How will Barça line up against Mallorca?

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Xavi’s men play their first game of 2022

The holiday break is over and La Liga returns to action this weekend, and Barcelona have a tricky one ahead of them as they travel to beautiful Palma de Mallorca to face Real Mallorca.

Barça finished 2021 with an encouraging performance and result away to Sevilla and were looking forward to start January strong, but a massive Covid-19 outbreak within the squad left the squad with very few options for the first game of 2022.

Xavi has just nine first team players available as of this writing, and his team selection will be very interesting. Let’s see how Barça could line up on Sunday.

---

Important note before the team prediction: according to La Liga rules, a team must have seven outfield first team players on the pitch at all times, unless there are fewer than FIVE such players available due to extraordinary circumstances — like a Covid outbreak. Because Barça have seven outfield first team players available as of this writing, all of them must start on Sunday — unless Xavi does something crazy like Neto in goal and Marc-André ter Stegen in midfield to have a first team player on the bench. We don’t anticipate that happening, however, so we expect all seven outfielders to start.

---

Defense

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Barça’s defense was the most heavily affected part of the squad due to the outbreak, with Sergiño Dest, Dani Alves, Clément Lenglet, Samuel Umtiti, Jordi Alba and Alejandro Balde all testing positive, so Xavi is down to just four defenders available: Ronald Araujo, Gerard Piqué, Eric García and Óscar Mingueza.

They are all center-backs and all right-footed, which means no natural left-back, and with the absences of Dest and Alves there is no other option but to play Ronald Araujo again at right-back. He was solid against Sevilla but is clearly still uncomfortable in the role, but there is simply no other player for that spot on Sunday.

Midfield

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The fifth yellow card he picked up against Sevilla felt like a blessing in disguise to give him a rest, but with all the absences due to Covid it is now a bad thing that Sergio Busquets is suspended and not available to play in midfield on Sunday.

With Philippe Coutinho testing positive and Gavi also out due to Covid and suspension, there are only two first team midfielders available for this one in Frenkie De Jong and Riqui Puig. The two will most likely be joined by Nico González, which will give us the chance to see a fascinating midfield combination that will without a doubt be the most interesting aspect of Sunday’s game.

Attack

Photo by Mateo Villalba/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

New signing Ferran Torres is not yet fit to make his debut, and with Ousmane Dembélé and Ez Abde testing positive and both Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati still unavailable due to injury, Xavi has a selection headache when it comes to the front three.

Luuk De Jong will start up front and Ferran Jutglà will move to the wing for his third consecutive start, so the question is who starts on the other flank. Based on his previous selections it is most likely that Xavi will pick Ilias Akhomach, but 18-year-old Estanis Pedrola was very impressive at Barça B in the last couple of games and could be the surprise name on the teamsheet this Sunday.

---

POSSIBLE XI: Ter Stegen; Araujo, Piqué, Eric, Mingueza; Nico, F. De Jong, Puig; Akhomach, L. De Jong, Jutglà (4-3-3)

---

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

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3mM6eF5

Read More

Rumors: Vlahovic, Haaland, Laporte and Lenglet updates

Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

A look at the latest hot gossip

Vlahovic is Barcelona’s Plan B

The rumor mill has had a very busy 2021 and you can expect more of the same in 2022 with Erling Haaland’s name likely to feature a lot.

The Norwegian makes it into the final rumor round-up of 2021 with an update that reckons if Barca miss out on Haaland then they’ll try to sign Dušan Vlahović from Fiorentina instead.

Vlahovic has already been linked with a host of teams after some impressive goalscoring exploits in Serie A. Mundo Deportivo reckon you can now add Barca to his list of admirers.

Cadiz set De Jong deadline

MD are also reporting on Luuk de Jong’s future amid interest from Cadiz. Álvaro Cervera’s side are still waiting to hear back from the Dutchman but won’t wait too much longer.

Indeed De Jong has until January 3 to respond to Cadiz’s loan offer before it’s withdrawn and the club will look for an alternative striking target instead.

Cervera thinks De Jong would be the “ideal striker” for his team but is also starting to think about Manu Vallejo or Paco Alcácer.

Laporte back on Barca’s agenda?

Over at Marca the word is that Aymeric Laporte is back on Barcelona’s agenda. The Catalans apparently want to pair Laporte with former Man City teammate Eric Garcia.

Quite how Barca are going to manage that remains to be seen. The report reckons Laporte would cost around 65 million euros which is likely to be a problem.

Laporte is the latest Spain international to be linked with Barca. Xavi is also thought to be keen on Alvaro Morata and has already signed Ferran Torres.

Newcastle won’t move for Lenglet

And our final rumor of 2021 concerns Clement Lenglet and news that recently-taken over Newcastle United are now unlikely to go for the French defender.

The Magpies are expected to seal the signing of Sven Botman from Lille soon which would end their interest in Lenglet, according to Sport.

Such news would be a blow for Barcelona who remain keen to offload unwanted players in January to help ease the club’s financial issues.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3mLwcZl

Read More

Laporta sends New Year’s message to Barcelona fans

Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

The president is looking forward to 2022

Joan Laporta has sent a message to Barcelona fans at the end of 2021 and says he’s looking forward to an “intense” 2022 which will be “full of emotions.”

This year has been another rollercoaster ride for the Catalan giants with all sorts happening on and off the pitch.

The biggest bomshell of all was the departure of Lionel Messi, while Laporta replaced Bartomeu, Xavi came home to take over from Ronald Koeman and Dani Alves is back too.

Barca’s financial difficulties remain a problem but there’s lots to look forward to with a great crop of youngsters in the squad, Ferran Torres signed from Manchester City and Xavi at the helm.

Here’s what Laporta makes of it all:

“Hello Culers. At this time of year we like to summarize what we have done during the year to say goodbye to 2021, and to also make some resolutions for the upcoming year. But, before anything else, in times like these, we want to wish you good health for you and your loved ones. Be careful, protect yourself, and get vaccinated, so we can defeat the Covid-19 pandemic.

“That said, 2021, has been a year of ups and downs, but Barcelona fans have decided to begin a new era. It is a new era that will no longer cast a shadow over our historical success. We want to begin this new stage, and we will do it by building a new football team with young men who will bring joy.

I wish you a healthy and joyful 2022! pic.twitter.com/QBGJ3UaZFa

— Joan Laporta Estruch (@JoanLaportaFCB) December 31, 2021

“With young men who come from La Masia and others who will come from outside. May our professional teams in basketball, handball, hockey and futsal continue to be successful. And may our women’s football team keep on winning trophies.

