Real Madrid & Barcelona News
Latest headlines pulled from major football outlets. Click any story to read it on the source site.
- Football España·3h ago·Both·transfers
Barcelona and Real Madrid competing to sign €75m Manchester City star
It’s no secret that both Barcelona and Real Madrid will explore the signing of a new central defender during this summer’s transfer window. They’re each keen to solve their defensive woes with the addition of a new recruit, so it is no surprise that they’ve established similar targets. Earlier in the year, Borussia Dortmund and […] The post Barcelona and Real Madrid competing to sign €75m Manchester City star appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·9h ago·Both·transfers
‘He deserves it’ – Deco gives his verdict on Marcus Rashford’s season at Barcelona
VITORIA-GASTEIZ, SPAIN - 2026/05/13: Marcus Rashford (FC Barcelona) seen in action during LaLiga EA SPORTS game between Deportivo Alaves and FC Barcelona at Mendizorroza Stadium. Final scores; Deportivo Alaves 1-0 FC Barcelona. (Photo by Maciej Rogowski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) Barcelona sporting director Deco has given his verdict on Marcus Rashford’s season at the club and says the Manchester United loanee fully deserved to win La Liga. Rashford scored eight goals and contributed seven assists in 32 La Liga outings for Hansi Flick’s side as the Catalans succesfully retained their title. Deco has praised Rashford for his contribution and says he did a great job for the club. “Marcus has helped us a lot because he came on loan, it is not easy to come on loan as a player like him because he is a top player,” he told BBC Sport. “He helped us a lot because he had the responsibility to replace Raphinha, it is not easy but he did very well. Sometimes he [is] on the bench and it’s not easy but he reacted very well and he did everything. “His season was very good and we are happy he won La Liga with us. He deserves [it], he works a lot and works hard to be here. We are happy with him.” Deco also had particular praise for Rashford’s brilliant goal against Real Madrid. His stunning free-kick came in a Clasico win that delivered the title for Barca and certainly impressed Deco. “We knew he had these kinds of skills, I saw him scoring at United many times, but this goal was unbelievable. It was a fantastic goal,” he added. Deco didn’t talk about Rashford’s future at the club which remains uncertain. The forward made his intentions clear after scoring his Clasico stunner, saying: “I’m not a magician but if I was I would stay at Barcelona. We will see.”
- Managing Madrid·2d ago·Both·transfers
Real Madrid shut out of Spain’s World Cup squad as Huijsen misses the cut
Dean Huijsen of Spain controls the ball during the international friendly match between Spain and Egypt prior to the FIFA World Cup, at RCD Stadium in Barcelona, Spain, on March 31, 2026. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images For the first time in history, Spain will head to a World Cup without a single Real Madrid player in the squad. It is a stunning development for both club and country — one that once seemed unthinkable given Madrid’s historic influence on La Roja. But Luis de la Fuente’s final 26-man selection has confirmed what had been increasingly feared in Valdebebas over the past weeks: Real Madrid will have no representation at the tournament. Dean Huijsen, viewed as the club’s final realistic hope of inclusion, was ultimately left out of the squad. The young center-back had emerged as the only viable Madrid-linked option after Dani Carvajal’s long-term knee injury effectively ruled him out of contention months ago, while Alvaro Carreras’s form and playing time dipped significantly in the past couple months. Carvajal, who suffered his injury in October 2024, did not even make Spain’s preliminary 55-man list due to ongoing concerns surrounding his recovery. That left Huijsen carrying the hopes of avoiding an unprecedented moment in Spanish football history. Instead, De la Fuente opted for other defensive profiles, closing the door on Madrid’s presence entirely. Fran García and Gonzalo García had only been considered emergency alternatives rather than serious candidates for the final list. The omission is historically significant. Across Spain’s 16 previous World Cup appearances, Real Madrid had always supplied at least one player to the national team. The only remotely comparable case came before the modern World Cup era itself — at the 1920 Olympic Games in Antwerp, where Spain won silver without Madrid representation. This latest squad selection further highlights the changing balance of power within Spain’s national setup. Barcelona once again lead the way in representation and now remain the only club to have contributed players to every Spanish World Cup squad in history. Even in years of reduced influence, Barça still maintained a minimum presence; their lowest total came in 1934, 2002, and 2006, when three players were selected. The complete squad is as follows: Goalkeepers: Unai Simón, David Raya, Joan García. Defenders: Pedro Porro, Marcos Llorente, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Pubill, Eric García, Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Grimaldo. Midfielders: Rodri, Martín Zubimendi, Pedri, Mikel Merino, Fabián Ruiz, Dani Olmo, Gavi. Forwards: Nico Williams, Álex Baena, Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, Borja Iglesias, Yeremy Pino, Lamine Yamal, Víctor Muñoz.
