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The Blues are thought to be keen
Premier League big-spenders Chelsea are reported to be interested in Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde.
Diario Sport reckon the Blues are keen on the youngster and his agent, Jorge Mendes, has made this clear to the Catalans during recent talks.
Barcelona want to renew Balde’s contract and secure his long-term future after seeing the teenager break into the first team this season.
However, finances mean that hasn’t happened yet. Barca are hoping to announce Balde has signed on until 2027 soon, but until he does the rumor mill will keep on churning.
The report claims that Mendes is trying to get the best possible deal for Balde, despite Barca’s tricky financial position, and thinks he should paid the same as Pedri and Ansu Fati.
Chelsea, meanwhile, want a new left-back despite splashing out heavily on Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell, with neither player particularly impressing.
Balde has been at Barca since the age of seven and spoke about his future recently, making it clear he wants to stay at the Camp Nou for the long-term.
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Check out the latest from the Barcelona boss
Xavi was back in front of the media on Friday to discuss Barcelona’s clash with Elche in La Liga at the weekend.
The manager spoke about Ansu Fati’s dad’s recent comments, the possibility of Lionel Messi returning and the recent reports about a campaign against Gavi.
Here are the best bits:
Xavi on Elche
It’s always difficult to analyse a team when they have changed manager. They are bottom but it can be a tough game. They will be extra motivated. We may think this is done but we still have to work hard. It will be tough, away from home. They’ve been competing well.
Xavi on Yuste’s comments about Messi
I don’t think it’s the moment to talk about Leo Messi coming back to Barca. I talk to him often, as we are friends, but it’s not a good moment for us or Leo to talk about this. We are working on it. I have a great relationship with Leo. But to have him back would be difficult. Hopefully, we will enjoy Messi here again. I would be the first one to be happy if he comes back because it’s the club of his life, he’s the best player in history. Let’s be focused on Elche and Madrid. It’s time to finish the job.
Xavi on Ansu Fati
I have talked to Ansu. He’s calm, focused on the team. I’m worried about Ansu, not about his dad or his agent or his family. I want him to be happy. He’s OK, he’s working hard. I don’t give much importance to his dad’s words. I’ve eperienced similar things when I was a player. The most important thing is Ansu and he is happy, working hard and focused on the project and he’s a great person. He’s helping us a lot. I want him to succeed at the club. We have good feelings.
Xavi on why Ansu’s not playing
Because this is Barca and there are really good players. Lewandowski, Ferran, Raphinha, Dembele. That’s Barca. A player has to understand that now we can introduce five substitutions, we can change systems, dynamics. In 30 minutes you can change the match. Ansu is participating. We need patience, not just for Ansu. He’s just 20 years old.
Xavi on a campaign against Gavi?
He’s happy with us. He’s an incredible player. He has incredible passion and an incredible attitude. Probably it’s because he is a Barca player. We are happy, we are proud of Gavi. He’s only 18. He will have an incredible career. He’s one of the best players in Spain at this moment. One of the best midfielders in the world. No doubts at all. I don’t really know anything about campaigns.
Xavi on Ansu’s Dad Part 2
This can happen. We all makes mistakes. I make mistakes. But you apolgize, you think and the most important thing is Ansu. I’m only concerned about him. He’s well and he’ll be important for the remaining matches.
Xavi on Messi
It doesn’t depend on myself. It depends on Leo. He has won everything. It depends on his happiness. If he wants to come back we need to talk. I have a great relationship with him and if he decides he wants to come back we will try to fit him in the squad. And I will try to help him to be here.
Xavi on if he’s asked Barca to sign Messi
We haven’t talked about next season. We are focused on this year. We are close to winning trophies and now you are asking me about signings. Let’s talk about important things. Tomorrow we can increase the gap to 15 points and then on Wednesday we can reach the final. I don’t know why we aren’t talking about this.
Xavi on injuries
Today we have important players out injured but we still have time. They won’t be ready for tomorrow, we will try to recover them for the following matches. Pedri and Dembele depend on their feelings and Frenkie and Andreas too. Raphinha is suspended.
Xavi on Ansu’s dad being unfair?
I am really confident with Ansu I know how he trains. I know what he’s capable of doing. He can make the difference in every single match. We want the best level of Ansu and all our players. I have been talking a lot with him. I try to have them happy so they can play at their best.
Xavi on Araujo to play against Elche?
It will depend on how he feels. He’s been working with the group today. We will talk to him tomorrow and we’ll see. We’ll decide tomorrow.
Xavi on Garrido and Estanis in the squad
Aleix deserves to be in the squad list. Estanis is a winger who can play both sides. Aleix’s talent is in the last pass. He’s a really talented player. The final pass is what we are missing the most when we don’t have Pedri.
Xavi on Pablo Torre
Pablo is a really talented player. Also he’s best at taking set-pieces, a great footballer. He can help us a lot, let’s see if he can have minutes in the next games.
Xavi on it’s is financially possible to sign Messi
It will depend on many aspects. We are still waiting to know our Fair Play for next season. But the most important aspect is Messi. It’s home for him. We would be happy to have him back, but there are many things we need to control.