“In addition 2022 will mark the beginning of the construction of ‘New Camp Nou.’ The ‘Espai Barca’ is the most important institutional project in the history of the club. We should be very proud. We must participate in constructing the future of FC Barcelona.

“It is going to be a very intense year in 2022. One full of emotions. I have the honor of presiding over the board of directors and all of our executives and employees who will continue to work hard in order to reestablish the financial standing of the club.

“Additionally we will work so that Barca’s product on the pitch becomes again the gold standard for the rest of the world. Our foundation, our holistic foundation, will continue to help those who need it the most. We will do this. We will do it by reaffirming our responsibility to restore happiness in all Barca fans. I wish you a Happy New Year in 2022. Visca Barca.”

There’s definitely a lot going on at the Camp Nou heading into the new year and, Barca being Barca, we know it’s probably best not to rule anything out in 2022.

Happy New Year everyone.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3mM6fJ1

Read More

Aitana Bonmati renews with Barcelona Femeni until 2025

Photo by Xavier Bonilla/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The deal is done

Barcelona Femeni confirmed on Friday that Aitana Bonmati has signed a contract extension at the Camp Nou that runs until 2025.

The 23-year-old midfieder was into the final year of her existing deal but has penned a new deal that will keep her at the club for another three seasons.

Bonmati has been at Barca since the age of 13 and has already made 175 appearances in all competitions for the Catalans, scoring 57 goals.

✍ @AitanaBonmati renova fins al 2⃣0⃣2⃣5⃣ https://t.co/yYaIEaZbyn

✍ ¡Aitana renueva hasta 2025! https://t.co/EjWkV8LHRb#FCBFemeni pic.twitter.com/tP74wVn8Hn

— FC Barcelona Femení (@FCBfemeni) December 31, 2021

Here’s what she thinks of her new deal:

“I am very happy. I am very proud to remain at this great club that I hold so dearly for another three years. It’s already been ten years, now another three. I’ve decided to stay where I feel happiest

“Barça has given me everything both on a sporting and personal level. It’s a way of life.

“We are going through an amazing and phenomenal time. My wish for the new year is titles, to carry on what we have been doing”.

Source | FC Barcelona

Bonmati and her team are back in action on January 8 when they take on Granadilla Tenerife in the Primera División.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3Jwc9rj

Read More

Alvaro Morata ‘agrees personal terms’ with Barcelona - report

Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images

The rumors keep on coming

Alvaro Morata has reportedly agreed personal terms with Barcelona as speculation the striker could head to the Camp Nou in the January transfer window continues.

Xavi is believed to be keen to bring in Morata this winter to strengthen this attack despite having already signed Ferran Torres from Manchester City.

The latest update comes from Italian journalist Romeo Agresti who reports there is “total agreement” between the striker and Barca on an 18-month deal.

It’s now over to Juventus and Barca to try and thrash out a deal, with the Serie A side needing to find a replacement before signing off on the deal.

Football Italia reckon Paris Saint-Germain’s Mauro Icardi and Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang are two candidate to replace Morata in Turin.

There have already been rumors of talks between Juve and Icardi, while Aubameyang looks set to leave Arsenal after being frozen out by manager Mikel Arteta.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/32M6yML

Read More

FC Barcelona News: 31 December 2021

Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Barça forward Dembele has agreement in principle with Juventus | Sport

Ousmane Dembele reportedly has an agreement in principle with Serie A giants Juventus. However, the Frenchman is said to be waiting for an offer from Paris Saint-Germain.

Dembélé demands 45 million euro signing-on fee from Barcelona | AS

Ousmane Dembele demanded a €45 million signing on fee in recent contract talks with Barcelona. The forward would have taken €30m with €15m going to his agent.

Barcelona target Cesar Azpilicueta will decide his future in January - Football Espana

Cesar Azpilicueta has been linked with a move to Barcelona on a free transfer at the end of the season. The defender will make a final decision on his future by the end of January.

Barcelona prepared to swap Memphis to land Juve striker Morata | Sport

Barcelona are reportedly willing to use Memphis Depay in a deal to bring Alvaro Morata to the Camp Nou in the January transfer window.

Why Allegri rejected Depay-Morata swap with Barcelona | Football Italia

Juventus are not thought to be interested in Memphis Depay. Coach Max Allegri wants a class center-forward and is also not convinced by the Dutchman’s form at Barca.

Flamengo want to bring Philippe Coutinho back to Rio from Barcelona | Football Espana

Brazilian side Flamengo reportedly want to sign Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona. Coutinho would likely have to take a pay cut to make the move work.

Barcelona planning De Ligt move this summer | Football Espana

Barcelona plan to strengthen their defence by signing Matthijs de Ligt from Juventus in the summer transfer window. De Ligt’s release clause is set at €125 million.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/32E3OkT

Read More

Alves would not have accepted an offer from Bartomeu

Photo by Marc Graupera Aloma / AFP7 Getty Images

The Brazilian is also backing Laporta to improve Barca’s fortunes

Dani Alves has revealed he would not have agreed to return to Barcelona if former president Josep Maria Bartomeu had still been in charge of the club.

The Brazilian returned to the club for a second spell in November, on a free transfer, and will be eligible to play for Barca competitively again from January.

Alves says there would have been “no point” in working with Bartomeu and also backed president Joan Laporta to turn the club’s fortunes around.

“I would not have accepted an offer from him,” he said.

“I left when he was president and there was no point in working with him again.

“We have to work to rebuild a great Barcelona, and for this we need stability and solidarity.

“Laporta will rebuild the club again, and with his return stability will return. We are happy to have him with us.”

Source | Marca

The 38-year-old had been expected to make his first competitive appearance since returning in the Copa del Rey clash against Linares on January 5. However, he is one of 10 players currently isolating after testing positive for Covid-19 and it’s not clear now when he will be ready to feature for the Catalans again.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3Jv8iuL

Read More

Dest’s agent offers update on his Barcelona future

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The defender has been linked with a move away

Sergino Dest’s future at Barcelona has prompted plenty of headlines recently with claims that Xavi has not been too impressed with the right-back and would be willing to listen to offers for the 21-year-old.

Bayern Munich have again been linked with a move for Dest, while there have also been whispers that Chelsea could be interested after losing Ben Chilwell for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Herr Bliemeister, whose agency represents Dest, has been talking about the Barca star and revealed he had offers to leave last summer. The agent also reckons there will be plenty of interest in the right-back if he is deemed surplus to requirements.

“He has a lot of inquiries, even in the summer he had a lot of offers. But his coach at the time, Ronald Koeman, really wanted to keep him,” he said.

