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Barca Blaugranes·3h ago·Barcelona·opinion
Hansi Flick: Lamine Yamal ‘will be the best in the world if he isn’t already’
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates a goal 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 boss Hansi Flick has given his opinion on Lamine Yamal, who is considered one of the favorites for the Ballon d’Or, which is given to the best player in world football. “He will be the best player in the world, if he isn’t already. He is right up there, very close,” he said during the pre-match press conference prior to Barcelona’s match against Getafe. “If he keeps going like this—striving to improve and maintaining this mindset—he’ll do wonderfully.” It’s Barcelona’s first match after a long international break that Flick admitted he was not a fan of. “Such a long break is part of our job. I don’t like it, but I can’t change it. We aren’t the only ones; the other teams are in the same boat, so all that’s left is to focus on the next match,“ he said. Yamal was active during the international break with FIFA World Cup champions Spain. They defeated England 3-2 with Yamal scoring. He also scored twice and assisted once in a 4-1 win over Croatia at home, as well as getting a goal against Czechia in a 3-1 win. The only match he did not get a goal contribution in was a 2-1 win over Croatia in the return fixture in Split. “He’s playing at a fantastic level, including with Spain. I saw him in London; I was there,” Flicks aid. It remains to be seen how much rest he will get after the international fixtures, but Flick said Yamal and other youngsters like Pau Cubarsí may be able to play more minutes than other players returning from games with their nations. “You have to look at the players from a different perspective. Cubarsí and Lamine are young and recover faster. If he plays 60 or 70 minutes, that’s already good—though I understand he wants to play the whole match,” he said.
Barca Blaugranes·8h ago·Barcelona·opinion
What is your favorite Pedro memory as a Barcelona fan?
Photo by Jasper Juinen - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images | FIFA via Getty Images Barcelona legend Pedro Rodríguez announced his retirement this week, bringing an end to a great career for the La Masia product who was an important part of the most glorious period in the club’s history. The do-it-all forward became a key starter in Pep Guardiola’s historic teams and then became a very important depth piece for the ‘MSN’ trio under Luis Enrique, and he always came up with huge goals in big moments. Pedro famously scored in all six tournaments in Barça’s historic 2009 Sextuple, including a last-minute equalizer in the 2009 Club World Cup Final against Estudiantes, and he also scored the winning goal in an unforgettable 5-4 win against Sevilla in the 2015 UEFA Super Cup. ‘Pedrito’ was always one of my favorite players who never quite got the credit for his contributions since he was always surrounded by historically great talent, but Barça fans will always remember him fondly. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: What is your favorite Pedro memory as a Barcelona fan? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·1d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Which Barcelona player benefited the most from the international break?
OVIEDO, SPAIN - OCTOBER 03: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Czech Republic at Carlos Tartiere stadium on October 03, 2026, in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo By Irina R. H./Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Barcelona’s players enjoyed a busy international break with most of the squad spending the three weeks away from the club with their national teams. Lamine Yamal dazzled with Spain, scoring three times and grabbing an assist, while Anthony Gordon also caught the eye with some exciting performances for England. Joao Cancelo was also in the goals for Portugal. The full-back smashed home another banger to add to his collection against Norway and was also on target in the 4-2 victory over Denmark. Elsewhere, Pedri, Rodri, Pau Cubarsi, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez saw game time with Spain but saw their game time managed by manager Luis de la Fuente. And of course players not called up, such as Gabriel Jesus, Gavi and Gerard Martin, were given time off to rest and recuperate ahead of a busy month of fixtures in October. The break also allowed Joan Garcia time to recover from the knee injury that forced him onto the sidelines, while Frenkie de Jong has taken a step forward in his recovery and is nearing a return to action. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Which Barcelona player benefited the most from the international break? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Where does Frenkie de Jong fit in at Barcelona when fit?
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Frenkie de Jong of FC Barcelona poses during the official UEFA Champions League 2026/27 portrait session on August 29, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Frenkie de Jong is back in full training with Barcelona and hoping to make a comeback shortly from a knee injury that means he’s not featured at all for Hansi Flick’s side this season. Barca enjoyed a perfect start to the season without De Jong before the international break, winning all eight matches and scoring goals for fun. The arrival of Rodri in the summer from Manchester City, means that De Jong hasn’t really been missed during his time on the sidelines. Indeed the Dutchman looks like facing a real battle for minutes when he returns given Flick also has Pedri, Gavi, Marc Bernal, Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez and young Brian Farinas in his first-team squad. The situation has even led to online debate about whether Frenkie even has a place still at Barca. A recent poll from Catalunya Radio’s Onze show had ‘no’ winning by 80% when fans were asked to respond to that particular question. 🤔 Frenkie de Jong té lloc en aquest Barça? — Onze (@OnzeTv3) October 6, 2026 Rumors that Barca could look to sell De Jong have already returned but aren’t likely to bother the midfielder who has had to put up with such talk throughout his Barcelona career. The big question now is where does De Jong fit in when he does return? Can he fight his way back and become a regular under Flick once more or might he have to settle for a bench role? So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Where does Frenkie de Jong fit in at Barcelona once he’s fully fit again? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
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Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Can Jules Kounde force his way back into Hansi Flick’s starting XI at Barcelona?
Jules Kounde sits on the bench 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 Jules Kounde spoke about his situation at Barcelona over the weekend, admitting that he hadn’t been up to scratch for the Catalan giants and saying that’s the reason why he’s lost his place in the starting XI. It was refreshing to see such honesty from a player, with Kounde adding that he was confident that he can force his way back into the reckoning in the future. “If I have less playing time, it’s due to last season, which was far below my standards. It’s a consequence and a challenge that I gladly accept,” he told reporters. “I’ll have to work, which is what I normally do. It’s up to me to rediscover my best form. I know that when I’m at my best, I’ll get playing time.” Kounde has enjoyed game time over the international break, featuring for France against Turkiye and Belgium in the Nations League and will now be hoping he can play more at Barca. Eric Garcia is currently Hansi Flick’s first choice at right-back, while Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart are also options for Barcelona even though both have been playing on the opposite flank this season. There’s no doubt that Kounde at his best is a quality player but convincing Flick – who has handed him just three starts so far this season – he deserves more game time might be tricky. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Do you believe Jules Kounde can force his way back into the starting XI at Barcelona? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Has Anthony Gordon unlocked his best version since moving to Barcelona?
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images | Getty Images Anthony Gordon continued his red-hot form on Saturday as the Barcelona winger scored a goal and assisted another as England destroyed Croatia in their Nations League clash. Gordon has four goals in his last four England appearances and has carried over the excellent form he showed in his first few weeks at Barça, and he’s earned plenty of praise from the English press and his international teammates as well. England captain Harry Kane said this week that Gordon is enjoying his role as one of the “main men’ in the side, and it looks like the switch from Newcastle to Catalonia has given Gordon validation and has helped him find a whole new level of performances for both club and country. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Has Anthony Gordon unlocked his best version since moving to Barcelona? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Guardian Football·9d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘I am here more than ever’: Guardiola backs Manchester City owners over guilty verdicts
I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club’ Former City chair Bernstein calls for directors to quit Pep Guardiola has thrown his support behind Manchester City after the club were found guilty of all charges of breaching Premier League financial rules over a nine-year period, telling fans: “We will get through this together”. Guardiola left City in the summer after a trophy-laden decade in charge, with the period of his first two seasons part of the investigation ruled on by an independent commission. The Spaniard remains a close ally of the chief executive, Ferran Soriano, who brought him to England, the pair having previously worked together at Barcelona. City maintain their innocence and are set to appeal against the decision before Friday’s deadline. Continue reading...
Barca Blaugranes·11d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Lamine Yamal shows up England and Harry Kane with standout show for Spain
Spain's striker #19 Lamine Yamal (R) celebrates scoring the team's first goal during the UEFA Nations League, League A - Group 3, football match between England and the Spain at Wembley Stadium in London on September 26, 2026. (Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP via Getty Images) / NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE | AFP via Getty Images We shouldn’t really be surprised that the English media were rattling a few cages before Saturday night’s Wembley thriller between England and Spain. Lamine Yamal has long since needed to prove that he has what it takes to be a success in the game, and yet the column inches were filled with the usual tropes. ‘Could he do it on a wet Wednesday in Stoke?’ and ‘he couldn’t do it week in and week out in the Premier League’ … Not only is it a boring narrative, but it completely misses the mark. Lamine could do it just about anywhere in any weather, and as he showed within two minutes of the kick-off, he can certainly do it against quality Premier League defenders. It wasn’t that long ago that Lionel Messi was subjected to the same nonsense, conveniently bypassing the fact that English opponents were generally unable to stop him in a Champions League game. Both the 2009 and 2011 finals against Manchester United come to mind, as do the games against Arsenal and Chelsea. In fact, the list is practically endless, and Lamine will soon be in the same category. There was an elegance and purpose to his game against the Three Lions that saw him ease past his markers as and when he felt the need. His passing accuracy was on point, and if this was supposed to be a precursor to the Ballon d’Or, then Harry Kane might want to put his tux away again, because he was completely outshone on the night. Nothing that Lamine did will have come as a surprise to culers and watchers of La Liga more generally, but there’s a certain section of supporters and media entities that still can’t get away from the notion that the Premier League is the best in the world, and so until a player plays there, they can’t truly be considered world-class. As a product, the EPL might well be light years beyond the competition, and Javier Tebas could certainly learn a thing or two in that regard, but there’s a reason why many of the best players in the world still want to play in the Spanish top flight. Seeing Lamine in his element at Wembley, where he looked relaxed and confident, will have been an absolute joy for all culers. As long as he remains injury-free in the current international break and comes back with all guns blazing as the Champions League and La Liga return, all’s well that ends well. Perhaps the English media might then be forced into putting their poison pens away and writing about what’s staring them in the face as a result. We can but hope!
