Real Madrid & Barcelona News

Hansi Flick talks Gabriel Jesus, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha replacements at Barcelona

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images | Getty Images Barcelona confirmed on Friday that captain Raphinha will miss the next two games after picking up a minor muscle issue during Brazil duty, which opens the door for his compatriot to step into the spotlight. Gabriel Jesus is expected to start in place of Raphinha at the striker spot in Saturday’s La Liga clash against Getafe at Camp Nou, and Hansi Flick was full of praise for Jesus’ work in training and his overall qualities at a press conference on Friday. “That’s the idea, that he can be a starter. He’s improved a lot since he arrived and he’s very strong inside the box. He’s trained a lot these past few weeks, I’ve liked him a lot and he’s ready to be a starter. “What I’ve seen in training are many things, and very good ones, and the ball pressing has been very good. It’s part of our identity, and I have players ready to do it.” Flick also spoke about Lamine Yamal, who had an excellent international window with Spain and continued his fantastic early-season form, and Hansi was his usual self when talking about the teenager. “What I’ve seen in the matches against Spain and with us in the first eight games is incredible. I saw it live in London against England. It depends on each player; they’re young and recover quickly. Lamine is young and enjoys playing football. If he doesn’t train much, it’s good that he’s maintained this level. He enjoys playing football and has incredible confidence and attitude. What we see here in training is very good. He’ll be the best player in the world if he isn’t already. With his attitude, his mentality, his desire to improve every day… that’s the right mentality, and so far he’s on the right track, and I’m very happy with him.” We are all happy with Lamine, Hansi.

BREAKING: Valverde questionable against Villarreal

Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde is questionable to face Villarreal this Saturday, coach José Mourinho announced during today’s pre-match press conference. Mourinho did not disclose Valverde’s issue, but it looks like the Uruguayan midfielder could sit this one out as Real Madrid get ready for a crucial stretch of the 2026-27 season. In other news, Eder Militao will also miss the upcoming games even though he’s already rejoined the squad in training. The Brazilian defender needs to keep improving his conditioning in order to make sure he stays healthy and fresh when he officially comes back from his injury. Real Madrid will face Roma in what’s expected to be a tough away game in the Champions League next Wednesday, so Mourinho will need to start using the depth at his disposal this month.

How will Barcelona line up against Getafe looking to continue perfect La Liga start?

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images | Getty Images Barcelona look to continue their history-making perfect start to the season and make it eight wins out of eight in La Liga as the leaders face Getafe at Camp Nou. Here’s how we think Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Saturday’s battle: Defense Barça worked very hard in the summer to build a very deep and versatile squad, and this is the time to take advantage as the Catalans begin a brutal two-week stretch with a home match against Getafe, then three massive away games in a row followed by El Clásico in a sequence that will truly test the depth and quality of Flick’s squad. The coach has been a lot more favorable to rotations this season compared to his first two years in charge, and we are likely to see a team full of changes for this one. Joan Garcia is expected to return in goal after missing the last match before the international break with a minor knee issue, and he’ll likely have his starting center-backs ahead of him in Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín. Eric Garcia is over a minor issue that caused him to leave the Spain camp during the international break, but Flick is unlikely to take any risks and will start Jules Kounde at right-back. João Cancelo played heavy minutes for Portugal and could also see a rest in this one, with Xavi Espart the natural replacement at left-back. Midfield Luis de la Fuente did a solid job of rotating his midfielders during Spain’s games in the Nations League, so there isn’t a big concern with the fitness of any of the four Blaugrana central players who featured for La Roja during the break. We still think Flick will be careful with Pedri and have him on the bench to start this one, with Gavi likely to take his place after spending the entire break in Catalonia. Rodri only played the full 90 minutes once for Spain and is expected to start at the pivot spot, and Fermín López will likely start ahead of Dani Olmo. Attack Raphinha has been practically ruled out for this weekend after coming back early from Brazil duty, and although he doesn’t have an injury the captain is unlikely to be involved at all in this one to make sure he’s fit for the crucial four-game stretch that follows Saturday’s game. We also think Lamine Yamal will begin this one on the bench after starting all four Spain games, so the likely starting front three will be Karim Adeyemi on the right, Anthony Gordon on the left, and Gabriel Jesus up front. Possible XI: Joan; Kounde, Cubarsí, Martín, Espart; Fermín, Rodri, Gavi; Adeyemi, Jesus, Gordon (4-3-3) How do you think Barcelona should line up against Getafe? Let us know your thoughts, predictions and teams in the comments below!

Gabriel Jesus compares new Barcelona team-mate Lamine Yamal to Neymar

BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 16: Lamine Yamal and Gabriel Jesus of FC Barcelona celebrate victory after the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between FC Barcelona and Real Racing Club de Santander at Spotify Camp Nou on September 16, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona striker Gabriel Jesus admits that team-mate Lamine Yamal does remind him of Neymar. Yamal has readily admitted that Neymar was his hero growing up and that the Brazil star “was a huge part” of his childhood. Jesus says that Neymar remains unique but that Yamal does remind him of the former Barcelona star. “Neymar is the most virtuoso footballer I’ve ever played with; he could do everything with both feet. For me, he’s untouchable; nobody can compare to him,” he said. “But it’s true that Lamine has some of his qualities, like his dribbling and personality. He’s still very young, but he does things like a mature player, as if he were 30 years old. He’s a genius who improves every year, who becomes more and more of a genius.” And Jesus also admits that he’s backing Yamal to win the Ballon d’Or this year. “I don’t like to talk about the Ballon d’Or because I don’t know if they reward a player’s talent, their performance, or titles, but Lamine is the player I’ve enjoyed watching the most for years, and this year he’s won almost everything,“ he added. “For me, he’s the favorite.” After starring for Spain during the international break, Yamal is now back at Barcelona and will be aiming to impress again on Saturday night against Getafe.

Scouting Villarreal: Real Madrid’s first rival after the international break

VILLARREAL, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Renato Veiga of Villarreal CF is challenged by Yanis Musuayi of Levante UD during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Villarreal CF and Levante UD at Estadio de la Ceramica on September 20, 2026 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) | Getty Images Villarreal have played seven league matches so far this season under Iñigo Pérez with two wins, two draws and three defeats. They scored 13 goals and conceded 12. Of their goals, three were penalties, and one was an own goal. Villarreal created 13.9 non-penalty expected goals (npxG), 1.98 per match, the third most in La Liga. They scored nine non-penalty goals, 4.9 fewer than those chances were worth. Their best run came in their sixth and seventh league match, when they averaged 3.14 npxG per match. Among the players, Ayoze Pérez had the most npxG (3.6, one goal), ahead of Georges Mikautadze (2.8, one goal) and Alberto Moleiro (1.6, two goals). They conceded 8.5 npxG, 1.22 per match, the ninth fewest in La Liga. They let in 11 non-penalty goals, 2.5 more than those chances were worth. Their best run came in their third and fourth league match, when they conceded 0.65 npxG per match. Their defensive actions (tackles, interceptions, recoveries, clearances and blocked passes) came on average 36.9 meters from their own goal line, the fourth highest in La Liga. Their centre-backs received the ball on average 40.2 meters from their own goal line, the sixth highest in La Liga. Villarreal had a field tilt of 67.0% (their share of all the final-third passes in their matches), the second highest in La Liga. They had the bigger share in six of their seven matches. Over the season they controlled 14 of the pitch’s 24 zones, meaning they had more than 55% of the touches there, and their opponents controlled three. Their PPDA was 9.8 – meaning – opponents made 9.8 passes for every tackle, interception, challenge, blocked pass or foul Villarreal made outside their own defensive third. That was the second lowest in La Liga; the league as a whole recorded 12.1. A lower PPDA means a more intense press. They completed 511 open-play passes per match, the second highest in La Liga. Of the passes they received, 29.0% arrived in the final third, the second highest in La Liga. Their most-used formation was 4-4-2, and the two players who passed to each other most were Pape Gueye and Renato Veiga, with 84 passes between them. Villarreal’s completed passes added 13.7 expected threat (xT) over the season, 1.96 per match, the most in La Liga. Pape Gueye added the most (1.47), ahead of Renato Veiga (1.33) and Alberto Moleiro (1.18). They took 109 non-penalty shots, 15.6 per match. Their average shot came from 16.8 meters, the third shortest in La Liga. They also scored three penalties. Across 696 minutes, including stoppage time, Villarreal were winning for 141 minutes (20.3%), level for 364 (52.3%), and losing for 191 (27.4%). Their time spent winning was the 14th most in La Liga.

Mbappé Exit Talk Grows as Real Madrid Criticism Intensifies

Mbappe Real Madrid criticism is growing in France, as Daniel Riolo says an end-of-season exit should not be ruled out. The post Mbappé Exit Talk Grows as Real Madrid Criticism Intensifies appeared first on Football España.

Will Joan Garcia be fit to play for Barcelona vs Getafe after knee injury?

BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Joan Garcia of FC Barcelona looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between FC Barcelona and Feyenoord at Camp Nou on September 09, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona defender Joan Garcia remains a doubt for Saturday’s La Liga fixture against Getafe due to a knee injury. Garcia missed the win over Sevilla due to the problem which also ruled the goalkeeper out of the Spain squad for Nations League fixtures over the international break. The stopper returned to training with the team on Wednesday at the Ciutat Esportiva but Barcelona won’t rush his recovery. Joan is back! 🧤 pic.twitter.com/CRe6cs0UIJ — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 7, 2026 Hansi Flick does have Dominik Livakovic and Wojciech Szczęsny available and could go with one of his back-ups if it’s decided Garcia isn’t quite ready. Livakovic has filled in for Garcia already and has been with Croatia over the international break, playing in all four of his country’s games in the Nations League. Garcia does still have a few days to prove his fitness to Flick as Barca prepare to return to action after a three-week pause in domestic football.

Asencio: “I made a mistake, I apologize”

Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio talked to AS and shared his feelings after having surgery to repair a fracture on his tibia. “It all started a year ago, and since January the fracture had been holding up with conservative treatment. The pain was getting worse. I was suffering, but I couldn’t stop because the team was above everything, and I always look out for this club and for this badge. But there came a point where the fracture was bigger, and I saw that I had to have surgery. Mourinho’s visit gave me a shot of energy. In those moments of doubt, when you’re racking your brain thinking about how the recovery is going to go and how long I’m going to be out of the game, having Mou come to see me and show me that closeness we’ve all seen in the locker room since the start of the season is really comforting. Mou is approachable, humble, kind, and ambitious. Mou is a great person on a human level, besides being a great coach,” he said. Asencio also addressed his DUI case, which happened this past summer. “That was a really tough time. Several situations in my life piled up, and within a short period of time. Mou’s not wrong. He was absolutely right. In the end, people comment on what’s public and what they see. I made a mistake. I admitted it then and I admit it now, I’ve apologized and I’ll keep apologizing. I’m a 23-year-old kid and I’ve made mistakes, just like anyone can at that age. But I have to be aware of where I am. I’m at Real Madrid, and that can’t happen again. I’m fully aware of that and I’m only focused on turning this situation around. I’m the one most hurt by this. I dream of turning everything around and winning titles with this club and this jersey, hopefully for the rest of my career. That’s why these kinds of situations won’t happen again,” he said. You can read AS’ full interview with Asencio here.

Gabriel Jesus sends Champions League message to Barcelona captain Raphinha

VALENCIA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 06: Gabriel Jesus and Raphinha of FC Barcelona look on during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Valencia CF and FC Barcelona at Estadi de Mestalla on September 06, 2026 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images Gabriel Jesus says Barcelona captain Raphinha deserves to score the goal that will deliver the Catalan club their sixth Champions League crown. Raphinha has started the season in incredible form, banging in 14 goals already for Hansi Flick’s side. The captain has been leading by example, and Jesus has been impressed by his form. “I think Raphinha deserves the goal that gives us our sixth Champions League title. He’s scoring constantly. He’s incredible, constantly improving, and I hope he keeps it up because he also improves the team,” he told the club’s media. Jesus is the latest Brazilian star to join Barcelona and has also spoken about how Ronaldinho and Ronaldo Nazario have always been his heroes. “He’s a great legend here in Barcelona and, for most fans, the greatest Brazilian legend at FC Barcelona. I saw him play and followed him in his prime; he was spectacular,” he added. “He and Ronaldo (Nazario) are, for me, the greatest Brazilian legends to have played for FC Barcelona. Ronaldinho brought joy to the pitch.” Jesus looks set to act as back-up to Raphinha this season and could come in for his team-mate on Saturday against Getafe. Raphinha may not be risked in the match after sustaining a minor injury on international duty.

Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Who will referee the first Clasico of 2026-27?

MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26: (L-R) Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona, Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2025 in Madrid Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona and Real Madrid will meet for the first time in the 2026-27 later this month when the first Clasico of the season takes place at Camp Nou on October 25th. The game may still be a few weeks away but there’s already talk about who will referee the contest between the two bitter rivals. An official announcement will not be made until much closer to the game but the decision has already been taken, according to Radio Marca. Hernandez Hernandez has apparently been given the job again and will officiate what is one of the biggest games in world’s football. The match official was in charge of the last Clasico in May, when Barca won 2-0 at Camp Nou to seal another great victory over their rivals. The victory also secured Barcelona the league title, making it especially memorable. Hernandez has plenty of Clasico experience already. He has taken control of the game six times previously. In that time Barca have won three, drawn two and lost once.