Xavi on if he’s in love with Messi
Yes of course. I have seen Leo grow. I know the importance of him as a footballer. He’s an example in many different aspects and of course we are all excited. To have a last dance at Barca like Michael Jordan.
Xavi on Eric Garcia as a midfielder
I’ve been thinking about that position for Eric. I talked to him, he can adapt well to this position. Something similar to what happened with Rafa Marquez, he plays well with the ball, he wins duels, he can adapt well to his position.
Xavi on Jordi Alba
He’s helping the team in another way. He always used to play. Balde has been playing more but Jordi will be important. He can help us a lot. If he plays or if he doesn’t. He’s one of the captains. It’s hard when you don’t play but we are happy with him.
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The youngster’s future seems uncertain
The future of Ansu Fati has been in doubt for some time. After a blistering start at Barcelona in his first couple of years, he’s been slowed by injuries and a seeming lack of confidence from Xavi. That lack of playing time has led to rumors that Fati may be on the way out this summer to get more playing time, whether on loan or a permanent move.
Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste spoke about Fati this week and was brutally honest about the future of Fati. He says he isn’t sure if Fati will continue at the club.
“I can’t guarantee that Ansu Fati will 100% stay because it doesn’t depend on me - but I can tell you that Xavi trusts him. I told Ansu that he has to decide his own future. I never want our Masia talents to leave Barça”.
The one part of this that seems unclear is Xavi trusting Fati. Unless that trust extends to 80th-minute substitutions, it doesn’t seem like Xavi trusts Fati all that much. Although, trust can mean different things to different people. All I know is that if Fati leaves, I hope it's on loan to gain confidence.
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Barcelona vice-president Rafa Yuste says the club are in contact with Lionel Messi over a possible return to the Camp Nou this summer.
Messi’s future remains the subject of continued speculation, with the GOAT out of contract at PSG and seeming reluctant to renew with the Ligue 1 side.
There are rumors that Barca will try to bring Messi home at the end of the season, and Yuste says he’d love to have the World Cup winner back at the Camp Nou.
“Messi knows how much we appreciate them. I would love for him to come back. We have contacts with them,” he told reporters at a press conference.
“We hope to find the right conditions to continue his history here. The beautiful stories of life have to end happily.”
It’s still not clear how Barcelona will be able to afford a deal for Messi, although that has not stopped the rumor mill from talking about it regularly.
Mundo Deportivo are reporting on Friday that Barca are already making plans for next season which include Messi.
Xavi apparently wants to use the Argentine in midfield as a playmaker and it seems optimism is growing within Barca that Messi will be part of the team next season.
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A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors
Preparations for the return of LaLiga continue - FC Barcelona
The men's first team have been working hard to get everyone up to speed after the international break. LaLiga is back with the trip to Elche and it is a chance to continue where they left off, when Franck Kessie scored the goal in added time to win the Clásico at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Midfielder Pablo Torre does not want to leave Barcelona this summer - SPORT
The young and promising Cantabrian midfielder Pablo Torre has lost prominence on the pitch with Barcelona's first team in recent months. The competition for places is high, which is why he has been reinforcing the reserve team in the last few weeks. Soon a decision will have to be made about his future next season.
Barça's first sale of the summer set to be Lenglet's move to Tottenham - SPORT
Barcelona need to achieve record revenues this summer in terms of sales in order to solve their issues with LaLiga's financial fair play rules. The aim is to save on wages and move players on to cut back on €150 million in the best-case scenario.
Chelsea will not facilitate Aubameyang's return to Barcelona for free - SPORT
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is gaining ground as a possible offensive reinforcement for Barcelona next season. The striker wants to return to Spotify Camp Nou and is willing to make a big financial effort to have a second spell at the Catalan club, but the operation will not be so easy. And Barça know it.
The Espai Barça financing plan for Camp Nou is closer to completion - SPORT
The FC Barcelona Board of Directors, meeting this Thursday, approved the financing plan for the Espai Barça, a project that will transform the club's facilities in the Les Corts district. This financing plan, however, is still not finalised, although it is now much closer to becoming a reality.
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The title favorites face the relegation favorites on the road
The final international break of the season is over, and the European season enters its stretch run with eight weeks of action that should be exhilarating. But in Spain there is very little drama as to who will win La Liga thanks to Barcelona’s crucial El Clásico win over Real Madrid that put them in prime position to win their first league title in four years.
Now the Blaugrana have 12 games left to protect the 12-point lead they’ve built in the first seven months of the campaign, and the first step towards the title is a trip to Alicante to meet last-place Elche.
The Catalans are the overwhelming favorites to win this one but have a ton of injuries to key players and another massive Clásico with a trip to the Copa del Rey Final on the line just four days away, so this certainly won’t be easy for Xavi Hernández and his troops. Here’s how we think Barça will line up on Saturday.
Defense
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The international break brought a lot of bad injury news for Xavi, who will be without crucial players in defense and midfield for at least the first two weeks of April and must find a way to navigate a busy and tough schedule after this one.
Andreas Christensen is out for this one with a calf injury, and Ronald Araujo is unlikely to feature at all as he deals with a groin issue that isn’t expected to keep him out of El Clásico but will force him to miss this one out of precaution. Jules Kounde escaped injury which is great news, and he’ll lead the backline most likely at center-back for this one.
