expected between both parties next week.
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Barcelona won’t be in it, but Pep Guardiola and soon-to-be Barça striker Sergio Agüero are as Manchester City take on Chelsea in an all-English European title match.
This should be fun, and here’s a live thread for you to chat away as you watch the big game.
Date/Time: Saturday, May 29, 2021, 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Sunday)
Venue: Estádio do Dragão, Porto, Portugal
Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (ESP)
VAR: Alejandro José Hernández Hernández (ESP)
HOW TO WATCH, STREAM CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL
How to watch on TV: CBS, TUDN (USA), BT Sport 1 (UK), Canal+ Sport 3 (Nigeria), SONY TEN 2 (India), Movistar Liga de Campeones (Spain), others
How to stream: FuboTV (USA), BTSport.com (UK), DAZN (Canada), others
Matchday Thread Rules
Even though this isn’t a Barcelona match and we don’t have a lot of rules here, there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads:
Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another.
Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!
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The Juventus defender has been linked with a move
Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt has responded to speculation that Barcelona are keen to bring him to the Camp Nou this summer.
There have been rumors the defender is unsettled in Turin and regrets choosing the Serie A side over Barca when he left Ajax.
De Ligt has played down the speculation and insists that the Catalan giants have not been in touch to talk about a possible transfer.
“I am very happy at Juve. I feel like a fish in water,” he said.
“I feel good on the pitch and appreciated. Would they let me go? There are plenty of clubs that have money problems, but you should ask the club.
“I don’t know. These [Barcelona rumours] make no sense now. That is not important to me and nobody has informed me about it.”
Source | ESPN.nl
The Barca defense really could do with strengthening but it’s difficult to see how the Catalans could afford to do a deal for De Ligt any time soon due to the club’s huge debts.
Meanwhile, Juventus confirmed a change in manager this week after parting company with Andrea Pirlo. Massimiliano Allegri is back in the hotseat for a second spell in charge.
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Photo by Matt McNulty - Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images
The defender says he has made a ‘brave decision’ to return
Eric Garcia has been talking about his future and says he is convinced he has made the right decision to return to Barcelona.
The Manchester City defender is expected back at the Camp Nou on a free transfer after Saturday’s Champions League final against Chelsea.
Garcia was asked if it’s a “comfortable” or “brave” decision to head back to Barcelona and offered up the following reply.
“I have thought about my future, what I think is the best now. I think it’s a brave decision. I am very convinced of the step I have taken.”
The 20-year-old could be joined by Manchester City team-mate Sergio Aguero at Barca next season and was full of praise for the striker.
“He is a phenomenon and a goal-scoring machine. Who has an age? Forget it! Agüero will score goals until the age of 100, he is a legend, a myth. And a fabulous teammate.”
Barca look set for a busy few days next week with new players set to join the club. Joan Laporta has said new signings will be announced with Garcia, Aguero, Emerson, and Georginio Wijnaldum all tipped to arrive.
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Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed the club has made an offer to captain Lionel Messi but added that it’s not all signed, sealed and delivered just yet.
Pep Guardiola has confirmed he will be staying at Manchester City after rumors emerged that Joan Laporta still dreams of bringing him back to Barcelona.
Photo by Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The president couldn’t confirm a great deal
It’s taken a good few weeks for Joan Laporta to be grilled by the press, but they finally got their chance on Friday morning.
To be fair to the new president, he answered all questions as best he could, but there wasn’t really an awful lot of ‘good news’ to come out of it.
Lionel Messi still hasn’t said he’s leaving the club which is clearly a good sign, though there’s still no deal agreed and supporters only have the president’s word that things are moving in the right direction.
Well, he’s not going to say that anything different concerning the best player in Barca’s history is he?!
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Those fans that don’t want Ronald Koeman anywhere near the club were left stewing too.
The Dutchman was another case in point, whereby Laporta could neither confirm or deny if they were looking at suitable other candidates, or whether they’d allow Koeman to see out the second year of his deal.
The latter scenario would make sense from a financial standpoint, given that they’d have to fork out somewhere in the region of €13m to pay him up a year early.