‘Much more tactical’ – Gabriel Jesus talks Pep Guardiola vs Hansi Flick

(L-R) Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola greets FC Barcelona manger Hansi Flick during the 2024 FC Series pre-season friendly football match between FC Barcelona and Manchester City at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, on July 30, 2024. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP) (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Gabriel Jesus has had the privilege of working under both Pep Guardiola and Hansi Flick during his career and has offered a bit of insight into the differences between the two coaches. The Brazilian star, who swapped Arsenal for Barcelona in the summer, says Guardiola is more tactical than Flick but feels both approaches are effective. “Guardiola was much more tactical, with a plan based on building from the back which did in a league where it’s not common,” he told the club’s media. “With Flick, you have to be yourself, play simply when necessary, and run, press, and help out much more. Both approaches work and produce results.” Jesus has been reunited with some familiar faces at Barcelona. He played alongside both Joao Cancelo and Rodri during his time with Guardiola at Manchester City and has been happy to see the Portugal star once again. “I get along very well with everyone, but, as I’ve already said, I had many experiences with Joao Cancelo during my time with Manchester City . I talk to him a lot. Yes, I’d say Joao,” he added. “I think everyone is a good person. It wasn’t a surprise because I’d already been told that the dressing room was one of this team’s strengths.” The Barcelona striker was one of the few Barcelona players not involved with their national teams over the international break. He will be hoping for game time on Saturday when Flick’s side return to action against Getafe.

'Amazing' Kane targets 100 international goals

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Barcelona will need pragmatism to protect their perfect record as Catalans head into hectic schedule

BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 16: Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's second goal with his teammate Lamine Yamal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between FC Barcelona and Real Racing Club de Santander at Spotify Camp Nou on September 16, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images In a better world, a break would be a break, and the Barcelona players would return to the Camp Nou fresh and ready to continue where they left off in defense of their perfect start. Instead, Barcelona are in a way are paying a penalty for their early success as their best players have logged big minutes for their national teams, as those managers look to capitalize on the magic coming out of Catalonia. This is the reality of modern football. Hansi Flick knows it well, and has even had clashes with the likes of Luis de la Fuente in an effort to protect his players from being over used. Where things stand, Lamine Yamal started all four games for Spain, while Raphinha was sent back to Barcelona early after picking up a knock; Anthony Gordon, in spite of his impressive performances for England, was at least given a break in their last match. Up the road, Barcelona have tough matches in La Liga and the Champions League. First up is Getafe at home. Flick must understand that stage two of the season coming out of the international break will not look or feel like the first stage. His team could not have been more perfect in terms of results and performances, but going forward the same level of execution may be harder to come by on a consistent basis. José Bordalás knows Barcelona well, and will have many ideas for how to use the dark arts to muddy the waters at the Camp Nou when his team visits on Saturday. He will have studied Barca’s tactics, and will do everything he can to disrupt the game plan. This is Flick’s first big test. He will have to put his faith in new players because his top performers are returning from international duty fatigued and in need of a breather. Raphinha is the biggest question mark. It would be a surprise to see him start, and who Flick replaces him with will say a lot about his plan B strategy going forward. But what about Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Rodri, and Pau Cubarsí? I would expect them to start the game, but in the future, their minutes will also have to be managed. This is time of the season when player rotation is key, as well flexibility in tactics based on the opponent and the competition you’re playing in. We would like nothing more than the continuation of electrifying entertainment, but is that high-intensity approach sustainable? It is if Flick can rely on his roster from top to bottom, especially in games like the one against Getafe. There are big tests ahead, and in order to continue the unprecedented perfect start, Barcelona will need to adapt to changing circumstances from game to game. Scoring five goals a game would be a thrill to see, but some matches it will be equally encouraging to see Barcelona embrace pragmatism in order to get a hard-earned result. Everyone needs to step up to take pressure off of the stars. On Saturday, we should get a good look at what the supporting cast can do to keep the party going. This won’t be the last time they’re called on though. The starting eleven got Barcelona off to a fast start, but depth is what will carry them through when times get tough. The grind starts now.

Pedri explains why Lamine Yamal was ‘a bit upset’ after Spain’s win over Croatia

SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 29: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates 3-1 with Pedri of Spain during the UEFA Nations league match between Spain v Croatia at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 29, 2026 in Seville Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona midfielder Pedri admits that Lamine Yamal was a little upset after Tuesday’s win for Spain over Croatia in the Nations League. Yamal headed into the game after scoring three times and grabbing an assist in three games for Spain but over the international break but couldn’t find the back of the net in Split. Pedri said his team-mate was frustrated afterwards and admits he has set himself very high standards. “He played another great game. He lacked accuracy, that finesse he’s shown in previous matches. He gets very angry when he plays well and wastes those chances we saw him create. Yes, he went to the bench a bit upset,” he said, per AS. “He’s a very demanding player, he always wants to score, he always wants to contribute to the team. Even if he doesn’t score or provide assists , he contributes a lot because he attracts a lot of players. He’s a game-changer who gives us so much, and luckily we have him in the national team and at Barça.” Yamal now heads back to Barcelona and will be aiming to maintain the form he’s shown at the start of the season with Hansi Flick’s side against Getafe on Saturday. The Barcelona teenager has eight goals and six assists in eight matches in all competitions so far in 2026-27.

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Hernández Hernández leading the race to referee El Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid -report

The Spanish Football Federation are set to appoint referee Hernández Hernández as the man in charge of the upcoming El Clásico between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, which will be played at the Camp Nou on October 25th. That’s according to a report from Radio MARCA, as the name of the referee will be announced in a few days. Barcelona newspaper Mundo Deportivo have echoed Radio MARCA’s report and confirm that Hernández Hernández will be the chosen one. Hernández Hernández has officiated Barcelona in 42 matches, resulting in 26 wins, 12 draws, and four losses for Barça. Meanwhile, he’s been in charge of 37 matches for Real Madrid, with a record of 21 wins, 6 draws, and 10 losses for Los Blancos.

FC Barcelona News: 7 October 2026; International break finally ends, Frenkie de Jong returns to training

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images | Getty Images New faces at training – FC Barcelona Frenkie de Jong completes part of the session with the group, and Adeyemi and Hamza both back from the international break. Gabriel Jesus: ‘I bring directness and a winning mindset to the team’ – FC Barcelona Gabriel Jesus has taken time out from scoring goals to sit down for chat. The Barça forward was the latest to feature in a Q&A on the Club YouTube channel. Claudia Pina, Liga F MVP for September – FC Barcelona FC Barcelona star scored four goals and gave three assists in three games last month. Tudelano 1-2 Barça Atlètic: Splendid comeback – FC Barcelona Two second-half goals turn the game around after the Barça reserves had trailed at the break at the Ciudad de Tudela, keeping the blaugranes top of the table. Merino puts Spain into the Nations League quarter-finals (1-2) – RFEF The national team comes back against Croatia and achieves a perfect record in this international window, four wins out of four possible.

‘Perhaps the saddest day of my career’ – Lionel Messi says emotional farewell to Argentina

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - OCTOBER 06: Lionel Messi of Argentina reacts after the International Friendly match between Argentina and Benin at Estadio Monumental Antonio V. Liberti on October 06, 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Lionel Messi is making his final appearance for Argentina following his announcement of international retirement on 31 August. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images) | Getty Images An emotional Lionel Messi addressed a packed stadium in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night after playing his final ever game for Argentina. The GOAT scored in a 3-0 friendly win over Benin and couldn’t hold back the tears as he spoke about his sadness at playing in Argentina’s colors for the final time in his incredible career. “I’m going to miss playing here so much. I always received tremendous affection, from beginning to end. I’m so grateful for everything I experienced. I’m thankful for all this time: wherever I was, the stadium was packed, whatever the match. They were everywhere, making a huge effort, traveling to the World Cups,” he said. “We always feel like the home team everywhere we go. In this place, I experienced one of the happiest moments of my life: playing here after winning the World Cup. To this day, I watch the videos and I get emotional. It was spectacular. Thank you so much.” Messi also went on to say the moment was “perhaps the saddest” of his career but insisted his support for the team would remain as strong as ever. “Today is perhaps the saddest day of my career. I’ll be there for them, supporting these guys and those who come after. Always united. It’s been more than proven that when we’re united, we can overcome anything. Tough times are coming, and we have to be there for them more than ever,” he added. “To achieve great things, you have to build strong teams. There are people who want to see the national team fail, and we can’t give them the satisfaction. “It’s in difficult times that you see the true strength of the team. We were an extraordinary group. I’ve spoken more than ever, but I don’t want to leave here. Thank you so much. I love you all.” The GOAT bows out after 208 games and 126 goals for Argentina. He won the World Cup, two Copa America titles, is his country’s most capped player, leading scorer and an all-time great who will simply never be forgotten.

Beijing 2008 Image Anchors Barcelona’s Tribute to Messi

Barcelona pay tribute to Lionel Messi after his final Argentina appearance, celebrating a 3-0 win over Benin and his enduring legacy. The post Beijing 2008 Image Anchors Barcelona’s Tribute to Messi appeared first on Football España.

Barcelona send message to Lionel Messi after emotional final match with Argentina

Argentina's forward #10 Lionel Messi celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the international friendly football match between Argentina and Benin at the Mas Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on October 6, 2026. (Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona have sent their congratulations to Lionel Messi after he played his final game for Argentina and said an emotional farewell to international football. Messi is hanging up his boots after playing 208 games for the Albiceleste and scoring 126 goals. He scored a penalty in his final match for the team – a 3-0 win over Benin in Buenos Aires – and Barcelona were quick to send a message to the club legend. “From that gold medal in Beijing in 2008 to an unforgettable career, making history every step of the way with La Albiceleste. Congratulations, Leo, for continuing to make Argentina’s jersey even more iconic!” read a post on X. From that gold medal in Beijing in 2008 to an unforgettable career, making history every step of the way with La Albiceleste. 🥇🇦🇷 Congratulations, Leo, for continuing to make Argentina’s jersey even more iconic! 🐐👏 pic.twitter.com/JPYVRvOTHa — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 7, 2026 An emotional Messi spoke to fans and admitted he hard it was for him to say goodbye. “Honestly, it’s hard to say anything today. There are so many emotions. The first thing I think of is my dad. All I can do is express my gratitude,” he said. “As I said in the letter, it was a great honor to wear this jersey for over 20 years. Even in the toughest times, I never stopped fighting, never stopped giving my all. Not coming back will be a huge pain. “I’d like to come back for the rest of my life. Playing for Argentina is the best thing that can happen to you. Like I said, while I want to be here forever, I feel like now is the time.” Thanks for everything, Leo.

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi scores final Argentina goal in emotional farewell match

Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images | Getty Images The historic international career of Barcelona and football legend Lionel Messi officially came to an end on Tuesday night in Buenos Aires as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0, with the GOAT offering one last show in his farewell match and saying goodbye in style. It was a night of emotions and beautiful tributes, including in the 10th minute when the match was stopped so the entire stadium could give Messi a standing ovation. The actual match wasn’t anywhere close to the cakewalk many expected as Benin gave a good account of themselves, defending well and generating real threat on the counter as Dibu Martínez needed to make some good saves in the first half. Argentina played at their usual slow pace and didn’t get out of first gear, but still created a couple of really good chances that Messi narrowly missed late in the first half. The game was goalless at the break, but all the fun was saved for the final period. Messi’s first goal contribution of the night was an assist from a corner that was scored by Nicolás Otamendi with an amazing volley, and his second assist came shortly after as he set up a beautiful Nico Paz strike from outside the box. But the moment the entire world was waiting for came with 20 minutes to go as Argentina earned a penalty, and Messi scored a beauty from the spot to find the net for the final time with the Albiceleste shirt. The final whistle came to end a beautiful night in Buenos Aires, and one of the greatest international careers in history comes to a glorious end with one final show from the greatest to ever play the greatest sport on Earth. Thank you, Leo. I can’t wait for your Camp Nou farewell.

Jude Bellingham hails 125-cap Harry Kane as England’s best-ever player

Captain scores twice in 3-0 win over Czechia Kane equals Peter Shilton’s appearance record Jude Bellingham called Harry Kane England’s best-ever player after the captain equalled Peter Shilton’s record of 125 caps during Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Czechia in the Nations League. Kane, who is only nine off a century of international goals after scoring twice in another fine display, was the star attraction as the Wembley crowd watched Thomas Tuchel’s side close on a spot in March’s quarter-finals. England’s record goalscorer showed why he is in the running for the Ballon d’Or and the way the Bayern Munich striker passed another milestone earned him rave reviews from Bellingham. Continue reading...

Croatia 1-2 Spain: Mikel Merino the hero as La Roja advance to Nations League quarter-finals

Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images | UEFA via Getty Images Reigning world champions Spain have extended their historic unbeaten record to 42 matches and have also clinched an early spot in the Nations League quarter-finals thanks to a 2-1 comeback win away to Croatia on Tuesday night. Rodri, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Pau Cubarsí represented Barcelona in the starting lineup and Fermín López came off the bench, but the hero of the night was another substitute as Mikel Merino scored both goals and sealed another victory for La Roja. 🏁 ¡¡𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗗𝗘𝗟 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗗𝗢 𝗘𝗡 𝗖𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗖𝗜𝗔!! Pleno de victorias para los nuestros con remontada incluida. 🇭🇷 🆚 🇪🇸 | 1-2 | 90+4’#VamosEspaña | #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/pCO2J4GzDF — Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) October 6, 2026 After a horrible loss to England at the weekend, Croatia were determined to play a more solid and physical game against the world champions, and were the better team throughout the half with the way they competed defensively and brought danger on the counter. Spain didn’t help themselves and made a lot of silly mistakes in the buildup, and one of them led to a counter-attack that ended with a header by Ivan Perisic to give the hosts the lead. Croatia had a couple of other big chances thanks to Spain mistakes, and Unai Simón needed to make some important saves to avoid a two-goal deficit. La Roja tried to react and dominated the ball without creating a true chance until the final play of the half, when Pedri found Lamine Yamal with an amazing through ball and the teenager tried to find the near post but hit the side netting instead. Spain were behind at halftime and needing to play better with the ball, while Croatia looked to remain physical, passionate and intense to defend their lead in the second half. Luis de la Fuente sent on his favorite super sub at halftime as Mikel Merino came on, and Spain also upped their urgency and started to create real danger with Yamal at the heart of the action. Dani Olmo also became more influential, and it was his assist that set up Merino’s equalizer at the hour mark. Croatia did a very good job of defending and mostly frustrated the Spanish attempts at a winner, but Perisic was sent off for a second yellow card and Croatia couldn’t hang on for much longer. Rodri, Pedri, Olmo and Yamal all came off in the second half but Fermín López was on the pitch and had a front row seat as he watched Merino receive a nice pass from Martín Zubimendi inside the box and fire a rocket into the roof of the net to complete the comeback at the death. The final whsitle came to extend Spain’s historic unbeaten record and keep them all alone in first place in the group while also booking an early spot in the Nations League quarter-finals. La Roja’s international window ends without any injuries for Barça players and with four good wins. Pretty good work from the world champs.