- Football España·2d ago·Both·transfers
Real Madrid and Barcelona threatened by Premier League interest in winger
Real Madrid and Barcelona are gearing up for this summer’s transfer window, with both clubs having identified their respective targets. It’s no surprise that there is some overlap, which is the case when it comes to Victor Munoz. The 2025-26 season was one to remember for Munoz. He registered seven goals and five assists for […] The post Real Madrid and Barcelona threatened by Premier League interest in winger appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·transfers
Lamine Yamal the leader, winning La Liga in El Clasico and the best moments of Barcelona’s 2025-2026 title winning season
FC Barcelona players celebrate the La Liga championship with the trophy during the La Liga EA Sports 2025/26 ''El Clasico'' match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium in May 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Once again, Barcelona are La Liga champions under Hansi Flick. It’s officially an era to remember. The exciting thing is to imagine that it’s just getting started after the manager signed a new two-year contract to extend his time at the Camp Nou. There were unforgettable moments, such as the winning the league at home against Real Madrid, thrashing Newcastle 7-2 in the Champions League, and the opening of the renovated stadium, to great success as Barcelona were unbeatable at home. There were unforgettable goals from Lamine Yamal, Marcus Rashford, Fermín López, and others. What I’m reflecting on today, however, are the things that contributed to the title winning success of Hansi Flick and his team this season, and that have also built the foundation for sustained success heading into the future. The Barca debut of Joan Garcia The biggest storyline of last summer was the decision to bring in Joan Garcia after a breakthrough season at Espanyol. The writing was starting to emerge on the wall that Marc-André ter Stegen’s time as Barca’s number one was coming to an end after a string of injuries, and doubts starting to circulate as to whether he was still a world class option. Deco didn’t hesitate to sign Garcia. The opportunity was too good to walk away from. Bringing him in was a sign that Barcelona were evolving. As a goalkeeper, Garcia had developed a reputation for incredible shot stopping, but it wasn’t clear how good he was with his feet, something that has become an expectation for all Barca players, goalies included. From the beginning, Garcia inspired confidence, won over the fanbase and team-mates alike, and never looked back. The one hicccup was a howler against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey that may have been the most approximate cause of Barca’s elimination. That being said, you could just as well have blamed the poor condition of the pitch for the blunder. Garcia became Barcelona’s anchor, and he is likely to be the main man between the sticks for many years to come. Lamine Yamal maturing into a leader Another unfortunate story to grab the headlines a year ago was the off-field escapades of Lamine Yamal and his infamous 18th birthday party. Many, myself included, began to wonder, perhaps unfairly, whether we had a Ronaldinho or a Lionel Messi on our hands in terms of longevity and ability to live up to expectations. Having barely lost to Ousmane Dembele in the Ballon d’Or added more intrigue to the debate. Could Lamine take his game to the next level? Without a doubt, we saw an upgraded version of the football’s next and current global superstar. It’s not just the stats, although he did take a step forward in this department with 22 goals and 14 assists across La Liga and the Champions League. It was the way he carried the team on his back in the biggest moments, even at times in losing knockout efforts. What we learned is that Lamine is more than just the magic in his boots. He is a competitor and he understands what winning means as the face of Barcelona. Hansi Flick’s tactics continuing to dominate Spain How fortunate Barcelona is to have Hansi Flick. He is imperfect, but he is a damn good coach who has accomplished so much with so little. Real Madrid brought in Xabi Alonso, a signal that they were ready to give Flick a challenge in his second year in charge give the reputation that the Spaniard built at Leverkusen for his tactics and leadership ability. By the midway point of the season, Alonso was sacked after losing the Supercopa to Flick, and Real Madrid officially entered meltdown mode. Flick and Barcelona were cool as a cucumber in La Liga, even more consistent and dominant than in year one. If you remove the last three throw away games, they were both the best offensive and defensive team in Spain. They also, with a little bit more at stake at the end, could have and likely would have gotten to 100 points. The Champions League is another question next season. I’m beginning to think, however, the problem isn’t the tactics, but the lack of backing to give Flick the depth he needs to be in the best position for success. Some pragmatism in certain moments wouldn’t hurt, but the biggest factor will be whether Joan Laporta can get Flick a new forward, and at least one new defender to put Barcelona over the top. All in all, it’s amazing to see Flick in the process of building a potential Barcelona dynasty in Spain. Three titles in a row would put him in the same company as Pep Guardiola. It’s even more impressive though when you consider what he’s working with. How about you guys? What were your favorite things about Barcelona this season. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
- Managing Madrid·3d ago·Both·transfers
Enrique Riquelme Announces Real Madrid Presidential Bid, Calls for “Democracy, Transparency, and a New Cycle”
MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 23: Enrique Riquelme, Chairman of Cox Energy, speaks to the media outside the stadium as he advertises his candidacy for President of Real Madrid in the upcoming election prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and Athletic Club at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on May 23, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) | Getty Images Enrique Riquelme officially announced on Thursday that he is running for the presidency of Real Madrid, positioning himself as the first serious challenger to Florentino Pérez in decades. In a wide-ranging interview with MARCA, Riquelme outlined a campaign centered on governance reform, democratization of the club, modernization of its sporting structure, and renewed emphasis on the role of club members. Riquelme framed his candidacy not as a personal battle against Pérez, but as what he believes is a necessary new cycle for the club after more than 20 years under the current leadership. “Florentino Pérez is the best president in Real Madrid’s history,” Riquelme told MARCA. “But cycles also come to an end. We’re not here to compete with a person, we’re here to propose a different plan.” The businessman described the decision to run as the culmination of years of reflection behind the scenes. According to Riquelme, conversations about how to help Real Madrid date back more than a decade, but intensified after 2021. He said he ultimately felt a “moral and ethical obligation” to step forward and offer members an alternative. A major pillar of his platform is opposition to any potential privatization of Real Madrid. Riquelme repeatedly emphasized that concern over the club’s future ownership structure helped unite the people behind his campaign. “What united a significant group of members is the fear of privatizing the club,” he said. “We want a Real Madrid that will continue to belong to its members for more than 120 years.” He also criticized what he perceives as a lack of democracy within the current institutional structure, pointing to the fact that Real Madrid has gone two decades without contested presidential elections. Riquelme argued that the current system makes it extraordinarily difficult for challengers to emerge and promised reforms centered on transparency and member involvement. Much of the interview focused on the relationship between the club and its socios. Riquelme claimed that many members no longer feel genuinely connected to Real Madrid beyond symbolic gestures and merchandise discounts. He specifically pointed to ticketing frustrations, relocation of season-ticket holders, and the difficulty ordinary members face when trying to attend away matches or access ticket allocations. According to Riquelme, these issues reflect a broader disconnect between the institution and its supporters. “Being a Real Madrid member means getting Christmas and birthday greetings and a 15% discount on jerseys,” he said. “That can’t be.” On the sporting side, Riquelme confirmed that his project includes major names and structural reforms, though he stopped short of revealing specifics. He stressed that Real Madrid needs a professional sporting director and a clearer long-term sporting identity. He also highlighted concerns over the academy pipeline, contrasting Madrid’s recent youth production with clubs like Barcelona. “Real Madrid has to have a sporting director,” he said. “It can’t be that there’s a lack of players coming through the academy while other clubs in Spain fill their national teams with players from their youth systems.” Riquelme added that his vision is not built around short-term transfer splashes to win elections, but rather around constructing a sustainable sporting model capable of competing immediately while also planning for the future. Another recurring theme was the club’s image and institutional relationships. Riquelme argued that Madrid has become increasingly isolated and suggested the club should seek respect rather than fear from the football world. “We need them to respect us again, not fear us,” he said. He also addressed Real Madrid Femenino and the basketball division, insisting that if the club chooses to compete in those areas, it must aim to be the best rather than merely participate. Financially, Riquelme acknowledged the enormous barrier to entry involved in running for Real Madrid president, particularly due to the guarantee requirements tied to the club’s budget. He revealed that he personally assumed 100% of the financial guarantee for the candidacy using his own assets. The businessman, who said he oversees a company with nearly 14,000 employees across 37 countries, framed the campaign as a major professional and personal sacrifice shared by the people involved in his project. He also criticized the current state of Real Madrid Television, arguing that the channel should evolve beyond what he described as a partisan outlet and instead become a profitable global content platform capable of attracting and entertaining supporters worldwide. Throughout the interview, Riquelme consistently balanced criticism of the club’s current direction with praise for Pérez’s legacy. He repeatedly credited the current president for transforming Real Madrid into the biggest sporting brand in the world, while simultaneously arguing that the club now requires structural renewal. Ultimately, Riquelme presented his candidacy as a long-term institutional project rather than a campaign focused solely on immediate sporting success. “Real Madrid needs a solid foundation in terms of governance, transparency, and democracy,” he said. “If what we want is to create a Real Madrid that lasts another 100 years, we have to change that foundation.”