Barca Blaugranes·11d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Is there any cause for concern at Barcelona after perfect start to the season?
Raphinha Dias Belloli of FC Barcelona celebrates a goal during the La Liga EA Sports match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan in Seville, Spain, on September 19, 2026. (Photo by Jose Luis Contreras/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona have been in eye-catching form at the start of the season and have swept all before them so far both in La Liga and the Champions League. Eight straight victories have been delivered, a total of 36 goals scored and just eight conceded for Hansi Flick’s side so far. There’s certainly a lot to feel good about right now with La Liga paused due to the international break but is everything absolutely perfect at Barcelona? Are there still things that the Catalans could do better or any weaknesses in the squad that still need addressing as Barca aim to fight on all fronts once again? We want to know what you think. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Does anything worry you about Hansi Flick’s Barcelona after a perfect start to the 2026-27 season? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·14d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘Ballon d’Or of our hearts’ – Barcelona legend Samuel Eto’o sends message to Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates a goal 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 legend Samuel Eto’o has wished Lamine Yamal luck in the battle to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Yamal is in the running for the prize after a season where he won La Liga with Barcelona and the World Cup with Spain. Eto’o is hoping the teenager will be crowned the best player on the planet next month and has sent out a message to the Barcelona star. “Genius, Bold, Talented…Best of luck in this Ballon d’Or race. But whatever the verdict is, one thing is certain: just like Ousmane, you are already the Ballon d’Or of our hearts. Keep making us dream,” he wrote on Instagram. View this post on Instagram Yamal has spoken a few times publicly about his desire to win the Ballon d’Or which has subsequently drawn criticism from some quarters. However, the Barcelona star says he is only saying what he thinks. “They ask footballers to be honest, then I say what I think… and they say, ‘But how can he say that?’ People ask for things they don’t want. I’m not going to change who I am until I retire, and I’m not going to say anything I don’t believe,” he told Teledeporte. The winner of the Ballon d’Or will be announced on Monday, October 26th.
Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Which player has improved most under Hansi Flick at Barcelona?
SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona, looks on during the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium on September 19, 2026, in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo By Joaquin Corchero/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Hansi Flick has had a huge impact at Barcelona since taking over as first-team coach and replacing Xavi Hernandez in the Camp Nou hotseat in 2024. The German coach has won two La Liga titles, the Copa del Rey and two Spanish Super Cup crowns. He also has Barcelona playing arguably the most exciting attacking football in the world right now. Flick has also worked wonders with several players, with the likes of Eric Garcia, Raphinha and Gerard Martin absolutely thriving under the German coach. Former player and coach Lluis Carreras says that most players have improved under the new boss. “There are several aspects and one is very important. And it is that Hansi Flick, in the three years he has been here, has improved 99 percent of the players. Perhaps the only asterisk would be Balde’s,” he told Sport. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Which Barcelona player do you think has improved the most under Hansi Flick? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·18d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Raphinha explains exactly why ‘magic’ Barcelona star Lamine Yamal should win the Ballon d’Or
Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha (R) celebrates with teammate Spanish forward #10 Lamine Yamal after scoring his team's second goal during the Spanish league football match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium in Seville on September 19, 2026. (Photo by JORGE GUERRERO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona captain Raphinha says that Lamine Yamal deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or and has explained why he thinks the teenager is the best player on the planet. Asked if Yamal should pick up the Golden Ball next month he told Guardian Sport “without a doubt, yes” and then went on to reveal just why the Barcelona forward is the world’s No. 1 footballer. “Well, above all. I believe that winning the Ballon d’Or is about individual statistics, team honors and the magic he has on the pitch. Charisma and everything like this. For me, these are the most important points to win the award,” he said. “And I think Lamine has them all. Lamine has spectacular numbers, not only last season but other seasons as well. And this season has also started spectacularly. From three titles last season, he has won two with Barcelona and the World Cup with his national team. “And for me, he is one of the most important players for Barcelona and one of the most important players for the Spanish national team. So for me, there’s no doubt. For me, Lamine has to take the prize no matter what. “And what others say, everyone has to look out for their own. But for me it’s very clear, even if I wasn’t a team-mate of Lamine’s. “The things that he’s done on the pitch, the numbers he has, the titles he has. I think that titles are quite important. In my opinion he has to win.” Yamal has also said he thinks he deserves to win the award this year, while there’s been plenty of eyebrows raised about the fact that Raphinha was not among the final nominees for the prize.
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Barca Blaugranes·21d ago·Barcelona·opinion
What is your favorite Barcelona team of all time?
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images | Getty Images This season’s Barcelona team is making an early case to become one of the most entertaining in club history, and if they add silverware to all that entertainment, especially the Champions League, they’ll have a real shot at entering the shortlist of greatest Barça teams of all time. Achieving the rare combination of pure entertainment and trophies is what makes certain teams special, and Barça fans certainly have quite a few of them to choose from. My all-time favorite Barça team is the 2010-11 side that won La Liga and the Champions League under Pep Guardiola, and reached football nirvana in a way very few teams in history ever did. The 2008-09 team from Pep’s first season is also up there, and Luis Enrique’s 2014-15 Treble winners with the ‘MSN’ trio will always have a special place in my heart as well. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: What is your favorite Barcelona team of all time? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·22d ago·Barcelona·opinion
What is Raphinha’s best position for Barcelona?
Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha celebrates scoring his team's fourth 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 Raphinha was in the goals again on Wednesday night against Racing, taking home the match ball after netting a hat-trick in a 7-2 thrashing. The Brazilian is already into double figures for the season (in mid September!) and is loving life as a No. 9 after switching positions following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. Raphinha has scored at least one goal in every match he’s played for Barcelona this season. The only game where he failed to find the back of the net was against Levante where he produced two assists instead. Raphinha is the first player with 9+ goals in their first six LALIGA games in a season since Lionel Messi in 2017-18 🤯 He is killing 🔥 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/8dgWQ07Yqx — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) September 16, 2026 The 29-year-old has also played on the left flank and the right wing for Barcelona but is starting to look most at home as a striker for the Catalan giants. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: No 9? Left wing? Right wing? What is Raphinha’s best position for Barcelona? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Guardian Football·25d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘Very weak. Very bad’: how Rodri’s verdict exposed woeful Valencia’s crisis | Sid Lowe
The World Cup winner’s off-the-cuff assessment was brutally honest. Within days their manager and CEO were gone, but the problems run much deeper Kiat Lim wanted to see Valencia play so badly, so that is what he did. It was week four in La Liga, 6 September, and for the first time since he was given the presidency 18 months earlier, the owner’s 33-year-old son was going to watch his team play a competitive game. He was going to do it from the inside, too, so he took a flight to Spain, landing at Manises in a black mask and cap, a van to the hotel, then the team bus to Mestalla. He looked through the window as they rolled along Avenida Suecia, a huge, noisy crowd waiting, but when he got off and headed through the iron gate with its ornate club badge, he saw that this was no welcome. Above him as he went in were giant portraits of Mario Kempes, Antonio Puchades, Juan Sol, Gaizka Mendieta, David Villa and Santiago Cañizares, footballers from a better time; around him were yellow banners and whistles for the footballers there now. Inside, Lim saw the game start with the lower south stand empty as fans stayed away until the 19th minute, the sound of another protest drifting in from the street. They were out there still when, sitting alongside Joan Laporta, he saw Lamine Yamal score the sixth-minute opener then get a second. And although that, also from Lamine Yamal, was ruled out, he eventually saw Barcelona get four more, presiding over a 5-0 debut defeat. Continue reading...
Barca Blaugranes·32d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Rodri’s brutal verdict on Valencia revealed after 5-0 thrashing by Barcelona
VALENCIA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 06: Rodrigo 'Rodri' of FC Barcelona runs with the ball 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 Rodri made his first start for Barcelona on Sunday in La Liga and played his part as Hansi Flick’s side ran out 5-0 winners at Mestalla. The World Cup winner was subbed off just after the hour and has been overheard telling Pau Cubarsi exactly what he thought of Los Che’s performance. According to Movistar, Rodri said: “They’re really weak. They’re really weak, man. Really bad. They’re terrible, they’re terrible. How did Valencia finish last year? You know, they haven’t even crossed the halfway line in the second half.” Barcelona ran out comfortable winners in the game to ensure Valencia finish the weekend at the bottom of the table in Spain with a single point from their first four games. The only time that Carlos Corberan’s side have avoided defeat in the 2026-27 season so far is in a goalless draw at home to Celta Vigo. “I’m analyzing the match against an opponent who was superior to us from start to finish,” said Corberan after the game. “Conceding a goal so early made everything much more difficult. We failed to capitalize on the chances we had after that goal, on quick transitions, and that would have been crucial. And the opponent found a way to crush us. After the third goal, it was difficult to turn things around.”