“We’ll see what happens nows. One thing is clear: a player like Sergiño Dest is definitely not lacking in alternatives.”

Source | TZ

Barcelona do need to sell players in the January window which means any offers for Dest are likely to be considered. The Catalan giants will also be able to use Dani Alves in 2022 after bringing the Brazilian back for a second stint at the Camp Nou which may see Dest struggle for game time.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3JrxeDo

Read More

Morocco boss has fresh pop at Barca over Ez Abde call up

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

It’s not clear if the winger will play at AFCON 2021

Moroco coach Vahid Halilhodzic has had a fresh pop at Barcelona regarding Ez Abde who has been called up to the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.

There has been intense speculation that Abde won’t go to the tournament and will instead stay in Barcelona where he’s just broken in to the first team.

Halilhodzic has already warned Barca they can’t stop Abde from going to AFCON 2021 and has now accused the Catalans of disrespecting the tournament.

“Barça is being the problem, they do not respect the African Cup of Nations enough. They, as well as the big European clubs and FIFA do not respect the tournament enough,” he said.

“Abde never rejected the selection and I am convinced that he will present himself to the call-up next Monday, January 3. We count on him because we need a player like him.”

Source | Diario Sport

Meanwhile, it’s being reported that Abde will not travel to Morocco with the squad and intends to stay in Barcelona. The forward is also thought to be keeping his options open when it comes to international duty. Abde he has dual citizenship and is still eligible to play for Spain as he’s yet to make his senior international debut.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3mN1r67

Read More

Dembele’s renewal is a soap opera Barca don’t need

Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images

Club must take a stand

As most of you reading this will be aware, I’ve been one of Ousmane Dembele’s fiercest critics in the past.

Even in the recent past I’ve been known to take the odd pot-shot at the French World Cup winner.

Perhaps that’s more to do with my own frustrations at a player that clearly has it all but hasn’t performed to the level he’s truly capable of on a regular enough basis.

Let’s be honest, he does possess something that no one else in the Barca squad does, and when he’s 100 percent fit and in full flight, he is a joy to watch.

If he can just steer clear of injuries for a sustained period and execute his final ball more often than he has, frankly he can save the club a pretty penny in transfer fees as there’ll be no need to look for a player with exactly the credentials he has.

Ousmane Dembélé just posted this on his Instagram stories - while he’s in advanced talks with Barcelona to extend his contract, currently expiring in June 2022. #FCB pic.twitter.com/gC5hsTHUUZ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 26, 2021

Xavi clearly rates him and potentially persuading him to stay - reportedly at a lower salary than he would receive elsewhere - can’t be understated.

Footballers need confidence to give their best and it’s obvious that the coach has given Dembele exactly that.

What’s more, at 24 years of age there has definitely been signs of the player beginning to mature, both in a footballing and personal sense.

Still some way from his supposed peak years as a player there will be much more to come from Dembele, and up until recently it was thought that those would be at Camp Nou. Indeed, the image above from the player’s Instagram account hinted at his intentions.

However, just like as happened at Dortmund when he wanted to join Barca, things have taken a turn for the worst.

If rumours are to be believed, Dembele’s head has been turned again by his agent who is, reportedly, demanding a €40m signing on fee for his client and a salary of €40m a year.

His bargaining chip, apparently, is that the club can afford it seeing as how they retain an interest in signing Erling Haaland in the summer, which, for what it’s worth, is still my opinion as to why Leo Messi was allowed to leave in the first place.

The key role that Ousmane Dembélé can have in Xavi’s setup is becoming clear. Xavi wants his wingers to really stretch the pitch high & wide and that plays into Dembélé’s strengths with his superb 1v1 play off both feet. It was Barca’s main source of chance creation vs Sevilla.

— Premier League Panel (@PremLeaguePanel) December 21, 2021

Anyhow, I digress.

Interest in the Frenchman from the Premier League seems real enough, so the club need to make a decision.

Given the current financial predicament, they can’t dilly-dally on this one, going back and forth and wasting precious time in the transfer market.

The club have made their offer, and should stick to it. There isn’t any point in breaking the bank and Barca will always be bigger than any individual. Particularly one that’s played less than half of the games available to him and now has his agent holding a gun, metaphorically speaking, to Laporta’s head.

He can absolutely be important for the new Barcelona that Xavi is aiming to construct, but, again, if there’s a perceived unwillingness to commit - immediately - then the club have no option but to wash their hands.

The only remaining issue is whether they’ll be able to command a fee for him in January, or have to keep him in situ until the end of the campaign, which would be a highly unsatisfactory arrangement.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3mJdph2

Read More

Xavi wants Alvaro Morata at Barcelona?

Photo by Marco Canoniero/LightRocket via Getty Images

The rumor mill seems confident

Barcelona coach Xavi has reportedly decided that Juventus striker Alvaro Morata is his “number one” center-forward target and talks with the forward and his agent are said to be “well advanced.”

Diario AS are reporting that Xavi’s been on the phone to Morata to discuss a winter move, and the player has made it clear he’s not happy at Juve and would love to head to the Camp Nou.

The report reckons Xavi thinks Morata is “one of the best attackers in the world” and values his “versatility, work rate and experience.” Xavi has also apparently told Morata that he’d be a strategic signing and one that would “go far beyond a six-month loan.”

Morata is said to be willing to take a pay cut to move to the Camp Nou, if an agreement can be reached, and the report claims the deal could end up suiting Barca, Juventus and Morata’s parent club Atletico.

Juve are apparently not too keen on triggering the purchase option in Morata’s two-year loan deal, while Atletico still have to pay Barca around €40 million to land Antoine Griezmann permanently.

There’s also speculation that Barcelona are also willing to talk to Juventus about Memphis Depay when it comes to a deal for Morata which would make a complicated deal even more complex.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qz8UGX

Read More

Negotiations over Ousmane Dembélé renewal could be breaking down

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

The latest meeting with his agents have not been good

The chances of Ousmane Dembélé renewing his contract are plummeting, if not completely dead, according to the latest rumors.

FC Barcelona’s meeting with his agents today did not produce the desired result, and it has variously been described as either a major setback or a complete breakdown for the winger’s chances of renewing his contract.

Diario SPORT reports that the meeting was tense, and his agents are hoping to find a bigger payout than what is being offered. However, they say the player is happy at Barcelona and wants to stay. For that reason, the club is said to be calm over the situation and confident they can overcome the issue.

Gerard Romero, a Catalan journalist, has phrased it in more stringent turns: “DEMBELÉ OUT.”