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·transfers
Joan Garcia wins Zamora Trophy in his first season at Barcelona
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Joan Garcia of FC Barcelona celebrates after the first goal of his team scored by Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona (not in frame) during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Joan Garcia has won the Zamora Trophy in his first season at Barcelona after signing for the club last summer from local rivals Espanyol. The stopper has proven to be an excellent addition to the squad and his performances have seen him rewarded with the prestigious individual award. The Zamora Trophy is handed out to the goalkeeper with the lowest “goals-to-games” ratio. Garcia finishes the season having conceded 21 goals in 30 games at an average of 0.7 per game. A first season to remember. Joan Garcia wins his first Zamora Trophy, the award for the goalkeeper with the fewest goals conceded in La Liga 🏆👏 pic.twitter.com/lbA91ber0c — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 24, 2026 Garcia beat off competition from Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois and Getafe’s David Soria to land the prize. After an impressive season, Garcia will now be hoping to be included in Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad for World Cup 2026 which will be announced on Monday. The Spain boss has already confirmed he will take three goalkeepers to the tournament this summer, with Garcia one of a host of options alongside Unai Simon, David Raya and Alex Remiro.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·transfers
‘I want everyone 100% focused’ – Hansi Flick sends warning to Barcelona stars ahead of 2026-27 season
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, acknowledges the fans during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) Hansi Flick has warned his Barcelona players he wants “100% commitment from everyone” for the 2026-27 season. Barcelona signed off the current campaign with a 3-1 defeat to Valencia and Flick admitted his team had been pre-occupied by the upcoming World Cup. However, the German coach warned that when the competition is over, and the players return to their clubs, he wants maximum effort from everyone. “The World Cup is a big event and the players are focused, but next season will be tougher and I want everyone 100% focused,” he told reporters. “Now we can go to the World Cup or go on vacation and rest, but what counts is Barça and when we return we will continue our journey and I want 100% commitment from everyone. “I am prepared, I have that hunger, I want the players with that commitment, that everyone, players and staff, can give their best for this badge.” Flick has already committed his future to the club, signing a new two-year contract, and will be aiming for a third straight title next season with Barca.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·transfers
Three talking points from Valencia vs Barcelona as Robert Lewandowski says goodbye with a goal
VALENCIA, SPAIN - MAY 23: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Valencia CF and FC Barcelona at Estadi de Mestalla on May 23, 2026 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barca fizzle out in final game Barcelona’s final game of the 2025-26 season ended in disappointment as Valencia came from a goal down to win 3-1 and hand Hansi Flick’s side a sixth league defeat of the season. Unlike their opponents, the Catalans had nothing to play for and it showed. Flick was without Raphinha and Lamine Yamal due to illness and injury and also chose to rest key players such as Pedri, Joan Garcia and Pau Cubarsi which goes quite a long way to explaining Barca’s lack of intensity. Hansi Flick did use the game to hand Ronald Araujo a start, although he was replaced at half-time by Xavi Espart after appearing to take a knock. Unfortunately it was a tough game for the young right-back, the hope will be he can learn plenty from his outing. Marc Casado was also given some minutes late on ahead of a big summer for the midfielder. The midfielder is said to be heading for talks with the club about his future after slipping down the pecking order this season. Barcelona still end the season eight points clear of nearest challengers Real Madrid and with a vastly superior goal difference. As Flick admitted afterwards, the real work is about to start as Barca being planning for the next campaign in earnest. “I’m pleased with the team’s level throughout the season,” he told reporters afterwards. “Now everyone wants to play in the World Cup, it’s normal for their heads to be elsewhere. This match suits me well to start analyzing things.” Lewandowski signs off with a goal The best thing about Saturday’s match was undoubtedly the sight of Robert Lewandowski signing off his time at Barcelona in traditional Lewandowski-style – with a goal. The striker went close in the first half when he hit the post with a header but had been having a quiet game until the hour mark when he broke the deadlock. The veteran had Ferran Torres to thank for an inadvertent assist. The Spain star fired goalwards and could only watch as Lewandowski managed to divert the ball past goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski at the far post. It probably wasn’t a surprise to see Lewandowski score against Valencia, as he’s made a real habit of netting against Los Che, bagging 10 goals in seven games against them. They’ll certainly be glad to see the back of him. The goal was number 120 in 193 appearances for Lewandowski in Barcelona colors, his 14th in La Liga this season and the perfect way for Lewy to sign off a brilliant four years with the club. Christensen returns to action for Barca Andreas Christensen made his first appearance since December for Barcelona at Mestalla in a week where it’s been reported he’s agreed a new two-year deal with the club. The Dane has returned from a serious knee injury and is reportedly eager to show what he can do in pre-season and earn a place in the first team for the 2026-27 campaign. Christensen looked understandably rusty in his second-half cameo. A poor pass from Xavi Espart left him stranded for the equaliser and he looked very much like a player lacking match rhythm during his time on the pitch. The 30-year-old will now get the summer off, as Denmark failed to qualify for the World Cup, before heading back to Barcelona to try and revive his career. The big question will be whether Christensen can finally stay fit. With talk continuing that Barca want to sign a center-back, and Gerard Martin and Eric Garcia having both shone in the backline this season, he also faces his work cut out getting back into the team.