Barca Blaugranes·32d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Is Raphinha the perfect answer to Barcelona’s No. 9 problem?
Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha celebrates 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 star Raphinha has been in red-hot form at the start of the season, scoring six goals in his first four La Liga games to top the early Pichichi standings. The Brazilian has taken over as the team’s No. 9, following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Tores, and looks like the perfect solution at present. And despite seeing his team score 17 times in their first four games, manager Hansi Flick still says that Barcelona need a No.9. Meanwhile, the rumor mill already thinks that Barcelona could go back for Julian Alvarez when the window reopens in January after missing out on the Argentina star this summer. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Is Raphinha the perfect answer to Barcelona’s No. 9 problem or do the Catalan giants still need a top-class striker? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your teams, thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·33d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, Fermín López: Who will be Barcelona’s top scorer this season?
Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP via Getty Images Barcelona continued their brilliant start to the season with another sensational attacking display as they beat Valencia 5-0 at Mestalla to make it four wins out of four in La Liga. Hansi Flick’s attack put on a show once again and created over a dozen huge scoring chances, and found the net five times to bring their tally to a whopping 17 goals in the first four games. Lamine Yamal scored twice and Raphinha and Fermín López got one each, and the three certainly look like the main contenders for the title of Barça’s top scorer this season. But the likes of Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Dani Olmo and Gabriel Jesus are also capable of getting good numbers, and it looks like Barça’s attack this season will be very hard to stop indeed. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Who will be Barcelona’s top scorer this season? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your teams, thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·34d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Should Lamine Yamal play for Barcelona in Sunday’s La Liga clash against Valencia?
Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images Lamine Yamal is currently a doubt for Barcelona’s La Liga trip to Mestalla to face Valencia on Sunday after missing Saturday’s training session with the group. Hansi Flick clarified in his press conference that Yamal suffered a knock and trained separately as a precaution, but the teenager will travel with the squad and a decision on his status will be made before the game. Yamal has started all three of Barça’s games this season and the Blaugrana make their Champions League debut against Feyenoord at Camp Nou on Wednesday, so it’s safe to wonder if a rest for Lamine is the right decision for this weekend. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Should Lamine Yamal play for Barcelona against Valencia? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your teams, thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·34d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Hansi Flick gives his verdict on Jules Kounde’s current situation at Barcelona
Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images Jules Kounde is trying to regain his spot as an undisputed starter for Barcelona after beginning the season as Eric Garcia’s backup at right-back, and his coach is confident the Frenchman can return to his best. Hansi Flick spoke to the press on Saturday and was asked about Kounde’s situation, and thinks the full-back is embracing the challenge of fighting for his spot early in the season and will work hard to return to the form that made him one of the top right-backs on the planet in Hansi Flick’s first season. “What I can say is that he is a great professional. He is not starting as a starter this season but for him it is a challenge. I know that he can play as a centre-back and that he prefers to play as a full-back because he had a top performance there in our first season. We always think about what’s best for the team, but what I can say is that he’s working hard to get back to his best version.” Kounde is a fantastic all-around full-back when at his best, but we haven’t seen his best consistently for a while. Eric deserves the starting spot for now, but the prospect of a hungry Kounde fully focused on getting back to his top form is good news for Barça.
Barca Blaugranes·35d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Should João Cancelo and Xavi Espart be Barcelona’s starting full-backs?
Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images It’s become increasingly harder to think of Barcelona’s starting XI without the presence of Xavi Espart, who has played every second of football for Hansi Flick so far and looks like a perfect fit for the left-back position in the coach’s formation to begin the season. Espart has been very impressive since preseason playing three different positions at a very high level and has made the left-back spot his so far, which is forcing Flick to think outside the box to fit one of his favorite players, João Cancelo, into the lineup. According to reporting from Catalan media this week, Flick has experimented with Cancelo at right-back in training to keep Espart in the lineup, giving the team two attack-minded full-backs. Flick has always preferred a more defensive-minded right-back with previous center-back experience, like Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia, but he’s been willing to try a more offensive look with Cancelo in that role. Cancelo has plenty of experience as a right-back for club and country in his past, and could be a lethal partner for Lamine Yamal on the right wing while Espart plays on the other side with a more inverted focus to give Anthony Gordon even more space on the left wing. It’s certainly a look worth exploring in training, and it remains to be seen if and when Flick will be ready to try it in a game. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Should João Cancelo and Xavi Espart be Barcelona’s starting full-backs? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your teams, thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·49d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Is Lautaro Martínez the right alternative to Julián Álvarez for Barcelona?
Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images | Getty Images Barcelona appear to have moved on from their chase of Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez and are reportedly going “all out” for Inter Milan legend and Argentina striker Lautaro Martínez. “El Toro” is Barça’s top name on the list of alternatives and the club are preparing a big bid after reaching agreement on personal terms, but are not willing to spend more than €100 million on the World Cup winner. Barça have also been strongly linked with Arsenal’s Viktor Gyökeres and Club Brugge prospect Nicolò Tresoldi in recent days, but it looks as though Lautaro is indeed their choice. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Is Lautaro Martínez the right alternative to Julián Álvarez for Barcelona? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·50d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Does Hamza Abdelkarim deserve a first-team chance at Barcelona?
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 19: Hamza Abdelkarim of FC Barcelona saludates to fans during presentation the Joan Gamper Trophy, football match played between FC Barcelona and Al-Ahly FC at Spotify Camp Nou stadium on August 19, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Hamza Abdelkarim has been a bright spark for Barcelona in pre-season training and showed once again his prowess in front of goal by scoring the opener in the Joan Gamper Trophy against former side Al Ahly. The youngster is expected to start the season with Barcelona Atletic but may just have played his way into Hansi Flick’s thoughts ahead of the new campaign. The Barca boss did praise him after the game, saying: “Hamza is a good striker. We can see it when he attacks crosses. Today I saw him holding onto the ball, which is good. This is what I want to see from him.” Barcelona’s search for a new striker this summer is still yet to yield a result. Julian Alvarez looks destined to stay at Atletico and Barcelona’s next choice – reported to be Lautaro Martinez – will not be easy to tempt away from Inter either. So is the answer to Barcelona’s No. 9 problem already at home? Or is Hamza still too inexperienced and needs a season with Juliano Belletti’s side instead? So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Does Hamza Abdelkarim deserve a first-team chance at Barcelona? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·68d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Which Barcelona youngster are you tipping to break into the first team next season?
Photo by Nigel French/PA Images via Getty Images While Barcelona’s main stars are still on vacation following their exploits at the World Cup, the youngsters are hoping to stake a claim for a spot in the first team in the upcoming season. Several La Masia prospects were involved in the 2-2 draw against Birmingham in Friday’s preseason opener, and a few names caught the eye as they look to impress Hansi Flick and stick around once the big names return. Hamza Abdelkarim certainly took advantage his first opportunity with a brace on his debut, while 16-year-old Ebrima Tunkara justified the excitement around his debut with a strong showing. Xavi Espart and Álvaro Cortés were already part of the squad last season but showed they can have even bigger roles, and 17-year-old left-back Jordi Pesquer really impressed in the second half. La Masia continues to produce great talent but it’s not easy to make the jump from the academy to the first team, but a few of the youngsters in this preseason have shown enough to warrant a bigger look from the coaching staff in the next few weeks. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Which Barcelona youngster are you tipping to break into the first team next season? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·70d ago·Barcelona·opinion
“That’s what I ask of a No. 9” – Hansi Flick full of praise for Hamza Abdelkarim after Barcelona preseason opener
Photo by Nigel French/PA Images via Getty Images | PA Images via Getty Images Barcelona kicked off their preseason preparations with a 2-2 draw against Birmingham City of the Championship at St. Andrew’s on Friday, and Hansi Flick was satisfied with what he saw. The boss was especially full of praise for 18-year-old striker Hamza Abdelkarim, who scored both goals and showed a glimpse of his potential on his first team debut. “Hamza is very humble and has a good character. He always tries to give his best and has great potential. As a striker, you have to show up in those situations inside the box, and today he was there. That’s what I ask of a number nine.” Flick also gave his verdict on the team’s overall performance, and praised the many young players from La Masia who got a chance to play on Friday. “We missed having more possession and made a few mistakes, but I’m happy. The feeling is good, and the entire coaching staff is satisfied with the young players’ performance. “The most important thing is that they have shown their quality, and I really appreciate that. It is a pleasure to work with them and see how they respond in matches like this, with this level of intensity.” Barça will end their stay in England this weekend with a few more training sessions before returning to Catalonia on Monday.
Barca Blaugranes·76d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Which Barcelona youngster are you most excited about seeing in pre-season?
