Real Madrid & Barcelona News
Latest headlines pulled from major football outlets. Click any story to read it on the source site.
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both·match
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.
- Managing Madrid·2d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·match
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.
- Advertisement
- Football España·4d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·4d ago·Both·match
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.”
- Football España·4d ago·Both·match
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.
- Guardian Football·5d ago·Both·match
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...
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
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.
- Managing Madrid·5d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·match
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.
- Advertisement
- Football España·6d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·match
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.
- Managing Madrid·8d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·8d ago·Both·match
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.
- Barca Blaugranes·8d ago·Both·match
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.
- Managing Madrid·8d ago·Both·match
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
- Barca Blaugranes·8d ago·Both·match
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.
- Managing Madrid·9d ago·Both·match
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
- Barca Blaugranes·9d ago·Both·match
‘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.
- Barca Blaugranes·10d ago·Both·match
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.
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both·match
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.
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both·match
Real Madrid feared Mbappé was going to need surgery -report
When Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé suffered his knee injury during France’s match against Turkey the club feared that he was going to need surgery, according to a report published on AS. Ultimately, Mbappé escaped said outcome also because he decided to leave the field, per that same report. The French star has been diagnosed with a hyper-extended knee and while he should be available when Los Blancos take on Villarreal right after the break, Real Madrid’s coaching staff could decide to manage his minutes knowing that their next two away games in Rome and Barcelona could be crucial. If Mbappé does end up missing a game, Mourinho could decide to start Carlos Espí or Bellingham in the center of the attacking line.
- Barca Blaugranes·10d ago·Both·match
Hansi Flick named La Liga Coach of the Month again after Barcelona’s impressive start to the season
SANT JOAN DESPI, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 18: Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona, attends his press conference during the training day of FC Barcelona ahead the Spanish League, LaLiga EA Sports, football match against Sevilla FC at Ciudad Esportiva Joan Gamper on September 18, 2026 in Sant Joan Despi, Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Hansi Flick has been named La Liga’s Coach of the Month for September after overseeing a brilliant start to the season with Barcelona. The German coach guided his team to victories over Valencia, Levante, Racing and Sevilla to continue the team’s perfect defence of their title. The performances have ensured Flick has picked up another monthly award, beating off competition from Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone and Manuel Pellegrini of Real Betis. Un mes increíble con el @FCBarcelona_es. 💙❤️ Hansi Flick es el 𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐌𝐄𝐒 de septiembre en #LALIGAEASPORTS. 🏆https://t.co/QoySWTkcSf #PREMIOSLALIGA | #LALIGACOACHOFTHEMONTH pic.twitter.com/ThxgiUHDMg — LALIGA (@LaLiga) September 29, 2026 Flick had won the award twice in each of the last two seasons and may well beat that record this time around if his team can continue on their current trajectory. La Liga is currently paused due to the international break but will deliver some intriguing fixtures when action resumes in October. Barcelona pick up their season against Getafe and then face Real Betis and Real Madrid in La Liga in what promises to be a key set of fixtures.
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both·match
Vinicius scores, Endrick assists as Brazil defeat Australia 2-4
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 29: Vinicius Jose Paixao de Oliveira Junior of Brazil celebrates scoring a goal during the International Friendly match between Australia Socceroos and Brazil at Suncorp Stadium on September 29, 2026 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images) | Getty Images Brazil returned to winning ways by defeating Australia 2-4 in Brisbane, in what was the second of two friendly matches between the two nations following their 1-1 draw last Friday. Brazil took an early lead as Vanderson’s powerful strike from inside the box in the third minute sailed past Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach and into the top corner. It is the first goal ever for Monaco’s 25-year-old right-back with the Seleção. Despite Brazil’s strong start, Australia managed to take the lead, scoring twice in a five-minute span. In the 28th minute, Benfica’s 22-year-old centre-back Alessandro Circati found himself alone in the far post following a corner to flick the ball into the back of the net. The play was originally called offside on the pitch, but following VAR intervention was correctly counted. That was followed in the 33rd minute by midfielder Connor Metcalfe’s spectacular left-footed strike from outside box which flew past Brazilian goalkeeper Otávio. Brazil managed to tie the match right before halftime as Danilo Santos was judged to have been fouled inside the box in the 45 minute with Raphinha converting the ensuing kick from 11 meters. Endrick, who started Friday’s match at centre-forward, would come on as play resumed in the second half to replace Raphinha. There were conflicting reports during the match as to whether the Barcelona forward left the pitch due to an injury concern. Endrick assisted in the goal that would give Brazil the lead. Vinicius carried the ball into the penalty area in the 69th minute before sending a quick pass to Endrick near the goal-line, the Madrid forward sending a low cross into the goalkeeper’s box that Bruno Guimarães pounced on with his left foot for Brazil’s 3rd goal: Vinicius -> Endrick -> Guimaraes pic.twitter.com/8mIE5Fspok — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) September 29, 2026 In addition to participating in the build-up to Guimarães goal, Vinicius provoked a penalty in the 79th minute, nutmegging the first defender before Sporting’s Nestory Irankunda, who scored Australia’s lone goal on Friday, fouled the Madrid winger inside the box. Vinicius took the ensuing penalty, stutter-stepping as he approached the ball before calmly sending the ball to the right of Beach to score Brazil’s fourth goal on the night: Vinicius puts Brazil up 4-2 from the spot! pic.twitter.com/Ke4rc45615 — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) September 29, 2026 Vinicius had seven touches inside Austrialia’s penalty box and two key passes, including a low cross into the box in the 76th minute that Chelsea’s Estevao sailed over the crossbar, leading Brazil in both categories. Brazil next face India on Saturday at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. Saturday’s fixture marks Brazil’s first-ever senior men’s match on Indian soil.
- Barca Blaugranes·10d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 29 September 2026; Eric Garcia avoids injury, Lamine Yamal talks Champions League hopes
Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images | Getty Images One win away from best ever start to LaLiga – FC Barcelona After the lengthy international break, FC Barcelona will host Getafe with the chance to equal the record set in the 2013/14 season. Gordon feels more valued at Barça than in the Premier League – Mundo Deportivo “In England they never respected my quality and intelligence. In Spain they truly appreciate it,” he told ITV Sport. Eric Garcia, at the Ciutat Esportiva for a medical check-up – Mundo Deportivo The Barça defender, after leaving the Spanish national team camp due to discomfort in his left knee, visited the medical services, where the tests sent by the RFEF were confirmed: there is no injury, just a precaution. Lamine Yamal: “Hopefully we can bring the Champions League to Barcelona this year” – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona star analyzed the current situation and referred to the team’s main objective: to win the top continental competition again. Ancelotti changes course and applies the Flick formula to Brazil: Raphinha is the ‘9’ following the Endrick fiasco – SPORT Carletto, heavily criticized for the Seleção’s dismal showing, changes the tactical setup, introduces a new midfielder, and gives Raphinha a more prominent role in the second friendly against Australia.
- Barca Blaugranes·11d ago·Both·match
Barcelona pencil in potential return date for Frenkie de Jong after knee injury
Frenkie De Jong of FC Barcelona during the La Liga EA Sports 2026/2027 match between FC Barcelona and Real Racing Club de Santander at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium on September 16, 2026. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona are hoping that Frenkie de Jong will return to training with his team-mates after the international break ahead of a potential comeback in November. De Jong hasn’t played yet this season for his club side after sustaining a knee injury during the World Cup and opting for conservative treatment. According to Diario AS, the current aim is for De Jong to return to full training on October 5th. The club expect him to need around three weeks to get up to speed, meaning he could be available for the first time this season for the game against Alaves in La Liga on November 1st. The update means that De Jong will miss key games against PSG and Real Madrid next month but the hope is that his return is now on the horizon. Netherlands team manager Xavi Hernandez has said that the Dutchman is feeling good and happy with how his recovery is progressing when quizzed about the midfielder during the current international break. Yet De Jong does face a real battle for minutes when he does return, particularly following the arrival of Rodri this summer. However, his return to fitness will provide Hansi Flick with another valuable midfield option as the Barcelona boss aims to deliver more silverware this season.
- Barca Blaugranes·11d ago·Both·match
Barcelona optimistic on Eric Garcia fitness after defender withdraws from Spain squad with knee injury
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 19: Eric Garcia of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona are optimistic that Eric Garcia has not suffered any serious knee injury after he withdrew from the Spain squad with a knee injury. Garcia missed Saturday’s Nations League win over England after feeling discomfort in the warm-up and has since pulled out of the remaining games over the international break. According to Mundo Deportivo, Garcia has since returned to Barcelona for more medical checks which confirmed he is OK and should be fit for Barcelona’s next game against Getafe. The decision to release Garcia from the Spain squad was a precautionary move and he now has time to rest and recover before Barcelona’s season continues on October 10th. The news will be welcomed at Barcelona ahead of some key fixtures in October and particularly with Andreas Christensen currently sidelined through injury. Barcelona are due to face Getafe, Real Betis and Real Madrid in La Liga next month and also take on Galatasaray and PSG in the Champions League.
- Managing Madrid·11d ago·Both·match
Open Thread: September 28, 2026
The Open Thread/Daily Merengue is a place where you can discuss anything and everything related to football. Feel free to discuss the topics presented here, or start your very own discussions! The Open thread will be posted every day by one of the mods you’d totally do a movie marathon night with: Valyrian Steel, Felipejack, Kung_Fu_Zizou (AKA KFZ), Juninho, Ezek and, of course… yours truly. Well OK I can Believe that 🚨 JUST IN: The Portugal National Team had made Jose Mourinho an OFFER, but the coach turned it DOWN to join Real Madrid. @jfelixdiaz pic.twitter.com/Ke9ArmmHGu — Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 28, 2026 …Right… 🚨 BREAKING: Real Madrid are VERY CLOSELY monitoring Gilberto Mora (17). Barcelona are also very interested. @diarioas pic.twitter.com/VgDQvw9CKC — Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 27, 2026 What are we doing? Playing the Pied Piper of Hamelin? Edu’s Self-Reflection 🚨 Eduardo Camavinga when asked what he’s missing to be a starter at Real Madrid: “Consistency, I’d say”. “I’ve had good performances before, but it’s consistency that matters”. “You need to stay focused on the pitch and make fewer mistakes”. pic.twitter.com/0aCJOzvVw0 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 28, 2026
- Barca Blaugranes·12d ago·Both·match
Raphinha not expected to rest as Carlo Ancelotti comes up with plan for Barcelona ace
Brazil's Raphinha attends a training session at Ballymore in Brisbane on September 24, 2026, ahead of their friendly football match between Australia and Brazil on September 25. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP via Getty Images) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona captain Raphinha played all 90 minutes for Brazil against Australia in their first friendly of the international break and doesn’t look set for a rest any time soon. Carlo Ancelotti is now preparing for a second game against Australia on Tuesday and, although he may make changes to his starting XI, he’s not expected to rest Raphinha. Reports in Brazil claim that Ancelotti has been testing Raphinha as a No. 9 with the national team in training and could play him as a striker in place of Endrick. Raphinha has been playing as a 9 for Barcelona to great effect this season, scoring 14 goals in all competitions in a blistering start to the new campaign. Ancelotti’s side disappointed in their first game against Australia which is likely to lead to changes. The current thinking is that Raphinha, Vinicius and Bruno Guimaraes will be the only starters to remain in the XI for Tuesday’s match.
- Guardian Football·13d ago·Both·match
Oyarzabal earns Spain Nations League win as England pay for Kane penalty miss
It was another high-profile game when Thomas Tuchel’s England let a lead slip in the second half and went on to lose. But unlike the last time, it was not one for recriminations. The England support can accept losing when their team plays with cut and thrust. More to the point, they can accept losing to Spain who, at times, played football from a different stratosphere. England were game. They were driven by Jude Bellingham, who ran on adrenaline and played to the point of maximum expression. They had positive surges either side of the interval, especially the one towards the end of the first half when goals from Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane put them in charge, hauling them back after Lamine Yamal’s second-minute goal. Continue reading...
- Managing Madrid·13d ago·Both·match
Marc Cucurella endures night to forget as Spain beat England
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Bukayo Saka of England is challenged by Marc Cucurella 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 Carl Recine/Getty Images) | Getty Images Reigning world champions Spain donned their second star on their jersey for the first time as they took on World Cup semi-finalists England at Wembley Stadium in the UEFA Nations League, securing a 3-2 win to start the campaign. Real Madrid’s Marc Cucurella played the full 90 minutes but had a tough time up against Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, as well as being involved in both England goals and having penalty shouts against him. Lamine Yamal gave Spain an early lead on only two minutes, but Cucurella was caught out as Anthony Gordon played a one-two on the counter attack with Jude Bellingham. Minutes later, Harry Kane gave England the lead with a header which Cucurella could only knee into his own net. Kane’s effort was headed on target, so he avoided an own goal, but he perhaps could have cleared the shot. Cucurella then had two penalty shouts against him, one for handball and another for bringing down Saka, but Italian referee Davide Massa ignored both. Harry Kane did miss from the spot after a foul by Barcelona midfielder Rodri, before Spain mounted a comeback with Álex Baena pouncing on a poor possession loss from Nico O’Reilly, and Mikel Oyarzabal then giving Spain a 3-2 lead. Fellow Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen was also back in the squad after being left out of the World Cup, but was an unused substitute at Wembley on Saturday night.
- Barca Blaugranes·13d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon on target as Spain beat England in Nations League
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after scoring their side's first goal 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 James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon were both on target as Spain beat England 3-2 on Saturday night in an entertaining game in the Nations League at Wembley Stadium. Manager Luis de la Fuente named five Barcelona players in his starting XI, with Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Rodri, Dani Olmo and Yamal all given the nod. Pedri and Fermin Lopez both had to settle for a place on the bench, while Barca team-mate Gordon was named as a starter for England. However, there was a late change ahead of kick-off as Garcia was ruled out at the last minute and replaced by Marc Pubill due to a knee problem. The late disruption didn’t affect Spain at all as Yamal put the visitors ahead with less than two minutes on the clock. Marc Guehi managed to gift Yamal possession and he curled the ball home to give the world champions an early lead at Wembley. The goal is the third quickest goal England have ever conceded at Wembley Stadium, according to Opta. Ferran Torres thought he had made it 2-0 shortly afterwards but his goal was ruled out for offside. England hit back on 36 minutes when Gordon equalised from a quick counter-attack. Jude Bellingham drove forwards and played the ball to Gordon who ran through and finished past a back-tracking Unai Simon. The Three Lions then scored again just before half-time to take the lead. Nico O’Reilly’s cross was headed goalwards by Harry Kane and went in via a deflection off Marc Cucurella. Thomas Tuchel’s side then had the chance to extend their lead after the break. Rodri was penalised for a foul on Bellingham in the penalty area, gifting England a spot-kick. Kane stepped up to take the penalty but slipped and saw his effort crash against the crossbar. That miss proved costly as Spain were quickly level. Substitute Dani Olmo took advantage of more poor defending from England to pounce on the ball and feed Alex Baena who curled home Spain’s second. Spain weren’t done there, either. Baena was involved again in La Roja’s third which was finished by a lovely dink over goalkeeper James Trafford from fellow substitute Mikel Oyarzabal.
- Barca Blaugranes·13d ago·Both·match
‘I’d give it to Raphinha right now’ – Ex-Barcelona boss says Brazilian deserves Ballon d’Or
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 Former Barcelona boss Quique Setien says he thinks Raphinha deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Raphinha is not even on the final shortlist for the award, with Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe the current favorites. However, Setien is in no doubt at all that Raphinha is the world’s best player at the moment. “There’s no need to overthink it. I’d give it to Raphinha right now,” he told Cadena SER. “I’m absolutely certain of it. Because he’s the best player. And he’s not only the most effective and the one who plays the most, but he’s also the one who runs the most, works the hardest, and helps his team the most. He’s an absolutely complete footballer.” Raphinha saw injury disrupt his 2025-26 campaign with Barcelona, while Brazil only made it to the last 16 of World Cup 2026. But he’s started the current campaign in blistering form, scoring 14 goals already, to help fire Barcelona to the top of La Liga.
