Real Madrid & Barcelona News
Latest headlines pulled from major football outlets. Click any story to read it on the source site.
- Football España·2h 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·6h ago·Both·match
‘Lamine Yamal is a player people pay to watch’ – Vinicius Jr piles praise on Barcelona star
MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26: (L-R) Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona, Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2025 in Madrid Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Vinicius Jr has showered Barcelona star Lamine Yamal with praise and says he’s the type of player that people are happy to pay to watch. Yamal has thrilled the football world since bursting onto the scene as a 15-year-old. The forward has already won La Liga and Copa del Rey titles with Barca as well as the European Championship with Spain. Barca’s No. 10 is now heading to the World Cup with La Roja, with Vinicius’s praise ringing in his ears. “Lamine is one of those players people pay to see play. He’s a great player and very difficult to play against. I’m sure he admires the Real Madrid players too,” he told Caze TV. Vini also spoke about another trophyless season for Madrid after seeing Barca finish top of the pile again in La Liga. “It’s been a very difficult season. We started well, with a gap between us and Barça, but then we started losing and drawing games we shouldn’t have,” he added. We lost confidence and Barça kept winning. It’s the first time I’ve gone two seasons without a win; we failed. We have a team that can win next year. Real Madrid always comes back. My first year was also very difficult, when Cristiano left.” Hansi Flick will be aiming to make it three titles in a row next season, while Madrid are expected to turn to Jose Mourino once again as manager.
- Barca Blaugranes·8h 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.”
- Barca Blaugranes·1d ago·Both
Zlatan Ibrahimovic wants Barcelona legend Xavi to be new AC Milan manager
SEVILLE, SPAIN - MAY 26: Xavi, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on May 26, 2024 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona legend Xavi is being tipped to return to management in Italy with Serie A giants AC Milan. According to the Corriere dello Sport, Xavi is top of the list to replace Massimiliano Allegri and has been recommended to the club by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The former striker works as a special advisor to the club and thinks Xavi would be a good choice. Outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is also in the club’s thoughts as they ponder their next move. Milan are said to be looking to a future and a coach who will provide an “attacking style of play and innovative ideas” after a season where they finished down in fifth place in the table. Xavi has been out of work since leaving Barcelona but has been linked with several top jobs since then, most recently Chelsea. The Blues have since appointed Xabi Alonso as their new coach but it seems Xavi could still have a chance of returning to management imminently in Italy. Would Xavi be a good fit for Milan? Tell us what you think in the comments below!
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both·match
Hansi Flick asks Barcelona for new fitness coach to fix injury problems
Hansi Flick head coach of Barcelona and his players during Barcelona´s training ahead to the Spanish Super Cup final match between FC BArcelona and Real Madrid at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Hansi Flick wants to make a key change to his coaching set-up in the summer at Barcelona and has asked the club to appoint a new fitness coach. The German coach is to lose Thiago Alcântara and fellow coach Stephan Nopp this summer. Flick has asked Barca for reinforcements, specifically a fitness coach, but is still waiting for his request to be approved, per AS. The head of the team’s fitness staff Julio Tous is set to stay on but may see his role affected. Flick wants to make the change after seeing his team beset by injuries in the 2025-26 season. The report says the “evident lack of physical conditioning” is believed to be one reason for the club’s fitness problems. Flick is eager to do all he can to win the Champions League next season and “wants to implement a substantial change in physical preparation” in a bid to land the European Cup. It’s been reported throughout the season that some Barcelona players have complained about the physical preparation and fitness work at the club and have been using their own physios.
- Guardian Football·2d ago·Both
Zero Real Madrid players in Spain World Cup squad as injured Lamine Yamal makes cut
Luis de la Fuente names 26-man squad for tournament Real Madrid players miss Spain squad for first time Spain will go to the World Cup without a single Real Madrid player for the first time in their history as Luis de la Fuente named his 26-man squad for this summer’s tournament. While Real stars such as Dean Huijsen, Dani Carvajal and Gonzalo García miss out, De la Fuente included Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who tore his left hamstring on 22 April and missed the rest of his club’s La Liga campaign. Continue reading...
