Real Madrid & Barcelona News
Latest headlines pulled from major football outlets. Click any story to read it on the source site.
- Barca Blaugranes·7h ago·Both·match
‘Lamine Yamal is a player people pay to watch’ – Vinicius Jr piles praise on Barcelona star
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 Vinicius Jr has showered Barcelona star Lamine Yamal with praise and says he’s the type of player that people are happy to pay to watch. Yamal has thrilled the football world since bursting onto the scene as a 15-year-old. The forward has already won La Liga and Copa del Rey titles with Barca as well as the European Championship with Spain. Barca’s No. 10 is now heading to the World Cup with La Roja, with Vinicius’s praise ringing in his ears. “Lamine is one of those players people pay to see play. He’s a great player and very difficult to play against. I’m sure he admires the Real Madrid players too,” he told Caze TV. Vini also spoke about another trophyless season for Madrid after seeing Barca finish top of the pile again in La Liga. “It’s been a very difficult season. We started well, with a gap between us and Barça, but then we started losing and drawing games we shouldn’t have,” he added. We lost confidence and Barça kept winning. It’s the first time I’ve gone two seasons without a win; we failed. We have a team that can win next year. Real Madrid always comes back. My first year was also very difficult, when Cristiano left.” Hansi Flick will be aiming to make it three titles in a row next season, while Madrid are expected to turn to Jose Mourino once again as manager.
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both·match
Hansi Flick asks Barcelona for new fitness coach to fix injury problems
Hansi Flick head coach of Barcelona and his players during Barcelona´s training ahead to the Spanish Super Cup final match between FC BArcelona and Real Madrid at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Hansi Flick wants to make a key change to his coaching set-up in the summer at Barcelona and has asked the club to appoint a new fitness coach. The German coach is to lose Thiago Alcântara and fellow coach Stephan Nopp this summer. Flick has asked Barca for reinforcements, specifically a fitness coach, but is still waiting for his request to be approved, per AS. The head of the team’s fitness staff Julio Tous is set to stay on but may see his role affected. Flick wants to make the change after seeing his team beset by injuries in the 2025-26 season. The report says the “evident lack of physical conditioning” is believed to be one reason for the club’s fitness problems. Flick is eager to do all he can to win the Champions League next season and “wants to implement a substantial change in physical preparation” in a bid to land the European Cup. It’s been reported throughout the season that some Barcelona players have complained about the physical preparation and fitness work at the club and have been using their own physios.
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both·match
Hard work and perseverance pay off for Gavi and Eric Garcia as Barcelona stars earn deserved World Cup 2026 spots
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Gavi of FC Barcelona celebrates after defeating Real Madrid CF, and winning the LaLiga title, after the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Monday saw Luis de la Fuente announce his Spain squad for the forthcoming World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. After a successful season for Barcelona, the players will have expected to at least be in the mix to be on the plane, though such decisions are always fraught for an international manager, and there will always be those that are disappointed. With eight players in the squad, Barca have the most from one club, evoking memories of the golden era of Spanish football between 2008 and 2012. Two of the Blaugranes chosen to represent La Roja can’t have deserved it more, either. After the immense disappointment of missing out on the 2024 European Championship and Olympic Games squads because of injury, and notwithstanding another serious problem that kept him out for months recently, Gavi has been reborn in the latter half of the current season. Back to his old devilish self, it’s been a joy for supporters to see him mixing it with the best that Spanish and European football have to offer, and, as importantly, to be doing so at a similar level to that which he displayed pre his ACL. Eric Garcia’s inclusion is a testament to the hard work that he’s put in, and it isn’t a stretch to say that he’s been arguably Barca’s most reliable player this season. Had he not been selected on this occasion, it would’ve been a travesty, and questions would’ve again been asked of De la Fuente, who doesn’t enjoy unanimous support in the corridors of power at Camp Nou. One player who must be ruing his luck is Fermin Lopez. The 23-year-old