- Football España·4d ago·Both·transfers
Jose Mourinho arrival opens door for Real Madrid to pursue Barcelona top target
Real Madrid have started to draw up plans for this summer’s transfer window, which will be the first in 13 years with Jose Mourinho in charge. The Portuguese will have the final say when it comes to targets, and already, he has a few names in mind that he wants added to the squad he […] The post Jose Mourinho arrival opens door for Real Madrid to pursue Barcelona top target appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·4d ago·Both·transfers
What grade do you give Barcelona’s season and have we progressed or regressed as a team?
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images Another successful season for Barcelona is coming to an end with two more titles and a whole lot of goals and entertainment from Hansi Flick’s side in 2025-26. Barça defended the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup crown and clinch both titles with wins against Real Madrid which is always very, very sweet. The Catalans also made it to the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey and almost pulled off a miracle comeback against Atlético Madrid, but the major disappointment of the season was the quarter-final exit in the Champions League against the same Atlético side, even though the Catalans came very close and certainly have quite a few refereeing decisions to comlain about. The Blaugrana won a domestic Treble and made it to the European semi-finals in Flick’s first season, but this campaign saw the rise of Lamine Yamal into true best player in the world status, Gerard Martín having a fantastic year as a center-back and perhaps becoming a defensive stalwart for the near future, and Joan Garcia becoming perhaps the best bargain signing in recent club history and already in the conversation for best goalkeeper on Earth. Even if the trophy cabinet isn’t as full as last season and the Champions League campaign was definitely disappointing, there certainly are several reasons why this was a great year for Barça that sets them up for a bright future. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: What grade do you give Barcelona’s season and have we progressed or regressed as a team? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·transfers
‘We’ll talk about it later’ – Barcelona in no rush to discuss Ferran Torres’ future
Barcelona's Spanish forward #07 Ferran Torres celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Spanish league football match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Camp Nou Stadium in Barcelona on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Josep LAGO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona are in no rush to talk about Ferran Torres’ future at the club as he heads into the final year of his existing contract at Camp Nou. There have been no talks about extending the Spain star’s contract, even though Robert Lewandowski has confirmed he will leave at the end of the season. Flick was quizzed on Ferran’s future ahead of Barca’s final game of the season and offered up the following update. “We haven’t talked about his future. He has one year left, there’s time,” he told reporters on Friday. “We’ll talk about it later. What I see is that he’s done a great job in recent weeks, which is what I expect from him, and his attitude has been positive. His performance has been good.” Torres has 21 goals in all competitions for Barcelona this season which is a great return, although he did go over three months without finding the back of the net at the start of this year.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·transfers
Marcus Rashford sends message to Hansi Flick and Barcelona after being named in England’s World Cup squad
Hansi Flick head coach of Barcelona and Marcus Rashford left winger of Barcelona and England celebrates the victory after winning the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Marcus Rashford has sent his thanks to Hansi Flick and Barcelona after being named in the England squad for World Cup 2026. The Manchester United loanee missed out on Euro 2024 with the Three Lions but is back in favor after a strong season at Camp Nou. He’s taken to Instagram after Thomas Tuchel named his squad for the tournament with the following message: “Special thanks to Unai, Hansi, Thomas, Aston Villa, Barcelona and England for believing in me when things got tough.” Rashford omitted to mention parent club Manchester United but quickly put out another message andhttps://www.barcablaugranes.com/fc-barcelona-transfer-rumors-news/120365/barcelona-set-to-reopen-marcus-rashford-talks-with-man-utd-as-another-loan-is-a-possibility insisted he hadn’t been trying to make a point. “To make my IG story clear. It’s not a dig of any sort! I’m a MU supporter, and that remains. I was showing gratitude to the clubs and coaches that I have worked with over the past 18 months, they have played a big role in this call up,” he wrote on X. England face Croatia, Ghana and Panama in the group stages of World Cup 2026.