NOTICIA @JijantesFC

DEMBELÉ OUT.

No renueva su contrato con el Barça

El club NO puede llegar a las peticiones de Ousmane#mercato #jijantesFC pic.twitter.com/OEVYkYPj8b

— Gerard Romero (@gerardromero) December 29, 2021

He says talks have broken down and the winger will not renew his deal with Barcelona.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qwI9mM

Read More

Cristiano Ronaldo linked with Barcelona by Catalan media... but it’s a prank

Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

If you see this report, please know it’s a joke

“Cristiano Ronaldo offers himself to Barça!”

That’s the report on the front page of Catalonia’s biggest sports daily, Mundo Deportivo.

“The Portuguese is not comfortable in Manchester and has contacted Xavi through Piqué, while Jorge Mendes is already negotiating with Laporta,” the subheading reads.

But the promise of the “signing of the century” from Manchester United to FC Barcelona should be viewed with a massive grain of salt, to say the least.

That is because, even though it’s not outright stated to be a joke, it certainly is.

It was published on Día de los Santos Inocentes - day of the holy innocents. It’s an important holiday in the Catholic tradition, which commemorates the Massacre of the Innocents as told in the biblical Gospel of Matthew.

The story is violent and serious, but the commemoration is not, at least not in Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines. In these countries, it’s traditional to play pranks or lighthearted jokes on gullible people - people who are too innocent to realize someone is not being serious.

In short, this is the equivalent of April Fool’s Day, and weird stories like these are par for the course.

Besides the cultural context, a few choice quotes should make it obvious that the whole thing is a prank.

First, the report says Xavi asked Gerard Piqué to make sure Ronaldo knows what positional play is. Another funny moment occurs when Ronaldo supposedly phones Messi to ask him if he can rent the Argentine star’s house in Barcelona.

Part of his motive for doing so is to have seven Ballon d’Or awards in his house, even if they do not belong to him.

Messi ultimately agrees, saying it’s fine so long as he doesn’t steal any awards.

Every year, watch out for these stories. Don’t let anyone fool you.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3mJPtdo

Read More

Fenerbahçe and Newcastle interested in Samuel Umtiti - report

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The question is if the defender will agree to leave

FC Barcelona want to get rid of Samuel Umtiti as soon as possible, and they think they have a potential buyer lined up. Fenerbahçe are said to be interested in him. But a deal is still far from agreed, and Umtiti himself could be a roadblock. That’s all according to a new report from Diario SPORT.

Meanwhile, over in England the tabloids point to Newcastle United making a move for the defender.

Umtiti has a very high wage but rarely, if ever, plays for Barcelona. The Catalans have tried to move him on for a very long time, but it’s been difficult to find a buyer who will pay even part of his huge salary for a player that has had persistent injury problems for years.

Fenerbahçe may be willing to get him as a replacement for Attila Szalai, who is understood to be going to Chelsea. They will pay a large portion of Umtiti’s salary if Barcelona agree to pay the rest. One of the biggest roadblocks could be the defender himself. It’s said he rejected a move to Beşiktaş last summer, so he may generally be against moving to Turkey.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have recently found themselves with a lot more money thanks to its new ownership. Eddie Howe is said to be looking for experienced reinforcements and the Toon may be one of the few clubs willing to pay for him.

Barcelona are looking to make room in the wage bill to make more signings and register new players while still complying with salary cap rules.

It’s also said that several French clubs could be in for him as well, but they are looking to pay less of Umtiti’s salary and would rely on Barcelona to pay the lion’s share. Thus, they are less attractive to the Catalans.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/32KtbRA

Read More

Barcelona confirm three more positive Covid-19 tests

Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images

Xavi is facing a selection crisis

Barcelona confirmed on Wednesday that three more players have tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of Sunday’s La Liga clash at Real Mallorca.

Ousmane Dembele, Gavi and Samuel Umtiti are the latest players to return positive tests, but all three are said to be in good health and now isolating.

Barca have previously confirmed that Jordi Alba, Alejandro Balde, Dani Alves, and Clement Lenglet have also tested positive for Covid.

LATEST NEWS | The players O. Dembélé, Umtiti, and Gavi have tested positive for Covid-19 following PCR tests administered to the team. The players are in good health and are in isolation at their homes. The Club has informed the relevant authorities. pic.twitter.com/zLC6wxDHvP

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 29, 2021

The news is a further blow to coach Xavi who is already without a host of players due to injury. Gavi was due to miss the game anyway due to suspension, along with Sergio Busquets who is also banned.

Five more players, Sergino Dest, Gerard Pique, Ronald Araujo, Philippe Coutinho and Neto, who missed training on Tuesday after being given an extra day off will also be tested later today, according to ESPN.

There’s been no word yet on whether La Liga games may be postponed due to the growing outbreak in the Spanish top flight.

Rayo Vallecano have already announced 17 positives and want their game against Atletico postponed, while Real Sociedad have also confirmed 10 cases in their first team.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3pzgu5k

Read More

Cesar Azpilicueta ‘very close’ to Barcelona move - report

Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

The defender is being tipped to join for free in June

Barcelona have reportedly reached an agreement in principle to sign Cesar Azpilicueta on a free transfer from Chelsea at the end of the season.

The news comes from Gerard Romero who reports Azpilicueta is “very close” to Barca and has an “an agreement in principle” to join from June.

Romero sounds pretty confident about the deal but also adds that “only a few personal issues can change the course of the operation.”

Azpilicueta has been at Chelsea since signing from Marseille in 2021 but is out of contract at the end of the season and able to negotiate with other clubs from January 1.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel spoke about the defender’s future before Christmas and didn’t seem too worried about the situation.

“I don’t see any problem here. The situation between Azpi, me and the club is very clear. He is our captain,” he said.

“He has all possibilities to stay here as long as possible and become the legend he already is. He is a fantastic captain and a fantastic player.”

Source | Metro

It’s also been previously reported that Azpilicueta wants to stay and fight for his place at Chelsea despite the interest from Barcelona. However, there may be a stumbling block as Azpilicueta is thought to want a longer contract than the one-year deal on offer.

Meanwhile, Xavi is thought to be a big fan of Azpilicueta and his status as a free agent is obviously a plus due to the club’s financial problems.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3HqhUFr

Read More

FC Barcelona News: 29 December 2021

Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

FC Barcelona signs Ferran Torres | FC Barcelona

Barcelona have signed Ferran Torres from Manchester City on a five-year deal until 2027. The forward’s buyout clause has been set at 1 billion euros and he will be presented on Monday, January 3.