- Managing Madrid·14d ago·Both·match
Endrick and Vinicius play 65 minutes in Brazil’s first match since being eliminated from the World Cup
TOWNSVILLE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 25: Vinicius Junior (R) of Brazil and Paul Okon-Engstler (L) of Australia contest for the ball during the International Friendly match between Australia Socceroos and Brazil at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on September 25, 2026 in Townsville, Australia. (Photo by Ayush Kumar/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Despite limited playing time with Real Madrid this season, Endrick was named by Carlo Ancelotti as the starting centre-forward for Brazil’s friendly match against Australia at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Friday — Brazil’s first match since being eliminated at the World Cup by Norway. Friday’s match is the first of two where the nations will face each other over the course of five days. Joining Endrick up front was Vinicius on the left wing, Raphinha in a 10 role, and Estevao on the right wing. Endrick managed just 10 touches and four passes (completing three), and won only one of four duels before being pulled in the 65th minute. Vinicius was more active in the match, completing 22 of 26 passes including distributing three key passes — the most on Brazil when he exited the pitch. The Madrid winger had two of Brazil’s five shots on target in the match, both saved by Australia keeper Patrick Beach. Vinicius also contributed six ball recoveries, most on Brazil for outfield players despite the limited minutes. It was three minutes after the Madrid players left the pitch that Australia opened the scoring, with 20 year-old Nestory Irankunda’s sensational free kick in the 68th minute freezing Corinthians keeper Hugo Souza who watched the ball fly past his right and into the back of the net. And the Socceroos were on the verge of victory before Rayan headed in a Raphinha corner kick in the 95th minute. Australia’s only victory against Brazil remains their 1-0 win in the third place match at the 2001 Confederations Cup in South Korea. The nations face each other again on Tuesday at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland.
- Guardian Football·14d ago·Both·match
Socceroos denied famous win as late Brazil goal cancels out Irankunda stunner
Australia 1-1 Brazil in international friendly in Townsville Irankunda hits free kick before Rayan equalises deep in added time It was a Friday night in which the stars descended on Townsville. There was Bruno Guimarães, Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior in the Brazilian XI, with Endrick leading the line and Estêvão out on the flank, all instructed by Carlo Ancelotti in the dugout. But on this evening, their limelight was stolen by Australia’s star boy Nestory Irankunda. His magnificent 68th-minute free kick may have been cancelled out at the death by Rayan’s header, ensuring Australia and Brazil shared a 1-1 draw at Queensland Country Bank Stadium, but on a night in which some of the planet’s biggest and best were on hand, Irankunda stood up to be counted. Continue reading...
- Guardian Football·14d ago·Both·match
Australia v Brazil: men’s international football friendly – live
Updates from the first of two games in Queensland Any thoughts? Get in touch with an email Brazil might be looking to refresh their squad after their World Cup disappointment but there is still more than enough star power to light up any stage. Barcelona and Brazil forward Raphinha is one of the biggest stars of the lot, and will help lead the line against the Socceroos in Townsville. The No 9 spoke to Sid Lowe about embracing his new role as a leader of the team and the focal point of the attack. What kind of leader [I am] depends on the moment. If I have to be slightly tougher, I can. But I prefer nicer moments, jokes. The last two years have been spectacular so I haven’t had to be the pesado [pain in the arse] often. I know that annoys people but someone has to do it sometimes. Very honoured and proud to be in this position [playing Brazil]. I enjoyed it as a player thoroughly, enjoying it as a coach, and as I did at the World Cup and tonight, we have a huge challenge against one the world’s best. We [Carlo Ancelotti] have caught up a few days ago in Brisbane. He’s just a fantastic man and obviously one of the world’s greatest managers. He’s done so much in his career and won so many titles I’m sure he doesn’t have enough room at home with all the trophies he’s won. So it’ll an honour and a pleasure to share the pitch with him. Continue reading...
- Managing Madrid·15d ago·Both·match
BALLON D’OR REGRESSION | OPEN THREAD | SEPTEMBER 25, 2026
Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho TALENT RECESSION INDICATOR A major talent recession indicator is when Ballon d’or nominees are practically begging and lobbying for the Ballon d’or in their public interviews. The interviews from Lamine and Mbappe are strategically released by the media around this time and made to look like they’re going head to head against each other. Which i expect to show in the voting as both of them will come out the top 2 out of 3 candidates for the award. But seriously, these guys should avoid giving these interviews next time. It’s actually sad and very weird for both of them. Mbappe saying he’ll dedicate it to africa, cuz of his Cameroonian roots LOL….If that ain’t the most political thing i’ve ever heard a ballon d’or candidate say. And then there’s Yamal going the low IQ route, saying goals shouldn’t matter?? and that we should start counting how many defenders a player can draw away for another player to score. Anyways, this generation, IMO, is far less talented than the previous one. All across the board, from attack, to midfield to defense, to Goalies. The ballon d’or is clearly in the lobbying phase. GENERATIONS The talent level of today is so low, that the ballon d’or is now being transparent and telling us their set criteria for the award. For the first time since it’s inception. They NEVER did this during the Ronaldo-Messi hegemony period, nor before that. Correct me if I’m wrong. Maybe because there’s no one embracing the villan role like CR7, nor anyone trying to play the good boy hero like Messi in this ultra-system football generation. So France Football is unwillingly stuck keeping things honest concerning the Ballon D’or. They’re now counting character disposition for the award…LLLLLOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLL!!! Oh the Irony of the crooked organization that is France Football. WAR Our club has been taking a different approach to the media and Tebas. We’re now, more than ever, going to outright war with public figures in La Liga and Spanish media. What changed? we’ve been seldom in the past but now we’re blasting anything that tries to smut us. Well, i’m here for it, till there’s change in public perception, principles and policies of the league.
- Sky Sports·15d ago·Both·match
Ballon d'Or: Kane, Yamal, Mbappe and the main runners and riders assessed
With a month left until the Ballon d'Or 2026 winner is announced in London on October 26, will favourite Harry Kane lift the trophy on home soil or will Lamine Yamal become the youngest winner in the award's history?
- Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Both·match
Raphinha to start Brazil friendly as Carlo Ancelotti hails ‘spectacular’ Barcelona star
Brazil's Raphinha attends a training session at Ballymore in Brisbane on September 24, 2026, ahead of their friendly football match between Australia and Brazil on September 25. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP via Getty Images) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- | AFP via Getty Images Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Barcelona star Raphinha will start Friday’s friendly against Australia in Townsville on Friday. Raphinha has travelled across the globe to play in the friendly and Ancelotti has named his starting XI for the match at a pre-game press conference. Here’s how Brazil will line-up: Hugo Souza; Matheuzinho, Marquinhos, Vitor Reis and Douglas Santos; Danilo and Bruno Guimarães; Estevão, Raphinha, Endrick and Vini Jr. Ancelotti explained why he’s gone with a strong XI for the game. “For us, the important thing is to play well, to start winning games. The truth is that these games can be an opportunity for some. I believe we have a base and we have to continue with it, of players who played in the World Cup, who can help in the progression of our young players that we have here,” he told reporters. The Brazil boss also spoke about the form of Vinicius Jr and Raphinha, who have enjoyed rather different starts to the new La Liga campaign. “The two are in different situations right now. Obviously, Raphinha is doing spectacular things in a position that wasn’t his before, but it seems like it is now too,” he added. “Vini… he might not be at his best right now, but we are confident that both of them will be fundamental for the future.” Brazil are due to play two games against Australia and will then jet off to India for their third friendly of the international break.
- Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal or Harry Kane? Anthony Gordon talks Ballon d’Or picks
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates with teammate Anthony Gordon of FC Barcelona after their victory in 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 Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona star Anthony Gordon says that team-mate Lamine Yamal and England colleague Harry Kane are his two picks for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The two players are among the favorites for the Golden Ball, along with Kylian Mbappe, but Gordon says Yamal and Kane are his top two. “For me, it has to be one of the two in terms of what they’ve achieved,” he told talkSPORT. “What Lamine’s achieved at such a young age. The kind of player he is, is ridiculous. He’s on a whole other level right now. For a 19-year-old to be doing what he’s doing is crazy.” Gordon then spoke about Kane and feels the Bayern striker is also in with a strong shout. “But if we were talking off last season, H has got as big of an argument as anybody because his season was historic,” he added. “The amount of goals he scored, the things he’s done for us within the World Cup, they both have large arguments. So I wish them both the best of luck.” Gordon is currently with Kane and the England squad for Nations League fixtures, with the Three Lions set to come up against Yamal and Spain on Saturday night.
- Barca Blaugranes·16d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 23 September 2026; Positive Frenkie de Jong news, Lamine Yamal talks Ballon d’Or
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 19: Frenkie de Jong of FC Barcelona acknowledges the fans as he is introduced before the Joan Gamper Trophy match between FC Barcelona and Al Ahly SC at Spotify Camp Nou on August 19, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Lamine defends himself against Mbappé and Kane: “The Ballon d’Or rewards the exceptional player | Marca Lamine Yamal says the Ballon d’Or should be given to the most exceptional player in the world and should not be dependent on the amount of goals scored. Frenkie de Jong takes a step forward in his recovery | Diario Sport Frenkie de Jong has taken a step forward in his recovery from a knee injury. The Dutchman has been working with the ball and has increased his intensity as he continues on the comeback trail. Christensen’s absence could last up to two months | Mundo Deportivo Andreas Christensen could be out for two months, according to sources close to the defender. The Dane has suffered a thigh injury and the fear is that he may be back until late November. What you didn’t see from Sevilla-Barça: Raphinha warns: “They’re going to break our backs” | Mundo Deportivo Footage from Barcelona’s win over Sevilla has revealed Raphinha asking the match referee for protection. The Brazilian tells Juan Martínez Munuera to be attentive to some of the fouls that were taking place. Barcelona to return to Olympic Stadium next season as Camp Nou costs rise to €2 billion | ESPN Barcelona are due to return to the Olympic Stadium for several months next season as renovation work at the Camp Nou is completed and a roof is installed. The wage bill, another challenge for Barcelona | AS Barcelona’s wage bill is rising again but the club insist the situation is under control. The club is within the required parameters but will need to ensure revenue continues to grow to cope with the increase in spending.
- Barca Blaugranes·18d ago·Both·match
Real Madrid the ‘team that has benefited most’ from referees, says Barcelona legend Carles Rexach
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Jude Bellingham (3rd L) of Real Madrid protests to referee Ortiz Arias (C) following a play during the La Liga week 7 match between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid at Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, Spain, on September 20, 2026. (Photo by Burak Akbulut/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images Barcelona legend Carles Rexach says that Real Madrid are the “team that has benefited the most” from referees throughout history. Real Madrid TV regularly complain about referees and were at it again after Sunday’s derby defeat to Atletico Madrid. Manager Jose Mourinho also criticized the match officials after the defeat, but Rexach feels Los Blancos have traditionally seen results go in their favor. “Throughout history, the team that has benefited the most, not only in Spain but in Europe, has been Real Madrid. In my time playing, we always came away with our losses,” he told 2Cat program ‘El cafè d’idees’ “I thought that with the VAR system, which I was initially very much in favor of—because you can’t have a goal awarded when the ball hasn’t crossed the line, and before they couldn’t disallow it—I thought this advantage of VAR would be more effective. “But if before there was a problem with the referee and the linesmen, now there are the same ones plus the VAR officials, and we haven’t made much progress; we’re in the same situation as before.” Sunday’s defeat has left Madrid down in fourth place in the table in Spain, six points behind Barcelona after the first seven games.
- Barca Blaugranes·18d ago·Both·match
The only thing that can stop Hansi Flick and Barcelona this season are injuries
SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring their team’s third 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 International break. Two of the most anxiety-inducing words for Barcelona fans. When you’re the best club in world, as Barcelona currently are, it means that just about all of your players will be switching shirts to represent their countries. Once they leave the Camp Nou, they are at the mercy of a new coach with their own interests at play. Surely Raphinha needs a break, but don’t expect Carlo Ancelotti to care. Instead, he’s likely to capitalize on the revelation that the Barca captain is in fact a fantastic center forward. No better time to experiment if you’re Brazil. All you have to do is buy Raphinha a ticket to Australia and India where the friendly games will be played. The Spanish national team called up seven Barca players, with Gavi being the only surprise absence. All of them are in need of a rest after racking up minutes for Barcelona to start the season, but don’t hold your breath. Things will get very interesting for Hansi Flick once play resumes against Getafe in October. More than anything, he’ll be saying his prayers every night that his players return in full health, especially with PSG and Real Madrid on the horizon. Regardless of whether luck is on his side, Flick will have to be smart about rotations. His team is off to a historic start, but the main characters leading the way can’t be run into the ground, especially the ones with a recent history of costly injuries. When Andreas Christensen went down against Sevilla, we all held our breath, went to the depth chart, and were reminded how light Barcelona is at the position after the departures of Ronald Araujo and Álvaro Cortés. In the midfield, the situation is better, especially with Frenkie de Jong set to make a comeback within the next month or two. Wing depth is also not a concern, but when you consider that Raphinha is deputizing in the middle, there is a question around who can be relied on to fill in at striker. Last season it was Ferran Torres. For now, we haven’t seen enough from Gabriel Jesus or Hamza Abdelkarim to know if they’re up to the task. Hopefully that changes once the break is over so Flick can know for sure what he’s working with. Deco’s strategy seems clear. There’s enough on the roster to get us to January. At that point, evaluate the situation anew. Let’s not forget that this is a high-flying Barcelona team that plays with energy and intensity every time out. It’s a demanding system, and the players aren’t robots. Flick’s tactics and player selection has been masterful so far. The question going forward his how he manages the busy calendar. That’s where the biggest trophies will be won or lost.
- Barca Blaugranes·18d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal on Lionel Messi: ‘The best player at the World Cup’
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 19: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain is congratulated by Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina after the 1-0 win during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Hector Vivas - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Lamine Yamal has praised a man he met when he was very young, Lionel Messi, as the best player of the past FIFA World Cup. Yamal won the tournament with Spain, beating Messi’s Argentina in the final. “Lionel Messi was the best player at the World Cup because of everything he represents and everything he did,” he told Movistar. Messi was second in goals at the World Cup, surpassed only by Kylian Mbappé through the third place match. He was also second in assists after Michael Olise. In addition, Messi led among several statistical categories. He had the most dribbles completed, one more than Yamal. He also led in key passes and big chances created. Rating apps and pundits consistently rated Messi as the best player of the last World Cup, too. Despite his statistical dominance, Messi did not win the tournament’s official award for best player. Spain’s Rodri, who now also plays for Barcelona, won instead. Yamal’s words are unusual in that they favor a player he has never had as a teammate over a current one, but then again, this is Messi we are talking about. The Argentina captain’s connection to Yamal is longstanding, having bathed Yamal as a baby for a charity photoshoot. At 39, Messi was considered well past his prime by many to have another World Cup like he had in 2022, when he was awarded as the best player in a trophy-winning run for Argentina in Qatar. He surprised many by being at a similar level in 2026. “Even though everyone knows Messi is the best player in history, nobody expected him to have such an incredible World Cup,” Yamal said.
- Barca Blaugranes·18d ago·Both·match
‘Like they’re playing a different sport’ – Diego Simeone blown away by Barcelona, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal
Raphinha Diaz, number 11, of FC Barcelona celebrates his goal with Lamine Yamal, number 10, of FC Barcelona during the La Liga EA Sports 2026/2027 match between FC Barcelona and Real Racing Club de Santander at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium on September 16, 2026. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has showered praise on Barcelona following their stellar start to the season. Hansi Flick’s side sit five points clear of Atletico at the top of the table after making a perfect start to the new campaign. Simeone was asked about Barcelona after seeing his team beat Real Madrid 2-1 on Sunday and had plenty to say. “Honestly, they play amazingly well. It’s like they’re playing a different sport—a sport completely different from the one we play,” he told ESPN. “They didn’t really have a number nine, but then Raphinha stepped up, and he’s got 12 goals in seven games. I think Yamal has seven, if I’m not mistaken. “The numbers are incredible; they press you high up the pitch, they close down your time on the ball, and they aren’t afraid to take risks—even if it means conceding—because it seems like conceding a goal just makes them even more dangerous, since they’re simply the better side. “Right now, they are the best team in the league, based on what they are showing.” Barcelona have certainly begun the defence of their title in impressive fashion, with Raphinha also topping the scoring charts in La Liga. The Brazilian is five goals clear of Yamal, Kylian Mbappe and Sergio Camello in the race for the Pichichi.
- Barca Blaugranes·18d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal reacts to Atletico Madrid’s win over Real Madrid as Barcelona sit clear at top of La Liga
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal 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 Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Atletico Madrid beat Real Madrid 2-1 on Sunday in La Liga in a fractious match that certainly went down well in the Lamine Yamal household. The teenager reacted to a social media post by Marc Pubill after the game to show exactly what he thought of the game between the two city rivals. Pubill posted a photo of himself tackling Kylian Mbappe, with Yamal posting a series of emojis in response. The result means that Barcelona head into the international break six points clear of Real Madrid in the table and five ahead of Atletico in second place. Hansi Flick’s side are the only team in the division with a perfect record after seven games. Atletico have lost once and drawn once, while Jose Mourinho’s side have already been beaten twice in the 2026-27 campaign. La Liga now pauses for a three-week break and then will resume with Barcelona up against Getafe, Atletico away at Alaves and Real Madrid facing Villarreal.