Barcelona come up with plan for Raphinha ahead of Getafe clash

SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates 1-2 during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Sevilla v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Sevilla Spain (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images FC Barcelona had quite the injury scare after Raphinha went off at half-time of Brazil’s 4-2 win against Australia. The forward has been on fire this season and is seen once again as a potential Ballon d’Or candidate. Thankfully, scans revealed no structural injury. It’s just swelling and pain. According to the latest reports, the Brazilian will be back against Getafe, though he will not start. It’s believed Hansi Flick will use him as a substitute only, if he is used at all. The Catalans have many tough fixtures around the corner, and it would be best if Raphinha was in prime condition for it. After playing Getafe at home on the 10th, Barcelona play Galatasaray three days later. Then they travel to face Real Betis away four days after. And just three days later, Barça play against Paris Saint-Germain in France. And what comes next is perhaps the biggest fixture of all: El Clásico against Real Madrid. It’s said the medical staff considers this minor injury a warning of sorts that his body could be nearing its limit. Some well-deserved rest may help him be back in tip-top shape for the big games awaiting Barça. Raphinha has started all eight games Barcelona has played this season, though he is frequently subbed off during the game. Gabriel Jesus could start his first game for Barcelona if Raphinha is rested.

Daily Thread: 06 October 2026

The Daily Merengue is a place where you can feel free to d all things football. Do not be alarmed by the overt RMCF bias. It’s in the name! Shoutout to the mods who do a fantastic job, Ezek, Valyrian Steel, Kung_Fu_Zizou, Juninho, NeRObutBlanco and yours truly, Felipejack. The end of the break Today, are the last games of the current FIFA break. Real Madrid players in action today are Bellingham and Trent vs Czech Republic and Cucurella and Huijsen vs Croatia. One of the best thing for Real Madrid out of this break has been Camavinga’s performances under Zidane. Yesterday vs Belgium, he had 89% pass accuracy, 8 recoveries, 4 interceptions, 6 defensive contributions, 11 passes into final third • 0 fouls committed. This international break was worth it for the sole reason that we saw Camavinga get some much needed confidence from Zidane — Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) October 5, 2026 AS’ interview with Davide Ancelotti AS has released an hour-long interview with Davide Ancelotti, who is the Lille’s manager. I haven’t watched it completely yet, but Davided discussed interesting points about Real Madrid, such as Vini’s reaction in the El Clasico last season, and how Kroos departure affects the team, etc. It’s worth checking it out. Issues with Mbappe? Once again, Mbappe is on the spotlight, but not from his performances. 🚨⚠️At #realmadrid, they’re starting to get fed up with #Mbappé. Critical voices about the Frenchman’s behaviour are growing louder, with many believing that some of his recent decisions have been driven purely by self-interest. [@IvanMartinCu] — Mohamed✆ (@BlancoInsight) October 6, 2026 🚨💣#Mbappé has confided in people very close to him that he’s NOT HAPPY at #realmadrid! It’s nothing to do with his future. He’s talking about what he’s going through at the club right now. He feels the PROJECT is NOT SERIOUS. [@JorgeCPicon YT @madridistahoy] 🤐 — Mohamed✆ (@BlancoInsight) October 6, 2026

FC Barcelona News: 6 October 2026; Preparations begin for Getafe, Eric Garcia returns to training

Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images Back at work – FC Barcelona Barça return to training with sights set on Saturday’s game against Getafe. Cubarsí, Bernal and Xavi Espart among 25 Golden Boy finalists – FC Barcelona The three young talents in contention for an award that Barça have won in three of the last five seasons. Records from a Clásico for the ages – FC Barcelona Sunday’s game with Real Madrid will go down in the FC Barcelona annals. France 4-1 Belgium | UEFA Nations League – UEFA Olise brace caps big win as Doué and Cherki inspire stunning turnaround. De Jong returned to work on the pitch but alone, while Eric trained with the group – MD The Dutchman took another step in his recovery while Eric Garcia showed he was fine after the knee discomfort he felt with Spain, which forced him to leave the national team camp.

‘I can still give much more’ – Dani Olmo makes Barcelona vow

OVIEDO, SPAIN - OCTOBER 03: Dani Olmo of Spain salutes the fans prior the game the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Czechia at Carlos Tartiere on October 03, 2026 in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Dani Olmo has been on media duty with Spain ahead of Tuesday’s Nations League match against Croatia and has been talking about life at Barcelona. The 28-year-old says that Hansi Flick and Luis de la Fuente want different things from him and says he feels he can still give a lot more to his club side. “They are two different coaches, they ask me for different things. At Barça be more vertical, attack more spaces, in the national team more freedom between the lines,” he told reporteres. “I feel good in both ways and I want to continue demonstrating that. Many titles won with Barça, I can still give much more at Barça.” Olmo also spoke about Lamine Yamal and thinks the teenager is getting better and better as he matures. “Lamine continues to improve with each match. He seems to be getting better and more mature every season,” he said. “At the start of this season, he’s helping us not only with his play but also by scoring goals, which is something he demands of himself. He’s very important for us both at the club and with the national team.” Tuesday’s game takes Olmo back to Croatia and he admits it’s a “wonderful feeling” to be back in a country where he spent six years after leaving Barcelona

Eduardo Camavinga plays 88 minutes in France’s comeback win vs Belgium

Eduardo Camavinga played 88 minutes in France’s 4-1 win over Belgium to end their international break on Monday night. Camavinga started in a midfield three with Kone and Akliouche and played more minutes than either of them, in a generally impressive performance. Camavinga did not register a goal or assist, but his passing was generally tidy, completing 63 of his 71 passes. The Real Madrid man had 89 touches, and wandered into the right-hand side on more than one occasion, as he was able to help France progress the ball forward. Defensively, Camavinga completed one tackle, one clearance, four interceptions and eight recoveries, and was pretty important in making sure France dominated the ball. It was a good international break for Camavinga as he played in all four games under Zinedine Zidane, including two starts, and looked like a much better player than when he first arrived at camp. Camavinga will now return to Madrid, thankfully without any injury.

Haaland’s 2027 Talk Puts Real Madrid and Barcelona in Focus

Haaland Spain move reports point to 2027 as a possible window, with Real Madrid and Barcelona monitoring while Arsenal remain an alternative. The post Haaland’s 2027 Talk Puts Real Madrid and Barcelona in Focus appeared first on Football España.

‘Lamine Yamal is always ready to play’ – Spain boss talks Barcelona star’s game time

OVIEDO, SPAIN - OCTOBER 03: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Czech Republic at Carlos Tartiere stadium on October 03, 2026, in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo By Irina R. H./Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has been talking about Lamine Yamal’s game time with La Roja over the international break. Yamal has started all three games so far and could be in the XI again on Tuesday for the match against Croatia in Split. De la Fuente explained the teenager always wants to play but says he has set a maximum limit of minutes for his players for these four games. “Lamine is always ready to play; everyone wants to play. Then we evaluate or analyze whether it’s appropriate or not. He’s in fantastic form, he’s a role model and a competitor. And he’s in great shape to play a match tomorrow. But so are the rest of his teammates,” he told reporterse. “I already said there would be a tough run of four games. We need to field a team that’s in perfect condition. There’s one important thing I’d like to emphasize: nobody is going to play more than 270 minutes, which would be playing three games out of four. Tomorrow is a very important match and we want to give the best version”. Yamal was taken off at half-time of Spain’s win over Czechia, in a bid to keep him fresh for tomorrow’s match. The teenager has played a starring role for the world champions during the current break, scoring four times and bagging an assist.

England hammer Croatia and Manchester City get their appeal on: Football Weekly – podcast

Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Jonathan Wilson and Robyn Cowen as England thrash Croatia 7 (seven) nil Rate, review, share on Apple Podcasts and join the conversation on email. On the podcast today: a brilliant performance from England. The front four of Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and Jude Bellingham dominate an admittedly poor Croatia. It’s a statement win for Thomas Tuchel, who has been under some pressure since the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina. Continue reading...

‘Destiny will decide’ – Andres Iniesta talks possibility of becoming future Barcelona boss

Former Spanish footballer Andres Iniesta arrives for the Globe Soccer Awards ceremony in Dubai on December 28, 2025. (Photo by FADEL SENNA / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Andres Iniesta has been quizzed on the possibility of becoming a future manager of Barcelona after starting his coaching career in Dubai with Gulf United. The 42-year-old is dipping his toe into management after hanging up his boots but says he’s not currently planning a return to Barcelona at any point. “Destiny will decide what’s meant to be. Obviously, it would be wonderful if I continued my coaching career, given what Barça means to me, but it’s not something I’m actively aiming for,” he told Mundo Deportivo. “I’ve always said that my dream was to be a footballer, and that’s when I had goals and obsessions, when I arrived in Barcelona: to succeed with the first team. Those were goals, things I was very clear about. “Now, perhaps because I like to think things through a bit more slowly, because being a coach wasn’t something I had planned, time will tell, but it’s true that I’m really enjoying this start. “Not just because I’m a coach, but because of everything it entails.” Iniesta is one of several former Barca stars working in coaching. Xavi has taken over as Netherlands coach, Cesc Fabregas is enjoying life at Como, while Sergio Busquets has returned to the club this summer to work with Barca Atletic.

FC Barcelona News: 5 October 2026; Claudia Pina shines bright as Barça Femení destroy Real Madrid in El Clásico

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images | Getty Images Barça 7-0 Real Madrid: Classic stuff – FC Barcelona Barça Femeini enjoyed a historic night at the Spotify Camp Nou, thrashing Real Madrid 7-0 in front of 40,533 fans, a new Liga attendance record. Clàudia Pina was the undisputed star of the Clásico, scoring four times before the break, before Pajor and Sydney completed the rout in the second half. HIGHLIGHTS | LEAGUE | Barça v Real Madrid – FC Barcelona All the action from the Women’s Clásico at the Spotify Camp Nou. Portugal 2-1 Norway: Portugal book spot in last eight – UEFA Portugal seal their spot in the last eight of the Nations League thanks to a comeback victory in an engaging contest. The Seleção deserved maximum points for a fourth time in as many Group A4 contest this term, looking the most likely to score a winner as the fixture progressed. Laporta: “Players who defined an era have left, and others are coming who will define this era” – Mundo Deportivo “We are proud to make it possible for these players to be a global benchmark,” he declared after the 7-0 victory against Real Madrid. Pina, the MVP, tore into Real Madrid: “I’m more anti-Madrid than Cata Coll” – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona forward scored four goals, led the team’s impressive performance against Real Madrid, and stole the show in a Clásico to remember: “Barça will always be Barça and we’ve made a statement.” Graham Hansen, after the 7-0 win against Real Madrid: “I stayed here for matches like this” – Mundo Deportivo The Norwegian player celebrated the magic of the Spotify Camp Nou after the 7-0 victory and left a message for the fans: “It’s normal that there are people who think and want you to lose, but we’ve been winning for a long time.” Pere Romeu, after Barça’s rout in El Clásico: “It must be tough to concede a result like that” – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona coach analyzed the 7-0 victory against Real Madrid and praised Pina after her four goals at the Spotify Camp Nou: “I’m very happy for her, she trains, she competes and she’s a great person.”

‘What a footballer’ – Anthony Gordon compared to Lamine Yamal by Santi Denia

London, United Kingdom - September 26: Anthony Gordon of England and Lamine Yamal of Spain battle for the ball during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 Group A3 MD1 match between England and Spain at Wembley Stadium on September 26, 2026 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Vince Mignott/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images) | DeFodi Images via Getty Images Santi Denia has raved about Anthony Gordon ahead of Tuesday’s match between his Czechia side and England in the Nations League. Gordon has been in great form over the international break for the Three Lions, scoring three goals and picking up an assist in three games. Santi Denia, who previously spent many years working in Spain’s youth teams, says he’s been impressed by Gordon and just stopped short of comparing him to Lamine Yamal. “Gordon? What a player!” Denia replies.“What a footballer, my God. He’s at the same level as … I don’t know, I was going to say Lamine. Young, daring, one-on-one, speed. And what great work English football has done bringing through players like him,” he told The Guardian. “Look, every country has its essence, you have to respect that, embrace it. You also can’t change overnight; success isn’t immediate, it’s a process. You will make mistakes but you have to be clear where you’re going. In 15 years with the inferiores, we developed, evolved, adapted. See what other federations do. That’s not copying, it’s learning.” Gordon has been receiving plenty of praise over the break for his performances for England and Barca will be hoping he can continue to shine once he returns. The winger has managed four assists for Barca in seven games but is still waiting to score his first goal.

Seven-goal Clásico keeps Barcelona five points clear

Barcelona vs Real Madrid ended 7-0 as Clàudia Pina scored four, extending Barcelona’s perfect Liga F start and five-point lead at the top. The post Seven-goal Clásico keeps Barcelona five points clear appeared first on Football España.