In saying that, money comes and goes and surely they can stomach a €13m payment if it means getting someone in situ that can motivate the club to the extent where they bring the Champions League trophy back to the club.
Of course, Laporta’s desired coaching candidate, Pep Guardiola, is adamant he’s staying at Man City whether or not they win the Champions League, and why wouldn’t he?!
The pull to come back to the ‘club of his heart’ will be enormous, but not whilst they’re in their current state.
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New signings will apparently be made next week though he wouldn’t release names. We all know who they are anyway, so nothing new to be gleaned there either.
With Espai Barca also a topic up for debate, given that it was 14 years ago when the original Norman Foster plans were submitted, Laporta again wouldn’t commit to any great degree, other than suggesting that things needed to be got on with and it would cost more money.
Which, again, culers knew already.
For someone usually so charismatic, charming and upbeat, it wasn’t really his finest hour in terms of delivery of positive information.
But no news is good news, right?
There should hopefully have been a few changes by this time next week, and Barca supporters can then watch the Euros in a positive frame of mind and already look forward to the new season.
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Nice chairman Jean-Pierre Rivère has confirmed the club is keen to keep hold of Barcelona loanee Jean-Clair Todibo on a permanent basis.
The defender joined in the winter after a tough spell at Benfica and went on to make 17 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 side.
Nice has the option to make the transfer permanent for €8.5 million, plus €7 million in variables.
Rivère offered an update on the deal to Nice-Matin. He explained, “The Todibo issue is well under way, he is part of the next coach’s project.”
Todibo made it clear earlier this season he really didn’t want to go back to Barca. He said, “I want to stay, that’s what I want. But we have to ask the directors. Personally, I am very focused on the end of the season.”
The Frenchman has previously revealed his frustration at moving to Barcelona and then not playing and added, “I would rather wear the CS Sedan Ardennes shirt and play than go to Barcelona and not play.”
Todibo looked an exciting prospect when he first arrived at Barca in 2019 but never really got a proper chance to impress at the Camp Nou and said himself he didn’t have the right attitude at the time.
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Emerson Royal seems to have pretty much confirmed rumors he will move to Barcelona this summer from Real Betis.
There’s plenty of speculation flying around that Barca will pay the €9 million to make the Brazilian’s move permanent after two seasons at the Benito Villamarín.
Emerson, who is now on international duty with Brazil, has now spoken about his future at a press conference and is clearly excited about joining Barca.
“I know that Barcelona has spoken with Betis, where I was playing on loan, to let them know that they want to get me back. My loan ends at the end of this season, therefore, as of July 1, I am a Barcelona player, and I wish to fulfill the three-year contract that I have signed
“For me it is a dream to play for Barcelona. And if this possibility has appeared it was fundamentally as a consequence of my work, my determination and the evolution that I have had during the time that I have played in Betis. I am very happy. The recognition that Barcelona has had in me has been key in my career, now I hope to show my work at Barça.”
The defender has been called up to replace the injured Dani Alves for Brazil and could play at both the Copa America and the Olympics. Emerson also revealed just how big an influence on his career Alves has been.
“He is an inspiration to me, I have always followed him and I have a very special affection for him. I hope one day to meet him personally either in the Seleçao concentration or myself and, God willing, one day we will play together with Brazil.”
It’s possible Emerson’s move could be confirmed shortly. Joan Laporta promised in his news conference on Friday the club would be announcing some transfers as early as next week.
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Koeman’s post comes after a report surfaced on Thursday night that he had gone to hospital after suffering an anxiety attack.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta seemed to confirm that in his press conference on Friday. The 58-year-old told reporters, “He had a scare and they took him to the hospital, but he is fine. I called him.”
Koeman’s agent, Rob Jansen, then hit out at Laporta for his comments
“It’s total nonsense. A president is not allowed to say things like this at all, that is a violation of privacy. Ronald only had his blood pressure measured. He has had a cardiac catheterization and is therefore checked every now and then. That’s all it is.”
Source | Algemeen Dagblad
The Barcelona coach’s agency also took to Twitter to explain Koeman’s hospital visit.