- Football España·2d ago·Both
Real Madrid star takes shot at Spain manager after World Cup squad omission
For the first time in history, Spain will go to the World Cup without any Real Madrid players among their ranks. Luis de la Fuente named his Spain squad on Monday, but none of the eligible Real Madrid options made it in. La Roja’s 26 players are nearly made up of a third of Barcelona […] The post Real Madrid star takes shot at Spain manager after World Cup squad omission appeared first on Football España.
- 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
Barcelona have €25m replacement in mind should Jules Kounde leave this summer
Barcelona once again secured the LaLiga title this year, after outperforming Real Madrid across the campaign, but manager Hansi Flick has admitted that it was a ‘difficult season’ with a number of things not going to plan. Much of that was down to injuries, but in terms of performance, they struggled to hit the heights […] The post Barcelona have €25m replacement in mind should Jules Kounde leave this summer appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both·match
Hard work and perseverance pay off for Gavi and Eric Garcia as Barcelona stars earn deserved World Cup 2026 spots
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Gavi of FC Barcelona celebrates after defeating Real Madrid CF, and winning the LaLiga title, after the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Monday saw Luis de la Fuente announce his Spain squad for the forthcoming World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. After a successful season for Barcelona, the players will have expected to at least be in the mix to be on the plane, though such decisions are always fraught for an international manager, and there will always be those that are disappointed. With eight players in the squad, Barca have the most from one club, evoking memories of the golden era of Spanish football between 2008 and 2012. Two of the Blaugranes chosen to represent La Roja can’t have deserved it more, either. After the immense disappointment of missing out on the 2024 European Championship and Olympic Games squads because of injury, and notwithstanding another serious problem that kept him out for months recently, Gavi has been reborn in the latter half of the current season. Back to his old devilish self, it’s been a joy for supporters to see him mixing it with the best that Spanish and European football have to offer, and, as importantly, to be doing so at a similar level to that which he displayed pre his ACL. Eric Garcia’s inclusion is a testament to the hard work that he’s put in, and it isn’t a stretch to say that he’s been arguably Barca’s most reliable player this season. Had he not been selected on this occasion, it would’ve been a travesty, and questions would’ve again been asked of De la Fuente, who doesn’t enjoy unanimous support in the corridors of power at Camp Nou. One player who must be ruing his luck is Fermin Lopez. The 23-year-old enjoyed another excellent campaign for the Blaugranes, scoring 13 goals and providing 17 assists in 48 matches in all competitions during 2025/26. Though Fermin would certainly have had reasonable competition in the midfield area to earn a selection, and surely wouldn’t begrudge Pedri and Gavi being on the plane in any event, breaking a bone in his foot against Real Betis ensured he’d play no part in the tournament. Only De la Fuente will know why Unai Simon retains the goalkeeper’s jersey when it’s clear that both David Raya and, particularly, Barca’s Joan Garcia have been head and shoulders above him in the current campaign. For his shot-stopping, reflexes, bravery and ability with both feet, there’s simply no cogent reason why Garcia isn’t the new No.1 already. Pau Cubarsi has deservedly booked his spot, and given an almighty amount of experience at the top level already, it’s often forgotten that he’s still just 19 years of age. A solid addition, and a player who will only improve. Lamine Yamal was always going to make the cut unless he was injured, and if Spain go deep into the tournament, expect some magic from the twinkle-toed teenager. Joining Lamine as part of the Spanish attacking eight to travel to the showpiece are Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo. Both have had their moments in 25/26, though one might also contend that they’ve also not been at their best for long periods. If nothing else, their selection could bring them some individual confidence, and away from the daily rigours of club football, La Roja might just be able to bring the best out of them. Ultimately, eight players from the same club is a ringing endorsement that Barca are again doing things right, and that can only be great for club and country in the longer term. In contrast, Real Madrid have no representatives in this squad for some sort of context.