‘It was instinct’ – Joao Cancelo discusses his great goal for Portugal vs Norway

PORTO, PORTUGAL - OCTOBER 4: Joao Cancelo of Portugal celebrates 1-1 with Nuno Mendes of Portugal during the UEFA Nations league match between Portugal v Norway at the Estadio Do Dragao on October 4, 2026 in Porto Portugal (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Joao Cancelo says his stunning goal for Portugal against Norway on Sunday was pure “instinct” after adding another memorable strike to his collection. The Barcelona defender lashed home a powerful shot into the top corner from the edge of the area after a throw-in from Nuno Mendes in a 2-1 win for his side. Speaking after the game, Cancelo was asked about his decision to go for goal. “I was well positioned for Nuno’s throw-in, because I know Nuno has a very powerful throw. When I saw the ball hit the ground for the first time, it was instinct, I looked at the goal and, thank God, it went well and it was a goal,” he told RTP. Cancelo did pick up a yellow card in the match which will result in a one-match ban and a suspension for Portugal’s next game against Denmark in November. The defender admitted that he was a big reason why he was taken off just after the hour mark. “It affected me, and my substitution was partly because of that,” he added. “I understood the manager’s decision to make the substitution. The most important thing about my goal was helping the team score after we conceded against Norway. That was the most important thing at that moment.” Cancelo will now return to Barcelona and hope to start Saturday’s La Liga match against Getafe.

Czechia’s Santi Denia: ‘Anthony Gordon? What a player! He’s at the same level as Lamine Yamal’

After working with nearly all of Spain’s World Cup-winning squad in their formative years, the coach is also a huge fan of English football. He’s now pitting his wits against both At the end of a 2-0 defeat by England in Prague, the Czechia coach turned left, walked along the touchline, shook Thomas Tuchel’s hand and said something he thinks he had never said at full-time: “See you soon.” To which Tuchel said back: “See you soon.” Seven days later, via Oviedo and Rijeka respectively, they meet again, at Wembley. “Four matches in 11 days, no time to train, for anything; I haven’t heard a single national coach say they like the new setup,” Santi Denia says, but it’s not all bad and there’s a big smile too. This is the start of a new life, yet familiar faces await, warmth in every word. Very familiar faces. If Czechia’s opponents in this Nations League could not have been much worse, they could not have been much better either. In Oviedo, Denia’s team played his country, his players; in London, for the second time in a week, they play the nation he knows better than any other, more footballers he has seen grown up. Hello, again. Continue reading...

Clàudia Pina hits four as Barcelona score seven goals to demolish Real Madrid

Barcelona 7-0 Real Madrid Lead at the top stretched to five points Clàudia Pina smashed in four goals as Barcelona demolished Real Madrid 7-0 to earn a five point lead at the top of Liga F on Sunday over their rivals. The 25-year-old Spain international was in lethal form in front of goal as a dominant Barça won the Clásico battle with ease at the Camp Nou in front of over 40,000 fans, continuing their perfect start to the campaign. The match was pushed back by two hours after torrential rain in the Catalonia region over the weekend. Continue reading...

Barcelona star Joao Cancelo scores another banger for Portugal vs Norway

PORTO, PORTUGAL - OCTOBER 4: Joao Cancelo of Portugal celebrates after scoring the first goal of his team during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Portugal and Norway at Estadio do Dragao on October 4, 2026 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by Valter Gouveia/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images) | Getty Images Joao Cancelo is making a habit of scoring spectacular goals and was at it again on Sunday night in the Nations League for Portugal against Norway. The Barcelona defender struck a ferocious effort on 38 minutes to make it 1-1 after the visitors had gone ahead through Kristoffer Ajer. A long throw from Portugal found Cancelo lurking on the edge of the area, with the Barcelona star connecting sweetly with the ball to arrow a fierce effort into the top corner. João Cancelo is scoring worldies for Portugal just like he’s doing for Barcelona 🔥 We're getting used to these stunners now 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/Iz6khtL3Yg — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 4, 2026 The goal is Cancelo’s second for Portugal during the current international break and comes just days after the full-back won La Liga’s Goal of the Month award. The Barcelona defender claimed the prize for his spectacular effort against Racing in September that came as part of a 7-2 victory. Sunday’s match is Cancelo’s last with Portugal before he returns to Barcelona to begin preparations for the resumption of the Liga season and a clash with Getafe.

Claudia Pina dazzles as Barcelona Femeni smash seven past Real Madrid in El Clasico

BARCELONA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 04: Claudia Pina of Barcelona celebrates scoring her team’s second goal during the Liga F Moeve 2026/27 match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on October 04, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Claudia Pina scored four times on Sunday as Barcelona Femeni hammered Real Madrid 7-0 at Camp Nou in El Clasico to maintain their perfect start to the season. The Barcelona star needed just four minutes to open the scoring, showing great skill to dribble past several defenders in the penalty area and then poke the ball home. 4 minutos ha tardado Pina en abrir la lata 🔥 El Barça se adelanta en el Camp Nou #LigaFMoeve | #BarçaRealMadrid pic.twitter.com/Cfcc4KHlNC — Liga F (@LigaF_oficial) October 4, 2026 Barcelona should then have been awarded a penalty when Arianna Caruso clearly pulled Sydney Schertenleib’s shirt inside the box but somehow VAR decided there was no offence and the hosts were denied. Madrid may have escaped that one but they could do nothing about an inspired Pina. The second goal came from her boot just before the half hour when she latched onto a rebound to make it 2-0. Pina then completed her hat-trick before the half-time whistle was blown, combining well with Patri Guijarro before finding the back of the net to claim the match ball. 🎩 ¡HAT-TRICK DE CLAUDIA PINA! Tres goles en apenas media hora para poner su firma en el partidazo del Spotify Camp Nou 📺 En directo en @DAZN_ES y @MPlusDeportes#LigaFMoeve | #BarçaRealMadrid pic.twitter.com/zHUkIP4e2p — Liga F (@LigaF_oficial) October 4, 2026 Barcelona weren’t done there, either. Caroline Graham Hansen made it 4-0, slotting home a left-footed finish before Pina swapped passes with Pajor and then lashed home from inside the box. The second half began in very much the same vein, with Barca scoring again to make it 6-0. Graham Hansen latched onto a through ball and unselfishly squared for Pajor to knock home. The icing on the cake was applied late on by Sydney, who capped off a fantastic performance from Barca Femeni with a stunning goal. The Swiss star fired home a great finish from the edge of the box, finding the top corner to complete the humiliation for Madrid in front of 40,533 spectators at Camp Nou.

Manchester City v Arsenal: Women’s Super League – live

⚽️ WSL updates from 4.30pm BST ⚽️ Read Moving the Goalposts | Follow us on Instagram GOAL! West Ham 0-2 Chelsea (Walsh 80) An emphatic finish from Keira Walsh has clinched all three points for Chelsea. Beth Mead starts against her old club, one of three changes to the City side that drew with Real Madrid in midweek. Sam Coffey and Niamh Charles also come into the team. Out go Laura Brown, Mary Fowler and Kerstin Casparij. Continue reading...

FC Barcelona News: 4 October 2026; Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon score again, Frenkie de Jong steps up injury recovery

Photo by Alex Caparros - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images | UEFA via Getty Images CLÁSICO PREVIEW | Barcelona v Real Madrid – FC Barcelona The first women’s Barça v Real Madrid fixture this season is at the Spotify Camp Nou, with kick-off now at 7.00pm CEST. The same old story, this time in Oviedo (3-1) – RFEF Spain beat the Czech Republic and added another three points in the UEFA Nations League Group A3 standings. Croatia 0-7 England: A record UEFA Nations League victory for the Three Lions in Rijeka – England Football The Three Lions were in complete control in front of a reduced crowd in Rijeka, as they inflicted a record defeat on the hosts. Lamine Yamal is still ‘on fire’ and scores another great goal right at the start – Mundo Deportivo The man from Rocafonda opened the scoring for Spain just five minutes into the match against the Czech Republic with a rocket into the top corner, and now has 4 goals in this Nations League. Tuchel: “Gordon has reached another level” – Mundo Deportivo The England manager praised the Barcelona forward, who has scored in all three matches he has played for his national team during this international break. De Jong shows off his progress before rejoining the group and sends a message – Mundo Deportivo The Dutchman, who has yet to make his debut this season due to the injury he suffered to his right knee during the World Cup, is closer to returning.

Huijsen and Cucurella rested for Spain in Czechia win

OVIEDO, SPAIN - OCTOBER 03: Dean Huijsen of Spain arrives at the stadium before the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Czechia at Carlos Tartiere on October 03, 2026 in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo by Juanma - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Spain secured a 3-1 win over Czechia in Oviedo on Saturday night to stay top of UEFA Nations League A Group 3 with nine points from three games, but did so without any Real Madrid players involved. Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Mikel Merino were all on the scoresheet, with Jiri Sláma scoring a consolation goal for Czechia, who also had captain Vladislav Krejci sent off. Coach Luis de la Fuente opted to rest both central defender Dean Huijsen and left-back Marc Cucurella. It comes just days after the duo both played the full 90 minutes in a 4-1 win over Croatia. That game marked Huijsen’s first Spain appearance since March, having been left out of the 2026 World Cup squad. Huijsen was replaced in defence by Aymeric Laporte, the Athletic Club defender who was first choice for Spain’s victorious efforts in the summer. He partnered with Atlético Madrid defender Robin Le Normand, with the curious coincidence of both having been born in France. Cucurella was replaced by a former Real Madrid man in La Fábrica product Fran García. The 27-year-old defender, who joined Real Betis this summer, was a late call-up to replace Álex Grimaldo, who withdrew with an injury having been in line to start against Croatia before pulling up with a muscle problem which has seen him return to Atlético Madrid. Spain now face one more game in this international break, facing Croatia in Split on Tuesday night, and will then complete the UEFA Nations League group stage with two games, against Czechia in Prague and against England in Madrid, in November.

‘He never ceases to amaze us’ – Spain boss hails Lamine Yamal after stunner against Czechia

OVIEDO, SPAIN - OCTOBER 03: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates his team first goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Czechia at Carlos Tartiere on October 03, 2026 in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente was full of praise once again for Lamine Yamal after another impressive showing for the world champions in the Nations League. Yamal struck an eye-catching opening goal from range in the 3-1 win to maintain his great form at the start of the season. De la Fuente says the teenager is getting better all the time but still has so much more to give. “I think he never ceases to amaze us all. He’s so talented that there’s still so much more to see from the best of Lamine,” he told reporters. “He’s growing by leaps and bounds. He’s a key player for the national team, a player with real influence. And we celebrate that.” Yamal has made a habit of scoring early for Spain over the international break and De la Fuente was asked if there was anything in particular that seems to fire up the Barca star. “All our pre-match talks are geared towards that goal,” he answered. “We’ve managed to start the game that way in all three matches. That shows the team goes out there to demonstrate its style of play from the first minute.” Spain now jet out to Croatia for their final game of the international break on Tuesday in Split.

Spain hold off Czechia to move within one point of quarter-finals

Spain beat Czechia 3-1 to preserve their perfect Nations League start, with Yamal scoring early and leaving Spain one point from the quarter-finals. The post Spain hold off Czechia to move within one point of quarter-finals appeared first on Football España.

Lamine Yamal stars again as Spain see off Czechia and maintain perfect start

Lamine Yamal says he feels like Superman or Spider-Man sometimes, and Spain’s fans are starting to wonder if he just might be. There is something comic book hero about what the teenager is doing right now, some unexplained super power swelling inside him. For the third consecutive game he scored inside six minutes, curling in another outrageous goal as Spain completed their World Cup homecoming in Oviedo with a 3-1 win over Czechia that leaves them a single point from the Nations League quarter finals already. Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, put it simply: “Lamine Yamal is on course to become a legend.” And yet in a game which seemed to have been done at half-time, when Spain led 2-0 after Rodrigo Hernandez had added the second and Lamine Yamal was withdrawn, his show seemingly over, the danger returned. Czechia, vastly improved after the break, pulled one back through Jiri Slama on 69 and then were denied a 79th-minute equaliser when Vassilis Fotias, the referee, who rescued Spain, harshly ruled out a Ryan Naderi goal – apparently for a foul on Robin Le Normand as the free-kick that led to it was swung in. Continue reading...

North Macedonia 0-2 Scotland, Spain 3-1 Czechia and more: Nations League – live reaction

Nations League updates from the 7.45pm BST kick-offs Live scores | Get the Football Daily newsletter | Mail Luke Spain: Raya; Fresneda, Le Normand, Laporte, García; Rodri, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Fernández. Czechia: Kinsky; Sacek, Chaloupek, Krejci, Slama; Ambros, Macek, Kral; Radosta, Hlozek, Lingr. Continue reading...

Spain 3-1 Czechia: Lamine Yamal, Rodri on target as La Roja stay perfect in Nations League

Photo by Torbjorn Tande/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images | DeFodi Images via Getty Images The world champions have extended their historic unbeaten streak to 41 games and remain perfect with three wins from three in their Nations League campaign as Spain beat Czechia 3-1 in Oviedo on Saturday night. Four Barcelona players started on the night and two of them found the net as Lamine Yamal and captain Rodri led the way in another good win for La Roja. 🏁 ¡¡𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗘𝗡 𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗗𝗢!! Seguimos sumando de tres en tres. 🇪🇸 🆚 🇨🇿 | 2-1 | 90+5’#VamosEspaña | #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/ct6hh8TZS3 — Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) October 3, 2026 For the third straight game in this Nations League campaign, the game started with an early Lamine Yamal goal for Spain as the teenager curled an absolute beauty into the top corner to put the hosts in front. The early goal allowed Spain to control the action and choose the right moments to step up their intensity, and they created several good chances that required good saves and last-ditch blocks by the Czech defense. Rodri, Pedri and Dani Olmo started together in an all-Barça midfield and looked very good as a unit, combining multiple times in and around the box and generating real and constant danger. And it was Rodri who doubled the lead with his first Spain goal in over two years after a scramble in the box created by a run from Pedri, and La Roja had a deserved lead at the break after dominating the opening 45 minutes. Luis de la Fuente decided to rest Lamine Yamal at halftime and also took off Pedri and Olmo early in the second half, and a slightly weaker Spain side struggled to maintain the same level of dominance and creativity in the second half. Czechia also played their part in making the game more complicated for Spain as they took more risks going forward, and the visitors got back in the game with a very good counter-attacking goal scored by Slama, and the Czechs even found the net for the second time but their equalizer was ruled out for a foul in the buildup. Spain desperately needed a third goal to make sure of the win, and they found it on a counter-attack as Victor Muñoz’s shot was saved by the keeper and fired home on the rebound by Mikel Merino in the 89th minute. The visitors were down to 10 men by then as captain Ladislav Krejci received two yellow cards in quick succession, and Czechia were unable to find the energy to chase an unlikely comeback. The final whistle came to end a match that was tougher than it needed to be for Spain given their first half dominance, but they were still the better team and deserved the win. Lamine scored another amazing goal, Rodri and Pedri were sublime, and La Roja remain unstoppable. What a team.