The words of FC Barcelona’s president Joan Laporta during a press conference today about @RonaldKoeman's anxiety attack are overdone. Ronald has been to the hospital for blood pressure checks, a routine check for people with his medical history.
— WassermanNetherlands (@WassNetherlands) May 28, 2021
Koeman underwent a cardiac catheterisation procedure in May 2020 after experiencing chest pains.
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The striker has offered his thoughts on the campaign
Martin Braithwaite was one of the more interesting signings that Barcelona made in the last couple of seasons. The striker was brought in on an emergency transfer from Leganes and seemed to do a better than expected job when given the chance.
He beat those expectations in part because the expectations were so low. His change of pace was key in many substitute appearances and helped to assist Barca’s attack in those matches.
Braithwaite shared a nice message for Barca fans on Twitter this week. Nice to see a message of this sort from Braithwaite. Regardless of who Barca sign for the attack this offseason, he could end up being a nice piece off the bench again if they choose to keep him.
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They have criticized Joan Laporta’s indecision regarding his future
Wasserman, the agency that represents Ronald Koeman, has apparently hit back at FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s lack of commitment over their client’s future.
“I have already told Koeman what I had to tell him very clearly,” Laporta said in a press conference. “We’re assessing the season. He has a contract in place [but] I don’t believe in transitional seasons. We will continue to speak to him and make further decisions next week.”
Rumors suggest Laporta is open to hiring a new manager to take over next season, but he has yet to decide on whom to hire, or even if he really would sack the current one.
Koeman’s agency has not taken the news lightly. On Twitter, they wrote: “Imagine: I want to marry you, but I have doubts. Give me two weeks to find a better partner… If I can’t find the right person, we will get married anyway!”
Imagine: I want to marry you, but I have doubts.
Give me two weeks to find a better partner…
If I can’t find the right person, we will get married anyway!
— WassermanNetherlands (@WassNetherlands) May 28, 2021
Koeman has been rumored to be emotionally hurt by the new president’s refusal to commit to him.
Laporta arrived last season after the resignation of Josep Maria Bartomeu. Crucially, Koeman was hired by Bartomeu, not Laporta.
The Dutchman oversaw a transitional season in which Barcelona improved dramatically from a terrible start and won the Copa del Rey, although they ended the season on a sour note, losing points frequently and dropping out of the league title race.
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Ah, our old Mino Raiola is back in the news. I suppose he never really leaves the news. But he’s back in it again regarding a Barcelona angle. The super-agent and media favorite Raiola reportedly contacted Barca regarding the signing of AC Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Mino Raiola spoke with Barcelona in the last few hours about Gianluigi Donnarumma. He’s a free agent now - Marc ter Stegen is 100% staying as 1st goalkeeper, untouchable. #FCB
Barça board will decide soon whether signing Donnarumma or not. Juventus are interested too.
Regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Donnarumma has been a Milan man since being signed to the club as a teenager. The growth that he’s seen at the club has been extraordinary, and now with his contract up at the end of June, he and Raiola appear to be eyeing his next move.
There isn’t really a good chance Barca even goes to the next stage with this one. Marc-André ter Stegen will be the first choice keeper at Barca as long as he wants the job. Donnarumma will probably end up at PSG or Juventus, but it was kind of our old pal Raiola to get in touch.
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Barcelona president Joan Laporta spoke to reporters on Friday amid speculation over a host of new signings, Ronald Koeman’s future and a contract offer for Lionel Messi.
Laporta seemed optimistic Messi will stay, offering a update on Koeman’s future and admitted the club hope to announce some new signings next week.
Here are the best bits:
Laporta on Messi contract
Contract talks are going well but they’re not done yet. We’re working hard to make a good proposal that is within our means and we hope he will accept it. Our relationship is very good. Messi loves Barca.
I am sure he deserves more and could get more elsewhere. I am convinced he appreciates the effort we’re making and I think he’s excited with our sporting project. I have always said, it’s not a money issue with Leo, it’s about winning everything. I am moderately optimistic.
Laporta on what’s changed with Messi (since the burofax)
He wants to be comfortable, he has some years left and he wants to enjoy them. What has changed? Well, now I am President and i think Leo likes that.