Sergi Roberto likely plays right-back without Araujo and Christensen, and Marcos Alonso is the favorite to partner Kounde in the middle. It’s been a while since Jordi Alba’s played meaningful minutes, and he likely starts this one to provide some attacking punch from the full-back position against a weaker side that’ll likely park the bus.
Midfield
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Frenkie De Jong did not play for the Netherlands and likely misses El Clásico with a hamstring problem, and Pedri remains sidelined with his own hamstring injury. Midfield depth is virtually zero with Roberto likely playing right-back on Saturday, so only three options remain in the middle.
Captain Sergio Busquets enjoyed a full international break for the first time in forever as he’s retired from the national team, and he should be more than fit enough to play many if not all the minutes from now until the end of what could be his final season at Camp Nou. Franck Kessie was the hero in El Clásico and starts this one, and Gavi will complete the midfield trio.
Attack
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Raphinha is suspended for this one and Ousmane Dembélé remains out through injury, so the front three on Saturday will be a rare one: Ferran Torres on the right, Robert Lewandowski through the middle and Ansu Fati on the left.
Ansu’s father made some explosive comments this week and it would have been very interesting to see how Xavi would respond with a fully healthy squad at his disposal, but the injuries more or less force the coach to start the Prince regardless of the controversy surrounding his lack of minutes.
Possible XI: Ter Stegen; Roberto, Kounde, Alonso, Alba; Kessie, Busquets, Gavi; Ferran, Lewandowski, Fati (4-3-3)
How do you think Barcelona should line up against Elche? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!
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Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong’s chances of being fit for the Copa del Rey Clasico seem to be pretty slim at present but are reportedly increasing.
The Dutchman has been ruled out of action with a small hamstring tear, although Barca haven’t said how much time he’ll miss.
Diario AS are reporting De Jong has a “25% chance” of making the game at the Camp Nou on April 5. It’s not great news but it’s a big improvement from the 10% chance he was given after he underwent initial tests on the problem.
The report also claims that De Jong has an “amazing recovery capacity” and has recovered quickly from injuries before, leading to optimism he could possibly make it.
The plan is for De Jong to start training again early next week, and Barcelona will see how he goes in the build-up to the game before making a final decision.
As things stand, it sounds as though De Jong won’t make it and will join Andreas Christensen, Pedri and Ousmane Dembele on the sidelines.
Yet Barcelona should have Ronald Araujo back in time for the game after the Uruguayan missed international duty due to an adductor injury.
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The club will stick with what they have instead
Barcelona have reportedly decided against signing a right-back in the summer transfer window, largely because of financial issues.
The Catalan giants have been linked with all sorts of defenders this season, with one report claiming they had 11 right-back targets on their shopping list.
Marca are now reporting that Barcelona will not sign a new full-back and will instead stick with what they have for next season.
Barca don’t have a recognized right-back in the first-team squad at present but Xavi does have plenty of options.
Sergi Roberto has played regularly in that position over the last few years and has recently extended his contract for another season.
Meanwhile, Jules Kounde seems to have emerged as Xavi’s preferred option, although he’s made it clear he’d much rather be playing in the center of the defense.
And then there’s Julian Araujo. The Mexico international has arrived from LA Galaxy and is currently training with Barca Atletico for the rest of the season.
It remains to be seen how he’ll get on, and whether he can make the step up, but he must be motivated to see the right-back slot in Xavi’s team up for grabs.
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Gavi has been in the spotlight this week, and not just because he’s losing his No. 6 shirt at Barcelona, as the teenager’s attitude has been called into question.
It all started with a report from Relevo that claimed the RFEF weren’t happy with the teenager’s attitude during the recent international break.
The report claimed Gavi didn’t really want to show up to a signing event with the Spain team, although he did after being told he had to, and had then caused a bit of tension on the training pitch with his typically aggressive approach.
There was also a claim that Gavi had complained about being played on the left of the attack for Spain. All of which had left the RFEF ‘worried’ about the teenager.
Mundo Deportivo were then swiftly on the phone to the RFEF to ask about the claims and were told Gavi’s behavior had been “exemplary.” He apparently didn’t want to go to the signing because he’d taken a whack to the head and was not feeling great.
The RFEF also admitted that Gavi does go in strong in training, but he’s not the only one, and made it clear that tensions on the training ground do tend to happen with teams from time to time.
COPE have now gone even further and been in touch with Gavi’s camp. They’ve been told there is “outrage” at the recent claims and think it’s a campaign stemming from Real Madrid.
Gavi’s camp think that Los Blancos aren’t happy with him, after a couple of Clasico clashes with Dani Ceballos, but say the teenager is calm and thinking only about football at present.
All of which should add a bit of extra spice to the next Clasico which really isn’t far away now. Real Madrid are due at the Camp Nou on April 5 for the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final and trail 1-0 from the first leg.
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Ilkay Gunodgan’s agent has insisted the midfielder has not decided his future yet amid speculation he will leave Manchester City and move to Barcelona.