- Managing Madrid·18d ago·Both·match
Positives and negatives from Real Madrid’s 2-1 loss to Atlético de Madrid
Positives (?) There’s still time, right? Right?! It’s still September 21st and while Barcelona’s current six-point lead seems insurmountable, Real Madrid can still compete for La Liga title if they find their momentum and make the changes they need to make. More on that below. Diomande’s dribbling is effective. He completed the most dribbles on the team in just 36 minutes. Diomande should be a starter. Again, more on that below. Negatives It’s time to make tough, maybe unpopular and controversial decisions. Vinicius Junior needs to be benched. His production has not been worthy of a role as an undisputed starter and it is increasingly clear that Diomande provides an upgrade whenever he gets the opportunity to replace him in the lineup. The Valverde-Tchouameni double pivot lacks passing ability and the only way through is to start either Bernardo Silva or Güler in that midfield line. Alexander-Arnold deserves a chance to start over Dumfries as well. This is not the Mourinho Real Madrid need. He can either please the egos of the stars and enjoy the same fate as Ancelotti, Alonso and Arbeloa before him or make the changes needed and give himself a chance. Barcelona look unbeatable and Madrid have surrendered a six-point deficit after just a handful of games. Chances are this will be the third consecutive trophy-less season for Real Madrid, barring a minor trophy like the Copa del Rey or the Spanish Supercup.
- Barca Blaugranes·18d ago·Both·match
The games Andreas Christensen is set to miss for Barcelona after latest injury setback
SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Andreas Christensen of FC Barcelona in action 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 defender Andreas Christensen has once again been sidelined through injury after picking up a problem in Saturday’s win over Sevilla. The club have confirmed that Christensen has suffered a thigh injury and will be out for several weeks. According to AS, the current thinking is that the Dane will not be back in action until November. The international break means that Christensen won’t miss a huge amount of games but will still be absent for some key fixtures. Christensen is expected to sit out the league matches against Getafe, Real Madrid and Real Betis as well as the Champions League fixtures against PSG and Galatasaray. Gerard Martin will be expected to cover for Christensen in his absence and partner Pau Cubarsi in the heart of the backline. Hansi Flick could also look to use Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde in central defence while Christensen is recovering from his latest injury setback.
- Managing Madrid·19d ago·Both·match
Mourinho: “Congratulations to the Refereeing Appointments Committee”
Referee Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias speaks to Real Madrid's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho during the Spanish league football match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid CF at the Metropolitano stadium in Madrid on September 20, 2026. (Photo by Oscar DEL POZO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images In a trademark José Mourinho press conference, the Real Madrid coach exploded against referee Miguel Ángel Ortiz following his team’s 2-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano as he said: “Yes… we could have saved ourselves the press conference because the story of the match is here (showing photographs, printed out on paper, of Baena and Kang-in Lee’s challenges). They are two clear red cards. The difficulties we had afterwards, 11 against 10, we can imagine what 50 minutes with 11 against nine would have been like. And therefore I have to limit myself to hugging my players, who gave everything. Who played a first half of great class, personality. And the match could perfectly have been won in the second half. And then, whoever has to be happy… obviously the Atlético people, because they have won the points, but whoever has to be happy is the Refereeing Appointments Committee, because everything has been very strange. The first thing is that a week before the match you already know who the referee is when, according to what I am told, it is 24 hours before. And a week before, it was already known who the referee was. Then, they put a referee who at 41 years old has no international status… well, it will not be because he is a great referee. Then, the poor man came here and could not cope with the pressure, which is a pressure that I call the ‘pressure of the 1980s’, which you see very little nowadays. And then, Mr Trujillo, who was the VAR, who called him for the first red card and I think he did not call him for the second, which is even bigger than the first… This Mr Trujillo has a very complete history as VAR in Real Madrid matches. And without going any further, last season, Real Sociedad in the Copa, Osasuna, Girona… He is a… He is a VAR who has a lot of history and if the poor referee, well, you can say that he was someone without the experience and dimension to come to a derby… this gentleman has no pressure. Because there, in Las Rozas, there is no pressure. Or there is pressure and we do not know. But… I would really like to leave here… obviously with the victory but, having lost, I would really like to leave here without having to speak. I have already been here for three months and I think you have already understood that I am not very much in this direction. But… two red cards against Elche… but afterwards we won. Two red cards today… it is already a little more difficult. This combination, a referee, poor referee who has only done small matches and the VAR gentleman, who has a great history, well… congratulations to the Refereeing Appointments Committee.” Mourinho on Huijsen’s sending-off “Huijsen’s sending-off, I confess to you that I still have not seen it on VAR… sorry, on VAR, on the iPad. I still have not seen it. And it was very far away to have a judgement. I do not know, I do not know. There are people who tell me in the dressing room that the foul starts outside the area and if that is so, it should be a foul, sending-off and 0-0. If it is inside, it is a penalty and if there is an obvious action of pulling the shirt, in that case it would be a sending-off. But all of this is the second half. And in the first half we are talking about a derby of 11 against nine. The second was eleven against ten and you saw the difficulties. The players had to give everything they had in order to compete, so imagine eleven against nine. There are no miracles in football. 11 against nine… we can already imagine how it would have ended. But, honestly, I have not seen Dean’s. Not yet.“ Mourinho on being six points behind Barcelona “Obviously we want to be first, not second, third, fourth or fifth. We want to have more points. Obviously, obviously. But, under normal conditions and this is not how it starts, but how it ends, under normal conditions and we are talking about the end of September, when there is still so much to play… but when… and I would not like to go down that road, because I have already gone too far and I do not want to do it any more. But things that have been seen in recent weeks… here in this stadium… the goal disallowed for Osasuna is laughable, the penalty in San Sebastián is laughable, Barcelona’s penalty is laughable, the failure to send off against Athletic Bilbao with this gentleman who has been very nice (points behind him), with a boy who is a great player… they are accumulated things. I thought I was finding a different league from the league I had left. They told me no and they explained to me why it was not different from the league I left here years ago. But here we are. We are going to fight. Now, the boys are leaving sad, obviously, but they do so with the embrace of their coach, because I respect very much what they feel on the pitch. I respect very much that it is not easy to be on the pitch the way they have been. If we want to remember Elche, Elche’s two sendings-off… no, but in the first minute, the yellow card for Diomande… what our players feel on the pitch is not normal. But I liked my team as a team. Very much in the first half and in the second… obviously very, very, very difficult. Very difficult to have the ball, to stop the possession of the ball of a good team and with one more player. But I liked the pride, the determination. And it is a good feeling for me. It is not being disappointed with my players, not having anything to reproach them for. Within the negative of the result, it is a positive feeling for me.” Mourinho on whether the league title is complicated “If they leave us in peace, calmly and let us compete on equal terms with everyone, there is a long way to go, there is a long way to go. I do not want to go too far and say that this is something prepared. I do not want to think about this, but rather that they have simply made mistakes, as a coach or player makes a mistake. I want to think that the Refereeing Committee has made a mistake. Poor people, they made a mistake and they put in someone who is 41 years old who has never been in a situation like this and another who has a very ridiculous history against Real Madrid. They made a mistake, only this.” Mourinho on whether La Liga is tainted by the ‘Negreira case’ “Negreira is no longer there, is he? Or is he still there? Ah, if he is not there, it is not tainted by Negreira. If he is no longer there…”
- Barca Blaugranes·19d ago·Both·match
Raphinha matches Messi and Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal beats Vinicius Jr record as Barcelona stay perfect
Raphinha Dias and Lamine Yamal celebrate during the match between FC Barcelona and Real Racing Club de Santander, corresponding to week 6 of LaLiga EA Sports 2026-27, played at the Spotify Camp Nou in Barcelona, on September 16, 2026. (Photo by Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Raphinha scored another hat-trick on Saturday night against Sevilla as the Barcelona captain maintained his stunning start to the new season. Sevilla had taken the lead at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan but Raphinha hit back with another impressive goal to hit double figures in the top flight. He wasn’t done there either. Raphinha headed Barcelona in front in the second half after great work from Lamine Yamal and then completed his perfect hat-trick to make it 3-1 to seal all three points. According to Opta, Raphinha has become just the third player to reach this figure after his team’s first seven matches in a season of the competition in the 21st century. The only other two players to achieve the feat are Lionel Messi for Barcelona in 2011-12 (10) and 2017-18 (11) and Cristiano Ronaldo for Real in 2014-15 (13). Raphinha’s goals mean he sits top of the goalscoring standings in La Liga, five clear of nearest challengers Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe. Lamine Yamal was also in record-breaking form. His assist was his 51st in 159 matches with Barcelona across all competitions, per Opta. He is the youngest La Liga player to reach 50 goal assists since, at least, the 2013/14 season (19 years and 68 days), beating the record previously held by Vinícius Júnior, who notched his 50th assist with Real Madrid in May 2023 at 22 years and 298 days. Not a bad night’s work.
- Barca Blaugranes·20d ago·Both·match
Barcelona confirm Andreas Christensen injury blow after Sevilla win
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Andreas Christensen of FC Barcelona looks on prior to 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 Pedro Salado/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has confirmed that defender Andreas Christensen is set for some time on the sidelines after being forced off against Sevilla. The Denmark international had to go off on the hour mark at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan and seemed upset as he took his place on the bench. Flick was asked about the Dane after the game and told reporters: “He’ll be out for several weeks. It’s a muscle injury. He’ll have more tests tomorrow.” The update means that Christensen will pull out of the Denmark squad for Nations League fixtures over the international break. The defender does have time to recover but Barca have some big fixtures coming up when domestic action does resume next month. Barca’s first fixtures are against Getafe, Real Betis and Real Madrid in La Liga and Galatasaray and Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. Gerard Martin is the obvious candidate to replace Christensen, while Flick does have Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde as alternative options if needed.
- Barca Blaugranes·21d ago·Both·match
JJ Gabriel arrives in Barcelona after asking to leave Man Utd
LEIGH, ENGLAND - AUGUST 31: JJ Gabriel of Manchester United U21 in action during the Premier League 2 match between Manchester United U21 and Leicester City U21 at Leigh Sports Village on August 31, 2026 in Leigh, England. (Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images) Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel has travelled to Barcelona after shocking Manchester United this week by asking to leave the Premier League club. According to BBC Sport, Gabriel left the UK on Thursday and travelled to France initially before moving on to Barcelona. Hansi Flick’s side are said to be in pole position to land the teenager, although other reports have claimed Real Madrid are leading the race for the forward. Gabriel is seeking a new club after telling United he wants his registration cancelled. Manager Michael Carrick addressed the situation in midweek after seeing his team beaten 3-2 by Brighton in the EFL Cup. “He’s a young boy, JJ, and I think it’s important we don’t play anything out here,” he said. “With the exposure and scrutiny and everything, you got to be careful and be sensible and think of him as much as anything. The situation will work itself out, whatever way it’s going to work itself out. Making sure he’s OK is the important thing.” Barcelona, Madrid and Bayern Munich have all been linked with Gabriel in the last few days. The teenager is believed to hold an Irish passport and could therefore move to a club in the EU when he turns 16 next month.
- Barca Blaugranes·21d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal reveals Barcelona’s Champions League ‘weak points’ and hopes for Real Madrid clash
VALENCIA, SPAIN - 2026/09/13: Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona) seen in action celebrating after scoring goal during LaLiga EA SPORTS 2026/2027 game between teams of UD Levante and FC Barcelona.Final Score: UD Levante 2- 4 FC Barcelona. (Photo by Maciej Rogowski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) Lamine Yamal has been talking about Barcelona’s Champions League hopes and says that Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are the two teams that could cause Hansi Flick’s side problems this season. Barcelona have started the season in superb form and will be hoping they can challenge for the European Cup this season. Yamal is well aware of the challenge they face in the Champions League this season and has spoken about some of Barca’s rivals for the title. “Our weak point is facing opponents like Bayern Munich or PSG, who are more physical and force you to run a lot and stay focused the entire match. Arsenal is a more tactical game, focused on possession,” he told Movistar. Luis Enrique’s PSG have won the Champions League for the last two seasons, and Yamal thinks the French champions will be the team to beat once again. “I think PSG, but their problem is that it’s very difficult to win after winning,” he added. “That’s the hardest thing in football. When you win a title, winning again is the most difficult thing. That’s the fear I have when we win something, that we’ll relax.” And the Barcelona teenager made it clear there’s one team he would love to face in the Champions League this season: “I’ve never faced Madrid in the Champions League. I’d like to face them in the Champions League.”
- Barca Blaugranes·21d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal reflects on racist taunts by Real Madrid fans in 2024
MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26: Lamine Yamal of Barcelona is seen during the LaLiga match between Real Madrid and Barcelona at Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain on October 26, 2024. (Photo by Burak Akbulut/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images Lamine Yamal was 17 years old when he was targeted by racist fans at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Celebrating a goal in El Clásico alongside his teammate Raphinha, video shows fans screaming all kinds of disgusting insults. Those insults included: “f—-ing Black,” “f—-ing Moor,” and “sh—-y MENA,” MENA standing for “menor extranjero no acompañado,” or ”unaccompanied foreign minor” in English. Recently, Yamal was asked by Jorge Valdano, a Real Madrid legend who now hosts the TV show Universo Valdano, if he had faced racism in a direct manner, to which Yamal replied, “Yes, a thousand times over.” First, the player outlined that many people are “indirectly racist toward you, though they might not realize it.” “There are so many comments and looks—so many instances—that are racist, yet they don’t even notice. I’ve also reached a point where—not that I accept it, because you can’t accept something that’s wrong—but it just doesn’t bother me anymore.” That’s when Yamal turned to the insults he received at the Bernabéu. The video of the incident went viral, in part because Yamal did not react to the bile directed at him. “There’s that well-known video from the Bernabéu where people were shouting all sorts of things at Raphinha and me, and everyone was surprised by my reaction,” he said. “At the end of the day, someone calling me Black doesn’t bother me at all—I am Black. I’m not any other color. It’s another question whether it’s right or wrong for them to do that, when it’s being said attempting to insult me. It is wrong, but what I’m not going to do—while I’m playing a match where people have paid to see me—is get angry over someone who has disrespected me.” Barcelona won that match 4-0, with Yamal and Raphinha scoring. Ansu Fati, who played for Barcelona in those days, was also targeted in a separate incident that day. Three arrests were made in relation to the insults toward Yamal and Raphinha. Despite winning the Euros and the FIFA World Cup for Spain, Yamal has received insults even from Spanish fans due to his race and religion. In April, Yamal, a Muslim, condemned chants made by Spanish fans who, while jumping, chanted “whoever does not jump is a Muslim.”
- Guardian Football·22d ago·Both·match
Carlos Espí gives Real Madrid hope in the face of Barcelona’s La Liga storm | Sid Lowe
With Barcelona racking up seven-goal thrillers, Real Madrid could not afford a collapse. Enter the forward quietly turning into José Mourinho’s ultimate secret weapon José Mourinho called and Carlos Espí came to his side. It was late, it was noisy and it was almost over – the match and maybe even something more – when Real Madrid’s coach took the forward who is also his flatmate to one side on Tuesday night. Standing close, Mourinho had a message to deliver; he also had a piece of paper. Small, folded, half-hidden in his hand, it was not big enough for much more than a single word, shown almost surreptitiously, the request written on it, like what he had whispered in Espí’s ear, left to your imagination. Put ball in goal, perhaps. Or: Help. So he did. Madrid needed him to, which they should not have. Two goals up inside half an hour at Elche on Tuesday night, they could have added a third or a fourth, maybe even a fifth, before half-time. But, thinking it was as done as it really should have been, their minds perhaps on Sunday’s derby at Atlético too, they had stopped again, drifting. Vinícius Júnior had gone, Arda Guler had gone, Aurélien Tchouaméni might as well have done, barely able to move any more, and now, somehow, the game was going. Goals from Abiel Osorio in the 71st minute and Fer Niño in the 83rd had made it 2-2. Continue reading...