ROESELARE, BELGIUM - NOVEMBER 5: Ebrima Tunkara of FC Barcelona looks on during the UEFA Youth League 2025/26 match between Club Brugge KV and FC Barcelona at The NEST on November 5, 2025 in Roeselare, Belgium. (Photo by Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona players had a first pre-season run-out on Friday night and beat CE Europa 4-1 in a game which saw a host of youngsters feature for Hansi Flick’s side. The German coach will continue to rely on youth initially in pre-season – with many first teamers still on holiday after the World Cup – giving the players an excellent opportunity to stake a claim for some minutes. Ebrima Tunkara, Ibrahim Diarra and Alex Gonzalez were all on target on Friday night and all three players look to have very bright future ahead of them at Barca. Strikers Hamza Abdelkarim and Oscar Gistau will also be hoping to be in the goals in pre-season, while Toni Fernandez and his cousin Guille, Brian Farinas, Xavi Espart, Tommy Marques and Shane Kluivert are all very exciting prospects. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Which Barcelona youngster are you most excited about seeing in pre-season? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·79d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Robert Lewandowski gives his verdict on Lamine Yamal’s performances at World Cup 2026 with Spain
BARCELONA, SPAIN - APRIL 08: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona waves as he lines up alongside team mate Lamine Yamal prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final First Leg match between FC Barcelona and Club Atlético de Madrid at Camp Nou on April 08, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Robert Lewandowski has been asked about Lamine Yamal’s performances at World Cup 2026 and feels the Barcelona teenager wasn’t at his best at the tournament. Yamal returned from an injury lay-off in time for the start of World Cup 2026 but Lewandowski feels his lack of game time showed. “Honestly, no, we didn’t [see his best this tournament]. The best performance, the best Lamine for me, of course, wasn’t the last season, but two seasons ago, that was for me now the best version of Lamine Yamal,” Lewandowski told ESPN. “He’s still young, he came to the World Cup after injury and he didn’t play for like eight weeks so it’s tough if you don’t play eight weeks and you have to start playing in the world cup, then you don’t have time for the training just from game to game. “But he showed really good quality. The Spain players and the team helped Lamine and Lamine also helped the whole team. I think that this cooperation was perfect.” Spain did go on to win the game and Lewandowski was happy to see so many of his former team-mates taste glory. “I know a lot of players from Spain and I spent so much time in Barcelona with them, so I supported them a lot,” he added.. “Of course, I know from Argentina personally only Leo, but I know that he won the last World Cup. That’s why I support the Spanish national team because if you play with them, you spend a lot of time together then it’s easier to support this team. “I was happy because I know they were ready to win the World Cup. They are very young and the future is in front of them.”
Barca Blaugranes·80d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Gavi speaks out on spat with Leandro Paredes after Spain’s World Cup win
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 19: Leandro Paredes of Argentina (5) gets violent against Gavi of Spain (9) after 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 Marvin Ibo Guengoer - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona star Gavi has given his verdict on Argentina’s behaviour after Sunday’s World Cup final with Spain and does not want to see any of their players punished. Spain won the game 1-0 to be crowned world champions for a second time in a hard-fought game that saw Argentina reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernandez was sent off. Gavi was caught up in some of the chaos after the final whistle as he tangled with Leandro Paredes, while coach Roberto Ayala was seen punching Dani Olmo. The Barca star has now shared his thoughts but does not want to see the Argentina players punished. “No, no. To tell you the truth, I don’t think they should be suspended. I understand it’s not a good image for the kids, for the children, but I think there’s also that side of football that’s a bit more aggressive,” he told Cope. “Perhaps the most logical thing for me would be to send him off during the match and that’s it. But as I said, in the end I think it’s all football and it always has to be that way.” FIFA has opened an investigation into the events after the final whistle, with speculation claiming that several Argentina players could face bans for their actions.
Barca Blaugranes·81d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘He sacrificed himself’- Spain boss hails Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres after World Cup win
Spain's forward #19 Lamine Yamal (R) celebrates with Spain's forward #07 Ferran Torres after he scored Spain's 1-0 goal during the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match between Spain and Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has praised Barcelona star Lamine Yamal following La Roja’s win over Argentina at World Cup 2026. A single goal from Barcelona forward Ferran Torres in extra-time was enough for Spain to be crowned world champions for a second time, and De la Fuente praised the Shark and Yamal after the win. “I have to give Lamine credit. He played a different kind of football. We’re very grateful that he sacrificed himself for the good of the team,” he told reporters. “In my opinion, he had a great World Cup. And with Ferran, I’ll just say that life is fair. And those who fall and get back up always get something back. He’s a part of history now, but he earned it and he deserves it.” The Spain boss also revealed what he told his players before kick-off in the World Cup final. “Gentlemen, we have a date with history,” he added. “And in extra time, I simply reminded them that we were doing a great job, but that any lapse in concentration could cost us dearly. After the match, some players asked me, ‘What, do we still have left to win?’ Well, the next match in September is against England.” The Spain squad are now heading back to Europe with the World Cup trophy and will continue their celebrations in the capital.
Barca Blaugranes·82d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Does Pedri deserve to start the World Cup Final for Spain against Argentina?
Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images The biggest game in sports takes place today as Spain take on Argentina in the 2026 World Cup Final in a match that Barcelona fans will never forget. One Barça players whose status is up in the air is Pedri, who has been on the bench in the last two knockout rounds as Luis de la Fuente has chosen to start Fabián Ruiz in his place. Pedri was one of the best players in Europe during the club season but has admittedly struggled in this tournament, but benching The Wizard in the biggest game of them all is still a big call for De La Fuente to make. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Does Pedri deserve to start the World Cup Final for Spain against Argentina? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·82d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘A big club can’t afford to have unhappy players’ – Joan Laporta sends Julian Alvarez message to Atletico
MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 29: Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid applauds the fans at the end of the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Semi Final First Leg match between Atletico de Madrid and Arsenal FC at on April 29, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona president Joan Laporta has been talking about Julian Alvarez again at World Cup 2026 and says that big clubs can’t afford to have unhappy players in the ranks. Atletico continue to insist that Alvarez is not for sale this summer, despite Barcelona having made an offer and Alvarez having made it clear he wants to go. Laporta says that Atletico should take advantage of Barcelona’s offer and offload Alvarez if he doesn’t want to stay. “When a player wants to leave, Barça ’s attitude as a club is that, if a player wants to leave Barça, we’ll make it easy for him. A big club can’t afford to have unhappy players,” he told Mundo Deportivo. “It’s no longer just a question of the offer made, but also, if there’s a good offer, you have to take advantage of it.” Laporta also seemed optimistic that Barcelona can secure Alvarez even though Atletico CEO Gil Marin has said the club won’t sell even if they receive a bid worth 200 million euros. “We have an offer on the table. He’s a player our coach wants, and that’s why we made the offer to Atlético de Madrid. It’s a very important and very, very good offer for us,” he added. “I respect everyone’s opinion. I respect Miguel Ángel’s opinion and everyone else’s. There are so many cases where it’s been said that a player would never go to Barça and he ended up coming.” Laporta also reiterated again that Barca’s offer for Alvarez will only last until the end of the month; the club could then move on to other targets.
Barca Blaugranes·82d ago·Barcelona·opinion
FC Barcelona News: 19 July 2026; All set for World Cup Final, Julián Álvarez saga continues
Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images First week of training done – FC Barcelona Hansi Flick’s squad trains on Saturday morning to complete five consecutive days of activity. FC Barcelona’s World Cup Final connections – FC Barcelona A distinctly blaugrana flavour to the game between Spain and Argentina, and for many reasons. Spain v Argentina in stats – FIFA Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal feature as we outline the statistics behind Spain and Argentina’s respective paths to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final. Laporta sets a date for the validity of the offer for Julián Álvarez – Mundo Deportivo The president of FC Barcelona responded on Catalunya Ràdio to the criticism from Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and his assertion that the Argentine is not for sale “not even for 200 million”: “I respect everyone’s opinion, but we have made an offer that is there.” Julián said to be outraged by the timing of Atlético’s message about his future: “They disrespected him” – Mundo Deportivo The saga surrounding Julián Álvarez’s future at Atlético Madrid is far from being resolved. Cubarsi does not close the door on Laporte – Mundo Deportivo In an interview on TV3, the Barça defender spoke about his teammate on the national team, as well as the virtues of Julián Álvarez, whom he will face this Sunday in the final. Al-Hilal play their cards with Cancelo – SPORT The Saudi club will not ‘gift’ the Portuguese player to Barça, despite his poor relationship with Inzaghi and his desire to remain at Camp Nou. Chelsea consider João Pedro untouchable – SPORT The Brazilian forward was one of Deco’s backup options in case the move for Julián Álvarez fell through.