Top 10 players: Croatia 0-7 England

RIJEKA, CROATIA - OCTOBER 03: Jude Bellingham of England celebrates after team mate Morgan Rogers (not pictured) scores his team’s seventh goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Croatia and England at Stadion HNK Rijeka on October 03, 2026 in Rijeka, Croatia. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) | Getty Images England provided eight of the top 10 players for progressive passes. Jude Bellingham played 18 progressive passes, more than any other player. Bukayo Saka made 10 progressive carries, more than any other player. Croatia supplied five of the leading 10 players for completed take-ons. Franjo Ivanovic completed five take-ons. Luka Vuskovic completed 97.4% of his passes, more than any other player. Jude Bellingham contributed 0.946 xT from open-play passes, the highest figure in the match. He also recorded 18 progressive passes, the highest figure in the match. Alongside that, he added eight key passes, the highest figure in the match. Three of England’s seven goals. Those contributions came over 92 minutes for England. Harry Kane had a long ball completion rate of 50.0%, joint third in the match. He also recorded nine progressive passes, joint fourth in the match. He added 0.233 xT from open-play passes, sixth in the match. Luka Modric recorded one key pass. He had two take-ons, joint sixth in the match. He also added eight progressive passes. Those contributions came over 56 minutes for Croatia.

Yáñez settles five-goal Madrid derby for Castilla

Real Madrid Castilla beat Atlético Madrileño 3-2 as Yáñez’s winner settled a five-goal reserve-team derby after late penalties and drama. The post Yáñez settles five-goal Madrid derby for Castilla appeared first on Football España.

Kane and Saka double up as England school Croatia in historic Nations League rout

It had all the edge of a pop concert in the stands but England looked ready to steal candy from a baby. The 6,200 Croatian under-14s allowed inside Stadion HNK Rijeka were invited free of charge and this was a priceless footballing experience. England ripped Croatia to shreds to take a firm grip on second place in their Nations League group, boosting their hopes of reaching next year’s quarter-finals, and anyone supporting the home team could at least find consolation in watching Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham combine to devastating effect. Perhaps the ticket should have come with an adult age rating. This was grisly viewing for the locals but Thomas Tuchel delighted in England’s most complete performance since surging to a 4-2 win over Croatia at the World Cup. Kane marked his 124th cap with his 88th and 89th international strikes and had plenty of help. Three assists and a goal decorated a scintillating display from Bellingham and Tuchel found satisfaction in the other members of his ruthless front four getting on the scoresheet. Continue reading...

‘A game changer, a World Cup winner’ – Czechia boss says Lamine Yamal deserves the Ballon d’Or

Lamine Yamal right winger of Barcelona and Spain celebrates the second goal of his team during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Czechia boss Santi Denia is set for a reunion with Spain on Saturday night in the Nations League and also faces the prospect of coming up against Lamine Yamal. Sani Denia worked with the Spanish youth teams for many years before taking up his post as Czechia boss and admits he’s been having sleepless nights as he prepares to face the world champions. “It’s strange, it’s the first time I’ve faced Spain. I’m not sleeping much because they’re so good,” he told Cadena SER. “The team has all the qualities, they have solutions for everything. We’re going to try to play our game and try to win, but they’re world champions for a reason. They play as a team, they’ve been together for many years and they know each other well.” The Czechia boss was also asked about Yamal and if he thinks the Barcelona teenager is the best player on the planet. “I think he’s the Ballon d’Or winner, without a doubt,” he added. “It doesn’t matter that he’s 19; he’s a game-changer, a World Cup winner. People go to the stadium to see Lamine. People pay for tickets to see him.” Spain head into the match after wins over England and Croatia during the international break, while Czechia have suffered defeats to the same opponents.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic reveals his La Liga, Champions League and Ballon d’Or picks

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images | Getty Images Zlatan Ibrahimovic is tipping Barcelona to win La Liga and the Champions League this season and also thinks Lamine Yamal will claim the Ballon d’Or. Barcelona sit top of La Liga in the early weeks of the season after a perfect start to the season as they aim to make it three titles in a row under Hansi Flick. The Catalans are also hoping they can be crowned European champions once again after reaching the quarter-finals and the semi-finals under their German coach. Zlatan has been asked which teams he thinks will pick up the biggest prizes this season and is confident his former club can achieve success at home and abroad. Zlatan's picks for some of the biggest awards and league winners in Europe are spicy 👀🔥 pic.twitter.com/PC75L9skMQ — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 2, 2026 Ibra has also gone with Yamal for the Ballon d’Or ahead of the official announcement later this month. The Barcelona star is one of the favorites to claim the Golden Ball but faces competition from Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe.

More frustration for Jules Kounde as Barcelona star stays on the bench for France

Jules Kounde reacts before the UEFA Nations League match between Belgium and France in Brussels, Belgium, on September 28, 2026. (Photo by Alex Nicodim/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Jules Kounde has lost his place in the starting XI at Barcelona this season and now looks to be facing a battle on the international scene as well with France. The defender started France’s 1-0 win over Turkiye at the start of the international break but hasn’t played a single minute for Zinedine Zidane’s side since. The new French boss has overseen a win over Belgium and a draw with Italy in the Nations League without using Kounde, preferring Pierre Kalulu at right-back in those two games. Kounde is no stranger to the bench. He’s started just two games so far this season for Barcelona, with Eric Garcia emerging as Hansi Flick’s preferred choice at right-back. The defender said at the World Cup he was hoping to have a “better season” with Barcelona in 2026-27 but is currently finding it hard to convince Flick he deserves to be first choice. France play again on Monday night against Belgium and it will be interesting to see if Zidane sticks with Kalulu or gives Kounde another chance in his starting XI.

Why Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsi has been left out of Spain squad to face Czechia in Nations League

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates their first goal with Pau Cubarsi of Spain during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between England and Spain at Wembley Stadium on September 26, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images) | Offside via Getty Images Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi has been left out of the Spain squad for today’s Nations League clash with Czechia in Oviedo. Cubarsi has played 90 minutes in both of Spain’s matches against England and Croatia during the international break, and was an ever present at World Cup 2026, but is now being given a breather by manager Luis de la Fuente. According to Mundo Deportivo, there’s no injury and Cubarsi is expected to return on Tuesday night to start Spain’s final fixture of the break against Croatia in Split. Los 𝗗𝗢𝗥𝗦𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗦 para Asturias. 🔢 Listado: https://t.co/tlofpQbKTC#VamosEspaña | #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/vbnl54pMDv — Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) October 3, 2026 While Cubarsi is given a rest, Barca team-mates Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Pedri, Rodri and Fermin Lopez are all in the squad and should feature. De la Fuente was asked about the possibility of resting Yamal before the game but didn’t particularly sound like a man who was willing to leave his star man on the bench. “He’s important at any point in the game. From the start, or from the 60th or 45th minute. It doesn’t cost him any more or less to leave him out,” he told a press conference. “When we play him, it’s because he’s effective for the team.” Spain head into the match on an incredible run which they will be hoping to maintain. La Roja are now 40 matches unbeaten and have won their last nine games in a row.

Carlos Espí replaces Ferrán Torres in Spain’s list

Real Madrid striker Carlos Espí has been called up by Luis de la Fuente to replace Ferrán Torres in the Spanish national team during the rest of the FIFA break. Espí scored five goals for Spain’s U21 team just a few days ago and that earned him the nod to replace Torres. The striker will join Real Madrid defenders Marc Cucurella and Dean Huijsen, who are also with the Spanish national team during the break. It will be interesting to see if Espí is given the chance to play some minutes and make his debut for his country. Spain will face the Czech Republic in Oviedo tonight and then will wrap up this FIFA break by visiting Croatia on Tuesday.

Barcelona’s Six-Point Lead Puts Real Madrid Under Clásico Pressure

Barcelona vs Real Madrid is a potential title-race turning point, with a six-point gap, Mourinho’s return and wider tensions shaping the Clásico. The post Barcelona’s Six-Point Lead Puts Real Madrid Under Clásico Pressure appeared first on Football España.

Lewandowski, 38, hits hat-trick in 6-0 Poland win

Robert Lewandowski, 38, scores a hat-trick in the Nations League and Edin Dzeko plays his final game for Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Raphinha wins second straight La Liga Player of the Month award after Barcelona heroics

Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Spanish league football match between FC Barcelona and Racing Santander at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona on September 16, 2026. (Photo by Lluis GENE / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona captain Raphinha has been named La Liga’s Player of the Month for September after maintaining his brilliant start to the season. The Brazilian scooped the award for August and has won it again after a month where he scored against Valencia, bagged two assists versus Levante and took home the match ball after wins over Racing and Sevilla. Back to back winner. 🏆 Raphinha is the PLAYER OF THE MONTH of Spetemeber in #LALIGAEASPORTS 👉 https://t.co/cUvRhJBqit#LALIGAPOTM | #PREMIOSLALIGA pic.twitter.com/ETlWfasAUC — LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) October 2, 2026 It’s more deserved recognition for Raphinha following his impressive showings for Hansi Flick’s side after a summer where he’s switched roles and is now playing as a No. 9. The Brazil international beat off competition from Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe, Atletico’s Jonathan David, Sergio Camello of Rayo and Elche’s Fer Nino to win September’s award. Raphinha has since gone on to pick up an injury and may now be given a breather in Barcelona’s next game against Getafe, allowing the rest of the competition a headstart in the race to win next month’s La Liga Player of the Month Prize.

Eduardo Camavinga plays 15 minutes in France’s draw vs Italy

Brussels, Belgium - September 28: Eduardo Camavinga of France controls the Ball during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Belgium and France at Stade Roi Baudouin on September 28, 2026 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images) | DeFodi Images via Getty Images Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga came on as a substitute for the outgoing Rayan Cherki in France’s 1-1 draw with Italy at Stade de France on Friday. France went ahead after a belter of a goal from Michael Olise in the second half, before an error from Lucas Da Cunha allowed Alessandro Bastoni to score the equaliser. Camavinga came on, and shortly after, Dayot Upamecano was sent off with a second yellow, which forced France on the back foot. However, Camavinga did have a good cameo, as he took two great shots from outside the box to force Gianluigi Donnarumma into brilliant saves. He also had some good passes and a few defensive interventions. Before the red card, Camavinga was playing a bit further up the field, but had to drop back a little afterwards. France play their final game of the international break against Belgium on Monday night, and Camavinga would hope to get more minutes.

Güler once again Türkiye’s best player in a losing cause

Turkey's midfielder #10 Arda Guler (C) fights for the ball with Belgium's defender #04 Brandon Mechele (L) and Belgium's midfielder #20 Hans Vanaken (R) during the UEFA Nations League, League A - Group 1, football match between Belgium and Turkey at the Maurice Dufrasne stadium, in Liege, eastern Belgium on October 2, 2026. (Photo by JOHN THYS / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images The trend continues: Arda Güler has little-to-no-help, Türkiye continues to create chances, Türkiye’s continues to misses chances, and Türkiye continues to spiral defensively. That’s three straight losses now for Vincenzo Montella, and along the way, they’ve been outscored 8-1, sitting dead last in Group A of the UEFA Nations League. Güler doesn’t deserve the blame, though, and the general consensus is that he’s been a bit of a one man show through these three games. He was one of the best players on the field vs France, had an incredible second half vs Italy, and his wizardry continued tonight against Belgium in a 3-0 loss. Tonight’s match was back-and-forth and very easy on the eyes if you’re a neutral. Belgium and Türkiye took turns taking punches throughout the 90 minutes, and what essentially separated the two teams for the majority of this game was: Poor finishing from Türkiye, and two throwback golazos from Kevin de Bruyne. Güler’s touches and verticality under pressure were so good in this game, that even the Belgium fans audibly groaned at some of the stuff he was doing. Can't even put it into words some of the stuff Güler is doing on the ball in this game. Can't post the clips here either due to copyright stuff. Just know that even the Belgium fans are groaning — Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) October 2, 2026 Güler played as a right central midfielder on paper, but behind the ball, he formed one of the two forwards in a 4-4-2 through stretches of this game. Primarily, though, he operated on the right half space, while roaming as a 10 horizontally just outside of Belgium’s box. He had eight shots — seven of them outside the box and the one from inside was after some great dribbling past his man to create space from a tight angle. Güler ended the game with the most key passes of anyone on the field (five), the most completed dribbles (five), and drew the most fouls (six). Türkiye’s next game is against Italy on October 5th.