The Catalans are thought to be keen to bring in Gundogan on a free transfer as they want a back-up for Pedri in time for next season.
Ilhan Gündogan, the midfielder’s uncle and agent, says Ilkay has not yet decided what he’ll do after the current campaign ends.
“There’s definitely no agreement yet with any club,” he said.
“The focus of Ilkay in recent weeks was only on Manchester City and the birth of his son.
“Now he is in the final and crucial phase of the season and is completely focused on that. Where Ilkay plays next season is still open.”
Gundogan’s agent was spotted in Barcelona recently, and the midfielder is not the only free agent the club appear to be targeting. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Inigo Martinez have also been regularly mentioned ahead of the summer transfer window.
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Barcelona are reportedly hoping to sell center-back Clement Lenglet to Tottenham his summer for a fee of €14 million.
Diario Sport reckons the two clubs are talking and Tottenham are happy to keep the defender who has made 27 appearances for Spurs this season.
The report actually comes at a bit of a weird time for Tottenham, although Barca will surely be hoping they can shift Lenglet this summer.
Spurs have just sacked Antonio Conte, while Fabio Paratici may have to step down after seeing his 30-match ban from football extended worldwide.
There’s therefore a lot of uncertainty around the club, and it’s not clear who will take over next season and if Lenglet will be in the new manager’s plans.
Yet it seems that Barca are keen to sell Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti this summer and bring in Inigo Martinez on a free transfer from Athletic.
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When and where to watch Elche v FC Barcelona - FC Barcelona
This Saturday sees Barça travel to Elche (local kick off time 9:00pm CEST), and this guide shows what the kick off time will be in selected countries and regions around the world so you can be sure you can catch the action.
Three things that must happen for Leo Messi to come back to Barca - SPORT
Lionel Messi is still, as of today, a PSG player. He will remain so until June 30 at the latest. Unless Qatar can achieve a renewal that seemed to be sealed near the end of 2022, but which has stalled, dangerously for the interests of the Parisians. The Argentina No 10 has not given the nod and it is his stance that continues to fuel all kinds of speculation about his future.
Camp Nou responds to impressive Barca Femeni with 54,667 attendance - SPORT
Barça earned a place in the semi-finals of the women's Champions League against Roma and 54,667 Barça fans have watched it, at the Camp Nou. Jonatan Giraldez's side came into the game with a one goal lead from the Italian capital, so the fans' support was key.
Eric Garcia gaining ground as a Busquets replacement - SPORT
Eric Garcia's situation at Barça could take an unexpected turn. The young Catalan centre-back has hardly had any playing time since his return from the World Cup. The great performances of Christensen, Araujo and Koundé are leaving him frozen out, however, his participation could be increased soon, but not as a central defender.
Newcastle could be the danger for Barca over Christensen - SPORT
The club are sure that offers will arrive for Andreas Christensen and the big danger could come from Newcastle, who are paying a lot of attention to the footballer — and their capacity for investment is unlimited.
Ansu Fati's four possible destinations if he leaves Barcelona this summer - SPORT
The Ansu Fati case has exploded for good with the explosive statements made by his father and agent, Bori Fati. It is just a step towards what could be his possible definitive departure from the Catalan club if Ansu remains ion the sidelines.
Chelsea & Arsenal to fight Barcelona for young Brazil star Vitor Roque - SPORT
Operation Vitor Roque is heating up. Coinciding with the international break, the Premier League clubs interested in the Brazilian centre-forward have made their move, positioning themselves for the summer transfer window, when the youngster -- who became the youngest Seleçao debutant in 29 years recently -- will be leaving Ath. Paranaense.
Barcelona’s reported pursuit of Vitor Roque has had a couple of suitors join the party. The report details that Arsenal and Chelsea have hopped aboard the train of trying to get the Brazilian star out of Athletico Paranaense this summer.
Roque’s dad has also been spotted in London this week which has only served to get the rumor mill even more excited.
The forward is only 18 but has made his mark in both club football and the Brazilian national team quite quickly. He made his senior debut for the Selecao at the weekend and big things are expected of him.
As of now, the report details that Arsenal through their sporting director Brazilian Edu Gaspar, are the “strongest bidders.” The Gunners are enjoying a fine season and sit top of the Premier League.
As of now, Roque’s representatives are apparently meeting with both London clubs and then will head to Spain to meet with Barcelona again. This is going to be a race to the finish.
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The Catalans are hoping to seal two free transfers
Barcelona have a verbal agreement in place with Athletic Bilbao defender Inigo Martinez, according to ESPN. The center-back’s contract expires in June and as we all know, Barca really gobbles up those free transfers.
With that verbal agreement apparently in place, Barca are now turning their attention to a full-court press for Ilkay Gundogan. The German midfielder’s contract is also up in June, how convenient, and he has apparently shown some back channel interest in a move to Barcelona.
If Barca are able to land the 31-year-old Martinez and 32-year-old Gundogan, they’ll have managed two impressive signings at no transfer cost. They would provide Barca with depth in the defense and midfield, both of which they need with the injuries that pile up in modern football.
Both transfers are still dependent on the club reducing their wage bill this summer, with reports claiming the Catalans need to slash around 200 million euros to be able to strengthen.