enjoyed another excellent campaign for the Blaugranes, scoring 13 goals and providing 17 assists in 48 matches in all competitions during 2025/26. Though Fermin would certainly have had reasonable competition in the midfield area to earn a selection, and surely wouldn’t begrudge Pedri and Gavi being on the plane in any event, breaking a bone in his foot against Real Betis ensured he’d play no part in the tournament. Only De la Fuente will know why Unai Simon retains the goalkeeper’s jersey when it’s clear that both David Raya and, particularly, Barca’s Joan Garcia have been head and shoulders above him in the current campaign. For his shot-stopping, reflexes, bravery and ability with both feet, there’s simply no cogent reason why Garcia isn’t the new No.1 already. Pau Cubarsi has deservedly booked his spot, and given an almighty amount of experience at the top level already, it’s often forgotten that he’s still just 19 years of age. A solid addition, and a player who will only improve. Lamine Yamal was always going to make the cut unless he was injured, and if Spain go deep into the tournament, expect some magic from the twinkle-toed teenager. Joining Lamine as part of the Spanish attacking eight to travel to the showpiece are Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo. Both have had their moments in 25/26, though one might also contend that they’ve also not been at their best for long periods. If nothing else, their selection could bring them some individual confidence, and away from the daily rigours of club football, La Roja might just be able to bring the best out of them. Ultimately, eight players from the same club is a ringing endorsement that Barca are again doing things right, and that can only be great for club and country in the longer term. In contrast, Real Madrid have no representatives in this squad for some sort of context.
- Managing Madrid·2d ago·Both·match
Real Madrid Juvenil A thrash Barcelona to win the Champions Cup
Real Madrid’s Juvenil A team came back from a goal down to defeat rivals Barcelona 4-1 in the Champions Cup, held at the Municipal El Val on Sunday. Goals from Carlos Diez, Alexis Ciria, Yeremiah and Gabri Valero in the second half overturned the 1-0 deficit from the first half, as the youngsters from the Cantera went on to pick up the ninth Champions Cup in the category’s history. In a game that was fairly even at the break, Real Madrid were able to impose themselves onto Barcelona a bit more in the second half, especially after Barcelona’s Ïu Martinez received a second yellow for a wild challenge on Lacosta. Valero was impressive throughout the match, as he not only picked up the goal, but was also involved in the equaliser and had a generally good game. The Juvenil A became the first team in Spanish football history to win the Champions Cup, the league and the UEFA Youth League in the same season with the huge victory.
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both·match
‘His attitude and mentality are incredible’ – Hansi Flick hails Gerard Martin but still wants more from Barcelona defender
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona is embrace by Gerard Martin of FC Barcelona after defeating Real Madrid, and winning the LaLiga title, after the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has been full of praise for Gerard Martin but still wants more from the defender next season. Martin has switched from left-back to center-back this season and has impressed in the heart of the Barcelona backline. Flick says his rise through the ranks at Barcelona deserves huge credit but feels the 24-year-old can get even better. “He has everything he needs to play in this position. His attitude and mentality are incredible. He has improved a lot. When you look at the numbers, it’s impressive. I’m happy for him, for us, and for the club,” he told reporters after Barca’s final game of the season. “For a player to come in from Barça Atlètic and perform like this in his second season is incredible, it’s great to see. It’s what I want from him. His mentality and attitude are exactly what Barça needs. “Next season he has to take a step forward. We’re working on it. He’s ready to do it. He’s 100% committed to this.” Barcelona had been tipped to spend big on a center-back this summer but that talk has cooled recently which could be good news for Martin. The club’s priority currently is to bring in replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·match
Barcelona sent strong message after ‘exploratory’ talks with Chelsea for Joao Pedro