Real Madrid ‘convinced’ UEFA will take action against Barcelona after sending dossier

MADRID, SPAIN - JUNE 07: Florentino Perez speaks with the media after winning the Real Madrid’s presidential election day at Eurobuilding Hotel on June 07, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Real Madrid are reportedly “convinced” that UEFA will take action against Barcelona after sending in a dossier regarding the Negreira Case to Europe’s governing body. UEFA issued a statement on Thursday to confirm receipt of the information from Los Blancos, with Madrid then calling for the “utmost urgency” to be applied to the matter. Real Madrid now believe their extensive dossier “will be key for UEFA to take action against Barcelona” as they “now have the necessary information on the case” which Madrid feel had previously been lacking, according to Mundo Deportivo. Los Blancos think that Barcelona’s payments to Negreira “constitute a serious violation of UEFA’s code of ethics” and that their dossier justifies the need to sanction the Catalans. Florentino Perez and Co are hoping that Barca will be stripped of their titles and given a European ban if action is taken against the Catalan giants. The Madrid chief has previously ranted that his team have had seven titles stolen from them due to the alleged corruption. Barcelona have reacted to the updates this week by issuing a statement to clarify that UEFA have not reopened any new proceedings against the club and they are still waiting for the criminal case to be held in Spain.

Barcelona handed good news on Raphinha after captain undergoes tests on thigh injury

SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona have been handed some good news on Raphinha’s injury after the Brazilian returned to the club for tests on a thigh problem picked up on international duty. Raphinha has withdrawn from the squad for Brazil’s friendly against India due to the problem but hopefully won’t miss any time for Barcelona with the problem. According to Mundo Deportivo and Sport, Raphinha was checked over at Barca on Friday and no injury was detected. He should therefore be available for Barcelona’s next game against Getafe, although Hansi Flick could err on the side of caution when it comes to naming his starting XI as October is a key month with some big fixtures. The news will be welcomed at Barcelona as Raphinha has been in red-hot form at the start of the season, firing in 14 goals already in competition. Barcelona will now be hoping that the rest of their players return from international duty unscathed next week as Hansi Flick’s side prepare to return to La Liga action after a three-week break.

FC Barcelona News: 2 October 2026; Raphinha set for further tests, João Cancelo scores in Portugal win

Photo by Ernest Kolodziej/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images | Getty Images FC Barcelona statement – FC Barcelona In response to the reports published regarding the alleged reactivation of the UEFA proceedings in the Negreira case, FC Barcelona wishes to make the following clarifications. Big games coming up in October – FC Barcelona Getafe, Galatasaray, Betis, PSG, Real Madrid and Alavés all coming up in a busy month at home and abroad. Cancelo goal against Racing, best of the month – FC Barcelona Portuguese fullback receives award for his stunning strike from outside the area against Racing de Santander at the Spotify Camp Nou. Denmark 2-4 Portugal: João Cancelo scores as Portugal win six-goal thriller – UEFA Six superb goals and 90 minutes of thrilling football! Denmark and Portugal have served up quite a spectacle at Parken. It’s hard to ask for much more. Portugal maintain their perfect record with three wins from three, while the race behind them in Group A4 remains wide open. João Cancelo, EA SPORTS LaLiga Goal of the Month for September – LALIGA The FC Barcelona player opened the scoring against Real Racing with a spectacular strike from outside the box that found the net after hitting the crossbar. Raphinha, already in Barcelona awaiting medical tests – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona captain landed in Barcelona on Thursday from Australia. Given the accumulated fatigue he arrived with, the tests on his right thigh will be done this Friday.

Shaw earns Man City draw with late Real goal dramatically disallowed

Bunny Shaw and a dramatic last-gasp decision from the referee ensured Manchester City took a point off Real Madrid with a 1-1 draw in the Women's Champions League.

Barcelona star Dani Olmo has an interesting retirement plan

Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images | NurPhoto via Getty Images Even though he was born in Catalonia and is a product of La Masia who decided to return to his childhood club two and a half years ago, Dani Olmo also has a lot of affection for another club and wants to come back when it’s time to call it a career. According to Olmo’s agent, Andy Bara, the Barça and Spain midfielder has made it his goal to finish his career at Dinamo Zagreb, the Croatian club he joined after leaving La Masia at the age of 16 over a decade ago. Bara says Olmo really loves Dinamo and the city, and will be heavily involved with the club even after the end of his playing days. “He wants to finish his career at Dinamo and hopes that will be the case — even as a coach; he would like to start his managerial career at Dinamo. Dani still walks around the house in a Dinamo jersey with the number 7 and his name on it, even now in Barcelona. Other players approach him, and everyone knows the story: when you mention Olmo, their first association is Dinamo. He is far more connected to Dinamo than those who ought to be, yet aren’t.” Zagreb really is the place where Olmo grew as a player and person and opened the doors to a great career that ultimately led to his return to Barça and a key starting role in Spain’s World Cup winning squad this summer, so it’s not at all surprising to see just how grateful Dani is to a club that helped him so much.

Man City hold on to claim draw against Real Madrid

Khadija Shaw scores a superb equaliser before Real Madrid have a late goal chalked off as the sides play out an entertaining 1-1 draw at the Joie Stadium.

Drama as Real Madrid denied late winner vs Man City LIVE!

Manchester City 1-1 Real Madrid: Women’s Champions League – live

⚽ Champions League updates from the 8pm BST kick-off ⚽ Live scores | Ballon d’Or power rankings | Email Daniel We’re playing injury time in the two early games, in which it’s Austria Wien 1-0 inter and Køgø 5-1 Servette. Also going on: Continue reading...

Carlos Espi scores five goals for Spain U21

MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 13: Footballer Carlos Espí walks in the paddock during the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Madring on September 13, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Kym Illman/Getty Images) | Getty Images After coming off the bench in Spain U-21’s last game in the loss to Finland, Carlos Espi was put in the starting line-up ahead of Gonzalo Garcia against San Marino today. It was, as expected, a complete bloodbath. Spain won 13-0, and Espi scored five goals while handing out two assists. Don't let Barca and Man City corruption distract you from the fact that Carlos Espi had 5 goals and 2 assists today — Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) October 1, 2026 These are the games that feel even less difficult than actual training exercises, and one of those games where San Marino’s players looked like they were ready for the final whistle right at kick off. Spain had 80% possession, shot the ball 48 (!!!!) times, created 10 big chances, scored 13, and had over 500 passes more than their opponents. Most of Espi’s goals were pretty straightforward, and there isn’t much sense blasting all of them in this article, but here is his fifth and final goal on the night: Carlos Espi just scored his 5th goal of the game. ☠️pic.twitter.com/ru9f6yfl4B https://t.co/QdjeLeXitL — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) October 1, 2026 Former Real Madrid academy product Jacobo Ramon also scored in the demolition, while Iker Bravo had two assists and five key passes. Spain U-21 have one more game remaining during this international break: a game against Romania next Tuesday. A win in that game will guarantee them top spot in Group A UEFA EURO U-21 qualification.

Our first month with an app broke our commenting records

A month ago we announced the release of our new app, which you can find here or by searching SB Nation in your neighborhood app store. Quite a few of you have downloaded it over the past month and have been using it.  The goal with this app was to make it easier to join the community, and specifically comment, read the comments, and make your own posts, as well as keeping all the community posts – articles on the front page, Feed posts from you – front and center.  The results so far are encouraging. In fact, it’s helped us set a new all-time record for comments this month across all of SB Nation’s communities, and I want to thank you for that. One of the most exciting new features is the game chat. It makes it easier to follow along with the barrage of comments that come during Barcelona games and gets to the heart of why so many of you spend time in our community. Faster loading comments and notifications when someone replies to your comments and Feed posts are creating a more fun experience that you’re not going to find anywhere else.  We also wanted to elevate the community’s contributions by putting your Feed posts inside one stream alongside all the other articles from the site. To that end, more people have seen your posts and more people have commented on them. In fact, we’ve set single-day commenting records three different times since the season started.  And if you prefer just reading our traditional front page articles, there’s an option at the top to do that. So, one month in, thanks for making us part of your routine. If you haven’t checked it out, you can get it for iOs or Android. And if you’re not an app user, that’s OK! We’re glad to have you following along in whatever way makes you most comfortable.

Barcelona respond to Real Madrid, UEFA statements on Negreira Case

BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 24: Joan Laporta, President of FC Barcelona, speaks during presentation of the Centenary events of the FC Barcelona Basketball section at Auditori 1899 on August 24, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Barcelona have issued a statement in response to communications from UEFA and Real Madrid today. UEFA confirmed receipt of documentation regarding the Negreira Case from Real Madrid earlier, while Los Blancos then called on Europe’s governing body to work with “utmost urgency” on the matter. Barcelona have now responded to both communications with the following statement. “In response to the reports published regarding the alleged reactivation of the UEFA proceedings in the Negreira case, FC Barcelona wishes to make the following clarifications:  “UEFA has not opened any new proceedings against FC Barcelona. The proceedings were initiated in 2023, with the appointment of two investigators who have since carried out the action they deemed appropriate. The Club has always complied with all their requests. These proceedings have not been reopened because they have never been closed.  “The UEFA statement confirms receipt of documentation submitted by Real Madrid and indicates that the investigators will assess it within the framework of the existing investigation. The same text expressly refers, on two occasions, to an investigation and a review that are “ongoing.” It therefore does not announce the opening, reopening, or reactivation of any proceedings, nor does it contain any assessment of the substance or value of the documentation provided.” Barcelona also add they have received no requests from further information at this point but will co-operate fully. “It is up to the investigators to determine what action, if any, they consider appropriate regarding this documentation. As of today, they have not made any new requests to FC Barcelona nor have they forwarded Real Madrid’s complaint to the Club. Should they do so, the Club will respond accordingly, as it has done up to now.  “In accordance with the applicable legislation governing this matter, these proceedings are subject to the outcome of the criminal case currently being heard in Spain and will continue to be so. “Since the investigation began, FC Barcelona has continued to obtain its UEFA licence without objection and has participated in UEFA competitions. “FC Barcelona reiterates its full cooperation with the competent authorities and calls for rigour and accuracy in the reporting of this procedure.” The latest reports suggest the investigation should by completed by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the two teams are set to meet on the pitch this month, with El Clasico scheduled for October 26th.

Joao Cancelo’s stunner for Barcelona vs Racing wins La Liga’s Goal of the Month award

BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 16: Joao Cancelo of FC Barcelona celebrates his team's third goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between FC Barcelona and Real Racing Club de Santander at Spotify Camp Nou on September 16, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona defender Joao Cancelo has won La Liga’s Goal of the Month award for September for his stunning strike against Racing. The Portugal international netted a glorious effort from range in the 7-2 win at Camp Nou to scoop the prize. All of which is a great excuse to watch Cancelo’s goal once again. Check it out: A rocket goal 🚀 Cancelo wins #LALIGAEASPORTS 𝐆𝐎𝐀𝐋 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐇 for September! 👉 https://t.co/QRdKqIJrLt #LALIGAGOALOFTHEMONTH | #PREMIOSLALIGA pic.twitter.com/Rj2BLz9dL8 — LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) October 1, 2026 Cancelo said after the game he thought it was the best goal of his career so far and was made “even more special” as it came during his time as a Barcelona player. The defender is currently in his second spell at Camp Nou but has regularly made it clear just how much he loves Barcelona and how grateful he is to have been given a chance to play for the club. Cancelo is no stranger to scoring bangers. He won the Goal of the Month award in his previous spell with Barcelona after netting another eye-catching effort against Real Betis.

Real Madrid call for ‘utmost urgency’ in Negreira Case after UEFA issue statement

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and Barcelona president Joan Laporta during the La Liga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Real Madrid have called on UEFA to work with the “utmost urgency” on the Negreira Case after Europe’s governing body confirmed receipt of documentation from Los Blancos on Thursday. The capital club issued the following statement on their website. “The complaint filed by our club includes extensive documentation and evidence regarding events of extraordinary seriousness, which directly affect the integrity of the competition and confidence in the refereeing system. “Real Madrid C.F. considers it essential that, now that UEFA has this documentation, the investigation proceeds with the utmost urgency until its full conclusion, and that the competent bodies take the appropriate decisions in accordance with the severity of the verified facts. “Our club will continue to actively collaborate with UEFA and take all actions within its power to clarify events that it deems incompatible with the principles of integrity, transparency, and fair play that should govern European football.” UEFA had earlier confirmed a “substantial amount of documents” have been received from Real Madrid in regards to Barcelona and the investigation into the Negreira Case. President Florentino Perez revealed earlier this year that his club had been compiled a dossier on Barcelona to send to Europe’s governing body. “UEFA can confirm that it has received from Real Madrid CF a substantial amount of documents related to the ongoing investigation into FC Barcelona in the matter involving José María Enríquez Negreira, former vice-president of the Technical Committee of Referees of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (the so-called “Negreira case”),” read the statement. “UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors have also received these latest documents, which they will assess as part of their ongoing review of the case.” Real Madrid reportedly want Barcelona stripped of their titles and handed a ban from European competition for their role in the Negreira Case. Barcelnoa president Joan Laporta has previously said allegations his club made payments to influence referees were “totally false.” He also spoke at length about the whole Negreira Case at a press conference back in 2023 (which you can read here). The investigation was originally opened in 2023 and the fresh documentation from Real Madrid will now be added to the case and reviewed by UEFA officials. The investigation is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

OFFICIAL: Real Madrid issue statement following UEFA’s announcement over Negreira case

Real Madrid have published an announcement on their website following UEFA’s own statement confirming that they have received documents over the Negreira case. In light of the communication issued today by UEFA regarding the so-called ‘Negreira case,’ Real Madrid C.F. states the following: UEFA has confirmed the receipt of the complaint filed by Real Madrid C.F. and the continuation of the investigation concerning payments made over the past two decades by F.C. Barcelona to the former vice president of the Technical Committee of Referees. The complaint filed by our club includes extensive documentation and evidence regarding events of extraordinary seriousness, which directly affect the integrity of the competition and confidence in the refereeing system. Real Madrid C.F. considers it essential that, now that UEFA has this documentation, the investigation proceeds with the utmost urgency until its full conclusion, and that the competent bodies take the appropriate decisions in accordance with the severity of the verified facts. Our club will continue to actively collaborate with UEFA and take all actions within its power to clarify events that it deems incompatible with the principles of integrity, transparency, and fair play that should govern European football. Source: Realmadrid.com

Yemen and football in the face of civil war: ‘It would be very nice to give the world a different headline’

Noureddine Ould Ali is staying positive despite a difficult situation at home and tough opponents at the Gulf Cup The Yemen national team coach, Noureddine Ould Ali, chose not to reach for a good old-fashioned football excuse for his team’s 1-0 loss to Qatar in the Gulf Cup on Saturday, despite a clear penalty that was not given his way. The defeat meant the Reds crashed out of the eight-nation regional tournament, currently taking place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a game of the group stage still remaining. There are other factors that the Algerian coach could list for a defeat against a team that was at the World Cup in the summer. Qatar also have the Aspire Academy, state of the art stadia and a former Spain and Real Madrid coach – Julen Lopetegui – in charge. Yemen have none of those things and have not played a home game since 2012, a 2-1 win over Palestine in Sanaa. Continue reading...