First training session for Ferran Torres | FC Barcelona

Ferran Torres trained with Barcelona for the first time on Tuesday. The 21-year-old trained apart from the rest of the squad as he continues his recovery from a foot injury.

Fourth COVID-19 case at Barcelona as Balde tests positive | Marca

Left-back Alejandro Balde has become the fourth Barcelona player to test positive for Covid-19 after Dani Alves, Clement Lenglet, and Jordi Alba.

Sevilla eyeing up move for Mika Marmol | Football Espana

Sevilla are reportedly eyeing up a move for Barca youngster Mika Marmol. The center-back wants to stay but his contact is up in 2023 and he knows there are other offers.

Pedri returns to training to boost Xavi amid sea of absences | Sport

Pedri was back in training on Tuesday to give coach Xavi a boost ahead of Barcelona’s first game of 2022 at Real Mallorca. Ansu Fati and Memphis Depay also took part in the session.

Roberto Martinez praises Barca’s use of Nico and Gavi | Football Espana

Belgium coach Roberto Martinez has been talking about Barcelona’s decision to use teenage midfielders Nico Gonzalez and Gavi this season.

Ousmane Dembele’s last minute absence that could affect Xavi’s plans | Sport

Ousmane Dembele could miss Barcelona’s game against Real Mallorca after feeling unwell and missing training. The Frenchman is now waiting for the rest of a PCR test.

Yusuf Demir misses training after decision made on winger’s future | Football Espana

Yusuf Demir’s time at Barcelona looks to be almost up. The teenager was allowed to miss training on Tuesday as the Catalans try to sort out his future.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3n1O2rd

Read More

When will Ferran Torres make his Barcelona debut?

Photo by Matt McNulty - Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images

The new signing is on his way back from injury

Barcelona finally announced the signing of Ferran Torres on Tuesday and then promptly confirmed the 21-year-old is unavailable for selection as he’s still recovering from a foot injury.

Torres passed a medical on Monday whichs showed his fracture is healing well but he’s not ready for a return to first-team action yet. The update is not a surprise but is something of a blow given Barca’s attacking injuries.

LATEST NEWS | Tests carried out on @FerranTorres20
show that he is recovering well from a fracture in his right foot. He is not available for selection and his recovery will dictate his return.

https://t.co/q1dd2oud2i pic.twitter.com/jav0Wjh4EV

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 28, 2021

So when will Torres be able to make his Barca debut? The good news is that Barca fans may not have to wait too long to see the new signing in action for the Catalan giants after his move from Man City.

Torres did train with his new teammates on Tuesday as Xavi’s men returned to action after the festive break and began preparations for their first La Liga game of 2022 at Real Mallorca on January 2.

Boom, there you have it@FerranTorres20's first Barça workout pic.twitter.com/49Ej4PDb0q

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 28, 2021

Mundo Deportivo reckon Torres is aiming to make his debut in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Real Madrid on January 12. The game takes place after La Liga fixtures against Real Mallorca and Granada and the Copa del Rey tie with Linares.

There’s a similar estimate from Diario AS who reckon the Super Cup is the earliest Torres can feature. Indeed their report suggests a more realistic date could be the league clash against Rayo Vallecano on January 19.

Torres has been out since October when he fractured a foot playing for Spain against Italy in the Nations League. The 21-year-old scored both of Spain’s goals in a 2-1 win that sent Luis Enrique’s team through to the final.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3pAV4ol

Read More

Dembele misses Barca training, pending a PCR test

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

The forward was not feeling great

Ousmane Dembele missed training on Tuesday as Barcelona returned to action after the festive break and could be another player forced out of Sunday’s trip to Real Mallorca.

Barca confirmed the Frenchman had told the club’s medical staff he was “feeling unwell” and is now waiting on the results of a PCR test.

The Catalans have already confirmed that Alejandro Balde, Jordi Alba, Clement Lenglet and Dani Alves have tested positive for Covid-19 since returning and are now isolating.

Gerard Piqué, Ronald Araujo, Sergino Dest, Philippe Coutinho and Neto also missed the session “with the coach’s permission.”

Yusuf Demir was also permitted to miss training as “he awaits a decision on his future.” Barca are expected to cut the teenager’s loan from Rapid Vienna short with a move to the Bundesliga believed to be on the cards.

Elsewhere, there was some good news with Pedri back in training, while Ansu Fati and Memphis Depay were also involved as they work their way back from injuries.

New signing Ferran Torres also took part following his move from Manchester City but trained away from the squad as he recovers from a foot injury.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3HgYpPo

Read More

Balde tests positive for Covid, Real Mallorca also affected

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The two teams have problems ahead of Sunday’s match

Alejandro Balde has become the fourth Barcelona player to test positive for Covid-19 following the team’s return to training on Tuesday.

The Catalans have already announced Dani Alves, Clement Lenglet, and Jordi Alba have tested positive, and Balde now joins the trio in being sidelined.

The good news is that Balde is also said to be in “good health” and is isolating at home.

LATEST NEWS | Alejandro Balde received a positive antigen test given today before training in accordance with La Liga Covid-19 protocol.

The player is in good health and is in isolation at his home. The Club has informed the relevant authorities. pic.twitter.com/JZLqcrQOao

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 28, 2021

Balde’s absence is another problem for Xavi who is rapidly running out of players. The coach already has a substantial injury list to cope with ahead of the game, while Gavi and Sergio Busquets are banned.

Meanwhile, Real Mallorca are also having issues before the match. The club announced on Tuesday that they are also dealing with a number of positive tests.

“The PCR tests carried out yesterday and during the holiday period have detected four positives among the first team squad and three among the members of the technical staff. All of them are well, isolated in their homes and following the medical indications of the health authorities.”

Source | Real Mallorca

The increasing numbers of positive tests suggests the game may be in danger of being postponed if there are any more players affected before kick-off. The match is due to take place on Sunday at 9pm CET.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3FAElXZ

Read More

OFFICIAL: Barca sign Ferran Torres from Man City

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

The deal is done!

Barcelona have confirmed they have agreed a deal to sign Spain international Ferran Torres from Manchester City.

The 21-year-old arrives for a reported fee of €55 million plus €10 million in variables and will sign a five-year deal at the Camp Nou.

Torres had a medical on Monday morning and is due to be officially presented as a Barcelona on Monday, January 3.

Here’s the club’s official statement:

“FC Barcelona has reached an agreement with Manchester City for the transfer of Ferran Torres.

“The player has signed a contract for the next five seasons, until 30 June 2027, and his buyout clause has been set at 1,000 million euros.”