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Joao Pedro of Chelsea during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Chelsea and Manchester City on May 16, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona have reportedly held “exploratory talks” with Chelsea over a potential summer move for Joao Pedro but have been told there is “no price” that will convince the Blues to part ways with the Brazilian. Pedro has emerged as an alternative to Julian Alvarez as Barcelona search for a replacement for outgoing striker Robert Lewandowski. Reporter Ben Jacobs says that Barcelona’s interest is “genuine” but has played down talk of a possible move to Barcelona. He posted on X: “Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell. There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.” Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell. There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/z2x8va9I3M — Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) May 24, 2026 Pedro joined Chelsea last summer from Brighton for £60 million and he’s had a good season at Stamford Bridge, scoring 20 goals in all competitions. New manager Xabi Alonso didn’t rule out an exit for Pedro when asked about the recent speculation, but it looks like the Blues really don’t want to sell and Barca will have to look elsewhere.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·match
‘Ready to face anyone’ – Hansi Flick issues strong response to Jose Mourinho question after Barcelona’s final game
VALENCIA, SPAIN - MAY 23: Hans-Dieter Flick head coach of FC Barcelona looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Valencia CF and FC Barcelona at Estadi de Mestalla on May 23, 2026 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Omar Arnau/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Hansi Flick was quizzed on the possibility of coming up against Jose Mourinho next season if the 63-year-old takes over at rivals Real Madrid. Mourinho is expected to replace Alvaro Arbeloa as coach and return to the Santiago Bernabeu for another spell as coach. Flick was asked what he felt about taking on the so-called ‘Special One’ and says he’d welcome the challenge. “Yes, why not? He’s the opposing team’s coach, and I’m always ready to face anyone,” he said after Barcelona’s final game of the season against Valencia. Flick also spoke about his team’s performance and admitted his team hadn’t been at their best at Mestalla. “We made some rather easy mistakes after going down 0-1, and they capitalized on them to score the goals that gave them the victory,” he added. “This defeat doesn’t affect the season we’ve had, which ended with the title. We accept the result because Valencia’s victory was more than deserved. It was clear they had more to play for. “We have to understand that the World Cup is coming up and that’s a dream for any footballer. It’s understandable that the players have focused a bit more on that important goal, and I have to understand that. “Now I have to analyze things to improve in the future. There were things today that weren’t quite right, but the season has been good, we’re champions, and now we’re going on vacation to prepare for another season.” While most of Barca’s players will now switch to World Cup mode, the boss will be able to have a well-deserved break before beginning plans for next season.
- Football España·5d ago·Both·match
“I give little important to Joan Laporta’s words” – Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has dismissed the words of Barcelona President Joan Laporta, who has claimed that their complaints about the Negreira case are a smokescreen to distract from their own failures on the pitch in the last two seasons. Arbeloa also discussed Dani Carvajal’s exit from the club. Following Laporta’s statements on Friday […] The post “I give little important to Joan Laporta’s words” – Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
‘Farcial but strategic’ – Joan Laporta hits back at Florentino Perez for trying to ‘use Barcelona in a grotesque way’
Joan laporta Barcelona president and Florentino Perez Real Madrid President 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 Barcelona president Joan Laporta has hit back at Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez and his recent bizarre rant against referees when he claimed his club had “seven league titles were stolen” from them. Laporta has had some strong words in response and says that Perez is hitting out in a bid to distract from Madrid’s trophyless run. “I think it was farcical, but it was strategic. The one I told you about… it was meant to divert attention from two years without winning anything, and this has them very worried,” he told reporters at the Koeman Cup. “Somehow they have to justify the unjustifiable, and the best way is to stir up trouble and throw everything at Barcelona. We’re not going to allow this. I’m sure we at the club will react. “As long as they don’t use Barça to cover up their problems, I respect him. When they use Barça, we react. In that press conference, they tried to use Barça in a grotesque way, spreading falsehoods about a certain issue, stating things that aren’t true.” Barca wrap up another successful league season on Saturday night against Valencia, while Real Madrid host Athletic Club.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