Moving the Goalposts | Women’s Ballon d’Or 2026 power rankings: will a new winner be crowned?

Race to be named the world’s best female player is the most open in years. But who should claim the prize? 1 Melchie Dumornay (OL Lyonnes/Haiti) Yes, Dumornay was part of a team that lost 4-0 to Barcelona in last season’s Champions League final, but her influence in the OL Lyonnes midfield as they cruised to a domestic treble stepped up a gear. The technically brilliant 23-year-old midfielder was named player of the year by the French players’ union, and her importance to Lyonnes was most clearly demonstrated by her absence through injury for their 2-1 loss to Arsenal in their Champions League semi-final first leg. She returned for the second leg and produced a player-of-the-match performance in a 3-1 win. Dumornay scored five goals in Lyonnes’ Champions League run and was named in the team of the tournament. 2 Ewa Pajor (Barcelona/Poland) After losing five Champions League finals, Pajor shook off her ‘always the bridesmaid, never the bride’ mantle in style with two goals as Barcelona thrashed Lyonnes in Oslo. The 29-year-old’s 11 goals in European competition last season matched Alexia Putella’s 2021-22 tally, which has not been bettered since Ada Hegerberg’s record-breaking 15 in 2017-18. Pajor also scored 16 goals in Liga F, behind only her Barcelona teammate Claudia Pina who scored 21. Continue reading...

Courtois: “Some things get called in other stadiums, but we don’t get those same calls”

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois talked to Onda Cero last night and shared some of his thoughts about the controversy surrounding the referees and the club. “I don’t think there’s some kind of conspiracy or anything like that, I’m not that cynical. There are things you see in other fields that get called, but they don’t get called for us, quite the opposite, they call things against us and not in our favor. The COVID year when we lost the League there were four handballs… Atlético gets one VAR call, then we get a penalty disallowed that’s a penalty for Sevilla… There are things you say… I don’t understand, they come to explain things to us and the next week they do the opposite,” he said. Naturally, he was also asked about the Negreira case. “Everyone is waiting for the sentence about that trial, it is a very serious and big case,” he added. Courtois also explained why he thinks Mbappé should win the Ballon D’Or. “It’s gotta be for Mbappé; everyone’s blown away by his speed, by his goals. The Ballon d’Or has to be for the best, not for the one who’s won the most. By that logic, Carvajal should’ve won it two years ago,” he added.

FC Barcelona News: 1 October 2026; Barça Femení score six in Rome, Injured Raphinha returns to Catalunya

Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images | Getty Images Spectacular September for Lamine Yamal – FC Barcelona Incredible month brings nine goals and seven assists following a stunning display against Croatia. AS Roma 0-6 FC Barcelona Femení: Big win ahead of the Clásico – FC Barcelona European champions continue to win big, with players returning and more positive vibes ahead of Real Madrid visit. Raphinha, dropped from the Brazil squad, returns to Barcelona – Mundo Deportivo The striker underwent medical tests after the Australia-Brazil match which detected edema in his right thigh and he will not play in the friendly against India as a precaution. Kane bows to Gordon: “He belongs at the highest level” – Mundo Deportivo The Bayern Munich striker and England captain highlighted the progress of the FC Barcelona winger, who scored the opening goal against the Czech Republic. Flick’s six options if Raphinha doesn’t recover – Mundo Deportivo Gabriel Jesus, Hamza, Gordon, Olmo, Fermín and even Lamine could fill in for the Brazilian if he doesn’t recover from his hamstring edema or is rested against Getafe.

‘We haven’t seen all he’s capable of’ – Barcelona told Lamine Yamal still ‘has a lot to prove’

Spain's forward #19 Lamine Yamal celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the UEFA Nations League league phase group A3 football match between Spain and Croatia at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium in Seville on September 29, 2026. (Photo by JORGE GUERRERO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Lamine Yamal can’t stay out of the headlines right now as the Barcelona star continues to shine for club and country in the early weeks of the season. The teenager is also being tipped to win the Ballon d’Or next month at the tender age of 19 following a season where he won La Liga and the World Cup. Yamal’s former youth coach Iván Carrasco says there’s no doubt he’s the best player in the world but also says there’s still a lot more to come from the Spain star. “It was very obvious, an incredible natural talent. Everyone who worked closely with Lamine knew he had a lot of potential, a lot of natural talent, and that it was only a matter of time,” he told Cadena SER. “For me, he’s the best footballer in the world right now, and I think we haven’t seen everything he’s capable of yet. He’s still very young, he has a lot to prove, even though he’s already leading a team as important as FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team, at just 18 or 19 years old. We still have a lot to see. “He’s won La Liga, the most important championship like the World Cup with the Spanish national team… Maybe last season he didn’t have the best numbers in the regular league, but he’s still in his breakout phase. This season’s numbers are already better than last season’s.” Carrasco also offered a bit of insight into Yamal as a person, admitting he’s different from stars such as Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta. “He’s sincere, honest. He’s a person with a very strong character. He knows the talent he has, that he’s in the top 1 or top 2 in the world, and he says so openly,” he added. “He’s not the type of footballer that people generally accept most readily, a humble footballer like Iniesta or Messi, but this is his way of being, and it’s his natural way of expressing himself.”

The Most Prolific Creative Force In Europe: Arda Güler

MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Arda Guler of Real Madrid during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico Madrid v Real Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on September 20, 2026 in Madrid Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Earlier today, Real Madrid announced that Arda Güler is the team’s player of the month for September. That adds up — he has probably been the team’s best player this season and the only reason why he is not the league’s best performer full stop is because Raphina ingested some vibranium into his veins and has looked unstoppable. Nevertheless, beyond Real Madrid, Güler has not just been the team’s best creator — he’s also been the world’s best creator. And that’s not an exaggeration. Güler has been slinging key passes out of his eye balls. One look up, the chance is already created. Over and over again, the Turk has prolifically created chances out of thin air, and if not for poor finishing from his teammates, he’d lead the league in assists. Güler has created an xGA of 3.01, per Statmuse, with only two assists to his name. Lamine Yamal, meanwhile, has four assists from an xGA of 2.71. Freak finishing vs poor finishing is often the deciding factor when it comes to assist numbers. Güler has created 28 chances in La Liga, the most of any player in the league — four more than Lamine Yamal and 12 more than the next tier of creators: Unai López, Edu Expósito and Iñigo Vicente. To put it into perspective how prolific he is at creating chances, he creates a chance every 12.5 minutes, and a big chance every 43.6 minutes. He is the best creator in Europe right now. He's producing big chances out of his eye balls. Creates a chance every 12.5 minutes and a big chance every 43.6 minutes. Lamine Yamal / Dybala come close if you're looking at total numbers, but not when you parce it up per 90. https://t.co/Gl4QyN30Ds — Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) September 30, 2026 Güler’s 28 chances created are also the most in Europe. When you look at total numbers, Lamine Yamal comes close, but if you look at the numbers per 90 (which is apt given that Güler hasn’t started every game), he doubles Lamine Yamal’s numbers (3.73 chances created vs 7.28 — a surreal number). To put those numbers into perspective, despite playing the least amount of minutes out of the top creators in Europe, he still has the highest volume of chances created. ‘Hidden’ in those key pass numbers are some set pieces, but you should be fine with that. If it was easy racking up key passes by merely being the team’s primary free-kick taker, then everyone would lead the charts. But they don’t, and poking fun at it doesn’t make sense, and it’s something lazy analysts used to do to drag Toni Kroos as well. It will be interesting to see where the data lies over the entire season. Güler is currently on pace to dwarf his already impressive numbers from last season. Off the bench against Rayo Vallecano, he had an unfathomable five chances created in 18 minutes alone. One thing is for sure, Real Madrid don’t have any issues generating chances if Arda Güler is on the pitch. And with that simple truth, he objectively should not be on the bench, at all. View this post on Instagram

Lamine Yamal and Raphinha show the good and bad of the international break for Barcelona

Spain's forward #19 Lamine Yamal celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the UEFA Nations League league phase group A3 football match between Spain and Croatia at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium in Seville on September 29, 2026. (Photo by JORGE GUERRERO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images The first international break of the season always seems to be the most pointless. With players only just getting into a rhythm, the break comes at precisely the wrong time, and if players come back injured, right on top of the resumption of the Champions League, that’s another blow to their clubs at a vital part of the campaign. Take this particular break. Brazil travelling all the way to Australia for friendly games. Really?! Raphinha’s injury is hopefully not serious, but that’s hardly the point. A squad containing many European-based colleagues have been forced, once again, to travel to the other side of the world for what? For a totally meaningless set of matches. Of course, the players themselves are just pawns in the wider game. That of lining the pockets of those who remain in charge of the best sport in the world. Never mind that players are being flogged to all corners of the planet at every possible opportunity, as long as it’s oiling the wheels of the money-making machine. Culers can only hope that by the time Raphinha returns, his muscular discomfort hasn’t caused any further issues which could sideline him for any length of time. The flip side of the break is that there will be those players who seize the opportunity to shine, and no one has done that better than Lamine Yamal. A goal in the second minute against both England and Croatia, another goal for good measure against the latter and also an assist… The goals came as Yamal is being tipped to win the Ballon d’Or next month. After losing out to Ousmane Dembele last year, there are genuine reasons to believe that Lamine might be able to go one better this time. At the tender age of just 19, he’s ripping up the record books virtually every time he puts a pair of boots on, and whilst Dembele can celebrate another Champions League triumph, Lamine can look to a World Cup triumph, and being the fulcrum in Barca’s title win last season, as reasons why he has to remain in the conversation at the very least. Regardless of whether he wins or not, it’s been fantastic to see him expressing himself so brilliantly against the best that Europe has to offer and played with a smile on his face once again. After a slow-ish (by his own lofty standards) start to his season, he’s already a shining light for club and country, and long may that continue.

OFFICIAL: Arda Güler is Real Madrid’s player of the month for September

ELCHE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 15: Arda Guler of Real Madrid CF celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Spanish League, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Elche CF and Real Madrid CF at Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero on September 15, 2026, in Elche, Spain. (Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Arda Güler, 21, was named Real Madrid’s player of the month for September 2026. The club announced the player winning the prize on its social media. Güler has enjoyed a great start to the season, being one of Real Madrid’s most influential players. His chance creation numbers have been incredible to start the campaign. 👏 ¡Enhorabuena, @10ArdaGuler! ✨ Jugador Cinco Estrellas · Septiembre ⚽ @FutbolMahou pic.twitter.com/7t7OdFivCB — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) September 30, 2026 The player is currently with the Turkish national team during this three-week-long international break. Güler and Türkiye suffered back-to-back defeats at the hands of France, now led by former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane, and Italy. They will play Belgium and Italy – both games away from home next. At the beginning of the season, Güler’s place in the Real Madrid starting XI was under doubt. Real Madrid are heavily loaded upfront, with Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, Yan Dioamande and Jude Bellingham behind them as a number 10. However, Arda Güler has claimed his place and gelled rather well with Jude Bellingham in the attacking midfield positions.

‘I like him as a No 9’: Bellingham a striking alternative for England, says Tuchel

Head coach sees Real Madrid man as an option up front Kane praises Alexander-Arnold’s impact and work rate Thomas Tuchel’s hunt for alternatives to Harry Kane has led to him identifying Jude Bellingham as an option at No 9 for England. Kane continued his remarkable scoring record in the 2-0 win against Czechia in the Nations League on Tuesday, moving to 87 goals in 123 international appearances with a late strike in Prague, but he has little cover up front. There is no prospect yet of Tuchel having to consider life without Kane. The England head coach backed the 33-year-old striker to last another decade at the highest level, tipped him to reach a century of international goals soon, and said England cannot expect to produce a replica of their greatest forward. However, there is concern over whether England have enough depth in attack. Continue reading...

‘A lot more to my game’: Gordon rises to a new level after Barcelona rebirth

Impressive against Spain, England’s best player against Czechia, the move to La Liga has transformed the winger The way that Anthony Gordon sees it, he is still the same player, the same guy – on a journey, striving for self-improvement, a thinker, immensely driven. The way that an increasing number of people see him is changing, certainly in the UK. And, for that, it is impossible to overlook the Barcelona factor. The winger had a positive World Cup for England, despite a slow start, culminating in the dream moment when he gave his team their 1-0 lead in the semi‑final against Argentina. It was the prelude to the nightmare when he was withdrawn as Thomas Tuchel switched to a back five. England were reeled in, beaten 2-1, left with eternal regrets. Continue reading...

‘A lot of lies’: Ireland manager hits out over coverage of Bazunu exit from Israel game

Keeper pulled out of both Nations League games with Israel Hallgrímsson confident Sunday’s second match will go ahead The Republic of Ireland manager, Heimir Hallgrímsson, has claimed “a lot of lies” were told over keeper Gavin ⁠Bazunu’s decision to withdraw ⁠from the Nations League ​game against Israel last weekend, and he does not anticipate any problems with Sunday’s second match against them going ahead. Ireland are one of Europe’s most outspoken critics of Israel’s war in Gaza, ⁠and protests calling for the team to boycott the fixture prompted Bazunu to pull out of both games between the two countries. Continue reading...

