Real Madrid & Barcelona News
Latest headlines pulled from major football outlets. Click any story to read it on the source site.
- Barca Blaugranes·5h ago·Both
Hansi Flick confirms when Barcelona expect Frenkie de Jong to return from knee injury
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Frenkie de Jong of FC Barcelona poses during the official UEFA Champions League 2026/27 portrait session on August 29, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Hansi Flick says Barcelona could have Frenkie de Jong available again for their next La Liga match against Real Betis on Saturday, October 17th. De Jong has not featured for the club this season due to a knee injury but is now back in full training and closing in on a comeback. Flick has been asked about the current plan for De Jong and says he’s not too far off being able to play again. “He might be available against Betis,” he told a press conference on Friday. “His recovery is progressing well, there’s no pain, but he needs time and we’re going to give it to him.” The return of De Jong will give Flick yet another midfield option at a busy period in the season. Barca face Getafe, Betis, Real Madrid and Alaves in La Liga in October, while they must also play Paris Saint-Germain and Galatasaray in the Champions League.
- Managing Madrid·7h ago·Both·transfers
Madrid Daily: Valverde’s return, McTominay links and Madrid’s next kits
DIEGO ARMANDO MARADONA STADIUM, NAPLES, ITALY - 2026/08/30: Scott McTominay of SSC Napoli reacts during the Serie A 2025/2026 football match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907. Como won 2-1 over Napoli. (Photo by Andrea Staccioli/Insidefoto/LightRocket via Getty Images) Real Madrid completed their preparations for Villarreal with Fede Valverde included in the squad and Ferland Mendy taking another step in his recovery. Saturday’s return to league action also brings Kylian Mbappé and Ibrahima Konaté back into contention, although Mourinho will remain without several defensive options. Away from the pitch, transfer reports, early kit predictions and Sávio’s assessment of Madrid’s attack provide plenty to discuss. Valverde included against Villarreal as Mendy returns to partial training Fede Valverde has been named in Real Madrid’s squad for Saturday’s meeting with Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu, kicking off at 9 p.m. Madrid time. Mbappé and Konaté are also included after recovering from the problems that interrupted their international commitments. Valverde’s inclusion follows his return to full group training on Friday, 19 days after the challenge that injured his left ankle in the derby. Madrid’s September 22 medical update diagnosed a grade-three sprain, but his subsequent progress has allowed him to return to the matchday group. Whether he starts remains a separate decision. Mourinho had described the midfielder as a doubt during his press conference, explaining that a decision would follow the final session. The subsequently published squad list confirmed his inclusion without establishing how many minutes he would be ready to play. There was also progress for Mendy, who completed a small part of Friday’s training with his teammates. Mourinho had announced that the session would mark the Frenchman’s first work on the pitch with the group during this stage of his recovery. Mendy is not included against Villarreal, so the development represents a rehabilitation milestone rather than an immediate competitive return. Militão still needs time despite training progress Éder Militão also remains unavailable. Mourinho said the Brazilian will miss not only Villarreal but also the following matches against Roma and Sevilla, explaining that he still needs additional time before returning safely to competition. With Dean Huijsen suspended and Raúl Asencio recovering from surgery, Konaté and Antonio Rüdiger are expected to form the central-defensive partnership. AS identifies Aurélien Tchouaméni as a potential alternative should Mourinho need to move a midfielder into the back line. Friday’s session began with activation exercises and rondos, followed by tactical work, pressing and possession drills. It concluded with small-sided games and shooting practice. The club’s report listed Asencio and Rodrygo as continuing their recovery programs. Report: Madrid make inquiries about McTominay Real Madrid have reportedly contacted Scott McTominay’s representatives as uncertainty surrounds the midfielder’s contract discussions with Napoli. MARCA, citing Il Mattino, reports that Madrid have made inquiries about the Scotland international, whose current agreement runs until June 2028. According to the account, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis does not regard an extension as an immediate priority, while the player’s representatives would prefer to settle his future sooner. Madrid are not described as the only interested club. The Mourinho connection is an established part of McTominay’s career: the Portuguese coach gave him his Manchester United first-team debut in 2017 and has continued to speak fondly