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The youngster is available on a free transfer
Leeds United sporting director Víctor Orta has confirmed his club want to sign Ilias Akhomach from Barcelona but says the Whites are not the only ones.
Ilias was long tipped to make the breakthrough into the first team at the Camp Nou but now seems set to leave after failing to agree a new deal.
Arsenal and AC Milan have also been credited with an interest in the youngster, and Orta says he is in demand ahead of the summer window.
“He is a footballer whose contract ends, and there are many teams in the race to get his services,” he said.
“It’s going to be complicated. A player with so much talent, in such a special contractual situation, is going to be very difficult. We’ll see who gets him.
“He is a decisive player, a Spanish talent, trained in Barcelona that puts you in another echelon.
“But I do not know. He has earned the ability to choose his next sporting step and the one he chooses will surely be good for him, for his family and for his camp, that will surely help him make the right choice.”
A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors
Another session ahead of the return of La Liga - FC Barcelona
The preparations continue at the Ciutat Esportiva with Xavi Hernández's team taking part in their second training session of the week with all the available first team players as well Estanis and Marc Casadó from Barça Atlètic and U19 squad members Yako and Garrido.
Challenges between the sticks - FC Barcelona
The Liga returns this Saturday against Elche (9pm CET), and as well as looking to maintain the 12-point lead on Real Madrid, Barça have other reasons to want a good performance against the bottom-placed side.
Barcelona start process of tying down Estanis Pedrola - SPORT
Estanis Pedrola netted a brace that was well worth three points and maintained the team's play off position. The young winger hit two goals in the visit to the Nova Creu Alta against CE Sabadell in a 2-1 win for the Blaugrana B team.
Auction starting for Brazilian starlet and Barca target Vitor Roque - SPORT
Vitor Roque's future lies in Europe. The Brazilian striker's contract with Athletico Paranaense expires in 2027, but he is ready to make the leap to the Old Continent. Several top clubs have shown interest in him, including Barça, but the Blaugrana are not alone in their pursuit.
Julian Araujo enduring a strange situation since Barca move - SPORT
It is never easy to arrive at Barça and adapt to their system of play when you come from a very different style of football. This is what is happening to Julian Araujo, who also has the added problem of not being able to compete while awaiting the resolution of CAS (sports court) after his late registration (by 18 seconds) in the last transfer market.
The reasons Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could return to Barcelona - SPORT
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's return to Barça next season is gaining momentum. The Gabonese striker, who left in September for Chelsea for twelve million euros because the Blaugrana club needed a sale that would generate financial fair play room, is a very serious option for the attack.
Pablo Torre back with Xavi, chance to play at Elche - SPORT
Pablo Torre played his third game of the season for Barça Atletic in Sabadell on Saturday and played an important role in the 2-1 win. Undoubtedly, his best minutes so far with Rafa Márquez's team, showing some great quality on the ball.
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Top vs bottom...
Barcelona head into Saturday’s ‘David vs Goliath’ fixture against Elche on Saturday 12 points ahead of the chasing pack and with the chance to make it 15 before Real Madrid play on Sunday afternoon.
With Ousmane Dembele still out injured and Raphinha suspended for the clash against La Liga’s bottom team, there’s never been a better chance for Ansu Fati, Ferran Torres or both to resurrect their careers at the club.
Ferran has underwhelmed in a number of games since joining the club and his obvious quality has only ever been seen in short bursts, whereas Ansu’s form has completely deserted him since his injury concerns.
Elche, a team with just two wins all season and who have shipped 51 goals in their 26 league matches - almost two per game - are there for the taking.
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Ansu hasn’t found the net in the Spanish top-flight since the 3-0 win over Villarreal back in October, whilst Ferran’s last league goals also came in the same week.
His goal against Real Madrid in the 3-1 loss and another in a 4-0 win over Athletic Club sandwiched Ansu’s, and that’s an awfully long while for the pair to wait to have to celebrate another league strike to add to their tally.
Both players are better than this season’s goalscoring exploits suggest. Much better.
For Ferran it’s clearly a matter of confidence when a chance presents itself. Often there’s little wrong with his associative play, he’s just lacking a sniper’s finish.
As with every goalscorer, however, the longer the monkey is on your back, the harder it becomes to shake off.
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Ansu needs a goal however it comes. Off his shin, his backside... who cares?!
He isn’t the player that he was and some will doubt that he ever could be again, but a goal - or two - might just see the spark return.
It could see that natural ability to be in the right place at exactly the right time come back, and the pause for thought that has hampered his game of late disappear.
There will be player sales this summer, that’s obvious, and at this point you couldn’t rule out either player being moved on.
However, if they’re able to kick-start things against a club who are 14 points from safety and all but relegated, it’ll be like having two new signings available for Xavi.
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Angel Alarcon, Victor Barbera and Dani Rodriguez all scored
Spain Under-19s picked up another victory on Tuesday against Ukraine in a game where Barcelona’s youngsters stood out once again.
La Rojita ran out 4-0 winners against Luxembourg last time out, with Angel Alarcon and Victor Barbera on target, and scored another four to defeat Ukraine.