Source | FC Barcelona

New coach Xavi is thought to have made it clear he wanted Torres to arrive to boost Barcelona’s attacking options which have been plagued by injuries this season.

Ansu Fati, Martin Braithwaite, and Memphis Depay remain on the injured list currently, while Sergio Aguero has been forced to retire due to a cardiac issue.

Welcome to Barcelona, Ferran Torres!

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/32FbNxU

Read More

Alba is latest Barca player to test positive for Covid-19

Photo By Joaquin Corchero/Europa Press via Getty Images

The left-back is now isolating

Jordi Alba has become the latest Barcelona player to test positive for Covid-19 and will miss Sunday’s La Liga clash at Real Mallorca.

The club confirmed Alba will not be training with the team today but is in good health and now isolating at home.

LATEST NEWS | @JordiAlba has tested positive for Covid-19 and will not be taking part in today's training session.

The player is in good health and is in isolation at his home. The Club has informed the relevant authorities. pic.twitter.com/Qn5frbUwrM

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 28, 2021

Alba is the third Barca player to test positive over the Christmas period. The Catalan giants announced on Monday that Clement Lenglet and Dani Alves have also returned positive tests.

The absence of the left-back is yet another problem for Xavi ahead of Barca’s first game of 2022 and means the coach is seriously short of options for the trip to Real Mallorca.

Gavi and Sergio Busquets are out of the trip due to suspension, while Memphis Depay, Sergi Roberto, Martin Braithwaite, and Ansu Fati are all out injured.

There have been whispers that Pedri may be fit in time for the match, but he’s certainly not guaranteed a place in the starting XI as he hasn’t played since September.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3sEKDlu

Read More

FC Barcelona News: 28 December 2021

Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Documentation reviews holding up Ferran Torres’ signing at Barcelona | Marca

Ferran Torres’ move to Barcelona has been delayed because the documentation hasn’t quite been completed. The forward passed a medical with the Catalan giants on Monday.

Alexia wins Globe Soccer 2021 | FC Barcelona

Alexia Putellas has won the 2021 ⁣Globe Soccer Award for ⁣Best Women’s Player of the Year, while Barca Femeni picked up the trophy for Best Women’s Club of the Year.

Barcelona handed boost in Haaland pursuit as forward wants LaLiga switch | Marca

Barcelona have been handed a boost in their hunt for Erling Haaland. The striker would much rather play in La Liga than the Premier League, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

Lenglet and Dani Alves positive for Covid-19 | FC Barcelona

Clement Lenglet and Dani Alves have both tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss training on Tuesday. The duo are in good health and isolating at home.

Barcelona’s big decision in the transfer market | Sport

Barcelona have a big decision in the transfer marker - whether to sign a striker in January or try to bring in another center-back to reinforce the backline for the second half of 2021-22.

Arteta ‘gives resounding yes’ to signing Coutinho in January transfer window | Mirror

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has reportedly given the green light to sign Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona in the January transfer window.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3sIyeNs

Read More

Dani Alves and Clement Lenglet test positive for Covid-19

Photo by Xavier Bonilla/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The two players are in good health

Barcelona have confirmed that defenders Dani Alves and Clement Lenglet has both tested positive for Covid-19 but are in good health.

The players have been enjoying some time off over the festive period but are due back in training on Tuesday, December 28.

However, Lenglet and Alves will both miss the session as they are now isolating.

Here’s the update from Barcelona.

“FC Barcelona’s Clément Lenglet and Dani Alves have both tested positive for Covid-19 and will not be taking part in tomorrow’s training session at 6.00pm CET at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. The players are both feeling in good health and are self-isolated at home. The club has informed the corresponding authorities.”

Source | FC Barcelona

The news is another headache for coach Xavi ahead of Barcelona’s first game of 2022 against Real Mallorca on January 2.

The new coach is already without Ansu Fati, Pedri, Memphis Depay, Martin Braithwaite, Sergi Roberto, and Sergino Dest for the game due to injury, while midfielders Gavi and Sergio Busquets are suspended.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3JxqYds

Read More

Ferran Torres - scouting report

Photo by Alex Gottschalk/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Why Barcelona went for him

FC Barcelona have made a big signing to bolster their attacking forces with the addition of Ferran Torres from Manchester City. The Spanish forward has played as both a winger and a striker, but will probably be a centerforward at least at first for Barcelona.

He is right-footed but very good with his left and has played as a winger on either flank. However, he generally plays on the right. Still, there are some that have said that his future is through the center.

Standing at 6’0”, he is a good height for a striker and is very good with his head. He still needs to improve his holdup play and ability linking up to become an elite striker. But the potential is there, particularly because he has shown a lot of good technique when passing.

One of his key attributes is pace. He is very fast, and can be very direct when given the ball. Playing as a winger, he definitely has the ability to beat people one on one and is a good dribbler.

When playing as a striker, he can make runs in behind high lines, and that’s something Xavi will be looking for.

Pep Guardiola compared his movement to that of Jamie Vardy, who is a forward renowned for his pace and ability to get in behind defenses.

“I’m a big fan of Jamie Vardy as a striker,” Guardiola said.

“I only make the comment because Vardy loves to make the movements in behind, normally strikers don’t like that much. Ferran likes it as well to make movements in behind.”

He has shown he is a good finisher, although he has not scored a breathtaking amount of goals yet. If he plays as a striker and continues to develop, then we should expect the number of goals to go up.

Something Xavi may also prize is his situational awareness. Torres has a lot of good instincts and is a smart player, perhaps even wise beyond his years.

Beyond that, Torres should adapt quickly to Barcelona. He knows many players from the Spanish national team. He has experience in La Liga and grew up in Valencia, which is not too far from Barcelona at all. There will be no language barrier or culture shock to speak of.

It’ll be interesting if Torres becomes a winger or a striker full-time, or always a mix of both. At 21, he is still very young and will improve aspects of his game as time goes by. Which aspects he concentrates on will depend on his responsibilities.

Torres is very versatile and well-rounded, which is a good thing, of course. But there are some who will wonder whether Barcelona should have gone for more of a specialist, who fits one particular role and not many,

Barcelona in the past has made the mistake of investing in forwards who specialize in different roles or systems and don’t adapt to their new positions. The club invested heavily in Antoine Griezmann and Philippe Coutinho, but neither were true wingers despite being played there. Memphis Depay has also struggled to replicate his form as he has changed roles trying to adapt to working as the main striker in a 4-3-3. These are or were brilliant footballers, but it was a round-peg-into-square-hole situation.

Will Torres break this pattern? I see that is a worry considering it seems Barcelona will use him more as a striker than a winger, the position he has played most of his career.