Barca Blaugranes·83d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Xavi and Javier Mascherano debate who will win the World Cup
UNITED STATES - JULY 16: (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image, created on July 16, is a digital cutout composite of image numbers 2280945202, 2280945611, 2280945773, 2280945722, 2281268567, 2281268725, 2281268671 and 2281268507.) In this photo illustration, (L-R) Rodri, Alex Baena, Lamine Yamal and Unai Simon of Spain and Emiliano Martinez, Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez of Argentina ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina on July 16, 2026 in the United States. The match will be played at the New York/New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026. (Photo by FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Two FC Barcelona legends, former teammates of Lionel Messi, and ex-players for the two national teams playing the FIFA World Cup final debated who will win the match between Spain and Argentina on the CB1MILLI YouTube channel. It’s no surprise that Xavi picked Spain and Javier Mascherano picked Argentina, but their reasoning is interesting. Mascherano highlighted Argentina’s hunger, speed, and quality. “In the last game, we can watch what they can do. And they have the tools to play a really good final and lift the trophy,” the former defensive midfielder said. Argentina defeated England 2-1 in a comeback victory in the semifinal. Xavi ceded all points, but still disagreed. “Fully agreed, because Argentina is a top team. They know how to win,” he said. “But … we already won the [Euros], we have many players to make the difference, we have good defenders, good goalkeepers – in my opinion, the best midfielders in the world controlling the game – and I think we will have the tempo, the possession, and this is Spain.” Mascherano vs Xavi debate Who will win the World Cup final? Argentina or Spain?pic.twitter.com/qlIq9dKcdZ — Luis Mazariegos (@luism8989) July 17, 2026 It’s no surprise that Xavi, known for his ability to control games and keep possession for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, saw that as the main advantage. “Argentina is suffering without the ball, and we can have all the possession.” He also highlighted Lamine Yamal, who debuted under Xavi as Barcelona manager, as the difference-maker upfront. “But we have Messi, and they don’t,” Mascherano countered. “That’s true,” Xavi conceded. His only response was to keep the ball as far away as possible from the Argentine star, noting that such a task was “difficult.”
Barca Blaugranes·83d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Is Barcelona star Dani Olmo the most underrated player at World Cup 2026?
Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images Spain are just one win away from their second World Cup title as they prepare for Sunday’s final against Argentina, and one player who has undoubtedly played a big part in La Roja’s success so far is Dani Olmo. The Barcelona number 10 didn’t begin the tournament as a starter but quickly won Luis de la Fuente’s confidence and has been a fixture of the lineup since then, and played a brilliant all-around game in the semi-final against France. Olmo’s numbers haven’t been spectacular — he has only two assists in seven matches — but his impact has been notable: Dani’s ability to move into space and make plays in the final third with his dribbling and key passes are crucial to Spain’s attack, and his performances have been widely praised with German newspaper Kicker naming Olmo as the single most underrated player in the World Cup. It’s a big claim but it certainly makes you think, especially since many of the headlines of Spain’s run to the Final have been about the defense led by Pau Cubarsí, Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella, Olmo’s midfield partner Rodri, and his Barça teammate Lamine Yamal. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Is Dani Olmo the most underrated player at the World Cup? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·83d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘Hard to choose’ – Deco gives his verdict on the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina
(COMBO) This combination of file photos created on July 16, 2026, shows Spain's forward #19 Lamine Yamal in Arlington on July 14, 2026 (L); and Argentina's forward #10 Lionel Messi in Atlanta on July 15, 2026. Spain and Argentina will meet in the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (Photo by Charly TRIBALLEAU and Roberto SCHMIDT / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona sporting director Deco has admitted it’s hard to choose who will win the World Cup final as Spain prepare to take on Argentina in New York. Deco is in the city to watch the game on Sunday and will see many of his players feature in the showpiece event. Asked which team will be crowned world champions, Deco admitted he was struggling to pick a favorite. “I always go with my own people, but my people are everywhere. Leo is always one of us. In the end, it’s hard to choose,” he told Cope. “On one side, there’s Leo, who, besides being a friend, has given everything to those of us who are Barça fans and football fans. He’s a legend. For me, what he’s doing is spectacular. On the other side, there are the lads, our Barça lads. It’s always tough, difficult. That’s why we’ll be paying close attention to everything tomorrow. I think it’s going to be a spectacular final. “Spain, after the semi-final, is playing well. Argentina is winning matches, and Leo is playing spectacularly. That’s why I think it will be a great final. “Both teams have fantastic players. Spain is playing well and Argentina has struggled in some matches, but ultimately it comes down to the heart of the team.” Deco will enjoy the game and will then head back to Barcelona to continue working on strengthening the squad. Karim Adeyemi is expected to be unveiled at the club next week, while efforts to land Julian Alvarez are expected to continue.
Barca Blaugranes·84d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Should Barcelona keep hold of Marc Casadó after Frenkie de Jong’s injury?
Photo by Alex Caparros - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images | UEFA via Getty Images Barcelona will soon learn the extent of Frenkie de Jong’s absence as the Dutchman is set for tests to determine the severity of the knee injury he suffered during the World Cup. De Jong could be facing a four-month spell on the sidelines, which could be even longer given the tricky nature of knee injuries. The absence of a key starter will create an opportunity for others, which could change Marc Casadó’s future with the club. The 22-year-old looked all but guaranteed to leave after struggling for minutes last season and had plenty of interest from Saudi Arabia and clubs around Europe, with Barça hoping to get at least €30 million for the midfielder. But Frenkie’s likely absence could mean a bigger role for Casadó next season, and perhaps one final opportunity to earn consistent minutes under Hansi Flick. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Should Barcelona keep hold of Marc Casadó after Frenkie de Jong’s injury? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·85d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Lionel Messi’s Argentina or Spain? Who will you be rooting for in the 2026 World Cup final?
Photo by Luis ROBAYO and Franck FIFE / AFP via Getty Images The 2026 World Cup final is now set and it’s Lionel Messi’s Argentina up against Spain in a game that will be a real treat for Barcelona fans. Messi’s aiming to win back-to-back titles with Argentina but will come up against a Spain side that has eight Barcelona players in the squad. The game is likely to be billed as Lionel Messi vs Lamine Yamal as the GOAT faces Barcelona’s current No. 10 and the player many have tipped to follow in the club legend’s footsteps at Camp Nou. Yet there are plenty other Barcelona players who could feature and play a key role. Dani Olmo and Pau Cubarsi look certain starters, while Pedri, Ferran Torres and Gavi will be desperately hoping for minutes. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Lionel Messi’s Argentina or Spain? Who will you be rooting for in the 2026 World Cup final? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·90d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Should Barcelona be concerned about Pedri’s struggles at World Cup 2026?
Photo by Europa Press Sports/Europa Press via Getty Images Spain successfully booked a spot in the World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a thrilling win over Belgium in the quarter-finals in Los Angeles, but the performance of Barcelona midfielder Pedri was once again a cause for concern. Pedri’s inconsistent displays throughout the tournament led to his benching against Belgium, with Fabián Ruiz taking his place in the lineup and scoring the opening goal of the game. The Wizard did come on at the hour mark but was nowhere near his best, and his presence in the starting XI for Tuesday’s gigantic semi-final against France is certainly in question. Pedri’s World Cup performance comes after a subpar (by his very high standards) end to his club season, which had a couple of injury absences that caused him to lose rhythm and not be able to replicate the extraordinary form shown for the majority of the last two years for club and country. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Should Barcelona be concerned about Pedri’s struggles at the World Cup? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·94d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘Tip of the iceberg’ – La Liga president Javier Tebas blasts FIFA over Folarin Balogun controversy
SAN LORENZO DE EL ESCORIAL MADR, SPAIN - JULY 02: The president of La Liga, Javier Tebas Medrano, is giving a lecture entitled ‘Diplomacy in sports relations. La Liga and the United States’ at one of the UCM Summer Courses, held at the Alfonso XII School on 2 July 2026 in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid, Spain. The course ‘Geopolitical Trends (VII). The Geopolitics of Spanish-US Relations 250 Years After Spanish Aid’ offers an analysis of the geopolitics of Spanish-US relations 250 years after Spanish aid. (Photo By Eduardo Parra/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images La Liga president Javier Tebas has had his say on the Folarin Balogun saga that has been the talk of the football world over the last few days at World Cup 2026. Balogun was red-carded against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a decision in itself that caused controversy at the time, and was subsequently handed a one-game ban. The striker was set to miss the UMSNT’s last 16 tie against Belgium but the decision was overturned by FIFA (after a phone call from Donald Trump) which caused outrage across the world – particularly in the Belgium camp. Tebas has had his say on the matter in a lengthy post on social media and has been critical of FIFA for lifting the ban on Balogun. “The waiver of the sanction on U.S. player Balogun is neither an anecdote nor an isolated error. It is, quite simply, the tip of the iceberg of a governance model that has been eroding the credibility of FIFA and football in general for many years,” he posted. “When rules can be interpreted or modified as convenient; when the most consequential decisions are made without genuine dialogue and agreement with national/domestic leagues, which are the ones sustaining professional football 365 days a year (the vast majority of professional clubs and players do not participate in international competitions); when a unilateral agenda is imposed without listening to football’s main stakeholders, the problem stops being a specific resolution and becomes the system itself. “FIFA Congresses are: grand stagings of unanimity, no real debate, and decisions that arrive sealed before voting even begins. There are no agreements with national/domestic leagues; decisions are approved that constantly harm them. “The case of player Balogun does nothing but reinforce that perception; it is the tip of the iceberg. Moreover, if rules are applied with constant arbitrariness, trust disappears. And without trust, there is no institutional credibility. “And the worst of all is that much of the football world is aware of it, but too many prefer to maintain a complicit silence. Because staying quiet is more comfortable than defending independence, transparency, and good governance. “World football deserves institutions that are accountable, respect the rules, and govern with transparency—not through unilateral, discretionary, arbitrary decisions… that erode the trust of fans, clubs, leagues, and players.” Balogun did go on to play in the game against Belgium but the Red Devils had the last laugh, winning 4-1 and progressing to a quarter-final tie against Spain.