Laporta on Koeman future
I have already told Koeman what I had to tell him very clearly. We’re assessing the season. He has a contract in place but I don’t believe in transitional seasons. We will continue to speak to him and make further decisions next week.
You have to understand that he was a coach that was already in place with a year on his deal when we took over. We’re trying to come to an agreement where we can share with each other what we want for next season. We take everything into account. Ronald will be the first to know our decision.
Laporta on reports Koeman was taken to hospital
Yesterday he had an episode that saw him have to go to the hospital, but he is fine. I called him.
Laporta on Super League
The European Super League was already advanced when we took charge. For Barça, it was important to be involved. Barça will never be left out when it comes to new movements in the world of football.
We don’t plan to apologise for our stance, nor do we plan to pay a fine that has no justification. If they fine us, we will got to CAS and I am sure that we will win
Laporta on Xavi rumors
We owe respect to Koeman, who has a contract with us. Don’t rule him out. Other names that are being linked, seem fine to me, because everyone wants to come ... but we have a coach and it’s necessary to talk and take a period to reflect.
Laporta on Guardiola rumors
I am not here to talk about dreams, I’m here to talk about realities. When we talk about Guardiola, the only thing in my head is that I hope he can win the Champions League this weekend.
Laporta on Barca finances
We have €1.2 billion gross debt and around €350 million in losses. We are sure that we will revert it because we have strong assets. There are a lot of investors that are keen on our club and I am optimistic that in two seasons we will be financially healthy again.
Laporta on transfers
Losing has consequences and we will try and improve the squad. Next week we will announce signings for the first team and you will see the results of what we have been working on.
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Barcelona are one of the top teams to give minutes to youngsters, according to the CIES Football Observatory with 30.6% of their minutes from La Masia players last season.
Lionel Messi has been offered a 10-year-deal by Barcelona split into three parts including an ambassadorial role during a spell in MLS. The Argentine is yet to respond to the offer.
Former Barcelona sporting director Robert Fernandez is confident that Lionel Messi will stay. He said, “He will stay, I am very certain. Knowing him, he will stay.”
Gerard Pique joked with the mayor of Madrid about Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. He said, “I congratulate him for LaLiga. As for Leo, it’s going to be a no.”
The midfielder has managed just 17 minutes this season
Barcelona midfielder Matheus Fernandes has revealed his frustration after a tough first season at the Camp Nou following his summer move from Palmeiras.
The youngster, who has still not been officially presented, has only managed 17 minutes this season which came as a substitute in a Champions League win over Dynamo Kiev.
Fernandes has spent the rest of the time on the bench and has given a lengthy interview to Mundo Deportivo where he’s revealed he doesn’t understand his lack of game time.
The Brazilian even says he thinks Ronald Koeman has something “personal” against him and explained what happened when he went to speak to the Dutchman after making his only appearance so far for the club.
“A month or something more after that game, and not having played again, I went to his office and said: “Mister why don’t I have more opportunities. Did I play badly?” And he told me: “No, you played well, but I can’t put you on because I don’t count on you, you don’t have the quality to play for Barça.” And I told him that if he doesn’t put me on, he can’t see if I don’t have quality and if the managers signed me, it was because of my quality. There must be something else.”
Fernandes also says Koeman told him he could go out on loan to play more and claims that he often didn’t train with the group and when he did he was “always out of position.”
The youngster is one of several players tipped to leave this summer and he also spoke about the future. He added, “For me, the best option is to stay here, but I don’t know how the club thinks. If I have to go out for minutes, I will.”
The signing of Fernandes is another really odd one by Barcelona. The youngster moved for €10 million on a five-year contract when Barca hardly lacked for midfield options.
It seems Koeman’s already made his move up about the Brazilian, although you’d expect to see him moved on in the summer no matter who the coach is due to the other options available.
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This week on the Barca Blaugranes podcast, I chat about Barcelona making Lionel Messi an official contract offer. Some of the details are interesting and worth chatting about. Then I dive into the manager situation and the fun that is talking about Barcelona’s manager opening while they still in fact have a manager.
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