of him. Asked previously whether he would consider Madrid if Mourinho called, McTominay replied: “If that happened, I would think about it.” For now, the reported development concerns contact with the player’s camp. It does not establish that Madrid have submitted an offer to Napoli or reached an agreement over a transfer. Bayern reportedly prepare major Olise renewal offer Bayern Munich are preparing a substantial contract proposal for Michael Olise amid continued reports of Madrid’s interest. According to reporting attributed to Sky Germany, the German club would like to extend his agreement from 2029 to 2032, potentially making him the highest-paid player in the squad. The reported proposal would take his annual earnings above the approximately €25 million associated with Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala. Those figures describe a potential offer, not an extension Olise has accepted. A release clause is reportedly an important issue for the player’s representatives. The reports suggest his camp would seek a mechanism allowing him to control a future departure, with a figure above €200 million being discussed. No such clause should be treated as part of his existing contract. Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund, meanwhile, has emphasized the club’s satisfaction with Olise and the time remaining on his current deal. “Michael has developed incredibly well with us and is currently one of the best players in the world. We are extremely happy to have him playing for us. He has a contract until 2029, so there is no pressure. He feels very comfortable at FC Bayern and we are in constant contact with him. As I said, there is no rush.” Riquelme preparing a meeting space for Madrid members Enrique Riquelme is preparing to support a new space near the Santiago Bernabéu where Real Madrid members can meet and share their concerns and proposals, according to Radio MARCA’s Otra Ronda. The program reported that the initiative will be presented shortly. The proposed venue is described as a place for participation and dialogue, rather than a recreation of the electoral headquarters Riquelme used during his presidential campaign. Its name and operational details have not yet been disclosed. Although the project would maintain Riquelme’s connection with members, it does not constitute an announcement that he will run for president again. The reporting also distinguishes the initiative from a platform intended to confront Florentino Pérez’s current administration directly. Kit leaks point to white, black and purple for 2027–28 Footy Headlines has published early information about Madrid’s 2027–28 kit collection, suggesting a return to white, black and purple across the three shirts. The material consists of leaked colour information and predicted design elements, rather than an official unveiling by Madrid or Adidas. Don't mind it at all. Real Madrid should always have purple. (leaked by @Footy_Headlines for next season) pic.twitter.com/RHBI1i1hg8 — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) October 9, 2026 The projected home shirt retains a white base with black and purple details. Footy Headlines also suggests an all-over checker pattern could feature, although that remains part of its early prediction rather than a confirmed final design. The away shirt is expected to pair black with white accents. The third shirt would use purple as its main colour, accompanied by a modern graphic. White is considered the likely secondary colour for that kit, but the report explicitly states that the accent colours have not yet been confirmed. Sávio discusses Vinícius, Endrick and the demands of playing for Madrid Sávio has assessed Madrid’s current situation in an interview with AS, discussing the pressure on Mourinho, the challenges facing the Brazilian forwards and the qualities he likes in Yan Diomande. The former winger believes the squad has the talent to improve, but needs time and work to establish a more cohesive team. Vinícius and the response to a difficult period Asked about Vinícius Júnior, Sávio focused on his performances rather than speculating about his personal life. He pointed to the progress the forward made after first arriving in Madrid as evidence of his ability to overcome difficulties. “I don’t know anything about Vinicius’s private life, but on the pitch, it’s clear he’s not at his best. The only way to get out of a slump is with a lot of hard work and being mentally very strong. When he arrived, the first two or three years were difficult, and in Brazil, people would ask me why he wasn’t finishing strong, and I always said that we had to be patient because he was a very young lad. He went straight from Flamengo’s U-17 team to the first team! With time and hard work, he improved until he won two Champions Leagues, playing a key role. Now he has to focus entirely on Real Madrid to become a decisive player again.” Sávio acknowledged how difficult it is to ask Madrid supporters for patience, drawing on his own experience at two clubs with particularly demanding fanbases. “It’s very difficult