Barca Blaugranes·97d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Who is your favorite Barcelona unsung hero of all time?
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images I loved Seydou Keita. So much. Never has a player embodied the words “underrated” or “unsung hero” such as him. He was one of the most complete midfielders of his time, and the legendary Barcelona teams of Pep Guardiola with Sergio Busquets, Xavi and Andrés Iniesta would not have been the same if not for Keita’s quiet brilliance. And he never, ever, got the credit. Barça’s history is filled with superstars in every era, true generational talents who changed the game and became legends with their goals, trophies and unforgettable moments. But Barça fans also remember fondly those who may not be considered legends or superstars but played a crucial part in the success of the teams they were a part of. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Who is your favorite Barcelona unsung hero of all time? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·98d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Is Pau Cubarsí Barcelona’s best player at World Cup 2026 and what is the biggest reason for his success?
Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Spain clinched a spot in the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with an outstanding win over Austria in Los Angeles, and Pau Cubarsí played another great game in what has been an excellent tournament for the young defender. After an inconsistent season at club level, there were reasonable doubts about Cubarsí’s ability to recover his best form for La Roja at the biggest stage, but those questions have been answered emphatically as Cubarsí is showing the very best version of his game. His outstanding passing from the back will always be the best part of his arsenal, but his ability to withstand the physical battles and make crucial interventions as a defender has been brilliant to watch. Cubarsí is showing why he’s one of the best young defenders in the sport, and his performances are a big reason why Spain have not conceded a goal at the World Cup yet. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Is Pau Cubarsí Barcelona’s best player at World Cup 2026 and what is the biggest reason for his success? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·101d ago·Barcelona·opinion
How did Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong perform at the 2026 World Cup?
GUADALUPE, MEXICO - JUNE 29: Frenkie De Jong of Netherlands reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between Netherlands and Morocco at Monterrey Stadium on June 29, 2026 in Guadalupe, Mexico. (Photo by Martín Fonseca/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Netherlands are out of the World Cup in heartbreaking fashion after a penalty shootout against Morocco. Thus, the dream ends for FC Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, who was one of the pillars of the team. De Jong started all four matches his country played, logging 331 minutes. He had an impressive 94.2% pass success rate, second only to Micky van de Ven, who is a defender. He also led the team alongside Jan Paul van Hecke in tackles, plus had the most interceptions. Playing as the deepest midfielder in former Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman’s 3-4-3, De Jong’s responsibility was both to help in defense and start attacks. Against Morocco, the Netherlands surrendered possession and created very little as part of a conservative strategy, particularly after taking the lead 1-0, and then again after the Moroccans equalized. The Netherlands, it seems, wanted the penalty shootout, although they ended up going out in that fashion. De Jong had to be substituted for Marten de Roon at the 110 minute mark with what looked like a minor injury. His performance in that match was not the most memorable, but overall he left a good impression this World Cup, according to pundits. He was hampered, some argue, by Koeman’s conservative tactics, which did not suit a player used to playing in possession-heavy systems. De Jong earned one of the biggest trophies in his career this year, winning La Liga for the third time. Apart from winning the league, he won the Supercopa de España for the third time this year. You can add that to the two Copa del Rey triumphs from previous seasons and his collection of Dutch domestic titles with Ajax. The two biggest objectives that still elude him are to win the UEFA Champions League and to win a trophy with his national team, which has never won the World Cup. Barcelona hope his injury is indeed minor and clears up quickly, and then that he can clear his mind of the bitter disappointment of a Round of 32 exit. While there was some debate in the press about whether he is still a guaranteed starter, De Jong has a tendency to come through when there is doubt placed on his position. His World Cup performances have only strengthened his argument. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: How do you rate Frenkie de Jong’s performances for the Netherlands at World Cup 2026? Share your marks out of 10! Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·104d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Do you still believe in Spain as World Cup 2026 contenders after a disappointing group stage?
(Photo by CARL DE SOUZA / AFP via Getty Images Spain finished their World Cup 2026 group stage campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Uruguay in Guadalajara on Friday to eliminate the Celeste and move on to the knockout rounds as Group H winners. After a lot of pre-tournament hype putting them at the very top of the list of contenders for the title, La Roja have absolutely disappointed so far, starting with a flat performance in their goalless draw with Cape Verde in the opener and ending with a very bad showing against a very physical Uruguay team. In the middle of those two poor performances is their only strong showing of the tournament so far, with a dominant win over Saudi Arabia after a stellar first 30 minutes which were followed by a good but not great final hour with the game already over, so it’s safe to say Spain have not looked like the World Cup’s best team so far. Several of Spain’s best players have underperformed and Lamine Yamal still looks off the pace as he returns from injury, and their first opponent in the knockout rounds with likely be Austria who will provide a brutal test for a Spain side nowhere near at their best after their first three games. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Do you still believe in Spain as World Cup 2026 contenders after a disappointing group stage? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
BBC Sport·110d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Lamine Yamal is Spain's main man - Rooney analysis
Watch BBC pundits Wayne Rooney, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Thomas Frank give their analysis on Lamine Yamal's performance for Spain against Saudi Arabia in the 2026 World Cup.
Barca Blaugranes·111d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Should Lamine Yamal start for Spain against Saudi Arabia at World Cup 2026?
Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images Following a disappointing start to World Cup 2026 with a goalless draw against Cape Verde in their Group H opener, Spain return to action on Sunday afternoon in Atlanta for a crucial second group game against Saudi Arabia. Spain need all three points to remain in position to clinch first place in what should be a very tough group finale against Uruguay, but they also need to play much better against the Saudis after a disappointing showing in the opener. La Roja only looked anywhere near good enough when Lamine Yamal came on in the second half, and his presence was so important to the team that there’s already talk of starting the teenage superstar on Sunday, even though questions still remain about his fitness after recovering from a hamstring injury. Barcelona fans watched Raphinha suffer a relapse of his own hamstring injury in Brazil’s match on Friday, so they will undoubtedly be very nervous about the prospect of watching Yamal play extended minutes on Sunday. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Should Lamine Yamal start for Spain against Saudi Arabia? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·113d ago·Barcelona·opinion
The Barcelona Blaugranes World Cup Survey Part 2: First Round Verdict
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 16: Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Argentina and Algeria at Kansas City Stadium on June 16, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images) | Getty Images The first round of World Cup 2026 matches is now complete and means we’ve had the chance to watch every single team in action at the tournament in the USA, Mexico and Canada. There’s been plenty of entertainment so far. Lionel Messi score a brilliant hat-trick against Algeria, Spain slumped to a goalless draw against Cape Verde and the USMNT produced a thrilling win over Paraguay. All of which means it’s time once again for the latest edition of SB Nation Reacts and a chance for you to tell us what has been your favorite match, which team put in the worst performance and which player had the brighest individual showing (no prizes for guessing who might win that one!) So now it’s time to make your vote, add a comment if you would like, and then check back with us in a few days for all the results. Welcome to SB Nation Reacts. Be on the lookout for results from the survey soon! Please take our survey
Barca Blaugranes·113d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Drop your spiciest hot take after the first round of World Cup 2026 matches
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 16: Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Argentina and Algeria at Kansas City Stadium on June 16, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images) | Getty Images World Cup 2026 is in full swing and the first round of matches is now officially complete. There’s been a total of 24 games played so far and 75 goals scored in the USA, Mexico and Canada. This year’s tournament is the biggest ever edition of the World Cup and has seen hydration breaks implemented and new rules implemented. There’s also been plenty of highlights already. Lionel Messi wowed fans across the world yet again with a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria, while Cristiano Ronaldo had a night to forget against DRC Congo. Pre-tournament favorites Spain found it tough going against Cape Verde, being held to a shock goalless draw, although we did see the return from injury of Lamine Yamal. Elswhere, the USMNT impressed in their opener against Paraguay, Germany smashed seven past Curacao, Sweden bashed Tunisia and there were also good wins for France and England. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Drop your spiciest hot take after the first round of World Cup 2026 matches Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·116d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘We lacked freshness and finesse’ – Luis de la Fuente reacts to Spain’s shock draw with Cape Verde
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 15: Head coach Luis De La Fuente of Spain looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H match between Spain and Cabo Verde at Atlanta Stadium on June 15, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Marvin Ibo Guengoer - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente said his team were lacking sharpness in attack after being held to a shock 0-0 draw with Cape Verde in their World Cup 2026 opener. La Roja failed to impress in a really disappointing showing. Lamine Yamal was introduced in the second half but couldn’t conjure up a goal and De la Fuente gave his verdict on his team’s display afterwards. “We lacked freshness and finesse,” he said afterwards. “We need to keep working on our approach, improving our finishing, being more clinical. These are the kinds of matches where you create a lot of chances, but we lacked the necessary sharpness. “They are a very organized team. From the first moment, we saw that they sat deep, with all 10 players practically in front of the penalty area. It’s very difficult to create space like that. At times, we lacked a bit of ball movement to unbalance the opposition. When the ball doesn’t want to go in, it doesn’t want to go in. “There were shots and chances, a desire to settle the game quickly. We have to keep going like this; we knew this was going to be very difficult, and these are games that are very hard to win.” Spain take on Saudi Arabia next in the group phase before a final match against Uruguay.