- BBC Sport·2d ago·Both
Lamine Yamal in Spain squad but no Real players
Injured forward Lamine Yamal is named in Spain's World Cup squad, which does not feature any Real Madrid players.
- Football España·2d ago·Both
WATCH: Lamine Yamal posts wild Gavi celebrations after Spain World Cup call
Spain have named their squad for the 2026 World Cup, with eight Barcelona players included. Perhaps the most celebrated was that of Gavi though. La Roja have revealed the 26 names that will be going to the World Cup this summer, which for the first time ever will not include a Real Madrid player. Gonzalo […] The post WATCH: Lamine Yamal posts wild Gavi celebrations after Spain World Cup call appeared first on Football España.
- Football España·2d ago·Both
Lamine Yamal headlines Spain World Cup squad without Real Madrid players
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has named his 26-man World Cup squad, as La Roja seek their second ever star on their shirt. De la Fuente himself has described Spain as one of the favourites for the tournament, and the Euro 2024 champions certainly part at the front of the peloton with France, England […] The post Lamine Yamal headlines Spain World Cup squad without Real Madrid players appeared first on Football España.
- 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.
- Managing Madrid·2d ago·Both·match
Real Madrid Juvenil A thrash Barcelona to win the Champions Cup
Real Madrid’s Juvenil A team came back from a goal down to defeat rivals Barcelona 4-1 in the Champions Cup, held at the Municipal El Val on Sunday. Goals from Carlos Diez, Alexis Ciria, Yeremiah and Gabri Valero in the second half overturned the 1-0 deficit from the first half, as the youngsters from the Cantera went on to pick up the ninth Champions Cup in the category’s history. In a game that was fairly even at the break, Real Madrid were able to impose themselves onto Barcelona a bit more in the second half, especially after Barcelona’s Ïu Martinez received a second yellow for a wild challenge on Lacosta. Valero was impressive throughout the match, as he not only picked up the goal, but was also involved in the equaliser and had a generally good game. The Juvenil A became the first team in Spanish football history to win the Champions Cup, the league and the UEFA Youth League in the same season with the huge victory.
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both·match
‘His attitude and mentality are incredible’ – Hansi Flick hails Gerard Martin but still wants more from Barcelona defender
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona is embrace by Gerard Martin of FC Barcelona after defeating Real Madrid, and winning the LaLiga title, after the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has been full of praise for Gerard Martin but still wants more from the defender next season. Martin has switched from left-back to center-back this season and has impressed in the heart of the Barcelona backline. Flick says his rise through the ranks at Barcelona deserves huge credit but feels the 24-year-old can get even better. “He has everything he needs to play in this position. His attitude and mentality are incredible. He has improved a lot. When you look at the numbers, it’s impressive. I’m happy for him, for us, and for the club,” he told reporters after Barca’s final game of the season. “For a player to come in from Barça Atlètic and perform like this in his second season is incredible, it’s great to see. It’s what I want from him. His mentality and attitude are exactly what Barça needs. “Next season he has to take a step forward. We’re working on it. He’s ready to do it. He’s 100% committed to this.” Barcelona had been tipped to spend big on a center-back this summer but that talk has cooled recently which could be good news for Martin. The club’s priority currently is to bring in replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
- Football España·2d ago·Both
Real Madrid approve candidacy of Florentino Perez rival for upcoming election
Real Madrid are about to follow Barcelona in holding presidential elections in 2026, with Florentino Perez set to be challenged over the position he has held for the last 17 years. Earlier this month, Perez called for elections to be held during an explosive press conference, despite the fact that he was only re-elected last […] The post Real Madrid approve candidacy of Florentino Perez rival for upcoming election 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·match