- Managing Madrid·22d ago·Both·match
Mbappé: “The Ballon D’or must return to the Santiago Bernabéu”
Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé talked to AS in an interview and explained why he thinks he should be leading the race to win the 2026 Ballon D’Or. “My view is that this is a good year to win it. My best advocate is my feet. As much as I speak. The most important thing for me is that the Ballon d’Or returns to Real Madrid. It must return to the Bernabéu, to the Madridistas, that it returns for all these people to give them hope. Those people deserve it more than anyone,” he said. When asked about Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who is also competing for the Ballon D’Or, Mbappé had nothing but praise. “I think he’s a super talented player, and I have a feeling he’s gonna have a great career. I wish him all the best,” he added. Mbappé also addressed the controversy surrounding the shirts supporting Ceuta during Real Madrid’s visit to Elche, when Vinicius, Konaté and he only partially wore the shirts. “I want to explain it well so people understand. It was a decision made by the clubs to include the jersey, to wear the jersey. We, the players, had to wear it. The first thing I want to say is that I have complete solidarity with Ceuta and all the victims. Because before being a player, I’m a human. But I also wanted to have a gesture and a thought for all the immigrants who have lost their lives and who are also in tough conditions,” he explained. The full interview will be published on AS later this Thursday.
- Barca Blaugranes·22d ago·Both·match
World Cup Final should be at Barcelona’s Camp Nou, says Joan Laporta
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 “It shouldn’t be Casablanca or Madrid; it should be the Spotify Camp Nou.” That’s how FC Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, put it, in an interview with Spanish radio. He wants the FIFA World Cup final to be played at Barcelona’s refurbished home, urging football’s governing body to pass over Madrid, Spain’s capital, and Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city. He jokingly dismissed those rival bids, saying “Casablanca and Madrid are the same thing.” Barcelona’s Camp Nou has undertaken a major refurbishment project that is expected to finish in 2027 with a roof installation. The capacity is expected to reach 105,000. “I think FIFA will take this into account,” the club’s president said. Last week, the president of Morocco’s football association, Fouzi Lekjaa, claimed the match would be held at the Hassan II Stadium in El Mansouria, Benslimane Province, just outside Casablanca. It is planned to have capacity for 115,000 spectators, making it the largest football stadium in the world. Camp Nou is currently second in the world in terms of capacity, with North Korea’s Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in first place — though that is mainly used for massive state propaganda events, rather than football. Even with Camp Nou’s capacity growing, it will still be behind the North Korean stadium and will drop to third once the Hassan II Stadium reaches full planned capacity. Apart from capacity, Camp Nou has history and prestige. It’s home to one of the biggest football clubs in the world. It’s the place Johan Cruyff, Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi, and now Lamine Yamal call home. Similar arguments could be made for the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Real Madrid’s home stadium and another proposed site for the final. But, as Laporta pointed out, the Bernabéu has already hosted a World Cup final in 1982. He said it would only be fair for Camp Nou to get its chance as well. “It would bring us the international recognition we want,” Laporta said. “That is how we will propose it, and we will put forward these reasons — and others.”
- Guardian Football·23d ago·Both·match
Raphinha cashes in against Santander with hat-trick as Barça hit seven
Cancelo, Jesus and Lamine Yamal also score in rout Atlético Madrid thrash Osasuna 4-0 to move into third Raphinha scored a hat-trick as Barcelona ripped Racing Santander to shreds in a spectacular 7-2 triumph in La Liga on Wednesday. The win makes Hansi Flick the club’s first manager to win the opening seven competitive matches of a season. João Cancelo, Gabriel Jesus and Lamine Yamal also scored for the unstoppable Catalan giants, who have netted 33 goals in those seven games across all competitions, and who moved three points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Continue reading...
- Managing Madrid·24d ago·Both·match
Ian Harte to Managing Madrid: People used to put me and Beckham in the same category… but Roberto Carlos was a different level.“
22 Nov 2000: Luis Figo of Real Madrid sprints past Ian Harte of Leeds United during the UEFA Champions League match played at Elland Road, in Leeds, England. Real Madrid won the match 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Michael Steele /Allsport | Getty Images I had a chance to do a brief interview with former Leeds player Ian Harte, which was a really fun exercise as I grew up watching football in the exact era where Harte — along with all my favourite Real Madrid players: Raul, Fernando Redondo, Luis, Figo, Zinedine Zidane, Roberto Carlos, etc — all were at their peaks. Harte, who made his name as a left-back, was one of the pillars — along with Alan Smith, Harry Kewell, Mark Viduka, Olivier Dacourt, and Jonathan Woodgate — of a very young and exciting Leeds team at the turn of the century managed by David O’Leary who also played against Real Madrid in the Champions League. Harte had an incredible ability to score long-range goals from open play and was a deadly set-piece specialist. When I had a chance to ask him a couple questions, nostalgia kicked in. Q: What do you remember about Leeds facing Real Madrid in the Champions League? Ian Harte: The Barcelona game stands out more in terms of a story. Our first Champions League match was away at the Nou Camp, and there was a chapel in the tunnel. A lot of the Leeds lads went in and said a prayer before the game. I was Catholic, but I did not say one — and we lost 4-0, so maybe I should have done. That defeat gave us the kick up the backside we needed. We realised that if we did not improve, we would be out of the Champions League as quickly as we had arrived. It galvanised us. We went on to reach the semi-finals and faced Real Madrid home and away. To share a pitch with players such as Raúl, Roberto Carlos, Zinedine Zidane and Luís Figo was brilliant, although we did not get the results we wanted. Q: You also played against Real Madrid later as a Levante player. Who was the most important Real Madrid player you saw up close? Ian Harte: Zidane. He was incredible. He just glided across the pitch and made everything look effortless. His quality was unbelievable. Figo was there as well, and the names just rolled off the tongue. But Zidane was the one who really stood out. Q: You lost the return game at the Bernabeu, and Raul scored a handball goal. What was the reaction to that? It was a blatant handball. I am not a big fan of VAR, but if we had VAR then, it would have been disallowed. We were on the wrong end of a few dodgy decisions in that Champions League run. We had that one against Real Madrid, then Valencia scored their first goal in the semi-final through another handball, which went over Nigel Martyn and into the net. We got stung a couple of times by handball goals and poor refereeing decisions. Q: As a free-kick specialist, did you ever swap notes with Roberto Carlos? Ian Harte: No. Roberto Carlos was amazing, and the free-kick everyone remembers is the one against France, when the photographer behind the goal ducked out of the way as the ball swerved in. His were all about power. Mine were more about whip and dip. People used to put me and David Beckham in the same category, and I was fortunate enough to score some good free-kicks, but Roberto Carlos was a different level. Q: What was it like to play at the Bernabéu for the first time? Ian Harte: Having already played at Barcelona’s Nou Camp, you realise just how huge those stadiums are and how loud they can be. You just try to give a good account of yourself, whether you are playing at left-back, right-back or further forward. But when you are up against the quality Real Madrid had, the task is always that bit more difficult. Heskey answered questions on behalf of football betting site betGoodwin
- Football España·25d ago·Both·match
Mbappé brace sends Real Madrid level with Barcelona
Real Madrid move level with Barcelona after Mbappé scores twice in a 4-1 La Liga win over Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabéu. The post Mbappé brace sends Real Madrid level with Barcelona appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·25d ago·Both·match
‘Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Raphinha’ – Eric Garcia says Ballon d’Or podium should be all Barcelona
SANTANDER, SPAIN - JANUARY 15: : Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's second goal with Raphael Dias 'Raphinha' and Pedro 'Pedri' Gonzalez during the Copa del Rey Round of 16 match between Racing de Santander and FC Barcelona at El Sardinero on January 15, 2026 in Santander, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) | Getty Images Eric Garcia has revealed his picks for the 2026 Ballon d’Or and thinks that Lamine Yamal should win the prize, with Raphinha and Pedri behind as the runners-up. Yamal is one of the favorites to lift the trophy next month and has said that he thinks he deserves to win it over Kylian Mbappe. Eric agrees and also thinks Raphinha and Pedri should be in the conversation, adding that it’s “unbelievable” the two players were not among the final nominees. “For me, the podium should be Barça: Lamine, Pedri and Raphinha. Without a doubt, Lamine has to win, but that Raphinha and Pedri are not there seems incredible to me,” he added. Garcia also had some words of praise for Hansi Flick and explained how the German coach has helped to turn his career around. “He gave me incredible confidence, even at the beginning, when I wasn’t coming in. This year he is more demanding, we have changed the way we work in the gym,” he added. “I didn’t even imagine playing in so many positions. He made me see that I could do it and told me that I looked more like a right-back.” Garcia has emerged as Barca’s first choice right-back currently, getting the nod ahead of Jules Kounde and Joao Cancelo.
- Barca Blaugranes·25d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal says he deserves to beat Kylian Mbappe to the Ballon d’Or
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal 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 Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has given a new interview and says he thinks he deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or award. The teenager is one of 30 nominees but has previously said he “wouldn’t beg” for the prestigious prize. He’s now been asked about the award again and thinks there are just two names in the frame. “Who would I give it to? The best player in the world. Who are they going to give it to?” he told Universo Valdano. “Honestly, as the best in the world, I think maybe there are two of us, me and Mbappé, but I think I deserve it this year because of what I’ve won. Everyone who watches the games knows that.” Yamal had a brilliant year with Barcelona, winning La Liga and Spanish Super Cup titles, and then went on to claim glory at the World Cup with Spain. The Barcelona star has spoken about his performances at the World Cup which came after he missed the end of the league campaign due to injury. “After winning the World Cup, I wasn’t happy. The injury is true, but it’s not the main issue,” he added. “I did many things that people didn’t see. For example, I think it’s incredible for the coach to have a player who can take on three opponents, but I wasn’t happy for myself because I know that another player with my level of performance would have had a great World Cup, but for me, I could have done more. I did help the team, but I’m really looking forward to the next one.” The winner of the Ballon d’Or will be announced on October 26, 2026.
- Barca Blaugranes·27d ago·Both·match
‘There was no one better than me last season’ – Kylian Mbappé praises Lamine Yamal but says he deserves Ballon d’Or
TOPSHOT - France's forward #10 Kylian Mbappe (R) reacts past Spain's forward #19 Lamine Yamal during the 2026 World Cup football tournament semi-final match between France and Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on July 14, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Kylian Mbappé has taken the somewhat unusual step to campaign for the Ballon d’Or this season, telling French magazine L’Equipe, “There was no one better than me last season.” Mbappé was the top scorer of this past FIFA World Cup, albeit he took advantage of a third-place match played at a leisurely pace to leapfrog Lionel Messi. His individual stats were brilliant, but the biggest knock on his campaign was that he did not win a trophy. A few previous Ballon d’Or winners have won the award without winning a team trophy that season, most recently Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013, but it is unusual. “I have always believed that the Ballon d’Or should reward a player who stands apart. Of course, there is a team component—and it is important, because football is a team sport—but it is an individual trophy. My idea of the Ballon d’Or is shaped by the Messi and Ronaldo era: it is never awarded to ordinary players, but to those who are truly different. And I believe I have done things that set me apart this year. That is why I think I can win it,” the French star said. Betting sites, however, disagree. Harry Kane of Bayern Munich is rated as the most likely winner, with Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona coming second, and Mbappé third. The Real Madrid star praised Yamal, though he did so within the context of upcoming youngsters, not necessarily as a fellow competitor for football’s top individual prize. “Among the young players, I like Lamine Yamal. He has it all,” he said. “I like Estevão; he has a special creativity. Here, Arda Güler could go very far. Endrick has potential—he’s a goalscorer. Warren Zaïre-Emery and Désiré Doué are going to have great careers, for sure,” he said. Despite confidently backing himself, Mbappé did admit that, “objectively speaking, I can understand those who might vote differently,” for the Ballon d’Or, saying his thinking was not “a dictatorship.” But, he says, “when you analyze the arguments and the competition, it wouldn’t be unfair,” for him to win.
- Barca Blaugranes·28d ago·Both·match
Barcelona captain Raphinha named La Liga’s Player of the Month for August
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Raphinha Dias Belloli of FC Barcelona celebrates after scoring his team's third goal during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1, football match played between FC Barcelona and Feyenoord at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium on September 09, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Barcelona captain Raphinha has been named La Liga’s Player of the Month for August after making a brilliant start to the season with Hansi Flick’s side. The Brazilian started the season with two goals and an assist against Elche, netted again in the win over Athletic Club and then bagged a brace in a 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano. Raphinha’s goals and impressive displays mean he’s scoops the first Player of the Month award for the new season, beating off competition from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Jude Bellingham, Alex Baena and Nahuel Tenaglia. Qué mes de Raphinha. 🏆 💙❤️ El jugador del @FCBarcelona_es es el 𝐉𝐔𝐆𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐌𝐄𝐒 de agosto en #LALIGAEASPORTS.https://t.co/qnxpNg9Xpc#LALIGAPOTM | #PREMIOSLALIGA pic.twitter.com/SMrC2ncJfj — LALIGA (@LaLiga) September 11, 2026 The 29-year-old has continued his form into September, scoring in a 5-0 win over Valencia in La Liga and grabbing another double in a crushing victory over Feyenoord in the Champions League. Raphinha’s goalscoring exploits mean he’s just the second player to score six goals in the first four La Liga games of a new season in the 21st century after – yep you’ve guessed it – Lionel Messi. Congratulations, Raphinha!
- Barca Blaugranes·29d ago·Both·match
Luis de la Fuente: Lamine Yamal could win the 2026 Ballon d’Or
Luis de la Fuente, head coach of Spain, celebrates the victory with Lamine Yamal of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Spain and Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium on July 10, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Luis de la Fuente has spoken out on who he thinks he should win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, and while he did not name one specific favorite, he had one condition: “a Spanish player should win.” “I always champion domestic products—the ‘Spain’ brand; we are world-class when it comes to training, performance, and quality. And off the top of my head, I’d say Mikel Oyarzabal is missing from the list of candidates; the person writing down the names must have dropped the paper, and he didn’t get included,” he said. Despite De la Fuente not naming a specific favorite, the Spanish player most favored by betting odds to take home the honor is Lamine Yamal. “I think Lamine Yamal could win the Ballon d’Or because he is Spanish and an outstanding footballer. If not this year, then in the future; I don’t think it will take him too long to win it. He is looking very good at the start of this season, and we want to enjoy watching him for many years to come,” the coach said. Harry Kane is the oddsmakers’ current number one favorite, with Yamal second, followed by Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid. Rodri, who plays for Barcelona but was with Manchester City during the eligible period, comes fourth. Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is fifth, ex-Barcelona legend Lionel Messi is sixth, Fabián Ruiz of PSG seventh, and Pau Cubarsí of Barcelona eighth. Marc Cucurella (Chelsea, now with Real Madrid) and Ferran Torres (Barcelona, now PSG) are the other Spanish players nominated. Spain won the FIFA World Cup in the summer with Rodri taking home the best player award. Mbappé was the top scorer, while Messi was considered by many to be the tournament’s true best player. Torres scored the winning goal in the final. Yamal came into the tournament with an injury and was not at his best but still contributed greatly, notably winning a penalty in the semi-final win over France. For his part, Cubarsí was the anchor of a record-setting Spanish defense that was near-impenetrable during the tournament.
- Barca Blaugranes·31d ago·Both·match
‘Sergio Ramos’ goal was offside’ – Gerard Pique picks out the ‘many refereeing errors’ that have gone in Real Madrid’s favor
Gerard Piqué of Spain the former professional footballer, multiple title holder and superstar of FC Barcelona speaking during his session at the BRIDGE Summit 2025 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre ADNEC, United Arab Emirates on December 10, 2025. Gerard Pique highlighted the global expansion of the Kings League and discussed the future of sport and media at the summit. (Photo by Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Gerard Pique has been chatting about Real Madrid on social media amid regular complaints from Los Blancos about the standard of refereeing in La Liga. Real Madrid TV often decides to attack match officials, while Jose Mourinho took aim at the referees after Friday’s defeat to Real Betis. Pique has now got involved and says that Real Madrid have regularly had decisions go in their favor over the years. “Yes, there’s only one way for Barça to win, and that’s by playing great football. That’s why we’re known,” he said on TikTok (h/t Mundo Deportivo.) “We’ve won many leagues, many Champions Leagues, and many trebles by playing great football. You’ve always brought up the issue of referees, and if you want, I’ll remind you of the Champions League final against Juve, Mijatovic’s goal, which was illegal. “Or in one of the two finals against Atlético de Madrid, Sergio Ramos’ goal was offside, it was also illegal. So there are many refereeing errors, but , normally and historically, they have always gone a little more in favor of Real Madrid.” Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal was also asked about Real Madrid complaints today at his pre-match press conference and had a pretty dignified response: “I don’t know, if they haven’t won in years, that’s their problem. Ask them. We’re happy with the refereeing.”