- Managing Madrid·5d ago·Both·transfers
Enrique Riquelme Officially Enters Race Against Florentino Pérez for Real Madrid Presidency
MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 20: Enrique Riquelme attends "RAFA" premiere at Beti Jai on May 20, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Juan Naharro Gimenez/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid could be approaching one of the most significant presidential elections in modern club history after businessman Enrique Riquelme officially took the first step toward challenging Florentino Pérez for the presidency. Riquelme informed the club’s Electoral Board on Thursday of his intention to run in the upcoming elections, activating a process that could ultimately lead to the first contested presidential vote at Real Madrid in nearly 20 years. Under the club’s electoral rules, candidates are required to notify the Board at least 48 hours before formally registering their candidacy, meaning Riquelme now has until Saturday, May 23, to complete the process officially. The move immediately changes the political atmosphere around the Santiago Bernabéu. For years, Florentino Pérez’s continuity appeared untouchable, largely because of the enormous sporting and financial success Real Madrid achieved during his leadership. But after a second consecutive trophyless season, dissatisfaction among sections of the fanbase has created an opening for a potential institutional shakeup. Riquelme, 37, is the president and majority owner of the Cox Energy Group and has positioned himself as the candidate seeking to modernize the club while strengthening the role of the socios. In the formal letter sent to the Electoral Board, he emphasized that his project would focus on protecting Real Madrid’s member-owned identity. “My objective is to present a project for the future of Real Madrid, one that is inspiring for all Madridistas and especially focused on once again placing the members at the forefront of a new era,” Riquelme wrote. “Guaranteeing that they will always be the sole and true owners of the best football club in the world.” The businessman has already made privatization one of the central themes of his campaign, warning that Real Madrid’s current ownership structure could eventually come under threat if institutional changes are not made. Behind the scenes, Riquelme and his team are now working against the clock to complete the demanding requirements needed to validate the candidacy. The most difficult obstacle remains the financial guarantee required by club statutes: candidates must provide backing equal to 15 percent of Real Madrid’s annual budget, currently around €187 million. In addition, candidates must assemble a board consisting of at least nine members, including a vice president with a minimum of 15 consecutive years of club membership. While no official board has been announced, several prominent names have already emerged in reports surrounding Riquelme’s project. Among those rumored to be involved are David Mesonero, director of corporate development at Iberdrola and son-in-law of Ignacio Sánchez Galán, and Ángel Martín, owner of Clínica Menorca and a figure closely linked with several former Real Madrid legends. Other names reportedly connected to the candidacy include Dámaso Quintana, president of commodities giant Cunext; investor Rosauro Varo; and relatives of former Real Madrid executives Fernando Fernández Tapias and Vicente Boluda. If Riquelme successfully formalizes his candidacy and it is accepted by the Electoral Board, Real Madrid members would vote in presidential elections for the first time since 2006, when Ramón Calderón defeated Lorenzo Sanz and Arturo Baldasano. Florentino Pérez has not faced an electoral opponent since returning to the presidency in 2009. He has since been re-elected unopposed in 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025. His overall legacy at Real Madrid remains monumental. Pérez first became president in 2000 during the original Galáctico era before resigning in 2006. Since returning in 2009, Madrid have won multiple La Liga and Champions League titles while also becoming one of the strongest commercial institutions in global sport. However, the current sporting crisis has increased scrutiny around the club’s direction. Madrid trail Barcelona by 11 points in La Liga, were eliminated from the Champions League by Bayern Munich, and suffered a shocking Copa del Rey defeat to lower-league opposition earlier in the season. The managerial instability has only intensified the uncertainty. Xabi Alonso was dismissed in January and replaced by reserve-team coach Álvaro Arbeloa, while reports continue linking José Mourinho with a dramatic return to the club. Ironically, the election process itself may complicate Mourinho’s arrival. According to reports in Spain, Real Madrid hoped to officially present Mourinho next week if Florentino Pérez remained unopposed. But if Riquelme’s candidacy proceeds, the appointment could not become official until after the elections, which are expected to take place around June 7. That delay could prove significant because Mourinho reportedly has a €7 million release clause allowing him to leave Benfica before that date expires. If the process drags beyond early June, Madrid would need to negotiate directly with Benfica or pay the full termination penalty. The next 48 hours will now be crucial for both candidates. Florentino Pérez must also formally submit his candidacy to the Electoral Board, while Riquelme races to finalize the guarantees, documentation, and board members necessary to officially challenge the most powerful president in modern Real Madrid history. For the first time in many years, Real Madrid’s political future suddenly feels uncertain.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·transfers