A few things should assuage those fears. First and foremost, Torres has already played successfully as a striker before joining. Barcelona aren’t attempting to reboot him, but build on a natural evolution. Second, it’s that combination of raw attributes. His pace and height make sense for the position and role. One of Coutinho’s problems is that he did not have the electric pace to be a winger nor the defensive ability to be a central midfielder in Barcelona’s system. Torres has the tools to make it work.

There is still definitely some risk to this signing though. The main one is whether he will translate good attributes and lots of potential to becoming a reliable enough scorer to play as a Barcelona-quality starting striker long-term. But before we ask that, we have to wonder if Barcelona see him as a long-term starting striker in the first place. With all the rumors about Erling Haaland, that does not seem to be the case. Then the question becomes: what is his future? Winger? Or will he always be seen as an all-arounder with many potential roles in the system? These are the key questions in the long run.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/311FGYz

Read More

Xavi should be able to use Ez Abde against Real Mallorca

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Some good news for Barcelona

Xavi should be able to call upon winger Ez Abde for Barcelona’s first game of 2022 against Real Mallorca on Sunday, January 2.

Abde has been called up to the Morocco squad for AFCON 2021, but FIFA say players in Europe don’t have to meet up with their national teams until January 3.

The ruling means that Abde should be able to make the squad for the trip to Son Moix and could even continue in the starting XI due to Barca’s injury situation.

Memphis Depay, Ansu Fati, and Martin Braithwaite are not expected back for the game, while Ferran Torres may be signed in time but is unlikely to feature either.

It’s not clear what will happen after that with Abde. There is continuing speculation that Abde would rather stay with Barca than head to the AFCON as he’s just broken into the team.

However, national coach Vahid Halihodzic has made it clear he wants Abde at the tournament and has said he is hoping to come to a “friendly agreement” with Barca.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/32BpZYA

Read More

WATCH: Ferran Torres ‘very happy’ after Barca medical

Photo by Victoria Haydn/Manchester City FC via Getty Images

The winger is set to move from Manchester City

Ferran Torres is close to completing his move from Manchester City to Barcelona after undergoing a medical with the Catalans on Monday.

The 21-year-old was spotted entering the Hospital de Barcelona early on Monday morning and was then stopped by reporters on his way out a couple of hours later.

“I’m very happy” were Torres’s words as he left the hospital and headed for the Ciutat Esportiva for a few more checks ahead of an official annoucement from the club.

#FCB

✅ Ferran Torres ya ha pasado la revisión médica

️ "Estoy muy contento" ha afirmado el jugador pic.twitter.com/MUQqsJKhAH

— Diario SPORT (@sport) December 27, 2021

It’s been reported that Torres will be officially presented as a Barcelona player on Tuesday and will then link up with his new teammates for training.

Torres has been out since October but is closing in on a return to action. He shared a video on Sunday on Instagram of himself working out at former club Valencia.

The winger won’t play in Barca’s first game of 2022 against Real Mallorca in La Liga, but it’s thought he could be available to Xavi after that game.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qqGJKk

Read More

FC Barcelona News: 27 December 2021

Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors

Ferran Torres undergoes a medical examination with Barça | Mundo Deportivo

Ferran Torres was spotted arriving at the Hospital de Barcelona on Monday morning for a medical ahead of his move to the Camp Nou. The Spain international passed the tests and will be unveiled on Tuesday.

The reason why Gavi chose Barcelona over Real Madrid and Atletico | Marca

Gavi’s former coach at Real Betis has explained why he chose to join Barcelona at the age of 11 over Real Madrid & Atletico. “He told his parents: ‘Dad, the best [players] are here and I want to play here.’”

Laporta’s obsession with preventing Haaland’s Real Madrid move | Marca

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is said to be obsessed with ensuring Erling Haaland does not move to Real Madrid and joins Barcelona instead. Laporta really does not want to see the Norwegian link up with Kylian Mbappe at the Bernabeu.

Dembélé shows his Barcelonismo on social networks | Diario Sport

Ousmane Dembele is still yet to renew his contract at Barcelona but has hinted he may be about to do so. The Frenchman has shared a post on Instagram of the Barcelona badge.

Gayà, the great opportunity that Mateu Alemany sees for Barça | Diario Sport

Barcelona sporting director Mateu Alemany wants to sign two full-backs and is especially keen on Jose Luis Gaya. The defender’s contract expires in 2023 which means he could be available at a good price in the summer.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3FDZkJu

Read More

Ousmane Dembele drops hints over Barcelona future?

Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images

The Frenchman is out of contract in 2022

Ousmane Dembele’s future at Barcelona remains the subject of speculation but the Frenchman may just have dropped a hint over his plans.

The 24-year-old has shared a post on Instagram of the Barcelona badge which many are taking to mean he’s about to put pen to paper on a new contract.

Reports have claimed Barca wanted Dembele’s contract situation all wrapped up before the end of the year when he will be free to talk to other clubs if he hasn’t renewed.

Ousmane Dembélé just posted this on his Instagram stories - while he’s in advanced talks with Barcelona to extend his contract, currently expiring in June 2022. #FCB pic.twitter.com/gC5hsTHUUZ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 26, 2021

Dembele’s has never spoken publicly about his future, although both Xavi and president Joan Laporta have made it clear they want him to stay and play a big part in Barca’s future.

The Frenchman seems to have had a pretty eventful festive period so far with pictures on social media emerging just before Christmas of Dembele getting married which was met with widespread surprise.

Barcelona are now waiting for another big decision from the 24-year-old, but the most recent reports suggest he will continue his career at the Camp Nou.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3FMeUCV

Read More

This Week in Barça B: Cruel Finish

Photo by Ion Alcoba/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Another brutal defeat to end 2021

Following a huge show of character against Atlético Baleares two weeks ago, it seemed Barça B had righted the ship and were ready to go on a run when they visited Cornellà in the final game of 2021.

Every match in the Segunda B is a challenge, but Cornellá are near the bottom of the table and should have been put out of sight. Barça certainly played well enough to do that, but the same problem keeps happening ever since Sergi Barjuan took over in the summer: play well, create chances, miss them, concede a dumb goal, lose.

And that is exactly what took place at Cornellà, with Barça dominating the entire match and somehow allowing the hosts to score with pretty much their only chance when Pepe Bernal was the first to a loose ball in the box to give Cornellá the three points.