- Barca Blaugranes·31d ago·Both·match
‘Ask them’ – Lamine Yamal responds to Real Madrid complaints and says he ‘won’t beg’ for Ballon d’Or
Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images Lamine Yamal was the Barcelona player chosen to speak alongside coach Hansi Flick ahead of the club’s Champions League opener against Feyenoord on Wednesday, and the teenager had a very good press conference. Yamal was asked about many topics, including Real Madrid’s complaints about the refereeing following their loss to Real Betis over the weekend as well as Lamine’s chances of winning this year Ballon d’Or after a successful season with Barça and the World Cup title he won with Spain. Lamine, as he tends to do when speaking to the press, was mature beyond his years and gave a very good answer. “I don’t know, if they haven’t won in years, that’s their problem. Ask them. We’re happy with the refereeing. “No, I don’t think I need to campaign to win the Ballon d’Or. I don’t have to convince you of anything. I’ve done a very good job this year, and I don’t have to beg you to vote for me to win it. I don’t think it depends on me, but on the journalists. The work I’ve done with the team and the national team has been incredible. If it happens, I’ll be grateful to everyone. Although I think I have a chance. “[On Ousmane Dembele choosing Mbappé over Yamal] – He’s friends with Kylian, right? (laughs) Honestly, I don’t mind. It’s normal, I get along really well with Dembélé, and it’s normal that I have to include other people. There’s no need to show off the year I’ve had.” Ballon d’Or conversations are annoying and Yamal is absolutely right to stay away from any sort of campaigning. He’ll let his work speak for itself, and he’s more than good enough to win it in the future if it doesn’t come this year.
- Barca Blaugranes·31d ago·Both·match
Barcelona stopper Joan Garcia nominated for Best Men’s Goalkeeper at 2026 Ballon d’Or awards
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 31: Joan Garcia of FC Barcelona gestures 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 Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia has been nominated for the Best Men’s Goalkeeper prize at the 2026 Ballon d’Or awards after an impressive season at the Camp Nou. The stopper is in contention after playing a starring role for Barcelona in his debut season for the club after moving from city rivals Espanyol. Garcia played a key part in Barcelona’s title win and ended the season by winning La Liga’s Zamora Trophy which is handed out to the goalkeeper with the lowest “goals-to-games” ratio. The Barca stopper conceded only 21 goals in 30 games to finish top of the pile. Nominated for the 2026 Men's Goalkeeper of the Year ⬇️ Joan García@FCBarcelona@SEFutbol#ballondor pic.twitter.com/9dTMKOxnyr — Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) September 8, 2026 Garcia is nominated for the prize along with Thibaut Courtois, Gregor Kobel, Emiliano Martínez, Édouard Mendy, David Raya, Matvey Safonov, Unai Simon, Yassine Bounou and Cape Verde stopper Vozinha. Who do you think should win the Best Goalkeeper prize at the Ballon d’Or awards? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
- Barca Blaugranes·31d ago·Both·match
Hansi Flick sent strong Jose Mourinho message by Barcelona
VALENCIA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 06: Head Coach Hansi Flick of FC Barcelona looks 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 Barcelona reportedly offered Hansi Flick some advice on Jose Mourinho after the so-called ‘Special One’ was confirmed as Real Madrid manager over the summer. Mourinho is back at the Santiago Bernabeu for another spell and will renew his rivalry with Barcelona in the 2026-27 season. A new report from Diario Sport states how Barcelona were quick to advise Flick to be careful when it comes to Mourinho. “Not a word about Mourinho or Real Madrid,” is the message from the Barcelona chiefs. Controversy has followed Mourinho throughout his career, particularly at Madrid. Nobody needs reminding how he poked Tito Vilanova in the eye or of his many clashes with Pep Guardiola. Of course Flick didn’t really need telling. The German coach is well aware of Mourinho’s track record and knows how to rise above any potential provocations. Indeed Flick brushed aside questions about Mourinho at the end of last season when asked how he felt about taking on the Portuguese boss, telling reporters: “Yes, why not? He’s the opposing team’s coach, and I’m always ready to face anyone.” Flick also knows he will face more questions about Mourinho in the coming weeks or months. As for Mourinho, he’s already gone on the attack, taking aim at La Liga referees after seeing his team beaten by Real Betis on Friday night.
- Managing Madrid·32d ago·Both·match
Mourinho gets a sprinkler—and a reminder of his famous Camp Nou celebration
TOPSHOT - Inter Milan's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho jubilates after winning the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg football match Barcelona vs Inter Milan on April 28, 2010 at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona. Milan reached the Champions League final beating Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate in their semi-final despite losing the second leg 1-0. AFP PHOTO / JOSEP LAGO (Photo by JOSEP LAGO / AFP) (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images After his pre-match press conference at Valdebebas ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan, José Mourinho was approached by Italian journalist Tancredi Palmeri, who handed him a garden sprinkler. Mourinho accepted the gift with a smile, shook Palmeri’s hand and walked away. Un periodista del Inter le regala un aspersor a Mourinho como recuerdo de su clasificación en el Camp Nou#UCLxDAZN pic.twitter.com/dv2BaZQ1QF — DAZN España (@DAZN_ES) September 7, 2026 The gift was a nod to the second leg of the 2010 Champions League semi-final at Camp Nou. Having won the first leg 3–1, Mourinho’s Inter lost 1–0 that night but advanced 3–2 on aggregate, eliminating Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona. At the final whistle, Mourinho raced onto the pitch to celebrate with his players. Camp Nou staff turned on the sprinklers in an attempt to cut the celebrations short, creating one of the most iconic images of his career: Mourinho celebrating as water sprayed around him. Despite his fond memories with Inter, Mourinho is fully focused on Real Madrid. Inter is now led by his former player Cristian Chivu. The Real Madrid boss said he loves Chivu, but greetings are reserved for before and after the game only. During the game, Mourinho is locked in for Real Madrid only.
- Guardian Football·33d ago·Both·match
European football: Lamine Yamal’s double powers Barcelona to rout of Valencia
Fermín, Raphinha and Pedri also score in 5-0 La Liga win Goalkeeper Koeman Jr scores two penalties in Eredivisie Lamine Yamal struck twice for Barcelona as they demolished Valencia 5-0 on Sunday to maintain their 100% start in La Liga. The reigning champions moved three points clear at the top of La Liga after Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid lost 1-0 at Real Betis on Friday. Fermín López, Raphinha and Pedri were also on target for Hansi Flick’s swaggering visitors on a hot afternoon on Spain’s east coast. Continue reading...
- Barca Blaugranes·33d ago·Both·match
Three talking points from Valencia 0-5 Barcelona as Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Fermin Lopez run riot
Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha (R) celebrates with Barcelona's Spanish forward #10 Lamine Yamal and Barcelona's Spanish midfielder #07 Fermin Lopez (L) scoring his team's third goal during the Spanish league football match between Valencia CF and FC Barcelona at Mestalla Stadium in Valencia on September 6, 2026. (Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona became the only club La Liga to make it four wins from their opening four games on Sunday with a comprehensive 5-0 thrashing of Valencia. Hansi Flick’s side simply blew away the opposition thanks to a brace from Lamine Yamal as well as goals from Raphinha, Fermin Lopez and Pedri. Let’s take a look at three talking points from the game… Fantastic Fermin wreaks havoc It’s good to see Fermin being given some decent minutes by Hansi Flick, after really doing his utmost to earn that starting spot. A player who embodies the fighting spirit that the manager demands of his players, the midfielder can always be relied upon to be the difference-maker in a game. Whether that be by executing an assist, as he did for Lamine and Raphinha, or by scoring himself, or even just because his energy often has opposition defences run ragged, his presence is well deserved. With Rodri well in control in a defensive sense, that frees Fermin to wreak havoc where he’s most dangerous, and when he can. Fermin’s goals mean he is the first Spanish player to score four times in Barcelona’s first four matches of a LaLiga season since Cesc Fabregas in 2011/12. He’s also the first player to score and provide an assist within the first 25 minutes of a LaLiga match in the 2026/27 season. Fabulous! Understated excellence from Rodri Even if his performance wasn’t perhaps as headline-grabbing as Fermin’s, Rodri, on his 100th La Liga appearance, was excellence personified. The calmness he exudes even under the most intense pressure is very reminiscent of Sergio Busquets in his prime, and his vision during the game was unmatched. There was an ease to the way in which he switched through the gears, and he commanded the midfield throughout every transitional phase. It was, without doubt, a masterclass in simplicity and effectiveness. Barca can’t stop scoring It wasn’t that long ago that culers were genuinely worried about where the goals were going to come from in this team. No Lewandowski, Ferran or Marcus Rashford, who were responsible for 54 goals between them last season, gave rise to the notion that Barca were going to struggle in front of goal in 2026/27. And yet, here we are, four games in and 17 goals scored. Better than, the three-goals-per-game average from 2025/26. Yamal, Fermin and Raphinha have scored 14 of Barca’s goals from their first four matches. According to Mister Chip, it’s the most prolific attacking trio in the opening four matchday since the 1958-59 season (when Di Stéfano (7), Rial (4), and Puskás (4) bagged 15 for Real Madrid). Raphinha has been electric down the middle with goals in every game, Lamine is playing with a smile on his face again and only a goal from Anthony Gordon is needed for an almost perfect start to the campaign for the new front three.
- Barca Blaugranes·34d ago·Both·match
Hansi Flick offers Lamine Yamal update after Barcelona star misses training before Valencia match
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 31: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona gestures 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 Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Hansi Flick has offered a positive update on Lamine Yamal after the Barcelona star trained away from his team-mates on Saturday ahead of the team’s La Liga clash with Valencia. The Barcelona boss says that Yamal has picked up a knock but isn’t ruling the teenager out of the match at Mestalla just yet. “He trained separately. He’s fine. He’ll travel. We’ll see,” he told a pre-match press conference. “He had pain from a knock and is training separately. But he says he’s fine and could play tomorrow. “We have to wait to see if he plays tomorrow. We’ll decide. I don’t know if he’ll rest or not. He wants to play. He doesn’t like to train separately. He’s in very good shape. His mentality and morale are improved. In the last match, he was outstanding. For him, playing is better than training. It’s the right thing for him to start so he can recover; I think it was good that he started the first three matches.” Flick also warned his players against complacency after seeing Real Madrid suffer their first defeat of the season on Friday night against Real Betis. “It’s football, anything can happen. We have to focus our efforts where they matter. It will be tough. But we want to win. And we know it won’t be easy,” he added. “When I watch training I always think that the quality of the team is very good, how we press, pass and compete. In each rondo you can see that it is the highest level but in the end the important thing is to win the titles in Barcelona. The quality of the squad is top.” Barcelona have won their first three games of the season, while Valencia are yet to pick up a victory and have just one point so far.
- Managing Madrid·36d ago·Both·match
Jose Juninho — Another Trial: 4 Sep. 2026
SEVILLA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 13: Coach Jose Mourinho of AS Romacoach Manuel Pellegrini of Real Betis during the UEFA Europa League match between Real Betis Sevilla v AS Roma at the Estadio Benito Villamarin on October 13, 2022 in Sevilla Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Welcome to The Daily Merengue — a place where you can feel free to discuss 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, Valyrian Steel, Ezek XI, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho. Writer’s Prelude. The Jose Juninho Era will continue. Jose Juninho — Betis Match Edition “It has to be a great Real Madrid, otherwise, we won’t win. Betis, as you say, is a very good team. To win, you have to be at your very best level. There is no other way.” — Jose Mourinho View Link At First A Reply. Yesterday, I perused through the comments (which haven’t been as active in years past — may be a discussion for a different day) and noticed a rec’ed comment from OutofEyeDiaz that said the following re my take on obsession over positioning rather than responsibilities: Juninho: I think we often obsess with positions when we should be focusing on responsibilities. OutofEyeDiaz: Which was what Carlo did especially well no? I mean, the “no tactics” jokes aside, the main reason people said that because his tactics weren’t particularly intensive for talented players, and weren’t overly positional. Of course with it’s bonuses and flaws, but point stands. Xabi was supposed to be the one with more intensive positional training. Jose Juninho — Too Early Thoughts Pt.3 : 3 Sep. 2026 I only really feel a small need to reply to this quote in order to provide some clarity. “Responsibilities” does not infer a lack of “intensive tactics.” Earnestly, I’d argue it actually is very much on the other spectrum where playing a rather fluid system involves much more than an instinctual ability to figure out movement. Players need to completely comprehend their role in their favored position. They then need to fully understand their teammates roles and how they should correspond if they find themselves in those positions. Players also need to fully comprehend each other’s movements so that for example when Kylian makes a darting run towards the left channel, Vini then knows to make an underlapping run towards the middle but to also be effective from the central position in case transitionary play breaks down. This is a much harder process imo than simply telling a young player to play on the LW or RW or RCM. Ultimately, a manager who requires this type of fluidity in function and responsibilities, is asking a player to understand the entirety of the game from various perspectives. Positional Rigidity v Fluidity are certainly different spectrums of positioning but they are not inherently more tactical or less tactical in approach. Ironically, Luis Enrique actually spoke on what I was inferring in the last DT today: Hoy le he preguntado a Luis Enrique por unas declaraciones de Cesc en las que aseguraba que el fútbol requería movimientos constantes por los marcajes individuales rivales y que el juego de posición, el de generar superioridades mediante la ocupación de espacios, estaba… pic.twitter.com/quofxYWQ6n — Andrés Onrubia Ramos (@AndiOnrubia) September 3, 2026 A high level translation of partially what he said is “I’m on the same page as Cesc. The traditional positional game, the one I know from my time at Barcelona, has disappeared. Because if you’re not capable of having movement capacity, you’re not going to surprise any team.” No one really should care as much about whether a player is a LW / ST / RW because in today’s football players quite frankly need to be versatile and flexible enough to play across the line. It’s consistent movement that breaks down low blocks not just a touchline winger who can dribble because said winger is going to beat one man and find 2-3 others simply waiting to shepherd him to the corner. Additionally, and I don’t fully know if this is valuable, we could likely have a serious debate on how positionally rigid or better yet inflexible Carlo’s system ultimately became with this current crop of players. Yes, he left many players to their own devices but this also likely led to our favorite Vini / Kylian / Rodrygo left-side of the pitch meme. I am probably poorly explaining this due to time constraints, but I’d just challenge you all to also think of whether fluid responsibility and roles is something innate or something that is actually taught. It’s likely a combination of both. But when you have a player who primarily and only wants to stay in the left channels, combined with a two players who want to drift left wards or centrally, and there are zero guardrails, you’re more likely to get a “fluid mess” with overlapping roles / responsibilities rather than what one would argue PSG has in their attacking front and even their midfield. Onto Betis. I’ll keep this rather short because the above took a bit longer than I expected. However, another match day against what is generally a serious opponent. Real journey to the Benito Villamarin to face a Real Betis squad that started bright but was recently thumped by 5 goals to Levante. I’ve surprisingly watched every Betis game besides the Levante match so the recent result is a bit of a surprise to me but the team will definitely be our toughest test to date in a La Liga campaign where dropping any points is absolutely detrimental. Expect Real Betis to be well-coached as usual by Manuel Pellegrini (a manager that I don’t believe gets enough praise for how good he’s been for a long time) and to have a formidable midfield commanded by Isco and Pablo Fornals. Considering our form, we should be able to achieve 3 points but I wouldn’t be surprised at all if this is the first game we falter. Historically, Real Madrid hasn’t won this match at Betis away since 2021…so yea it’s about time to change our fortunes 🚨 𝐈𝐓'𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐃𝐀𝐘! pic.twitter.com/MuJKufbPRf — Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 3, 2026 A Quick List Of Things I’d Love to See. Ok a quick list of things I’d love to see in this match: Jude assist to Kylian Mbappe. Yan Diomande with 30+ mins. Sergio Martinez 10+ min debut. No injuries. No Brahim starting (lol). 2 RM goals in the first half. Clean Sheet. Isco standing ovation despite Betis loss. Dean Huijsen goal. And Espi 25+ mins. Diomande is treating human beings like cones, i am too excited to see him on full display soon pic.twitter.com/ZkosPmPSoP — TwiIight (@Deezyagain_) September 3, 2026 Diomande is cooking our defenders like they’re nothing and he shoots with both feet . Pray for these La Liga defenders 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/8CMnRyUzX9 — 𝐟𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐯 (@fedevalv_) September 3, 2026 One Final Random Rambling. I wouldn’t be opposed to having this combo join Real Madrid in summer 2027 and then summer 2028/2029. 🚨Cesc Fàbregas was named coach of the year and Nico Paz won Serie A's best young player for the 2025-26 season Como is truly building something special pic.twitter.com/nShAEGk8Xq — Polymarket Sports (@PolymarketSport) September 3, 2026 🚨 Cesc Fàbregas: “Is coaching Real Madrid a red line for me? No, a red line for me would be being an assistant manager, I always wanted to be the head manager.” @COPE pic.twitter.com/6pwpX51SvL — Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) May 11, 2026 Cheers, J
- Barca Blaugranes·37d ago·Both·match
Hansi Flick, Raphinha and Xavi Espart nominated for August La Liga awards
ELCHE, SPAIN - AUGUST 23: Raphinha right winger of Barcelona and Brazil greest Hansi Flick head coach of Barcelona after was replaced during the La Liga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Elche CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero on August 23, 2026 in Elche, Spain. (Photo by Jose Hernandez/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images Barcelona boss Hansi Flick, captain Raphinha and exciting youngster Xavi Espart have all been nominated for La Liga monthly awards after making a great start to the new 2026-27 season. Flick has overseen three wins from three games, with his team beating Elche, Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano in August. The German boss has been nominated for the Coach of the Month award along with Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho and Alaves manager Quique Sánchez Flores. 👔 José Mourinho (@realmadrid) 👔 Hansi Flick (@FCBarcelona_es) 👔 Quique Sánchez Flores (@Alaves) 👉 Elige al 𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐌𝐄𝐒 de agosto en #LALIGAEASPORTS. https://t.co/sPbuaOXCk0#LALIGACOACHOFTHEMONTH | #PREMIOSLALIGA pic.twitter.com/F1I1PmWZrK — LALIGA (@LaLiga) September 2, 2026 Raphinha is up for the Player of the Month award following his impressive start to the campaign. The Brazilian superstar has scored five goals and bagged an assist in his first three matches to help Barcelona make a perfect start. 👀 ¡Estos son los nominados al 𝐉𝐔𝐆𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐌𝐄𝐒 de agosto en #LALIGAEASPORTS! 🌟 @BellinghamJude 🌟 @Auba 🌟 @Raphinha_11b 🌟 Álex Baena 🌟 Nahuel Tenagliahttps://t.co/17DN5a559a#LALIGAPOTM | @easportsfces#PREMIOSLALIGA pic.twitter.com/jAUZFdrBbr — LALIGA (@LaLiga) September 2, 2026 Former Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has also been nominated after scoring three goals in three games for newly-promoted Deportivo. Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, Atletico’s Alex Baena and Alaves defender Nahuel Tenaglia are also in contention. Espart has also been recognised for his fine start to the campaign. The defender has played his way into Barcelona’s starting XI after impressing Flick in pre-season and is up for the Under-23 Player of the Month award.