Cesar Palacios scored another early goal to give the hosts the advantage before Alarcon made it 2-0 after just seven minutes with a neat header.
— Selección Española de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) March 28, 2023
Barbera finished off the scoring on the hour mark. The striker, who is being tipped to leave Barca on a free this summer, had a simple tap in at the far post to complete the win.
— Selección Española de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) March 28, 2023
It’s been a good break for the youngsters who will now return to Barca, particularly Alarcon who has already been part of the first-team squad at times this season.
He heads back to the Camp Nou with three goals from two games with the Under-19 side which can’t harm his chances of making the breakthrough at Barca.
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Barcelona back-up goalie Arnau Tenas got into a bit of a tussle with Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal after El Clasico most recently. The goalie explained how he was a bit frustrated and wound up at Carvajal following the final whistle at the Camp Nou.
He explained this week that despite the moment's intensity, things were now patched and good to go.
“Everything is fixed now, I don’t have any problem with him or with anyone. These are things that stay on the field. I was going to celebrate with my teammates, he came and what he told me will remain between him and me. We talked about it and it’s solved.”
Let’s hope that in a week’s time when the next Clasico takes place, there isn’t a post-match incident that takes anything away from the action on the pitch. Barca host Real Madrid leading 1-0 from the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie.
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Andreas Christensen has been excellent for Barcelona this season. The Danish defender has slotted himself into Xavi’s first choice for defenders quickly this year and when he’s healthy and a big match is on the line, he’s going to play.
Mateu Alemany has reportedly met with Christensen’s agent recently to chat about the future with the defender. Alemany apparently expressed how happy Barca are with Christensen’s performances this season and how a contract extension is something that they intend on making happen in the future.
Behind the scenes, Christensen’s agent has apparently told Barca that he’s expecting to receive offers for the defender from Premier League clubs. Christensen is said to be happy at Barcelona and the club don’t want to sell but it’s not as easy as all that
Given that Christensen came on a free, any giant offer from another club may have to be something Barcelona listened to even though they don’t really want to sell. Cutting back is something Barca must do this summer and, unfortunately, it seems Christensen simply isn’t untouchable.
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A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors
Training resumes - FC Barcelona
Xavi has his men back out on the pitch at the Ciutat Esportiva. After a week off, the players were back out on the Tito Vilanova field this Monday for a training session, although several players were absent due to being away playing for their respective national teams.
Lewandowski leads La Liga for shots at goal - FC Barcelona
Robert Lewandowski is the top goalscorer in La Liga, with 15 goals to his name this season. He also leads the competition in shots, 41. It therefore come as no surprise that Xavi Hernández has viewed the Polish marksman as the main striker ever since he joined the team in the summer.
Alexia joins part of training session - FC Barcelona
Alexia Putellas was able to join part of the Monday morning training session with the rest of the squad at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, the first workout in preparation for the UWCL second leg against Roma on Wednesday at Spotify Camp Nou.
Bayern Munich interested in Gavi situation at Barcelona - SPORT
Bayern Munich are very interested in Gavi's situation with Barça, because of the financial situation of the Blaugrana, as reported by Sky Germany. The German club are keeping a close eye on the registration of the player's new renewal contract and would be willing to bid for him if the problems persist in the future.
Meeting over Vitor Roque set to happen in Barcelona - SPORT
Athletico Paranaense striker Vitor Roque is one of the players Barça are targeting. According to SER Catalunya, a Brazilian emissary will meet with representatives of the club to understand in detail the interest of Barca in the South American jewel.
Meeting between Barca and Ansu's father at the Ciutat Esportiva - SPORT
Ansu Fati's future continues to be one of the hot topics on the table for Mateu Alemany, who this Monday met with the player's father, Bori Fati, at the Ciutat Esportiva. A meeting which came after reports that Jorge Mendes offered the player to several teams in the Premier League.
Surprise at Celta over Barca's Gabri Veiga posture - SPORT
"Under no circumstances do we want to sell Gabri, but I also say that they are going to buy him from us and there is absolutely nothing we can do about it." That line is from the president of Celta, Carlos Mouriño, and makes it clear what the situation of one of the great new discoveries in La Liga this season will be.
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Dani Olmo also gets the night off
Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has been left out of the Spain squad to face Scotland in Euro 2024 qualifying tonight at Hampden Park.
Balde played all 90 minutes last time out, picking up his first Spain assist, but will get the night off alongside Dani Olmo who has also been omittted.
The RFEF confirmed the 23-man squad late on Monday. There’s no mention of any injury so it seems the two youngsters have simply been rested.
Xavi will surely be pleased to see Balde get a breather. The teenager has played 34 games in all competitions for club and country in what’s been a fine breakout campaign.
The Barcelona boss has already seen Frenkie de Jong and Ronald Araujo pick up injuries that have ruled them out of international action and won’t want any more.
The only Barcelona player now in the Spain squad for the match is Gavi. The teenager is likely to feature after receiving huge praise from Luis de la Fuente ahead of the game.
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The boss is a big fan of the teenager
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has been full of praise for Barcelona midfielder Gavi ahead of Tuesday’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Scotland.