Barcelona sent strong message after ‘exploratory’ talks with Chelsea for Joao Pedro
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Joao Pedro of Chelsea during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Chelsea and Manchester City on May 16, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona have reportedly held “exploratory talks” with Chelsea over a potential summer move for Joao Pedro but have been told there is “no price” that will convince the Blues to part ways with the Brazilian. Pedro has emerged as an alternative to Julian Alvarez as Barcelona search for a replacement for outgoing striker Robert Lewandowski. Reporter Ben Jacobs says that Barcelona’s interest is “genuine” but has played down talk of a possible move to Barcelona. He posted on X: “Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell. There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.” Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell. There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/z2x8va9I3M — Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) May 24, 2026 Pedro joined Chelsea last summer from Brighton for £60 million and he’s had a good season at Stamford Bridge, scoring 20 goals in all competitions. New manager Xabi Alonso didn’t rule out an exit for Pedro when asked about the recent speculation, but it looks like the Blues really don’t want to sell and Barca will have to look elsewhere.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·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.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·match
‘Ready to face anyone’ – Hansi Flick issues strong response to Jose Mourinho question after Barcelona’s final game
VALENCIA, SPAIN - MAY 23: Hans-Dieter Flick head coach of FC Barcelona looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Valencia CF and FC Barcelona at Estadi de Mestalla on May 23, 2026 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Omar Arnau/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Hansi Flick was quizzed on the possibility of coming up against Jose Mourinho next season if the 63-year-old takes over at rivals Real Madrid. Mourinho is expected to replace Alvaro Arbeloa as coach and return to the Santiago Bernabeu for another spell as coach. Flick was asked what he felt about taking on the so-called ‘Special One’ and says he’d welcome the challenge. “Yes, why not? He’s the opposing team’s coach, and I’m always ready to face anyone,” he said after Barcelona’s final game of the season against Valencia. Flick also spoke about his team’s performance and admitted his team hadn’t been at their best at Mestalla. “We made some rather easy mistakes after going down 0-1, and they capitalized on them to score the goals that gave them the victory,” he added. “This defeat doesn’t affect the season we’ve had, which ended with the title. We accept the result because Valencia’s victory was more than deserved. It was clear they had more to play for. “We have to understand that the World Cup is coming up and that’s a dream for any footballer. It’s understandable that the players have focused a bit more on that important goal, and I have to understand that. “Now I have to analyze things to improve in the future. There were things today that weren’t quite right, but the season has been good, we’re champions, and now we’re going on vacation to prepare for another season.” While most of Barca’s players will now switch to World Cup mode, the boss will be able to have a well-deserved break before beginning plans for next season.
- Football España·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·4d 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.
- Football España·5d ago·Both
Barcelona President elect Joan Laporta – ‘Negreira complaints are smokescreen for Real Madrid failure’
Barcelona President elect Joan Laporta has dismissed Real Madrid’s complaints about the Negreira case, which continues to rumble on in the background of Spanish football. Three years after becoming public knowledge, the authorities continue to take testimony from those involved in the case. The latest development is that former Vice-President of the Referees Committee (CTA) […] The post Barcelona President elect Joan Laporta – ‘Negreira complaints are smokescreen for Real Madrid failure’ appeared first on Football España.