- Managing Madrid·38d ago·Both·match
Date and time set for El Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid
The first El Clásico of the season between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid will be played on October 25th with kick-off scheduled for 9pm CET, according to a report from Fabrizio Romano. This first encounter between the two favorites to conquer the 2026-27 edition of La Liga will be played at the Camp Nou. Clásicos are always extremely important for the outcome of the season, given that these two teams will be expected to battle closely for the title. As of right now, both teams have earned three consecutive wins to start the season and it looks like consistency will be crucial this year. Barcelona got a 2-0 victory on Real Madrid’s last visit to the Camp Nou, although the game was almost meaningless due to Madrid’s disastrous second half of the season.
- Barca Blaugranes·39d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal makes history in style as Barcelona star scores landmark 50th goal
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 31: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates after scoring the team's second 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 Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Lamine Yamal scored his 50th goal for Barcelona in some style on Monday night against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga at Camp Nou. The teenager fired a brilliant left-footed effort into the top corner to make it 2-1 and bring up his half century for the Catalan giants. Yamal is now the youngest player from any team in the five major leagues to reach this milestone since, at least, the 2014/15 season, according to Opta. MisterChip says it’s an all-time record, pointing out how Yamal has overtaken Raul and Fernando Torres. ‼️ALL-TIME RECORD‼️ Lamine Yamal (19 years and 49 days) is the youngest player to score 50 goals in official club competitions in the ENTIRE history of Spanish professional football. Today he overtakes Raúl González, who reached his half-century of goals with Real Madrid at 19… pic.twitter.com/Jqc9FykAA5 — MisterChip (English) (@MisterChiping) August 31, 2026 Meanwhile, Barcelona made it clear to mention how Yamal has reached 50 goals at a younger age than both Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest player in the history of Europe’s top five leagues to reach 5️⃣0️⃣ goals, surpassing Haaland and Mbappé. pic.twitter.com/NfRLVsOwR5 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 31, 2026 The goal is Yamal’s first of the season and put Barcelona in front after Rayo had stunned Camp Nou with an opening goal against the run of play. Raphinha hit back to make it 1-1 for the Catalan giants before Yamal’s stunner put Barcelona back in front after just 21 minutes of the game.
- Managing Madrid·39d ago·Both·match
Mourinho’s authority being noted at Real Madrid
MADRID, SPAIN - AUGUST 30: Jose Mourinho head coach of Real Madrid CF looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Real Madrid and Malaga CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 30, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid’s 4-0 win over Málaga continued their strong start under José Mourinho, but the discussion on Cadena SER’s Carrusel Deportivo centered less on the result and more on the change in attitude since the Portuguese coach arrived. Antonio Romero pointed to Jude Bellingham as one of the biggest beneficiaries. “Mourinho has moved him closer to the box and the team is more balanced. One of the benefits of the team being more collective is that Bellingham plays closer to the box, makes more runs into it, presses more and, therefore, is more positive for the team.” Jesús Gallego believes the biggest change has been collective commitment. “Mourinho has managed to create a different overall attitude in the team. There is a level of commitment that wasn’t there last year. Mourinho has come here to bring order to the dressing room and that order is now in place. At Madrid you have to work. No matter who you are, you have to defend, apply yourself and be selfless for the rest of the team. That has been achieved very quickly.” Bruno Alemany highlighted Mourinho’s authority as a fundamental difference compared to Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa. “There is a very big difference. I value what Xabi Alonso and Arbeloa did, but it is obvious that they don’t have Mourinho’s authority. He has seen it all, he has even won European Cups with Porto. He has nothing to lose if he is seen having a confrontation with Vinicius during a game because his career is already made.” Romero also pointed to Madrid’s increased squad depth. “This year, whoever falls asleep is out. There is also competition that wasn’t there before. Huijsen, who clearly went from more to less, had to start throughout the entire season because there was nobody else. This year, if you fall asleep…” Alemany believes managing the workload of Madrid’s veterans could also become important as the season progresses. “It is very important, and the same will happen at Barça with Rodri, to know how they will give Bernardo Silva rest. These are players who are no longer capable of starting 55 games. How they distribute the rest for those players could be very important. I wouldn’t rule out Valverde and Tchouaméni forming the double pivot in some games.”
- Managing Madrid·40d ago·Both·match
6 stats from Real Madrid 4-0 Málaga
MADRID, SPAIN - AUGUST 30: Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid CF celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Real Madrid and Malaga CF at Bernabeu stadium on August 30, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Real Madrid wrapped up their biggest win so far this season by beating Málaga at the Bernabéu on Sunday evening, courtesy of four goals from four different scorers, including an own goal from a goalkeeper, Alfonso Herrero, for the first time in La Liga since 2016. 0 – Wins for Málaga at the Bernabéu Málaga returned to the Bernabéu for the 42nd time, including the Club Deportivo who preceded the club in its current form, and their first time since November 2017, but they remain yet to ever win at the stadium. In fact, one previous visit in 2011 have José Mourinho his joint-biggest win as Real Madrid coach as Los Blancos won 7-0. Málaga have taken a point on only three visits this century, most recently in 2015 with a 0-0 draw. It is Real Madrid’s longest unbeaten streak in La Liga at home against the same opponent, surpassing Las Palmas (36 games), Elche (25), and Real Murcia (18). However, the Andalusian’s poor record goes beyond just Real Madrid’s home. Málaga have failed to win any of their last five visits to play in the city of Madrid, including a defeat to Atlético only two weeks ago. 61 – Minutes per goal involvement for Jude Bellingham this season With an impressive solo goal early on to break the deadlock, Jude Bellingham kept up his strong start to the season, with two goals and two assists now in the books. He has become the first Real Madrid player to be involved in four goals in the first three league games of a season since he did it himself back in 2023, and has now been involved in a goal in four consecutive games, his longest streak since December 2024. It wasn’t until November in 2025/26 that he reached four goal involvements. This was also only his second goal for Real Madrid to be classed as an individual goal, where he himself won possession and scored directly, after doing so against Valencia in January 2025. 4 – Times this decade Real Madrid have won their first three league games Following in the footsteps of 2022/23, 2023/24, and 2025/26, Real Madrid have won their first three consecutive league games. It may seem unsurprising, but it’s actually Real Madrid’s best record since the 1960s. Until four years ago, Real Madrid had not won three games in a row to start consecutive seasons since 1967/68 and 1968/69, in a decade where Real Madrid won their first three league games in seven out of 10 seasons. This time is also unique in that consecutive seasons had different coaches. The last time that happened was in 1956/57 under José Villalonga and 1957/58 under Luis Carniglia. It’s not new to José Mourinho, though, as he achieved it in 2011/12 on the way to securing the league title. 2,486 – Days since Real Madrid last took a 3-0 lead so early in La Liga 30 minutes for a 3-0 lead is the fastest that Real Madrid have reached that scoreline since November 9th, 2019. That day, Real Madrid had the benefit of two penalties, converted by Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos, alongside another goal from the Frenchman, to be 3-0 up in 29 minutes at Ipurua against Eibar under Zinedine Zidane. The end result was a 4-0 win, just as was the case at the Bernabéu on Sunday evening. 22 – Teams Kylian Mbappé has scored against in La Liga, out of 23 Another game and another goal keeps Kylian Mbappé top of the goalscoring charts in La Liga, and he does so by scoring against the 23rd team he has played against in the competition. Of those, he has only failed to score against one, Elche, against whom he has only played once. His favourite opponent is Real Sociedad, with seven goals in four games, followed by Villarreal (five goals in four games) and Barcelona (four goals in three games). 87 – Passes from Trent Alexander-Arnold, more than any other player In his first start under José Mourinho in competitive action, right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold didn’t shy away from the chance to make a statement as he came in for Denzel Dumfries. He recorded more touches than any other player on the field (117) and more passes (87), including creating three chances and one big chance. He also recorded Real Madrid’s first shot of the game and tested Alfonso Herrero on the hour mark with a shot from inside the box, and played nine passes into the final third.
- Managing Madrid·41d ago·Both·match
Bellingham Or Güler: Who Should Be Real Madrid’s 10?
One of the biggest questions coming into this Real Madrid season is who should start in the 10 role behind Kylian Mbappé: Jude Bellingham or Arda Güler? And while there are plenty of arguments for both to assume the attacking midfield role, Jose Mourinho seems to have come to the conclusion quickly that the Englishman will be Madrid’s most advanced midfielder this season. After the Espanyol match Mourinho alluded to that saying “what I expect from Bellingham, and for me, this is his position, is that connection with the attackers. He’s a player who can score and needs to play in a position close to goal” while adding that Jude can play as a 6 or 8 but loses that proximity to goal. In a separate interview, Mourinho also spoke about Güler eventually playing further back on the pitch saying “I believe with him it’s going to be like Luka Modrić. In the end he will end up as a number 8 and then as a 6.” Bellingham offers the greater scoring threat inside the box, his aerial ability being a facet that is greatly needed in a Madrid with little aerial threat in its forward line. And playing further forward also allows him to win long balls from Thibaut Courtois, something that Vinicius and Mbappe are not adept at doing and a strategy that has been utilized in the past against teams that press high. But Bellingham is also a superlative defender and some fear leaving him further up the pitch might diminish his box-to-box presence. That being said, Bellingham also led Madrid in successful defensive actions (interceptions, tackles won, ball recoveries, passes blocked) per 90 minutes in the opponent’s half last season. And that ability to win the ball back in dangerous positions was evident on Madrid’s third goal when Jude regained possession inside the box before finding Vinicius for a tap-in. As the graph below demonstrates, Bellingham won back possession in the final third nearly one time per match, a higher rate than all forwards and midfielders for Madrid and Barcelona last season that played at least 750 minutes. It is interesting to note that through the first two matches, only 28.4% of Bellingham’s passes have initiated from the final third of the pitch, much lower than one might expect from an attacking midfielder. That compares to 59.3% in the middle third and 12.3% in the defensive third. Jude’s goal against Espanyol did not come from him playing in the 10 role as it was from a set-piece. And on his first assist against Real Sociedad, Bellingham was involved in the build-up, receiving the ball from Valverde in the middle third of the pitch (further back than either Silva or Güler in that moment) before positioning himself at the top of the box to play the one-two for Mbappé’s second goal of the match. Güler is an exceptional passer — a shot-creating machine for teammates. The Turkish midfielder not only had the most key passes on Madrid last season with 70 in La Liga, but he also created the most big chances on the team and led all players in chances created in the Champions League with 34 despite playing only until the quarterfinal round. Güler averaged over three key passes per 90 minutes last season, one of the highest rates in Europe. And his combination with Mbappé was the most lethal partnership in La Liga and one of the best in all of Europe. Through the first two matches, Mourinho has preferred Güler to Diomande on the right wing. And the Turkish phenom has not failed to produce, distributing 12 key passes in only 142 minutes, an exceptional 7.6 chances created per 90, with eight of those passes finding teammates inside the box. Güler is also a very willing and productive presser as demonstrated last season when he was first in pressure regains per 90 minutes in La Liga through the first three months of the season and finished second on the Madrid team in total pressures and third in pressures per 90. Perhaps the best solution to where Bellingham and Güler should play on the pitch is something Xabi Alonso mentioned early last season although never truly developed, which is an interchanging of roles during each match. We have already seen this early this season with Madrid’s midfielders. For example, in the buildup to Madrid’s first goal against Real Sociedad, Güler dropped deeper to play in the double pivot with Valverde, while Bernardo Silva moved further up the pitch. In fact, the Portuguese player was the only other Madrid player inside the box when Mbappé scored. And as previously noted, Bellingham has dropped back deeper on the pitch on several occasions this season to participate in the build-up. What is clear is that the best Madrid team will have both Bellingham and Güler in the starting 11.
- Managing Madrid·41d ago·Both·match
UEFA release Real Madrid’s Champions League schedule
UEFA have published the official schedule of the 2026-27 Group Stage, so Real Madrid now know that they will make their debut in the competition with a home game against Inter Milan. CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SCHEDULE Matchday 1: Real Madrid-Inter Milan (Tuesday, September 8; 9:00 pm CEST) Matchday 2: Roma-Real Madrid (Wednesday, October 14; 9:00 pm CEST) Matchday 3: Real Madrid-Leipzig (Wednesday, October 21; 9:00 pm CEST) Matchday 4: AEK Athens-Real Madrid (Wednesday, November 4; 6:45 pm CEST) Matchday 5: Real Madrid-PSV (Tuesday, November 24; 9:00 pm CEST) Matchday 6: Arsenal-Real Madrid (Wednesday, December 9; 9:00 pm CEST) Matchday 7: Real Madrid-LASK (Tuesday, January 19; 9:00 pm CEST) Matchday 8: Shakhtar Donetsk-Real Madrid (Wednesday, January 27; 9:00 pm CEST) Source: Realmadrid.com This is a favorable schedule for Los Blancos, as they avoided tough games just a few days ahead of LaLiga games against Atlético de Madrid (September 20th) or Barcelona (October 25th).
- Guardian Football·43d ago·Both·match
Champions League 2026-27 league phase draw: Arsenal to play Real Madrid, Manchester City face PSG and Barça – as it happened
The draw in Monte Carlo throws up a blend of big-hitting ties and intriguing contests in the league phase Takes us back to the Champions League final in 2011, David. “2011 was an amazing year for me and the club!” That’s more like it! Ceferin awkwardly exits the stage after a slightly stilted chat with Henry. The former Arsenal man is sticking around to help with the draw and David Villa is joining him! Continue reading...