Barca Blaugranes·118d ago·Barcelona·opinion
How many goals/assists will Lamine Yamal net in his first World Cup?
Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images One of the main attractions of World Cup 2026 is Barcelona teenage superstar Lamine Yamal, who appears to have shaken off his injury in time to be available for the start of his first World Cup. Lamine has already done more than enough in his first three full seasons as a professional for club and country to arrive in North America as one of the very best players in the world even at the age of 18, and Spain’s ability to confirm their status as favorites will be heavily linked to Yamal’s performance at the biggest stage in sports. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: How many goals/assists will Lamine Yamal net in his first World Cup? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·119d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Which Barcelona player will stand out the most at World Cup 2026 and why?
Photo by Sarah Stier - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images World Cup 2026 is underway and Barcelona have a massive presence with 16 players featuring for eight different nations, and there is a very good chance that a Blaugrana star will steal the show in North America over the next five weeks. Spain have the largest contingent with eight Barça players in total, and betting on Lamine Yamal and Pedri to shine for La Roja if they make a deep run is more than safe. Raphinha has a chance to be Brazil’s spiritual and technical leader as they hope to win a first World Cup title in 24 years, and Anthony Gordon may very well prove his worth with his performances for England. Hamza Abdelkarim is hoping for a chance to make the breakthrough with Egypt as he tries to impress Hansi Flick ahead of preseason, and Frenkie de Jong will absolutely be at the heart of everything good that the Netherlands do in North America. There are several world-class superstars and young players looking to show their skills on the biggest stage, and bring joy to not only their nations but Barça fans everywhere. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Which Barcelona player will stand out the most at the World Cup and why? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·120d ago·Barcelona·opinion
The 2026 World Cup starts today! Who lifts the trophy and why?
The World Cup trophy is pictured during a press conference of FIFA President Gianni Infantino (out of frame) on the eve of the opening match of the 2026 World Cup football tournament at Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 10, 2026. (Photo by Alfredo ESTRELLA / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images The waiting is almost over as World Cup 2026 is finally here – well almost – with co-hosts Mexico and South Africa kicking off the action in just a few short hours at the Estadio Azteca. Spain, Argentina, France and England are being touted as the big favorites for victory as we head into the largest ever edition of the World Cup. There will be 104 matches played over the coming weeks as 48 teams battle it out to be champions of the world on July 19th in New York. So now it’s time to predict the future and tell us what you think will happen this summer in the USA, Mexico and Canada. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Who will win the 2026 World Cup and why? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·121d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Which World Cup tournament is your favorite of all time and why?
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - JUNE 29: Diego Maradona of Argentina, hoists the FIFA World Cup trophy, celebrating as he is carried off the field by fans and teammates after the 1986 FIFA World Cup Mexico Final between Argentina and West Germany on June 29th, 1986 in Azteca Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico. Argentina defeated West Germany 3-2 to win the 1986 FIFA World Cup. (Photo by Paul Bereswill/Getty Images) | Getty Images World Cup 2026 is just a day away and excitement is building across the planet as teams go for glory in the USA, Mexico and Canada over the next few weeks. The tournament generally never fails to conjure up magic moments, produce new heroes and throw up some surprises along the way. Spain head into the tournament as one of the favorites and will be hoping to win the trophy for the second time. For Spain fans, World Cup 2010 in South Africa brings back fond memories as La Roja won their maiden title thanks to that goal from Andreas Iniesta in the final. The 1986 World Cup is remembered for many things, not least Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ and his outrageous second goal against England on the way to lifting the title. There was also plenty of excitement four years later in Italy, with Roger Milla’s dancing, Toto Schillaci’s goals and Paul Gascoigne’s tears all making for a memorable tournament. The 2006 edition will be remembered for Zinedine Zidane’s headbutt on Marco Materazzi in the final, while four years earlier Ronaldo Nazario had stolen all the headlines with a rather special haircut as Brazil won their fifth World Cup. And don’t forget 2022 which brought an incredible final and saw Lionel Messi finally complete football by winning the World Cup for the first time against France. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Which World Cup tournament is your favorite of all time and why? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·122d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Who’s the current favorite for the Ballon d’Or? Will Lamine Yamal win if he inspires Spain to World Cup glory?
(Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images World Cup 2026 starts on Thursday and is likely to play a part when it comes to deciding the winner of this year’s prestigious Ballon d’Or prize. Lamine Yamal finished runner-up in 2025 to Ousmane Dembele but is being tipped by many to finish top of the pile this year, particularly if he can inspire Spain to glory at World Cup 2026. Dembele has already scooped Ligue 1 and Champions League titles with PSG again this season and may also be in the running, while Harry Kane has said he thinks he deserved to be a contender. “With the season I’ve had, I think with winning the three trophies, the numbers I’ve reached, I think I’ll be in that conversation,” he told L’Equipe. “If I win the World Cup on top of that, you would imagine it would be one of the England players.” So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Who’s the current favorite for the Ballon d’Or? Will Lamine Yamal win if he inspires Spain to World Cup glory? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·122d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Barcelona worried by Luis de la Fuente’s comments about Lamine Yamal before World Cup
A CORUNA, SPAIN - JUNE 4: Lamine Yamal of Spain during the International Friendly match between Spain v Iraq at the Riazor on June 4, 2026 in A Coruna Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona and Luis de la Fuente haven’t enjoyed the best of relationships over the last 12 months due to differing opinions over the use of Lamine Yamal. Ahead of World Cup 2026, it seems there may still be some tension between both parties. According to Diario Sport, Barcelona are worried about the Spain coach’s recent comments about Yamal. Yamal is on his way back from a hamstring injury and Barca are eager for him to be eased back carefully. De la Fuente, meanwhile, has suggested Yamal could play from the get go. “I think they will all be available for the first game, but we will assess whether it is interesting for them to play that game, not only because of the risk aspect, but because our view goes beyond a second or third game,” he told reporters recently when talking about his injured players. Barcelona are concerned about Yamal suffering a relapse and think that Spain’s opener against Cape Verde – which comes 54 days after the teenager’s injury – would present a real risk to the teenager if he does feature. The club’s worries have been compounded by the fact that Yamal hasn’t been training at 100% just yet and was also not ready to play in either of the team’s two warm-up games. Barcelona know there is a very real risk of relapse, particularly with a hamstring injury, and that Yamal’s return must be managed carefully. The fear is that it’s a difficult situation to control, particularly at a World Cup where players are desperate to play and there’s pressure on teams to get results.
Barca Blaugranes·123d ago·Barcelona·opinion
How far should Spain go at World Cup 2026? Are they the clear favorites?
A CORUNA, SPAIN - JUNE 04: Ferran Torres of Spain celebrates a goal during the friendly international football match between Spain and Iraq at Abanca Balaidos stadium on June 04, 2026, in A Coruna, Spain. (Photo By Irina R. Hipolito/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Spain are currently preparing for World Cup 2026 and play a final warm-up game later on against Peru in Mexico. The serious business then begins with La Roja up against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in the group stages of the tournament. Luis de la Fuente’s side are one of the hot favorites for victory this summer. They are the reigning European champions and boast an excellent squad which includes the likes of Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Nico Williams and Rodri. But they aren’t the only team being tipped for victory. France, Brazil, England, Portugal and Argentina are the current favorites among the oddsmakers ahead of the big kick-off. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: How far should Spain go in the World Cup? Are they the clear favorites? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·124d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Spain at World Cup 2026: Can Spain be crowned world champions under Luis de la Fuente if Lamine Yamal has limited involvement?
Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona fans worldwide are dreaming of watching the Spanish contingent in North America lif the World Cup 2026 trophy to crown Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Co. as the best national team on Earth. La Roja enter the tournament as the main favorites, but Yamal’s fitness remains a big talking point as the teenage superstar is racing against time to recover from a hamstring injury. Lamine’s status for the opener against Cape Verde is still up in the air, and we still don’t know if — and when — he’ll be back to 100%. Spain should be able to negotiate a group with Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay fairly comfortably even without Yamal, but his absence would certainly be felt in the knockout stages. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Spain at the World Cup: Can Spain be crowned world champions under Luis de la Fuente if Lamine Yamal has limited involvement? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·125d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘Ask Ronaldo, ask Messi’ – Patrice Evra tells Lamine Yamal ‘I would eat you alive’
08 June 2025, Bavaria, Munich: Soccer: Nations League A, Portugal - Spain, play-off round, final, Munich Football Arena, Spain's Lamine Yamal laughs before the game. Photo: Christian Charisius/dpa (Photo by Christian Charisius/picture alliance via Getty Images) Former Manchester United and France star Patrice Evra is known for speaking his mind and for having some controversial opinions and has come up with another interesting claim. The ex-full-back believes he would have had no problem taking on Lamine Yamal when he was at his very prime. “I’m sorry Lamine, I love you very much, but in my prime I would eat you alive. Ask Cristiano Ronaldo, ask Messi, ask other players when they faced me. I’m not a good friend,” he said, per Mundo Deportivo. Evra won plenty of titles during his career, including the Champions League, enjoying spells at Monaco, Manchester United and Juventus. However, he didn’t tend to fare well when he came up against Barcelona. He was on the losing side in Champions League finals in 2009 and 2011 with United and again in 2015 with Juve. As for Yamal, he is currently going for glory at World Cup 2026 with Spain and heads into the tournament after being named La Liga’s Player of the Season for 2025-26.