- Football España·5d ago·Both·match
“I give little important to Joan Laporta’s words” – Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has dismissed the words of Barcelona President Joan Laporta, who has claimed that their complaints about the Negreira case are a smokescreen to distract from their own failures on the pitch in the last two seasons. Arbeloa also discussed Dani Carvajal’s exit from the club. Following Laporta’s statements on Friday […] The post “I give little important to Joan Laporta’s words” – Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
‘Farcial but strategic’ – Joan Laporta hits back at Florentino Perez for trying to ‘use Barcelona in a grotesque way’
Joan laporta Barcelona president and Florentino Perez Real Madrid President during the La Liga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona president Joan Laporta has hit back at Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez and his recent bizarre rant against referees when he claimed his club had “seven league titles were stolen” from them. Laporta has had some strong words in response and says that Perez is hitting out in a bid to distract from Madrid’s trophyless run. “I think it was farcical, but it was strategic. The one I told you about… it was meant to divert attention from two years without winning anything, and this has them very worried,” he told reporters at the Koeman Cup. “Somehow they have to justify the unjustifiable, and the best way is to stir up trouble and throw everything at Barcelona. We’re not going to allow this. I’m sure we at the club will react. “As long as they don’t use Barça to cover up their problems, I respect him. When they use Barça, we react. In that press conference, they tried to use Barça in a grotesque way, spreading falsehoods about a certain issue, stating things that aren’t true.” Barca wrap up another successful league season on Saturday night against Valencia, while Real Madrid host Athletic Club.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
Barcelona edging closer to buying Hamza Abdelkarim permanently
Photo by Sayed Hassan/Getty Images Hamza Abdelkarim is forcing Barcelona to make a quick decision on his future. According to Mundo Deportivo, club sources admit that executing his permanent purchase option is now highly likely, even if the board has not officially announced the move. The striker arrives at this turning point after a wild week where he made Egypt’s 27-man preliminary FIFA World Cup squad and immediately followed it up by scoring a brilliant chipped goal to beat UD Las Palmas 2-0 on Thursday night. The permanent clause is reportedly worth €3 million, plus up to €5 million including bonuses. Due to his rise and evident talent, Barcelona’s top brass is strongly leaning towards making the move permanent, according to rumor. What’s unusual is that bureaucratic paperwork has actually blocked him from playing under Juliano Belletti for Barça Atlètic. He has spent his entire stint since arriving in February tucked away in Pol Planas’s U19 setup instead. Some say that Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan took a massive gamble by naming an academy player to a World Cup roster. But the Egyptian federation had sent scouts to follow his progress for weeks, and if he survives the final squad cut, the 18-year-old will share a tournament dressing room with stars such as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush. We saw exactly why the national team is paying attention during the semifinal win in Alcalá de Henares. In the 41st minute, Quim Junyent created an opening with a quick bit of skill, Orian Goren slid a pass into the channel, and Hamza subtly lifted the ball over the keeper with his right foot. Winger Álex González scored a second late in the game to guarantee a youth Clásico against Real Madrid this Sunday. Hamza has been dynamic ever since Barcelona became aware of him at the U17 World Cup in Qatar late last year. He adjusted to European football almost instantly, finishing the regular season in early May with a 15-minute hat-trick during a 9-0 thrashing of Montecarlo.
- Managing Madrid·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.
- Football España·5d ago·Both
Alvaro Arbeloa leaves out Vinicius Junior for final Real Madrid match of 2025-26 season
Real Madrid face Athletic Club this week in their final match of what has been a desperately disappointing 2025-26 season. Having already lost out on the La Liga title to arch rivals Barcelona, Alvaro Arbeloa’s side go into the fixture with nothing to play for, and this will influence the team selection at the Bernabeu. […] The post Alvaro Arbeloa leaves out Vinicius Junior for final Real Madrid match of 2025-26 season appeared first on Football España.
- 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.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·opinion
‘He made a mistake’ – Gavi gives his verdict on Fede Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni’s bust-up at Real Madrid
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Gavi of FC Barcelona in action with Aurelien Tchouameni of Real Madrid CF during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona v Real Madrid at the Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona Spain (Photo by Adria Puig/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images Gavi has been asked to share his thoughts on the recent bust-up at Real Madrid that featured Fede Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni reportedly coming to blows on the training ground. The incident happened before El Clasico and saw both players fined by the club. Valverde also had to miss the game due to a head injury, while manager Alvaro Arbeloa did call up Tchouameni for the match. Gavi, who is known for having a short fuse, says that clashes on the training ground aren’t unusual but feels Arbeloa erred by calling up Tchouameni for the match. “I’m one of those who thinks there are always going to be some clashes with your teammates during training at some point during the season, because that’s just how it is, it’s competitiveness, and that’s always good up to a point, obviously,” he told Mundo Deportivo. “But if it comes to blows, then the manager shouldn’t have played him. If it’s true that they came to blows, then in my opinion, he made a mistake calling him up (Tchouaméni) and playing him. But I don’t really know what happened.” The game ended in a 2-0 win for Barcelona that saw the Catalans secure another La Liga title and leave Madrid trophyless once again.