Barcelona edging closer to buying Hamza Abdelkarim permanently
Photo by Sayed Hassan/Getty Images Hamza Abdelkarim is forcing Barcelona to make a quick decision on his future. According to Mundo Deportivo, club sources admit that executing his permanent purchase option is now highly likely, even if the board has not officially announced the move. The striker arrives at this turning point after a wild week where he made Egypt’s 27-man preliminary FIFA World Cup squad and immediately followed it up by scoring a brilliant chipped goal to beat UD Las Palmas 2-0 on Thursday night. The permanent clause is reportedly worth €3 million, plus up to €5 million including bonuses. Due to his rise and evident talent, Barcelona’s top brass is strongly leaning towards making the move permanent, according to rumor. What’s unusual is that bureaucratic paperwork has actually blocked him from playing under Juliano Belletti for Barça Atlètic. He has spent his entire stint since arriving in February tucked away in Pol Planas’s U19 setup instead. Some say that Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan took a massive gamble by naming an academy player to a World Cup roster. But the Egyptian federation had sent scouts to follow his progress for weeks, and if he survives the final squad cut, the 18-year-old will share a tournament dressing room with stars such as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush. We saw exactly why the national team is paying attention during the semifinal win in Alcalá de Henares. In the 41st minute, Quim Junyent created an opening with a quick bit of skill, Orian Goren slid a pass into the channel, and Hamza subtly lifted the ball over the keeper with his right foot. Winger Álex González scored a second late in the game to guarantee a youth Clásico against Real Madrid this Sunday. Hamza has been dynamic ever since Barcelona became aware of him at the U17 World Cup in Qatar late last year. He adjusted to European football almost instantly, finishing the regular season in early May with a 15-minute hat-trick during a 9-0 thrashing of Montecarlo.
- Managing Madrid·6d ago·Both·match
On This Day in 1998: La Septima
Real Madrid celebrate wining the match (Photo by Tony Marshall/EMPICS via Getty Images) | PA Images via Getty Images 28 years ago tonight, in Amsterdam, Real Madrid won the European Cup for the seventh time and the first since 1966. Nobody outside the dressing room thought it was coming. Madrid had finished fourth in La Liga, 11 points behind Barcelona. Juventus were in their third Champions League final in a row. At Juventus, Marcello Lippi had Zinedine Zidane, Alessandro Del Piero, Edgar Davids, and Didier Deschamps. LA SÉPTIMA. 20/05/1998 pic.twitter.com/7ROMKfOS3W — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) May 20, 2026 The goal came in the 66th minute. Roberto Carlos drove in from the left, the shot was blocked, the ball squirted out to Predrag Mijatović, and from a tight angle, he lifted it past Angelo Peruzzi. Juve never recovered. Thirty-two years. Six European Cups that most of the people in the stadium had only ever seen in black and white. Mijatović himself, years later, said winning it was “like passing from black and white into colour.” Heynckes was sacked within a fortnight. Fourth in La Liga, the board decided, was unforgivable. He went and won it again with Bayern in 2013. Real Madrid have won eight more Champions League titles since then.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·match
‘We’ll miss him terribly’ – Frenkie de Jong talks Robert Lewandowski’s Barcelona exit
Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong celebrate the La Liga title after the match against Real Madrid CF, corresponding to week 35 of LaLiga EA Sports, at the Spotify Camp Nou in Barcelona, Spain, on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona midfielder Frankie de Jong says his team are going to really miss Robert Lewandowski after he leaves at the end of the season. The 37-year-old is moving on after four excellent seasons with the Catalans and De Jong knows he will be a big loss. “We’re going to miss him terribly. I think he’s scored 70 goals in four seasons. And besides that, he’s been an absolute role model for how he takes care of himself and how he does everything possible to stay in top physical condition,” he told Sport. “Seeing him like that at 37 is impressive. I think he’s been very important these past four years, especially for the young players coming up to the first team. “Having the example of someone like Robert, who has won everything, and seeing how he trains and takes care of himself, has been very important for us.” Lewandowksi will play his final game for Barcelona on Saturday against Valencia in La Liga. Barca will then spend the summer trying to bring in a replacement for the Poland international.