Ocasions i més ocasions, però derrota final a Cornellà amb un gol en el descompte. Repassem com va ser el partit

El resumen de la derrota en Cornellà en el último partido del año (1-0)#ForçaBarça ❤️ pic.twitter.com/voIkKoe1E1

— FC Barcelona B (@FCBarcelonaB) December 20, 2021

The loss dropped Barça to eighth in the table, three points behind the Playoff spots and 10 points away from leaders Albacete. But the frustrating thing about this Barça B season is they’ve been playing a lot better than 8th place and should comfortably be near the top of the standings, and they need to find a way to convert their opportunities in the second half of the season.

Barjuan should still be given a fair shot to finish the season, and the football has been very good most of the time. But at some point results are needed, and they haven’t been there over the last couple of months.

́

✏ El jugador del Barça B Antonio Aranda ha sido sometido con éxito a una artroscopia de limpieza en la rodilla izquierda. Su evolución marcará el regreso a los terrenos de juego

¡Ánimo, Antonio!#ForçaBarça ❤ https://t.co/WRBDkKJCmd

— FC Barcelona B (@FCBarcelonaB) December 21, 2021

Unfortunatly for Barça they will be missing one of their best players to start the new year: midfielder Antonio Aranda, one of the most consistent performances in the B team all season, underwent knee surgery earlier in the week and will be out indefinitely. There is still plenty of talent in the middle of the park, though, and the team should survive Aranda’s absence pretty well.

But the vibes aren’t too good at Barça B right now. Maybe with a New Year, the goals and wins will start coming.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qtS78a

Read More

WATCH: Ferran Torres shares fitness update

Photo by Matt McNulty - Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images

The forward looks in good shape

Ferran Torres is reportedly set to become a Barcelona player very soon and has shared a fitness update on social media.

The 21-year-old has posted a video on Instagram which shows him back in Valencia and working hard out on the training pitch as he works his way back to full fitness.

Check it out below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ferran Torres (@ferrantorres)

Torres has been out since fracturing a foot back in October while playing for Spain, but his video suggests he is not too far away from a return to action.

The latest reports suggest he will be officially confirmed as a Barcelona player on Monday and will be presented at the Camp Nou on Tuesday.

Torres could then make his Barcelona debut against Linares Deportivo in the Copa del Rey third round on January 5 or potentially against Granada in La Liga three days later.

Barca head off to Saudi Arabia after those game for the Spanish Super Cup and a game with Real Madrid. The winners go on to play Atletico Madrid or Athletic in the final.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/33OL02u

Read More

Araujo has clear demand during contract talks - report

Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images

The center-back’s current deal expires in 2023

Ronald Araujo is near the top of the list when it comes to key players Barcelona want to renew in 2022 but the club may just have to shell out to hold onto the Uruguay international.

The center-back’s current deal expires in 2023 and he “wants to continue” at the Camp Nou, according to Diario Sport. However, Araujo has also set a “clear condition” that needs to be fulfilled and basically wants his importance to the team to be reflected in his salary.

The report reckons that Araujo’s current wage packet is “light years away from the salaries of Umtiti or Gerard Piqué and also very far from Lenglet.” It’s also claimed he earns less than Eric Garcia, who was apparently willing to take a pay cut to return home.

All of which means that Araujo is pretty keen for a pay rise if he is to stay. The defender is also said to have “very important offers to leave” with Premier League clubs such as Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United all mentioned.

Barca’s financial problems are well-known but Xavi has already made it clear how important the young players are to the future of the team. He name-checked several starlets ahead of Barca’s final game of 2021 at Sevilla.

“He [Gavi] is a spectacular player, we can’t lose that level of player. We can’t lose Gavi, Nico, Abde, Ansu, Pedri, Araujo, these guys are the present and the future of the club,” he said.

“And Gavi is definitely one of them. I understand, I know the club is working really well to negotiate his contract. He’s fundamental to this team.”

Source | FC Barcelona

Barca have already secured the futures of Ansu Fati and Pedri, while Gavi seems to be next. The Catalans may then turn their attentions to Araujo and will hope they can also tie the defender down even though they may not be able to match salaries on offer from the Premier League

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3mzLQ9P

Read More

Ferran Torres set for Barcelona medical - report

Photo by Str/Xinhua via Getty Images

The transfer could be announced on Monday

Ferran Torres is reportedly set to have a medical on Monday at Barcelona and could even be presented at the Camp Nou as early as Tuesday.

The Catalans are believed to have sealed a deal for the 21-year-old for €55 million plus €10m in variables after reaching an agreement with Manchester City.

Mundo Deportivo are reporting Torres will have a medical on Monday morning, the transfer will then be officially announced and his presentation could take place on Tuesday.

Torres is still on his way back from a foot injury, but MD reckon he could potentially get his first Barca minutes against Linares in the Copa del Rey or Granada in La Liga.

Pep Guardiola admitted last week that a deal was “close” but it’s thought Barca still need to get a few players off the wage bill to make the numbers add up.

Teenage forward Yusuf Demir could be one of those players with his loan deal from Rapid Vienna expected to be cut short in the coming days.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3qtfMWi

Read More

Morocco hoping to reach ‘friendly agreement’ with Barca over Abde

Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images

The youngster has been called up to the AFCON squad

Morocco boss Vahid Halilhodžić has offered an update on Barcelona winger Ez Abde amid speculation the youngster wants to avoid playing for the national team at AFCON 2021.

Abde has been called up to the squad for the tournament in Cameroon, but reports in Spain have claimed he wants to stay in Barcelona as he’s just broken into the first team and wants to prove to Xavi he deserves to stay there.

Halilhodžić has been pretty defiant and says Barcelona can’t stop Abde playing in the tournament and is also confident the forward wants to play for Morocco.

“He is very proud to play for Morocco. We will talk to his bosses, the president and the sports director. They cannot prohibit him from coming because he is selectable,” he said.

“He is playing and almost is a starter. I have called him because he is playing in a team like Barcelona. I have spoken with him twice and he is eager to play with us.

“We will speak with those responsible for your team, the president and the sports director, because they cannot prohibit you from coming because you are eligible. We will try to reach a friendly agreement, we will explain things and find a solution acceptable to all.

”I discovered him recently and spoke with him. He played in the second team and I couldn’t call him up, but now he is playing with the first team. I saw that he had the necessary quality. He plays on the wing, he’s fast, he’s able to make a difference on the sides. We don’t have many players like that.”

Source | Diario AS

It’s not clear yet what will happen but a decision will be needed pretty soon. Barcelona are back in action on January 2 against Real Mallorca in La Liga, while Morocco’s first AFCON game is on 10 January against Ghana.

from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts https://ift.tt/3sHxyI2

Read More