- 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.
- Managing Madrid·6d ago·Both·match
On This Day in 1998: La Septima
Real Madrid celebrate wining the match (Photo by Tony Marshall/EMPICS via Getty Images) | PA Images via Getty Images 28 years ago tonight, in Amsterdam, Real Madrid won the European Cup for the seventh time and the first since 1966. Nobody outside the dressing room thought it was coming. Madrid had finished fourth in La Liga, 11 points behind Barcelona. Juventus were in their third Champions League final in a row. At Juventus, Marcello Lippi had Zinedine Zidane, Alessandro Del Piero, Edgar Davids, and Didier Deschamps. LA SÉPTIMA. 20/05/1998 pic.twitter.com/7ROMKfOS3W — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) May 20, 2026 The goal came in the 66th minute. Roberto Carlos drove in from the left, the shot was blocked, the ball squirted out to Predrag Mijatović, and from a tight angle, he lifted it past Angelo Peruzzi. Juve never recovered. Thirty-two years. Six European Cups that most of the people in the stadium had only ever seen in black and white. Mijatović himself, years later, said winning it was “like passing from black and white into colour.” Heynckes was sacked within a fortnight. Fourth in La Liga, the board decided, was unforgivable. He went and won it again with Bayern in 2013. Real Madrid have won eight more Champions League titles since then.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·match
‘We’ll miss him terribly’ – Frenkie de Jong talks Robert Lewandowski’s Barcelona exit
Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong celebrate the La Liga title after the match against Real Madrid CF, corresponding to week 35 of LaLiga EA Sports, at the Spotify Camp Nou in Barcelona, Spain, on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona midfielder Frankie de Jong says his team are going to really miss Robert Lewandowski after he leaves at the end of the season. The 37-year-old is moving on after four excellent seasons with the Catalans and De Jong knows he will be a big loss. “We’re going to miss him terribly. I think he’s scored 70 goals in four seasons. And besides that, he’s been an absolute role model for how he takes care of himself and how he does everything possible to stay in top physical condition,” he told Sport. “Seeing him like that at 37 is impressive. I think he’s been very important these past four years, especially for the young players coming up to the first team. “Having the example of someone like Robert, who has won everything, and seeing how he trains and takes care of himself, has been very important for us.” Lewandowksi will play his final game for Barcelona on Saturday against Valencia in La Liga. Barca will then spend the summer trying to bring in a replacement for the Poland international.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both
‘Sometimes we get heated’ – Barcelona’s Raphinha reveals how he gets on with Real Madrid stars on Brazil duty
MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26: Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid CF argue with Raphinha of FC Barcelona during the LaLiga match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images Raphinha has revealed how he leaves his club rivalry aside when he meets up with Real Madrid stars while on international duty with Brazil. The Barcelona forward plays alongside the likes of Vinicius Jr, Eder Militao and Rodrygo for the Selecao but insists there’s no problem between the players when they are away from their clubs. “I never noticed that, at least not in the cases of Vini and me, or Rodrygo, Militão, and Endrick. When we join the national team, the club rivalry practically disappears because we know we’re here defending our country regardless of where we play. I don’t think it’s forced. It’s not a case of, ‘I have to get to the national team and I have to exclude that part.’ No. It’s something that happens naturally,” he told TNT Sports. “We arrive at the training camp and we get along well. Even in the Clásicos, we respect each other; each of us defends our team with whatever we have to offer, but when we get to the national team, the rivalry ceases to exist. “We leave the clubs aside and focus on the national team. Sometimes we get heated, yes, but that’s normal. If a Clásico didn’t get heated, it wouldn’t be a Clásico.” Raphinha has been named in the Brazil squad for this summer’s tournament. Vini Jr and Endrick are also on Carlo Ancelotti’s list along with Neymar.
- 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!