New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso responds to Joao Pedro to Barcelona transfer talk
Real Madrid's Spanish coach Xabi Alonso reacts during the Spanish Super Cup final football match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at the King Abdullah Stadium in Jeddah on January 11, 2026. Real Madrid appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as new coach on January 12, 2026 after coach Xabi Alonso has left the club by mutual consent, a day after the team lost the Spanish Super Cup final against rivals Barcelona, AFP reports. (Photo by Fadel SENNA / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso has been quizzed directly on talk that Barcelona are chasing Joao Pedro ahead of the summer transfer window. Pedro has emerged as a potential alternative to Julian Alvarez as Barcelona search for a new No. 9 in time for the 2026-27 season. Asked by El Chiringuito about the speculation, Alonso said only: “Well.. That’s football, and we’ll build a good team.” Barcelona sporting director Deco reportedly held talks with Pedro’s agents before Saturday’s FA Cup final which Chelsea lost to Manchester City. There was then more misery for Pedro in midweek when he was surprisingly left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for World Cup 2026. His omission has continued to fuel speculation about a move, with some outlets reporting that he would like to join Barcelona. However, it’s not known if Chelsea would sanction a sale or if Barca can afford the Brazilian.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·transfers
Are Barcelona better off not spending big this summer?
Lamine Yamal right winger of Barcelona and Spain and Julian Alvarez centre-forward of Atletico de Madrid and Argentina compete for the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Club Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 14, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images One way of looking at things at Barcelona is that if it’s not broken, don’t try to fix it. In Spain at least, the pressure is on Real Madrid and other rivals to find a way to get on their level. Hansi Flick’s system has been unstoppable in La Liga since his arrival two summers ago. The Champions League, however, is another question. What we know for sure is that Robert Lewandowski is leaving, and Ferran Torres alone can’t replace him. How big Barcelona’s ambitions should be on the market will be the question of the summer. Julián Alvarez is the perfect signing. We can go around in circles considering other options, but tactically and philosophically, the Argentinian looks tailor made for the Camp Nou. He would be expensive, perhaps prohibitively so. We shouldn’t pretend, however, that most alternatives, like João Pedro would be much cheaper. Both signings would require considerable financial engineering. Alvarez is the only player I can think of who may be worth the effort in pursuing a formula. First step, Alvarez would have to really want to come to Barcelona, and he would have to put pressure on Atlético Madrid. Without that, the conversation becomes moot. You’d have to imagine that Alvarez sees what everyone else can. He would fit Barca like a glove, and with Flick in charge, there is a real opportunity to reach superstardom. It’s confounding to consider how and why he arrived at Atleti to begin with, except to concede that at the end of the day money talks, and the summer he made the move, the Colchoneros went on a spending spree. The second step in the process is that Barcelona would have to make sales. This is where it gets tricky because it highlights that bringing in Alvarez isn’t just about what he adds, but what he subtracts from Barcelona. It would take more than letting loose a few players who are obviously surplus to requirements, like Marc Casadó or even Ferran Torres. It would mean making the hard decisions of moving on reliable parts of the starting eleven. Jules Kounde and Frenkie de Jong come to mind. Maybe even Raphinha if that’s the only thing that can get the job done of making the math work. To that end, would it be worth it, or does it become too big of a risk? At that point, you’re perhaps messing too much with a foundation that has proven to work. What the Alvarez conversation is really about is whether Barcelona should go down the path of big structural change or simply tinker with the stucture that’s already there. Going for Alvarez means going big, and building around him for the future, as a part of the core nucleus of the team alongside Lamine Yamal and Pedri. In other words, if you do it, it better work or there will be consequences. If you don’t go for him, then I think Barcelona may have to settle for more pragmatic signings. Marcus Rashford at least, even at 30 million euros, is good value compared to what João Pedro would cost. You of course still need to bring in another forward or two, but maybe it doesn’t have to be a classic number nine, since the good ones are so few and far between anyway. Defense is where Barcelona could really get the biggest bang for their buck in terms of strengthening their chances to win more titles. The Blaugrana, afterall, haven’t stopped outscoring everyone in Spain by a mile. If not Alvarez, then that’s where the investment should go. These aren’t easy choices. Barcelona have to be humble and realistic about where they still stand as a club. Prudence, at the end of the day, is probably the best principle to apply when the time comes to decide. If Barcelona has learned anything from the past, it’s that you can’t spend your way to winning trophies.