- Barca Blaugranes·43d ago·Both·match
Champions League 2026-27 Draw: Results, Updates, All Matches
Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images The 2026-27 UEFA Champions League League Phase Draw is finally upon us. With the 36 teams who have qualified for Europe’s top club competition now decided, it is time to find out which eight opponents they will face in the third edition of the Champions League under the new League Phase format. Barcelona are in Pot 1 as usual and will be drawn against two teams from each pot to play four home games and four away games, with the Top 8 teams in the standings automatically qualifying for the Round of 16. The draw can be watched for free on UEFA’s website and begins at 6pm CET (Barcelona), 5pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 12pm ET, 9am PT (USA), 9.30pm IST (India), and you are welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Enjoy! 2026-27 Champions League Draw Results & Updates POT 1: PSG, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Inter Milan, Manchester City, Arsenal, Barcelona, Atlético Madrid POT 2: Borussia Dortmund, AS Roma, Sporting Lisbon, Aston Villa, FC Porto, Manchester United, Club Brugge, Real Betis, PSV Eindhoven POT 3: Feyenoord, Lille, Bodo/Glimt, Napoli, RB Leipzig, Villarreal, Fenerbahçe, Shakhtar Donetsk, Galatasaray POT 4: Slavia Prague, Slovan Bratislava, Stuttgart, AEK Athens, LASK, Como, Lens, Viking, Sabah Barcelona 2026-27 Champions League Opponents HOME Manchester City Aston Villa Feyenoord Como AWAY Paris Saint-Germain Sporting Lisbon Galatasaray Sabah After a wonderful live rendition of the Champions League anthem, the event is underway. We’ll bring you all the major updates as they happen. David Villa and Thierry Henry, two of Barça’s best forwards of this century, will help with the draw. Lovely. Real Madrid vs Arsenal is the first major matchup drawn. Madrid get a pretty favorable draw otherwise. Shocker! Manchester City get PSG and… BARCELONA! We’re going up against Enzo Maresca, Erling Haaland and Co. Barça’s draw is here! We’ve got Man City at home, PSG away, Aston Villa at home, Sporting Lisbon away, Feyenoord at home, Galatasaray away, Como at home, and Sabah from Azerbaijan away. YIKES! Atlético Madrid get Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Manchester United. At least Julián Álvarez will be totally pumped for those games! Good luck to Cesc Fàbregas and Como, who get PSG, Barça and Man United on their Champions League debut. Tough draw for Villarreal with PSG, Liverpool, Man United, Dortmund, Napoli and Fenerbahçe all in their schedule. How about the draw for Champions League debutants Sabah from Azerbaijan: Barça, Arsenal, Dortmund, Man United, Napoli, Villarreal. Yikes! We’ve reached the end of today’s draw. Some very fun fixtures, and the full League Phase schedule will be released this weekend. Thanks for joining us!
- Managing Madrid·44d ago·Both·match
Jose Mourinho: “We want fans to know that we will win many games like this”
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 22: Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Real Madrid celebrates after the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between RCD Espanyol de Barcelona and Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho spoke to the media after the team’s impressive 4-1 win over Real Sociedad on Wednesday night. He was asked about the team’s performance, the whistles and how dominant they looked in the second half, to which he said: “We want fans to know that we will win many games like this, with three, four, five goals. We want them to understand that we can wait, even if it feels like we are losing, but relax, we will get there. Today, two or three changes, and we finished the game off.” Mourinho on the performance “I want to emphasize that Real Sociedad is a very good team; they caused us a lot of problems. In these matches, I wish we had the hydration break so I could talk at the 25-minute mark. They caught us by surprise. They didn’t create too many dangerous chances, but it was difficult to press them. We weren’t comfortable until we made substitutions in the second half. But we stayed calm, and in the second half, the team was very strong. One thing I don’t like to do is talk about individual players, but what Mbappé did was incredible. So much quality.” Mourinho on Kylian Mbappé “I always say that in my career I’ve coached teams with incredible players, and I’ve had teams with good players, but not the absolute best. I always say that these guys need to be taught to play as a team. Nothing individual when the team is struggling to build attacks. Kylian has a lot of ability. He doesn’t wait for the team to play to score; he drops deep to create opportunities, plays a one-two with Jude for the goal… he has a lot of quality. Obviously, Kylian had his own game, but everyone played very well: Fede, Bernardo… those who came on later, along with Cucurella… I really liked the second half. I liked the composure before the difficult moments.” Mourinho on Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr “We can talk about them, about Bernardo, about Federico… The team has been very good. We have players of a very high class who have been supportive. And people have recognized that.” Mourinho on the Bernabeu “It’s even more beautiful than it was. Winning is fantastic. Before the match, I was calm; it’s been many years. I have great players who have made me enjoy myself as a coach and as someone who loves football.” Mourinho on the first half “The first half was difficult, we weren’t lining up our press. Real Sociedad didn’t create danger, but they were well structured and hard to press. We prepared the game well, it was one of those games that’d be perfect for a hydration break but we had to wait to adjust things at half-time.” Mourinho on boos for Vinicius Jr “We already know him, and thanks to that, the pressure stems from history. Real Madrid has great players, great teams. Being a fan is one thing, being a player is another. I’m not asking for boos to turn into applause. There’s always some justification for it; people were frustrated. A few boos don’t hurt anyone; they even help you grow. There will be matches that are hard-fought to win. In Spain, there are good players, good teams; they aren’t afraid to play against good teams. In other countries, they don’t play, they defend. Real Sociedad played to win.” Mourinho on his relationship with Vinicius Jr “We speak the same language, so it’s easier to make jokes. I wouldn’t have taken him off but there was a very positive feeling after his goal, we have another game in three days and he could feel the fans’ love.” Mourinho on chants for him “I don’t like that fans sing my name. It’s about the team. I’m happy with the feeling the players and fans could have at the end, we go home with a smile and tomorrow to train because on Sunday we play Málaga.” Mourinho on sending his players to warm up in the first half “I don’t like my players warming up at half-time. They should be in the locker room getting the information they need for when they come on. That’s why I send players to warm up on 35 minutes.” Mourinho on Mbappe’s goals “Kylian is an incredible player, absolutely incredible. Whether he scores 50 or 60, well, I don’t know. I prefer 40 with a lot of hard work for the team and titles, than 60 just looking out for himself. I’m very happy with him; the group is helping the team grow. He arrived two days before his vacation ended, and that’s a positive. I left him on the pitch for 90 minutes to see if he could score four. I took Vini off when he scored.” Mourinho on being ‘angry’ with players “I shouldn’t publicly evaluate them. When you give your all, you’re not obligated to give more; it’s up to others to evaluate. I’m happy with what we’re doing, considering a difficult preseason, with some players having 39 training sessions and others only 6 or 7, like Cucurella or Diomande. It’s very difficult. It’s not easy to make the team improve more than we’re already doing. I appreciate the League’s intelligence and common sense in granting an extra week. Oyarzabal was tired five minutes into the second half; Jude could have done the same, but perhaps he’s in better physical shape. We’re not doing badly; in the end, we live by points, and we’re six out of six.”
- Managing Madrid·44d ago·Both·match
6 stats from Real Madrid 4-1 Real Sociedad
MADRID, SPAIN - AUGUST 26: Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid celebrates 4-1 during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid v Real Sociedad at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 26, 2026 in Madrid Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Kylian Mbappé did what he failed to do in La Liga in the 2025/26 season and scored a hat-trick to secure Real Madrid a 4-1 win over Real Sociedad in the first league game to be played at the Bernabéu this season. 11 – Games unbeaten at the Bernabéu for José Mourinho, with a 4,835 day break Nearly 5,000 days after he last stood on the touchline of the Bernabéu, José Mourinho returned. Mourinho’s last game at the Bernabéu, when the stadium looked very different, was a 4-2 win over Osasuna on June 1st, 2013, with José Callejón scoring the last goal of his first reign. It was a 10th successive win at the Bernabéu, beating Málaga, Real Valladolid, Borussia Dortmund, Real Betis, Levante, Galatasaray, Real Mallorca and Barcelona in the process. The last time Mourinho failed to win at the Bernabéu in the Real Madrid dugout was a 1-1 draw with Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United in the first leg last 16 of the UEFA Champions League on February 13th, 2013. 10 – Unbeaten for Real Madrid, without a win for Real Sociedad Despite the struggles of last season, it ended strongly with a run of eight games without defeat, and Real Madrid have started this season in the same way, with two wins to extend the unbeaten run in La Liga to 10 matches for Los Blancos. However, context matters. Real Sociedad are a strong side, but are in a poor run of form. Their only win since April 4th was a penalty shoot-out win over Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey final, and a 1-0 loss to Real Betis at the weekend to start the season was their ninth game in a row without a win in the league. 10 – Goals against Real Sociedad for Kylian Mbappé By opening his account for the season with a hat-trick, Kylian Mbappé added three more goals to the count against one of his favourite opponents in Spain. In doing so, he has taken only 24 shots against La Real, meaning his conversion rate against the Basque side sits at an astonishing 42% with more than two in every five attempts leading to a goal. His overall tally of nine is second only to Barcelona, against whom he has scored 12 goals. Perhaps more importantly, it also marks 89 goals for Real Madrid, putting him into the top 25 all-time goalscorers for the club and surpassing Luis Regueiro from the early 1930s. 2 – Assists for Jude Bellingham, to Mbappé and Vini in the same game for the first time With much talk in recent weeks surrounding how Mourinho will get the most out of his three superstar attackers, seeing one assist the other two in the first home game of the season will send the coach home happy. The England international only recorded four assists in the league last season and is already at half that number, recording two assists in the same game since he did so twice in three days in January 2025. It’s the fourth time he has achieved the feat for Real Madrid and the first to his superstar teammates in the same game. 1st – Real Madrid’s position in the league table after two games For the first time since 28th November 2025, Real Madrid go to sleep as the leaders of La Liga. It comes after only two games, with Los Blancos narrowly ahead of Sevilla and Real Betis on goal difference as the only three sides to have one both of their games played to date. Barcelona could overtake them, but only by beating Athletic Club at the Spotify Camp Nou on Thursday night. 51-49 – The possession split While the scoreline and the flow of the game point towards total dominance from Real Madrid, in true Mourinho fashion, the game was more about being lethal in possession rather than dominating the ball. Real Madrid had only 2% more possession than their rivals and recorded just 30 more completed passes (531 vs 501), but produced double the number of shots (20 vs 10) and more than three times the number of touches in the opposition box (46 vs 15). It wasn’t about how much of the ball Real Madrid had, but what they did with it that counted.
- Barca Blaugranes·44d ago·Both·match
Champions League 2026-27 League Phase: Full List of Teams and Pots
NYON, SWITZERLAND - NOVEMBER 7: A view of the UEFA Champions League trophy during the UEFA Champions League 2022/23 Round of 16 draw at the UEFA Headquarters, The House of the European Football, on November 7, 2022, in Nyon, Switzerland. (Photo by Kristian Skeie UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images). | UEFA via Getty Images The draw for the league phase of the 2026-27 Champions League will take place on Thursday in Monaco and will see Barcelona discover who they will face this season in Europe’s premier club competition. Hansi Flick’s side suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals last season and will be determined to improve on that showing in the coming Champions League campaign. Barcelona will be in Pot 1 for the draw along with defending champions Paris Saint-Germain, beaten finalists Arsenal and La Liga rivals Atletico and Real Madrid. Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Manchester City and Inter are also among the top-rated teams. There are also plenty of big names scattered throughout the other pots. Three-time European champions Manchester United are back in the competition and in Pot 2 along with Europa League winners Aston Villa, while the likes of Roma, Dortmund, Napoli and Porto are also in contention this year. Here’s a look at how the pots are shaping up ahead of the final round of play-off fixtures taking place later today. Which team is in each pot? Pot 1 Paris Saint-Germain Bayern Munich Real Madrid Liverpool Inter Manchester City Arsenal Barcelona Atletico Madrid. Pot 2 Borussia Dortmund Roma Sporting Aston Villa Porto Manchester United Club Brugge Real Betis PSV. Pot 3 Feyenoord Lille Napoli RB Leipzig Villarreal Shakhtar Donetsk Galatasaray. Pot 3 or 4 (to be confirmed) Bodo/Glimt LASK Sabah Slavia Prague Stuttgart Como Lens Fenerbahce or Lyon Dinamo Zagreb vs Viking Slovan Brastislava or Celje Levski Sofa or AEK Athens. How the draw works There will be 36 teams in the draw for the 2026-27 Champions League, 29 qualified automatically at the end of last season and a further seven will make their way through qualifiers that conclude this week. The 36 teams will be split into the four separate pots for the draw, with Pot 1 featuring the highest-ranked teams and Pot 4 the lowest. The rankings are based on UEFA’s club coefficients from the five-season period ending at the conclusion of 2025-26. Every team in the draw will play two teams from each pot in the league phase. Teams from the same country cannot play either other, meaning Barcelona will not face any La Liga opposition in the league phase of the competition. How far do you think Barcelona will go in this season’s Champions League? Share your predictions in the comments below!
- Managing Madrid·45d ago·Both·match
The set-pieces: Espanyol 1-2 Real Madrid
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 22: Arda Guler of Real Madrid takes a corner during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between RCD Espanyol de Barcelona and Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium last weekend saw Madrid produce eight shots from set-pieces, while Espanyol did not register a shot from theirs. Madrid had 26 dead balls during the match: nine free kicks, nine goal kicks and eight corners. They won the first contact on 12 of their 16 deliveries and won three of four aerial duels. Seven of Madrid’s eight set-piece shots came in the second phase, meaning the shot followed an initial touch rather than being the first contact from the delivery. Jude Bellingham scored from a free-kick sequence in the ninth minute. Of Madrid’s deliveries, five went into central areas and two into the six-yard box. They also delivered once each to the edge of the box, wide of the box, the left half-space and the right half-space. Madrid produced two set-piece shots in the first half and six in the second. There were 16 dead balls before half-time, with five for Espanyol and 11 for Madrid. The second half had 23, with eight for Espanyol and 15 for Madrid. Espanyol had 13 dead balls in total: 11 goal kicks and two free kicks. Their two deliveries both went into central areas. Espanyol lost the first contact on both and did not produce a shot. All 13 of Espanyol’s dead balls came while the score was level. Madrid had 21 dead balls while the game was level, producing all eight of their set-piece shots during that game state. Their other five dead balls came while they were leading.
- Managing Madrid·46d ago·Both·match
Jude Bellingham was vital to Real Madrid’s buildup against Espanyol, but Mourinho wants him close to goal
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 22: Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid celebrates after scoring their side's first goal with his teammate Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between RCD Espanyol de Barcelona and Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images José Mourinho had doubts about introducing Jude Bellingham in the starting eleven against Espanyol. The reasons were logical. He played until the latter stages of the World Cup and joined Real Madrid late. So, the physicality must be at the top to perform. “I had doubts about whether to start him or bring him on later,” Mourinho said after Real Madrid’s win over Espanyol. “I don’t know if I made the right decision, but physically and mentally he is very strong. As the game started, Bellingham seemed to be the most important piece in Real Madrid’s structure, linking defense and attack. Against Espanyol’s 4-4-2/4-2-4 medium block, Real Madrid lined up in a 3-2-5 formation, in which Arda Guler tucked in, leaving room for Denzel Dumfries to push on, whereas Carreras narrowed inside to form a situational backline of three. The home team’s front two screened Fede Valverde and Bernardo Silva. So, Real Madrid attempted to work the ball around Espanyol’s block: As the ball moved across the back line, Espanyol tended to jump and press: The White team would capitalise on Jude Bellingham’s width-drawing movements from the left half-space toward the flanks. In this scene, Carreras exploits Calatrava stepping out to block off the in-out angle in order to carry the ball through. Bellingham’s deeper movements drag Gonzalez across and give room for Kylian Mbappé to dash into the center. Additionally, Vinicius Junior pinning the opposite right-back generates space inside for Bellingham to scamper forward: The central passing lanes were closed off. Espanyol tried to funnel the play toward the flanks and jump aggressively onto the ball down the traps they set up wide. However, a couple of Real Madrid’s off-ball movements enabled Mourinho’s team to break down Espanyol’s high press. Calatrava made sure he ran from the inside toward Carreras only if the ball ended up on Real Madrid’s left side. At that moment, Valverde shifted across with Gonzalez following him, and Bellingham dashed deeper and pulled wide. Espanyol’s pivot, Gonzalez, didn’t apply heavy pressure on Valverde, while Carreras kept hold of the ball. He tended to jump on only when the pass was played to Valverde. The telos was to keep the center covered and deny the out-in entries: As a consequence, Valverde was momentarily free to play the pass from a first-time touch into Bellingham. As Vinicius Junior was pinning El Hilali to give Bellingham room to drive inside, this time he narrowed inside, drawing his marker with him and vacating the wide channels for the Englishman to gallop the length of the pitch. It’s worth mentioning that Jude Bellingham was more inclined to overcarrying, and on occasion he kept his head down, which prevented him from taking a picture of what was happening inside or delayed Real Madrid’s attack: Bellingham was smartly sneaking behind the blindside of Espanyol’s pivot Urko Gonzalez when the latter proceeded with a jump onto Valverde. Bellingham’s lateral movements between the lines opened up a passing lane between him and the backline. Dean Huijsen was able to slide line-breaking passes through Espanyol’s medium block. Below, Bellingham feeds Güler in the right half-space after he receives Huijsen’s pass. Guler finds Bernardo Silva ahead, while Mbappé’s forward run drags the backline rearward, enabling the Portuguese midfielder time on the ball to assess his options. Silva spots Dumfries’ run beyond the winger Dolan to set him up near the byline. Real Madrid had different alternatives to bypass Espanyol’s high press. With Calatrava’s emphasis on limiting the inside access, Carreras was able to find the pass to Vinicius Junior, who drops near the flanks. From there, the Brazilian could pick out passes inside because of how the hosts were set high up the pitch. Below, Riedel didn’t stick to Bellingham, as he was caught between stepping up and monitoring the space he left behind. The same for Gonzalez, who stood between Bernardo Silva and Bellingham. Additionally, Carreras would pass and move inside behind Calatrava’s blindside. So, Vinicius had multiple options to glide the ball back inside. It’s worth noting that Espanyol’s far-side winger narrowed inside toward Real Madrid’s far-side pivot, as Manolo Gonzalez’s team maintained numerical superiority at the backline. With the ability to escape the wide traps, Real Madrid could exploit the numerical inferiority on the opposite side via Bellingham stepping back and finding Dumfries racing out forward: Arriving at the box with a minimum of players, Dumfries held onto the ball, waiting for Guler and Valverde to join. The Dutch right-back providing the beyond run allowed Guler to slide the through ball, releasing him around the six-yard box: Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras were crucial to Real Madrid’s buildup as well. The former enabled the team to slice through thanks to his line-breaking passes. He also proceeded by carrying to break down Espanyol first line of the high press. In this scene, Dean Huijsen orients his body toward Courtois to deceive striker Roberto Fernandez and drive him to cut off the backward passing lane to Courtois. That vacated the space ahead for Dean Huijsen to carry forward. In the meantime, Bellingham would dash toward the left and draw Exposito with him to clear the way for Huijsen and open room for Vinicius Junior to appear. By doing so, Real Madrid was able to work the ball to the right side. Alongside the goal he scored from the indirect free kick, Jude Bellingham proved to be an efficient bridge between defense and attack via his ability to carry over distances and wriggle his way out through defensive blocks. However, Mourinho seemed to be more convinced about Bellingham playing high up the pitch to take advantage of his killer scoring instincts: “He needs to play close to the goal. He can play as a No 6 or a No 8, but he loses that proximity to the goal. When he is in top physical condition, he can give you a complete 90 minutes. We are getting to know each other, and it is better to do that without dropping points.”