Gavi started De la Fuente’s first game in charge, a 3-0 win over Norway on Thursday, but was taken off just before the hour mark.
The new Spain boss has been talking about Gavi at a press conference and made it clear he’s a big fan of the Barca youngster.
“Gavi is a player with many resources, versatility, he feels more comfortable inside, but football can take you to other positions,” he said.
“He is a fantastic player, in the process of maturing and we have not yet seen the best version of what he will be in the future. In this process, one of his virtues is his courage and energy.
“He will acquire knowledge about behaviors that are not beneficial to him or the team. We have talked and he knows how important it is. Give me a Gavi before any other type of footballer. He is contagious to all teammates.”
Gavi could start again at Hampden Park on Tuesday as Spain face a Scotland side that beat Cyprus 3-0 in their Euro 2024 opener.
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La Liga returns at the weekend
Barcelona players were back in training on Monday after a few days off to prepare for their next La Liga clash against Elche at the weekend.
Xavi is still without a host of players, due to international commitments, but was able to get back to work to prepare for the trip to La Liga’s bottom side.
Ansu Fati, Jordi Alba, Marcos Alonso, Ferran Torres and Eric Garcia are among those available after being left out of the latest Spain squad.
Captain Sergio Busquets, who has hung up his international boots, was also back in action alongside fellow veteran Sergi Roberto as well as Raphinha.
Xavi will get the rest of his troops back during the week, although Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Ousmane Dembele and Ronald Araujo are currently sidelined through injury.
All four players are expected to miss Sunday’s match, along with Raphinha who is suspended, which could mean starts for Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati.
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Ansu Fati’s father was at Barcelona on Monday to discuss his son’s situation at the club with Mateu Alemany and Jordi Cruyff.
The forward is struggling for starts at the Camp Nou this season which has led to speculation he could be sold in the summer transfer window.
Cope report that the meeting between Fati’s dad and Barca lasted about an hour and there was NO talk about a possible exit for Fati.
Bori Fati spoke about his son’s concerns about his lack of game time and how that has meant he wasn’t called up by new Spain boss Luis de la Fuente for international duty.
Alemany and Cruyff are said to have told Fati senior that Barcelona are counting on his son but that it’s up to Xavi who he selects in his starting XI.
The message also seems to be that if Fati wants to play more then “he has to give everything in training” and prove he deserves his place.
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Today on the Blaugranes show, I chat about the weekend in Barcelona news. Breaking down Ferran Torres not wanting to leave Barca this summer, Aubu wanting to come back to the Camp Nou, Gundogan completing the perfect midfield, and the Sergio deadline. Then I dive into the Lionel Messi scenarios and break down the weekend that was in Euro qualifiers. Including Spain finally looking entertaining, England and Italy taking care of business and the outlook for the final two matchdays.
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The forward is determined to stay
Ferran Torres is one of several players who have been linked with a summer exit from Barcelona after struggling to consistently impress since arriving from Manchester City.
President Joan Laporta has even hinted a forward could depart if Barcelona bring in a new attacker this summer which has led to speculation about Torres and Ansu Fati.
The latest update on Torres comes from Diario Sport who reckon the 23-year-old has “no intention” of leaving and is “convinced” he can force his way back into the starting XI.
The report also claims that Atletico Madrid and an Italian team enquired about signing Torres on loan in January but were rebuffed by Barcelona.
Torres signed from City in January 2022 in a deal worth 55 million euros and had a fairly bright start before fizzling out.
The Spaniard has found game time difficult this season too. He’s started only 10 league matches and is behind Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha in the pecking order.
Torres was also left out of the most recent Spain squad, along with Ansu Fati, after Luis de la Fuente took over from Luis Enrique.
It’s not clear yet what will happen in the summer at Barcelona. Sales may well be needed and Barca will surely be willing to accept offers for players who are not regulars.
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A round-up of the latest Barcelona news and rumors
Ousmane Dembélé continues recovery programme - FC Barcelona
Ousmane Dembélé has not played competitive football since January 28 in the derby with Girona at Montilivi. He was replaced by Pedri after getting injured in the early minutes of that game, and has not been seen in action since.
Sabadell 1-2 Barça Atlètic: Estanis scores brace in third consecutive win - FC Barcelona
Barça Atlètic have hit some sweet form and collected a third win in a row on Saturday at the home of local rivals Sabadell. An inspired Estanis Pedrola scored twice in the first half and despite some strong pressure from the home side after the break, the blaugrana came back from the Nova Creu Alta with three points.
Free path for Ilkay Gundogan to join Barca - SPORT
The 32-year-old German international is a regular in Pep Guardiola's side and Manchester City would be delighted to keep him on for another year. He has made 37 appearances this season, scoring four goals and providing four assists. Ferran Soriano and Txiki Begiristain are willing to offer him a one-season lowball renewal, but they suspect the German has already decided to call time on his career at the English club, which he joined in 2016 for €27m from Borussia Dortmund.
Barca have set a deadline to sort Sergio Busquets' future - SPORT
The future of Sergio Busquets could mark a large part of Barça's transfer planning for next season. The Blaugrana would like their captain to continue and this option fits both sportingly and financially. A 'no' from Busquets would force them to look for a top level replacement, so there would be less money for other additions in other positions.