Barca Blaugranes·125d ago·Barcelona·opinion
World Cup 2026 Rule Changes: Which rule are you most interested in seeing used— time wasting reductions or expanded VAR capabilities?
Photo by Tullio Puglia - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images We are days away from World Cup 2026, and the biggest tournament in the sport will introduce some big changes to the rules and to VAR’s capabilities. Several adjustments have been made to try and curb time-wasting such as strict time limits for goal-kicks, throw-ins and substitutions and the elimination of tactical timeouts for injured goalkeepers. There are also big changes to the jobs of VAR officials, who are now able to change incorrect corner-kicks before the set piece is taken, review second yellow cards and alert on-field officials about offsides in real-time with improved semi-automated offside technology. These rules will remain in place after the World Cup for every club competition, so we all must get familiarized with the new changes that will impact the way games are officiated starting next week in North America. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: World Cup Rule Changes: Which rule are you most interested in seeing used — time wasting reductions or expanded VAR capabilities? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·127d ago·Barcelona·opinion
World Cup 2026 Dark Horse: Which country will surprise the most?
Milan, Italy - November 16: Erling Haaland of Norway celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images) | DeFodi Images via Getty Images World Cup 2026 is now just a week away and excitement is building ahead of the big kick-off, with the first game of the tournament seeing co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa. There’s been plenty of talk already about the big favorites for glory. Spain, France and Argentina are all expected to go deep into the tournament but what of the outsiders? World Cups generally throw up a few surprises and there are plenty of teams that can be considered dark horses for this summer’s tournament. Norway, Japan, Morocco, Colombia and Ecuador are among those nations being tipped to spring a few surprises but we want to know who gets your vote. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: World Cup Dark Horse: Which country do you think will surprise the most at the World Cup and why? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, upsets, and opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·128d ago·Barcelona·opinion
World Cup 2026: Are you a fan of the 48-team World Cup format or not? Debate the pros and cons
DALLAS, TEXAS - JUNE 01: FIFA President Gianni Infantino holds the FIFA World Cup winner's trophy while speaking during the FIFA World Cup 2026 International Broadcast Center Grand Opening ceremony on June 01, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images World Cup 2026 is now just nine days away and will be the biggest ever edition of the tournament as 48 teams go for glory in the USA, Mexico and Canada. There are 16 more teams than in 2022 in Qatar which means 104 matches, an additional knockout round and plenty of new faces. Uzbekistan, Jordan, Cape Verde and Curacao have all made it to the World Cup for the very first time and will be hoping to make the most of their appearance on the biggest stage of all. Teams such as Norway, Scotland and Turkiye are also back after long absences and fans from across the globe will be relishing the chance of seeing their teams in action. However, there has been criticism of the decision to expand the World Cup. There are fears that the quality will be diluted and it will increase the strain on players already struggling with a congested fixture schedule. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: World Cup 2026: Are you a fan of the 48-team World Cup format or not? Debate the pros and cons Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, upsets, and opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·131d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Share your favorite World Cup memory of all time! Was it a goal, match or moment?
Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images The 2002 World Cup is the first one I remember vividly, from start to finish, and Ronaldinho’s extraordinary free-kick against England will forever be my favorite football moment of all-time. World Cup moments often mean more than any other because they change lives and make new fans, as the entire planet watches something special unfold that they will never forget. The 2026 World Cup is set to create new magical moments for fans old and new, and we can’t wait to get started. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Share your favorite World Cup memory of all time! Was it a goal, match or moment? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·132d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Club Football vs. International Football: What aspects of international football do you enjoy more than a club season?
Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images The club football season ends in Europe this Saturday with the Champions League Final and the eyes of the football world will turn to the USA, Mexico and Canada as the World Cup is set to begin in less than two weeks. The biggest tournament in the sport certainly brings a lot of excitement every four years, but international football goes on all the time in several dates throughout the calendar that can certainly frustrate fans of club football who have their seasons interrupted for two weeks every month or so. But when done right, international football can be pretty fun, and offer a nice change of pace to the every-three-days nature of club football. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: What aspects of international football do you enjoy more than a club season? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·133d ago·Barcelona·opinion
World Cup Excitement: On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you for World Cup 2026 and why?
The World Cup is two weeks away, and excitement is building every day for what should be a fantastic tournament in the USA, Mexico and Canada over the next month and a half. There are so many amazing storylines this year such as Lionel Messi trying to defend Argentina’s crown in his final World Cup while his eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo looks to finally win it on his farwell appearance, while Lamine Yamal and his many Barcelona friends look to lead Spain back to the top of the world. England, France, Portugal and Brazil also come in with high hopes, and as Morocco proved in 2022 there is always a massive surprise no one will see coming in a tournament that will test players’ bodies and minds given the expected high temperatures, the big changes in timezones and the added toll of an extra knockout game in the first-ever 48-country World Cup. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you for the World Cup and why? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·136d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Did Gerard Martin deserve a place in Spain’s World Cup 2026 squad after his impressive season with Barcelona?
Gerard Martin of FC Barcelona during the La Liga EA Sports 2025/26 match between FC Barcelona and Real Betis Balompie at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium on May 17, 2026, in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Luis de la Fuente has named his Spain squad for World Cup 2026 and included eight Barcelona players on his roster for the competition. Pedri, Pau Cubarsi, Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres are all regulars for La Roja and it was no surprise to see the quintet included. Joan Garcia and Eric Garcia also got the nod after impressive campaigns, while Gavi did enough to return to the national side following his return from injury. Yet one of Barca’s most impressive players this season – Gerard Martin – missed out. Hansi Flick has been full of praise for Martin at the end of the season, saying after the team’s final game: “He has everything he needs to play in this position. His attitude and mentality are incredible.” So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Did Gerard Martin deserve a place in Spain’s World Cup 2026 after his impressive season with Barcelona? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·136d ago·Barcelona·opinion
‘This is Lamine Yamal’s moment’ – Spain boss makes demand to Barcelona star ahead of World Cup 2026
Lamine Yamal of Spain participates in a pre-game Muslim prayer reflection during the international friendly match between Spain and Egypt prior to the FIFA World Cup, at RCD Stadium on March 31, 2026, in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has been talking up Lamine Yamal ahead of World Cup 2026 and has urged the Barcelona star to seize the moment. Yamal heads into the tournament as the most exciting young player on the planet. He’s part of a strong Spain team that will arrive at the World Cup as one of the favorites, and De la Fuente says Yamal can’t wait to get going. “He’s incredibly excited. He’s incredibly eager. He’s very young but very mature. And he knows this is his moment. And in life, you have to seize your opportunities. You never know how you’ll be at the next World Cup,” he told EFE’s ‘ Los Desayunos program. “And this is Lamine Yamal’s moment . He’s very good, and he’ll only get better as his teammates help him perform at his best. In my opinion, we have the best players in the world in many positions, and that will help him perform even better.” Yamal will also arrive at World Cup 2026 after several weeks on the sidelines through injury. There’s speculation already that he could sit out Spain’s early group games in the hope that he’s eased back carefully.
Barca Blaugranes·137d ago·Barcelona·opinion
What would you like to see during the World Cup on Barca Blaugranes?
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 21: The FIFA World Cup trophy sits inside of a case during the FIFA World Cup 26 Trophy Tour on May 21, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Isaiah Vazquez - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images World Cup 2026 is now just 17 days away and teams and players across the globe have switched focus to international football following the end of the 2025-26 domestic season. Barcelona will be heavily represented at the World Cup with stars such as Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Raphinha, Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo all eyeing glory this summer. As usual at Barca Blaugranes, we’ll be following our boys all the way at the World Cup and will aim to deliver all the best content we can. But before the big kick-off we want to know exactly what you think and want to see at BB throughout the tournament. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: What would you like to see during the World Cup on Barca Blaugranes? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Barca Blaugranes·141d ago·Barcelona·opinion
Lamine Yamal or Lionel Messi? Is Spain vs. Argentina the most exciting potential World Cup match and who would come out on top?
Photo by Luis ROBAYO and Franck FIFE / AFP via Getty Images The 2026 World Cup is inching ever closer and will see a host of Barcelona stars feature for their respective nations in the USA, Mexico and Canada this summer. Lionel Messi’s Argentina head into the tournament as the defending champions in what will be the GOAT’s final ever World Cup at the grand old age of 38. The Barca legend has said that he thinks Spain will be among the favorites, with Luis de la Fuente’s side set to be packed full of Barcelona players, including Lamine Yamal. Barca’s No. 10 missed the end of the season through injury but is expected to be fit for the tournament and will be hoping to show the world exactly what he can do at his first ever World Cup. The prospect of Spain facing Argentina and Yamal coming up against Messi is certainly one to relish…so today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Lamine Yamal or Lionel Messi? Is Spain vs. Argentina the most exciting potential World Cup match and who would come out on top? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!

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Lamine Yamal or Lionel Messi? Is Spain vs. Argentina the most exciting potential World Cup match and who would come out on top?