Joan Laporta reveals Lautaro Martinez chat with Inter after Barcelona missed out Julian Alvarez

ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 19: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring the goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on September 19, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Pistoia - Inter/Inter via Getty Images) | Inter via Getty Images Barcelona president Joan Laporta has admitted that he did want to bring Lautaro Martinez to the club in the summer after missing out on Julian Alvarez. Lautaro has been regularly linked with Barcelona over the years and this summer was no exception. However, once again Inter made it clear their striker was going nowhere. Laporta has now explained what happened after he made contact with the Italian side to ask about the Argentina international. “I’ll tell you how it went. One day I called Beppe Marotta on the phone: me and him, without intermediaries,” he told the Corriere della Sera. “I told him that I would like to have Lautaro in my team and that I admired the boy so much. But he didn’t even let me finish talking. He told me clearly that the player was not for sale. And that he would not be the one to decide whether to move or not. “And so I stopped all the reasoning, there was no way to continue. There is a relationship of mutual trust between me and Marotta, we have not gone any further out of respect for him and Inter.” Barcelona ended up switching Raphinha to the No. 9 position and bringing in Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal in a late move before the summer window closed.

OFFICIAL: Real Madrid confirm Asencio’s surgery

Real Madrid have confirmed Wednesday’s reports suggesting that defender Raúl Asencio was going to require surgery to repair a fracture on his shin, confirming that the defender will go under the knife on Thursday. Our player, Raúl Asencio, will undergo surgery tomorrow due to a stress fracture in the tibia of his right leg. Source: Realmadrid.com Asencio will miss up to four months as he recovers from this surgery. The Spanish defender experienced pain and discomfort during the second half of the 2025-26 season, but he played through it and that ultimately led to this outcome. Real Madrid’s depth for the defensive line is almost gone just two months after the start of the campaign. Dean Huijsen will be suspended for the team’s next game following the red card he saw against Atlético de Madrid while Ibrahima Konaté is also injured, which means that Rüdiger is the only center-back available for Mourinho and the coaching staff.

‘The squad truly loves him’ – Spain boss hails Lamine Yamal’s ‘magic’ after Barcelona star shines again

SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 29: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after scoring his team's third goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Croatia at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 29, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente had plenty of praise for Lamine Yamal after the Barcelona star scored twice and grabbed an assist in Tuesday’s Nations League win over Croatia. The Barcelona teenager put on a show again in Seville as the world champions continued their winning streak, with De la Fuente saying he enjoyed his “magic.” “He puts all his talent at the service of the team. The squad truly loves him, and we’re delighted to have him. Lamine is eager to continue growing, to show the world the kind of player he is, and we’re thrilled with him because his natural and humble demeanor makes him even better every day,” he told reporters. “Today we enjoyed his magic in service of the team, and that makes him an even better player. In the future, he’ll be much more recognized for what he does, not only for his individual brilliance but also for his contribution to the team.” Spain still have two more international fixtures to play during the current break. La Roja take on Czechia on Saturday in Oviedo and then head to Croatia for a second game with Slaven Bilic’s side on Tuesday.

Next Generation 2021: why slow and steady sometimes wins the race

A look at how our picks from five years ago have got on shows that breaking through early does not guarantee longevity or future success Read the full updates on our class of 2021 here and here In 2021, as every year, we picked 80 players from around the world who had a chance of making it in world football – 20 from the Premier League and 60 from the rest of the world – as part of our Next Generation series. We then follow these talented boys on their journeys for five years. Often it is almost impossible to predict how they will get on (OK, when Sid Lowe sent over Lamine Yamal in 2024 we had an inkling he might do well). The ball-playing central midfielder comes from a footballing family and academy staff believe his tactical awareness is born from growing up around the game. His father, Adam, played for Brighton and is now manager along the coast at Worthing FC, while Martin (his great uncle), Paul (his grandad), and Wally (his great grandad), all enjoyed careers as players. The youngest to play in the Bundesliga at 16 years and one day, youngest player to appear in the Champions League 17 days later, youngest goal scorer in Bundesliga 11 days after that and youngest player and youngest goal scorer for the Germany Under-21 team before he has turned 17. Continue reading...

FC Barcelona News: 30 September 2026; Lamine Yamal shines in Spain win, Hansi Flick named La Liga Coach of the Month

Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images | NurPhoto via Getty Images Hansi Flick, Liga coach of the month for September – FC Barcelona Perfect winning record, combined with some impressive numbers, has earned the German coach this award. 7-2 win against Racing, best moment from September – FC Barcelona Barça fans voted on the Club’s official app to chose the La Liga victory as the best of the four candidates. Lamine Yamal shines and Spain dazzles at the champions’ party – RFEF The national team defeated Croatia in their second UEFA Nations League match, their first at home since winning the World Cup. Match report: Czechia 0-2 England – England Football Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane scored as England beat ten-man Czechia 2-0 to earn their first win since the FIFA World Cup and move second in UEFA Nations League A Group 3. Raphinha warning as he’s substituted for Brazil due to discomfort – Mundo Deportivo The Barça striker, who was making his debut as captain and had scored a penalty goal against Australia, felt pain in his right thigh. Fermín smiles in his reappearance with Spain – Mundo Deportivo The Barça midfielder, who missed the World Cup due to injury, returned to play for the national team at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán and was key in the first half.

Gilberto Mora’s Possible Summer Exit Draws Real Madrid Interest

Gilberto Mora’s possible summer exit has attracted Real Madrid, Benfica and Borussia Dortmund, but no offer or negotiations are reported. The post Gilberto Mora’s Possible Summer Exit Draws Real Madrid Interest appeared first on Football España.

Raphinha to miss India friendly as Brazil share injury update on Barcelona captain

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 29: Raphael Dias Belloli of Brazil moves into position during the international friendly match between Australia Socceroos and Brazil at Suncorp Stadium on September 29, 2026 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images) | Getty Images Brazil have confirmed Raphinha will miss their next friendly against India after sustaining a thigh injury in the win over Australia. Raphinha was taken off at half-time due to feeling some discomfort, sending alarm bells ringing at Barcelona and raising fears he could be set for a spell on the sidelines. The CBF has now confirmed that Raphinha has been dropped from the squad to face India after undergoing medical tests. The statement reads: “An imaging exam on the striker revealed a small muscle edema in the posterior region of his right thigh.” Raphinha is now expected to head back to Barcelona for further tests to confirm the diagnosis and to undergo treatment. The hope is that he will not miss any further game time and that his exclusion from the India game is purely as a precaution. Barcelona’s next game is against Getafe in La Liga on October 10th. Get well soon, Rapha!

Asencio very close to undergoing surgery, would miss three months -report

Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio is still experiencing discomfort on the shin injury which was already bothering him last season and is set to have surgery to repair it, according to a report from MARCA. The defender would be out for at least three months, per that same report. Asencio hasn’t made his season debut for Real Madrid yet and he was hoping to get some minutes now that Huijsen is suspended and Konaté is injured. However, the small fracture on his shin is still there and he will need to go under the knife to recover from that injury. That means that Rüdiger could be Real Madrid’s only available center-back when Los Blancos face Villarreal right after the FIFA break. If that ends up being the case and Konaté can’t recover in time from his own injury, Aurelien Tchouameni could start alongside Rüdiger in the back line.

‘Every time they speak, they attack Barcelona’ – Joan Laporta takes aim at Real Madrid

Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, greets Florentino Perez, president of Real Madrid, during the LaLiga EA Sports football match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain, on October 26, 2025. (Photo by Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona president Joan Laporta has taken aim at Real Madrid once again and has spoken out after a date was set for the two clubs to meet in court. The Catalans have threatened legal action against Florentino Perez following his comments made earlier this year, and Laporta says the club had no choice but to take action. “What we cannot accept is the distortion of the truth, and that every time they speak publicly, they attack Barça. Our legal department reacts to these situations. We do so with everyone who has condemned us before we’ve even been tried and has said things that weren’t true, and we continue in the same vein,” he told Mundo Deportivo. “What I hope is that they rectify this and that it gets resolved. As you know, relations with Real Madrid have broken down. “They appeared in the Negreira case, which we understand was only to prolong the case and justify their television channel’s actions and a predetermined narrative. And that’s where the conflict lies, and the existing relationship is nonexistent.” The two clubs are now due to meet in a court in Madrid on November 25th for a conciliation hearing, with Barca willing to file a complaint if Perez does not retract his comments.

Espanyol sporting director apologizes for saying Lamine Yamal should win Ballon d’Or

BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 31: Lamine Yamal of Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s fifth goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between FC Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano de Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou on August 31, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images Monchi, the sporting director of RCD Espanyol, has offered some apologies and some explanations for saying Lamine Yamal should win the Ballon d’Or, football’s highest individual honor. Yamal plays for FC Barcelona, Espanyol’s crosstown rivals. “I was asked a question, and I stirred up a bit of controversy among the Perico fans. I apologize to anyone I offended,“ Monchi said on Spanish radio. “I was given the choice of Kylian Mbappé (French), Harry Kane (English), or Lamine Yamal (Spanish), and I opted for the Spanish option.” Yamal is among the favorites for the award, having won the FIFA World Cup with Spain. “Obviously, as a Perico, I should have named anyone else,” Monchi mused. “I didn’t do it out of any malice. I know what it means to have the Perico feeling; I’ve identified with it from day one and felt it on the street. If I offended anyone, I apologize, because it was really just a case of me wearing the Spanish flag.” Barcelona are due to visit Espanyol at RCDE Stadium in Cornellà de Llobregat on January 3 of next year.

Lamine Yamal makes more history with latest Spain masterclass

SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 29: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after scoring his team's third goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Croatia at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 29, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has added yet another record to his ever growing collection after scoring twice and bagging an assist for Spain against Croatia in the Nations League on Tuesday night. The teenager opened the scoring in the second minute, teed up Marc Pubill for Spain’s second and them made it 3-1 just after the hour for the world champions. Yamal’s exploits mean he has become the youngest player to ever score two goals and bag an assist in the same game for Spain. The Barcelona star has achieved the feat at the grand old age of 19 years and 78 days, beating the record previously held by Raul and Exteberria (21 years and 273 days), according to MisterChip. Se va Lamine Yamal que es el jugador más joven con 2+ goles y 1+ asistencia en un mismo partido en TODA la historia de la selección española: Lamine Yamal lo ha hecho con 19 años y 78 días Raúl lo hizo con 21 años y 273 días Etxeberria lo hizo también con 21 años y 273 días pic.twitter.com/biDZGOdsjv — MisterChip (Alexis) (@2010MisterChip) September 29, 2026 Yamal now has 18 goals and assists in all competitions this season for club and country in just 10 games in what has been an impressive start to the season by the Barcelona superstar. The teenager also was given a breather by Luis de la Fuente in a gesture that will be appreciated by Barca. He was taken off on the 68th minute after yet another standout showing for the world champions.

Nations League roundup: Lamine Yamal sinks Croatia in Spain’s World Cup homecoming

Teenager scores twice in 4-1 win to boost Ballon d’Or case Slovenia beat North Macedonia; Faroe Islands hold Moldova Lamine Yamal scored two goals and set up another as Spain hammered Croatia 4-1 on Tuesday in the Nations League in their first home game since lifting the World Cup. Lamine Yamal had opened the scoring within two minutes against England in Saturday’s Wembley win and took just 75 seconds to do so against Slaven Bilic’s side in Andalusia. The teenager’s left-footed finish took his tally of international goals to nine in 36 appearances. Continue reading...

Huijsen and Cucurella’s game in numbers vs. Croatia

SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 29: Dean Huijsen of Spain celebrates the victory during the UEFA Nations league match between Spain v Croatia at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 29, 2026 in Seville Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain had nine of the leading 10 players for touches in the final third. Lamine Yamal had 41 touches in the final third, more than any other player. Fabián Ruiz generated 0.402 xT from open-play passes, more than any other player. Croatia supplied seven of the leading 10 players for defensive actions. Josko Gvardiol recorded 14 defensive actions, more than any other player. Petar Sucic created two shooting chances, the joint-highest figure in the match. Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen contributed 22 progressive passes, the highest figure in the match. He also recorded 10 progressive carries, the highest figure in the match. He also added 104 touches, the highest figure in the match. Madrid’s Marc Cucurella contributed two key passes, the joint-highest figure in the match. He also recorded 18 touches in the final third, fifth in the match. He also recorded one take-on. Those contributions came over 92 minutes for Spain.

Top 10 players: Czechia 0–2 England

England's Trent Alexander-Arnold during the UEFA Nations League, league phase, group A3 match at the Fortuna Arena, Prague. Picture date: Tuesday September 29, 2026. (Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Images) | PA Images via Getty Images England had all top 10 players for xT created from open-play passes. Trent Alexander-Arnold generated 0.555 xT from open-play passes, more than any other player. Anthony Gordon made nine progressive carries, the joint-highest figure in the match. Czechia supplied four of the leading five players for long-ball completion. Stepán Chaloupek completed 50.0% of his long balls. Ladislav Krejcí played 19 progressive passes, the joint-highest figure in the match. Trent Alexander-Arnold contributed 0.555 xT from open-play passes, the highest figure in the match. He also recorded a long ball completion rate of 58.3%, the highest figure in the match. Alongside that, he added three key passes, second in the match. Anthony Gordon contributed nine progressive carries, the joint-highest figure in the match. He recorded four key passes, the highest figure in the match. He also added 43 touches in the final third, the highest figure in the match. Those contributions came over 80 minutes for England. Elliot Anderson contributed 105 touches, second in the match. He also recorded 0.225 xT from open-play passes, third in the match. He had 32 touches in the final third, fourth in the match.