Barca ready for interesting offers for Andreas Christensen to arrive - SPORT
Barca's director of football, Mateu Alemany, met a few days ago with Ilhan Gundogan, Andreas Christensen's representative, with whom the club has excellent relations. The Blaugrana expressed their satisfaction with the centre-back's performances and also discussed the future with the intention of extending his contract in the future.
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“Who wouldn’t want to play for Barcelona? If you ask in general, all the players want to play for Barca, one of the best clubs in the world. It’s a privilege for me to be associated with this team,” he said back in October.
Yet Diario Sport reckon that it won’t happen. Xavi was never particularly convinced Neves was the right fit and it seems he’s convinced the club to look for other targets.
The report also reckons that Neves may head to Manchester United instead, with the Red Devils keen to strengthen their midfield in the summer transfer window.
It seems as though Ilkay Gundogan is the most likely midfielder to arrive in the summer if the Catalan giants do decide to strengthen in the center of the park.
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Dembele’s injury has been a real setback as the Frenchman had managed a long spell without any physical problems and had cemented his place in the starting XI.
Raphinha has done a good job of replacing Dembele in recent weeks and has been given a rest over the international break.
The forward has not been called up to the Brazil squad for their friendlies, allowing him some rare time off in what’s been a congested season because of the World Cup.
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The Catalans have told him not to sign a new contract
Barcelona have reportedly told Dani Olmo not to sign a new contract with RB Leipzig as they’d like him to return to the Camp Nou on a free in 2024.
Olmo has long been linked with a move to Barcelona and has made it quite clear he’d be happy to play for his former club once again.
Hhe told Bild previously that Barcelona will always be his home and that he’d like to play in La Liga in the future.
“I played there for six years when I was young. It will always be a home for me,” he said.
“A lot of my friends from the national team play there. I want to come back sometime, it will be great (to Spain). Spain is my country, my league. My family and friends live there.”
Mundo Deportivo are now reporting that Barcelona are well aware of all this and have told Olmo it’s possible but not until next year because of the club’s financial situation.
Leipzig have admitted they’ve had talks with Olmo about a new contract, with Max Eberl saying earlier this year he was hopeful the winger would put pen to paper on a deal.
“Dani knows what he has at this club,” he told Leipziger Volkszeitung.
“I know his dad quite well, and I’m trying to use that to my advantage. Let’s see if it works out. Dani is a top player with fantastic potential.
“We’ve had three good talks so far. I have a good feeling.”
Yet so far there’s been no agreement which means Leipzig may have a difficult decision to make regarding Olmo come the summer.
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Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is reportedly ready to make a “huge effort” to return to Barcelona at the end of the season.
Diario AS report the striker “is willing to force his way out” of Stamford Bridge in the summer and head back to Xavi’s side.
The report reckons Auba already knows he has to leave on a free transfer and charge even less than he did during his first stint at the club if he is to play for Barca again.
It’s not clear if Chelsea will be happy to let him go for nothing. He’s clearly not in the club’s plans but they did shell out 12 million euros to take him from Barca last summer.
Aubameyang was back in the Barcelona dressing room to celebrate the Clasico win over Real Madrid and it seems he’d be warmly welcomed back by his former team-mates.
There were rumors about a possible move back in January but it didn’t happen, with Barcelona struggling to make signings because of their financial situation.
Things may change in the summer, and Barca will surely be looking for low-cost options, which may give Auba a good chance of a second spell at the Camp Nou.
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The Barca Atletic coach was happy to be able to call upon Torre for the match and feels he gave his team something extra on Saturday.
“Pablo Torre gives us a lot of solutions, his contribution gives a leap in quality to the team and in the second half, it was noticeable when the team couldn’t find him,” he said. “It’s good for him to play with us during the first team breaks.”
Torre may have shone but it was Estanis Pedrola who stole the show with two more goals, and Marquez is loving watching the youngster shine.
“With him we hit the key,” he added. “Estanis started the championship very well and then had an injury that sidelined him for three months, but we have found the position in which he does damage, it’s something very positive.”
It’s expected Torre will return to the first team after the international break, but it’s tough to see him playing many minutes for Xavi’s side between now and the end of the season.
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Essential Raphinha - FC Barcelona
Barça have played 20 competitive games since club football resumed after the World Cup. And the only man who has appeared in every one of those matches is Raphinha. His excellent performances have not gone unnoticed and he is now a regular part of Xavi's plans, although the Barça boss will have to do without the Brazilian in the next game, against Elche, because his has picked up a five-card suspension.
Andreas Christensen injury news - FC Barcelona
Tests carried out on Saturday on the first team player Andreas Christensen have shown that he has an injury to his left calf. He is unavailable for selection and his recovery will determine his return.
The surprising right-back option Barca are interested in - SPORT
Barça are continuing their search for a top-level right-back to reinforce the squad next season. Xavi Hernandez wants a specialist and the sports area is sounding out the market. The latest name to appear is that of Red Bull Salzburg's Amar Dedic, who at just 20 years of age is dazzling in the Austrian team and in European competitions.
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