- Football España·6d ago·Both·transfers
Chelsea star Joao Pedro to discuss future with Xabi Alonso amid Barcelona interest
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro is set to discuss his future with new manager Xabi Alonso, amid uncertainty over his future. Barcelona have been heavily linked with the Brazil international, who recently was overlooked by Carlo Ancelotti for the World Cup. Initially Julian Alvarez was circled as Barcelona’s priority for the summer transfer window to replace […] The post Chelsea star Joao Pedro to discuss future with Xabi Alonso amid Barcelona interest appeared first on Football España.
- Managing Madrid·6d ago·Both·transfers
The Season Without a Ballon d’Or Winner at Real Madrid
TOPSHOT - 2018 Men's Ballon d'Or award for best player of the year's Real Madrid's Croatian midfielder Luka Modric poses with the trophy after the 2018 Ballon d'Or award ceremony at the Grand Palais in Paris on December 3, 2018. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images 2025-26 marked the first season in the 21st century where Real Madrid had no Ballon d’Or winners in the squad. Since the turn of the millennium, Los Blancos have always had at least one in their roster. It started with the seismic transfer of Luis Figo in 2000 – he won it at the back of a great 1999-00 season with FC Barcelona. The first Galactico era – from 2000 to 2006 – had multiple Ballon d’Or winners in the same team – Figo, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo Nazario, and Michael Owen. After Zidane retired, Italy’s World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro joined Real Madrid and kept the Ballon d’Or lineage sustained through 2009. Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo joined Madrid in 2009 as former Ballon d’Or winners with AC Milan and Manchester United, respectively. Cristiano won four more with Real Madrid. After Cristiano, Luka Modric won it in 2018, and Karim Benzema in 2022. Since Modric left the club in 2025, Real Madrid no longer have a former Ballon d’Or winner in their squad.
- Football España·6d ago·Both·transfers
Jose Mourinho wants to sign Barcelona star upon Real Madrid arrival
Jose Mourinho will look to shake things up at Real Madrid after a dismal couple of seasons at the Bernabeu, and despite not yet being officially announced as the club’s next manager, he is starting to have his say on the transfer front. He’s already set his sights on Manchester City’s Rodri Hernandez, and one […] The post Jose Mourinho wants to sign Barcelona star upon Real Madrid arrival appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·transfers
Transfer Window Review: How do you rate Barcelona’s 2025-26 signings and who’s your favorite?
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Joan Garcia of FC Barcelona celebrates after the first goal of his team scored by Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona (not in frame) during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona have been fairly quiet in the last few transfers windows due to their financial constraints but did still manage to bring in players for the 2025-26 season. The biggest signing of last summer was the arrival of Joan Garcia from Espanyol. Barca sensed a market opportunity and took it, with Garcia going on to play a huge role for Hansi Flick’s side this season. Marcus Rashford also arrived on loan and made an impact. The England international has divided opinion among supporters but his record of 14 goals and 11 assists for Barca is a good return. Roony Bardghji also arrived from FC Copenhagen but has had to be patient in his debut campaign at Camp Nou and will hope for more opportunities next season. Barcelona were also active in the January window, opting to bring back Joao Cancelo on loan for a second spell in Catalunya. A few eyebrows were raised at the time of the decision to re-sign Cancelo, but he’s been a huge hit and has forced his way into the starting XI. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Share your ratings for Barcelona’s signings throughout the 2025-26 season and tell us who’s been your favorite! Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!