- Managing Madrid·47d ago·Both·match
VIDEO: El Fayz x Managing Madrid Collab: La Liga 2026-27 predictions — Real Madrid backed to reclaim the title
The 2026-27 La Liga season is here, and with it comes another year of questions surrounding Spain’s biggest clubs, the teams looking to break into the European places, and the players who could shape the campaign. In this episode, Managing Madrid’s Kiyan Sobhani joins Faysal and Neal for a wide-ranging La Liga predictions show ahead of the new season. The discussion looks at Real Madrid’s first full campaign under José Mourinho, Barcelona’s attempt to defend their league title, and how the balance between Spain’s two biggest clubs has changed following a busy summer. The panel also goes through the rest of the league, assessing Atlético Madrid and the teams hoping to challenge near the top of the table, along with some of the clubs and players worth keeping an eye on further down the standings. There are predictions throughout the episode, disagreements over how the season could unfold, and plenty of discussion about the biggest uncertainties heading into the opening weeks of the campaign. Watch the full episode for our complete 2026-27 La Liga season predictions.
- Managing Madrid·47d ago·Both·match
Konaté’s debut shows promise
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 22: Ibrahima Konate of Real Madrid challenges for the ball with Roberto Fernandez of RCD Espanyol de Barcelona during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between RCD Espanyol de Barcelona and Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Ibrahima Konaté has barely had any pre-season time, but that did not stop Jose Mourinho from giving the French defender his first official Real Madrid start right away. The former Liverpool center-back did not disappoint. Madrid’s difficult win at the RCDE stadium that needed a last-minute winner from Carlos Espi did have a customary moment of defensive lapse, and Konaté’s positioning choice in that moment could well be called into question; however, apart from that, he was very impressive. Real Madrid have lacked consistency at center-back over the past two seasons. Éder Militão’s injuries, the fluctuating form of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba, and Raúl Asensio’s inconsistency have all prevented Madrid from finding real stability at the back. Dean Huijsen also struggled through the second half of last season. A leaner, fitter Konaté, as demonstrated against Espanyol, could address several of those concerns, provided he can stay healthy. The Frenchman delivered a reminder of the kind of no-nonsense defending Real Madrid sorely lacked from their center-backs last season. He produced a dominant defensive display against Espanyol, registering nine defensive contributions, including two tackles won, one interception and five clearances. He also made five recoveries, won eight duels and was not dribbled past once. Konaté was equally assured in possession, completing 72 of his 74 passes for a 97% success rate. Konaté is expected to make his Bernabéu debut in three days, when Real Madrid host Real Sociedad.
- Managing Madrid·47d ago·Both·match
Espanyol Manager Manolo Gonzalez: “Real Madrid’s fouls weren’t counted”
Manolo Gonzalez head coach of Espanyol during the La Liga EA Sports 2026/27 match between RCD Espanyol de Barcelona and Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Espanyol manager Manolo Gonzalez praised his team’s defensive performance while questioning the refereeing criteria following Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid. Espanyol managed to limit Real Madrid for much of the game before eventually conceding twice. Gonzalez felt his side executed its defensive plan well until the latter stages and argued that both goals came primarily from mistakes made by his own players. “Up until the 70th minute, it was what we had worked on: preventing them from getting behind us. We defended quite well. The goals were our mistakes, more than their merit. Mbappé was the most disruptive player, but the team defended well overall.” Gonzalez acknowledged that Espanyol had difficulty creating enough threat on the counter-attack, particularly as fatigue began to affect his players. His substitutions were intended to give the visitors more opportunities in transition, but Real Madrid increasingly pinned Espanyol into their own half. “We lacked a better counter-attack. The players were tired and we noticed it. The substitutions were aimed at counter-attacking, but it was harder for us to get out of our own half. When we did find them, they suffered. Defensively, we were solid.” The Espanyol coach also addressed the performance of the officials. Gonzalez made it clear that he did not believe the refereeing determined the result, but he was unhappy with what he viewed as an inconsistent standard between the two teams. “The refereeing didn’t affect the result, but what bothers me is the criteria. We’re not a team that wastes time, but every throw-in was counted against us, every foul was called for the slightest contact… Real Madrid’s fouls weren’t counted. The criteria weren’t applied equally.” Gonzalez expanded on those complaints when discussing how the game was officiated when Espanyol attempted to press Real Madrid. He also pointed to Lozano receiving a yellow card for protesting and suggested that some players are afforded more leeway when speaking to referees. “It drives you crazy under pressure. When you’re pressing, the slightest thing is a foul, but on the other side it’s not… it’s frustrating. I’m happy with the players because they protested, but they didn’t cross the line. We know what we can’t do. Some players are allowed more than others. Lozano protested and got a yellow card. There are players, not just today’s, who protest and get away with it.” Gonzalez was also asked about Jose Mourinho’s comments regarding the treatment of Vinicius Junior. The Real Madrid coach had spoken about opponents targeting the Brazilian, but Gonzalez rejected the suggestion that Espanyol had gone into the match looking to provoke or excessively foul Vinicius. “Mourinho’s comments about Vinicius getting bullied? If we can’t touch him… This is football. I didn’t see any excessive tackles on him. We can go back to the Maradona era. Nowadays, with cameras, there are no serious fouls that go unpunished. We didn’t go looking for trouble or provoke him. They’re simply part of the game. At least here we didn’t go there to provoke him.” Despite leaving without a point, Gonzalez emphasized his satisfaction with Espanyol’s defensive work and his players’ response in a difficult match, while reserving his criticism for what he believed was an uneven refereeing standard.
- Managing Madrid·48d ago·Both·match
José Mourinho: “We’re in a social era of anti-bullying, but with Vini, we’re still in the era of bullying”
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 22: Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between RCD Espanyol de Barcelona and Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid coach José Mourinho celebrated his first win since returning to the club by beating Espanyol 2-1, but one of the hot topics in the press conference was Vinícius Júnior after a series of altercations. “I run the risk of you going back months to dig up my words from when I was Vini’s opponent, but now Vini is on my team,” he admitted. “He’s no saint, but what they’re doing to him is too much. From the very first minute, it’s as if there’s already a pattern. Now I’ll foul him, now you’ll foul him, one player gets a yellow card, another comes in without one… It’s incredibly frustrating for him; he must have a lot of mental control. I’ve even told him that if he scores, he should be careful how he celebrates. We’re in a social era of anti-bullying, but with Vini, we’re still in the era of bullying.” Mourinho on the game “I think we deserved to win, but Espanyol didn’t deserve to lose. In the second half, we maintained great control and applied a lot of pressure; we took a lot of risks. We deserved to win. But a team that plays like Espanyol, that defends like that and counterattacks like that, with players pushing themselves to the limit and good organization, it’ll be tough for them to go home empty-handed. But we deserved it.” Mourinho on Real Madrid’s tactical system “You can’t ignore the team’s physical condition when talking about the system. They didn’t have anyone at the World Cup and have been working together for a long time, and you can see that in their intensity. I didn’t expect Jude to be able to play that long. When it comes to pressing the way I like, we’re short on minutes and kilometers. That’s why I value this victory so much, it’s a victory with heart, and that includes the bench. A frustrated bench doesn’t help at all, but a bench with a sense of team spirit helps you win. It was a tough game; these are three very important points.” Mourinho on Jude Bellingham “When we talk about the best in the world, Madrid has many in that group. Bellingham, Vinicius, Mbappé… They’re among them. I had doubts about Jude, whether to start him or bring him on later. I don’t know if I made the right call, but he’s very strong physically and mentally. I expect him to connect with the forwards. He has a knack for scoring; he needs to play close to the goal. He can play further back, but then we lose his proximity to the goal. I like the Jude who, with top physical condition, creates those scoring opportunities for us. And Fede can also get into that position more often, but when he plays with Bernardo, he has to focus more on him, and we lose a bit of that. We’re still getting to know each other, but we’re doing so without dropping points. That’s what matters.” Mourinho on Carlos Espí “He’s a really fun guy; we live together there in Valdebebas—we have breakfast together, lunch together, and dinner together, me, my staff, him, and Cucurella. Tomorrow is his presentation; just imagine, he’s living a dream. But he doesn’t work like someone with his head in the clouds, he works incredibly hard. He has everything it takes to score; he’s an outstanding player. When we saw that Gonzalo might be leaving for Fulham, we analyzed the situation carefully, and we’re very happy with him. We need someone like him in these kinds of matches.” Mourinho on referee José María Sánchez Martínez “He had a great game, but from my view the bench. Then again, I might see him in the office later and change my mind. No VAR at all, nothing that could have decided the match.” Mourinho on the new players “The difficult part is that you start the match with eleven players and have twelve on the bench. I can’t fix that; I can’t perform a miracle, I’ve told the players that. We have to fight against the frustration of not playing; they need to understand that it breaks my heart to leave people out. If they don’t work hard, it’s easier for me. The five who came on did so to help, with a good attitude. That’s how it has to be. Not even in friendlies can Madrid afford not to fight to win. We’ll lose games, I hope not too many. But Madrid is competing in four tournaments and must always take them seriously. And you can’t do that with just ten players.”
- Managing Madrid·48d ago·Both·match
Immediate Reaction: Espanyol 1-2 Real Madrid
Espanyol 1-2 Real Madrid (Bellingham & Espí). A late win on day one… This is my immediate reaction to the first game. Coming up: Player ratings, interviews and a post game podcast. The 2026/27 season is here, and a trip to Barcelona to face Espanyol was up first for Real Madrid in La Liga. José Mourinho handed debuts to Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, and Bernardo Silva. Álvaro Carreras was preferred at left-back, and Arda Güler found a place on the pitch in offence. Four Castilla players made the bench, and Fede Valverde captained the team. Thoughts on Real Madrid’s starting XI vs Espanyol? pic.twitter.com/Erjf1nLuTb — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) August 22, 2026 Real Madrid started brightly, pushing the ball forward with a number of intricate touches and individual dribbles. Their passing was not overly progressive and they weren’t putting Espanyol to the sword, but they were in control – and took a lead after Jude Bellingham headed home an Arda Güler free-kick. Espanyol had a small amount of quality, but did not look overly imposing – yet still managed to grab an equaliser before half-time after a low ball was played into the area. Half-time, 1-1. If Espi and Diomande come in, will they come in for the players that should be taken off? Or the players who will complain the least? That's the question we're all waiting to see the answer to. — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) August 22, 2026 Real Madrid still looked the stronger side in the second-half, but Espanyol provided more of a threat down the other end. Performance levels started to tire, and the usual concerns fans were hoping to leave behind last season began to creep in. Reinforcements were brought in through Yan Diomande and Marc Cucurella before Fede Valverde hit the post after taking a great first time attempt. Espanyol began to sit back to cement the draw, and it looked like they were going to come away with it – until Carlos Espí scored a debut goal with a number of bodies surrounding the goal. Real Madrid claimed the late victory with the final score reading 1-2. What did you think about the season opener?
- Managing Madrid·48d ago·Both·match
CONFIRMED lineups: Espanyol vs Real Madrid, 2026 La Liga
Real Madrid have published their starting lineup for the upcoming match against Espanyol in the season opener. STARTING LINEUPS View this post on Instagram Espanyol starting XI (TBC): Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Riedel, Unai Núlez, Hinojo; Urko, Edu Expósito; Calatrava, Javier Hernández, Dolan; Roberto. Real Madrid starting XI: Courtois; Dumfries, Konaté, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Bernardo Silva; Bellingham, Güler, Vinicius; Mbappé. Espanyol earned the three points with a 3-0 victory on their own season opener against Levante. This will not be an easy game for Real Madrid, who will have to perform at a high level if they want to get the win. HOW TO WATCH, STREAM LA LIGA Date: 08/22/2026 Time: 21:30 CEST, 03:30pm EST. Venue: Cornellá-El Prat, Barcelona, Spain. Available TV: DAZN La Liga (Spain), ESPN Deportes (USA). Available Streaming: ESPN+ (USA) Managing Madrid has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence editorial content, though Vox Media may earn commissions for products purchased via affiliate links.
- Managing Madrid·48d ago·Both·match
Espanyol vs Real Madrid 2026 live stream: Time, TV channels and how to watch La Liga online
José Mourinho returns to Real Madrid. Can he inject some life in the club’s veins after two trophy-less seasons? Don’t miss it! PREDICTED LINEUPS Espanyol predicted XI: Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Riedel, Unai Núlez, Hinojo; Urko, Edu Expósito; Calatrava, Javier Hernández, Dolan; Roberto. Real Madrid predicted XI: Coutois; Trent, Konaté, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Bernardo Silva; Brahim, Güler, Vinicius; Mbappé. Players like Cucurella, Bellingham or Diomandé still need to improve their conditioning since they only played one preseason friendly, so this could be a good opportunity for Mourinho to reward Carreras, Güler and Brahim after their quality performances during the summer. HOW TO WATCH, STREAM LA LIGA Date: 08/22/2026 Time: 21:30 CEST, 03:30pm EST. Venue: Cornellá-El Prat, Barcelona, Spain. Available TV: DAZN La Liga (Spain), ESPN Deportes (USA). Available Streaming: ESPN+ (USA) Managing Madrid has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence editorial content, though Vox Media may earn commissions for products purchased via affiliate links.
- Managing Madrid·48d ago·Both·match
Espanyol vs Real Madrid, 2026 La Liga: Predicted lineups
Real Madrid visit Espanyol in what will be the season opener for Los Blancos. This is the start of a new era for Madrid, who are hoping to improve their chemistry issues now that José Mourinho is in charge. Tchouameni is not available but it will be interesting to see who Mourinho deploys on the field. Will Arda Güler start after a magnificent preseason? PREDICTED LINEUPS Espanyol predicted XI: Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Riedel, Unai Núlez, Hinojo; Urko, Edu Expósito; Calatrava, Javier Hernández, Dolan; Roberto. Real Madrid predicted XI: Coutois; Trent, Konaté, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Bernardo Silva; Brahim, Güler, Vinicius; Mbappé. Players like Cucurella, Bellingham or Diomandé still need to improve their conditioning since they only played one preseason friendly, so this could be a good opportunity for Mourinho to reward Carreras, Güler and Brahim after their quality performances during the summer. HOW TO WATCH, STREAM LA LIGA Date: 08/22/2026 Time: 21:30 CEST, 03:30pm EST. Venue: Cornellá-El Prat, Barcelona, Spain. Available TV: DAZN La Liga (Spain), ESPN Deportes (USA). Available Streaming: ESPN+ (USA) Managing Madrid has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence editorial content, though Vox Media may earn commissions for products purchased via affiliate links.