to ask for patience from a fanbase the size of Real Madrid’s. I played for Flamengo and Real Madrid, both huge fanbases with enormous pressure, but I approached it as a challenge, trying to enjoy myself on the pitch. If I have to say anything, it’s to focus entirely on football and keep working, because when the fans see that you’re giving your all, they’ll always be with you.” Rodrygo’s recovery and their exchange of shirts Sávio also spoke warmly about Rodrygo, whom he recently met through a connection involving his son and mutual friends. The pair exchanged the number 11 shirts associated with their respective periods at Madrid. “An injury is the worst thing for an athlete. I’ve been through similar times, although not as serious as Rodrygo’s. You have to be with the physio every day working to get back as soon as possible, without being able to say anything in advance… I saw him doing very well; he’s a very down-to-earth guy. Through my son and his friends, we were able to exchange number 11 jerseys, both the one from my time and his current one. He’s a fantastic player, I love him, with his short dribbling, speed, and tactical awareness. Real Madrid misses him.” Endrick needs regular football On Endrick, Sávio was careful to acknowledge the limits of his assessment. He said he had seen too little of the forward at Madrid to explain precisely why he had struggled to establish himself, but argued that consistent playing time should be the priority. “I don’t really know what’s going on because I’ve seen very little of Endrick at Real Madrid. I’m left with the image of his last fantastic season with Palmeiras, before coming here, when he was a young and very talented lad. It seems like he’s not finding his footing here, not because of his football, but because of a lack of consistency… or connection…” Sávio drew a distinction between fulfilling the ambition of joining Madrid and having the opportunities required to develop. “Being at Real Madrid was a five-year dream come true for me, but I didn’t just want to be there; I always wanted to play football. If Endrick doesn’t fit in and continues in this situation, being such a young and talented lad, he has to play somewhere.” Diomande and the importance of taking on defenders Sávio praised Diomande’s willingness to attack opponents, identifying qualities he believes should remain central to a winger’s game. “I really like talented players who take on defenders and try again without hesitating after a mistake. Diomande is a young guy with speed, talent, and a good tactical contribution to offer.” He related that approach to the encouragement he received from Roberto Carlos when he first joined Madrid. “Football has changed, and there’s much more running involved these days, but you can’t lose the essence of the game, nor can you stop dribbling. When I came to Real Madrid, Roberto Carlos told me to take on defenders and go for it, that if I lost the ball, he’d be there to cover for me. That gave me a lot of confidence. You have to work on the tactical side and marking, but without abandoning your own style of play. Today, I see many wingers more concerned with marking than with attacking.” Backing Mourinho while acknowledging Madrid’s urgency Sávio praised Raphinha’s form at Barcelona but stressed that Madrid possess the individual quality to compete in the Clásico. In his view, the remaining task is to make those individual pieces function together more effectively. He expressed confidence that Mourinho can find the solution. “I never worked with Mourinho, but I played against him and I always liked his style. He’s a very successful manager wherever he’s been and he’s very capable. Real Madrid doesn’t have much time, but I think he’s the best name for the moment and he needs a little more time to integrate the team, as I said before. He knows what he’s doing; he’s proven that at the clubs he’s been at.” On the Ballon d’Or, however, Sávio declined to name a favourite, describing a field without the obvious individual superiority that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi displayed during their rivalry. “Wow! It’s really tough this year, there are so many contenders for the Ballon d’Or. I don’t see any clear superiority or anyone who stands out individually like Cristiano and Messi did in their time. It’s hard to single out just one player this year, it’s a very complicated decision… Let me leave this question as is,” he said, laughing. Míchel recalls signing thousands of photographs for supporters Míchel has recalled the volume of fan mail he answered during his playing career, describing a time when signed postcards and handwritten dedications were a principal connection between supporters and their favourite footballers. In a conversation with Sara Carbonero on Antena 3, the former Madrid midfielder said he responded to thousands of letters and signed a similar number of photographs each week. “Yes, yes, because we had postcards of the club, and we would sign them and write a dedication—4,000 or 5,000 photos a week.” Decades later, supporters still show him the keepsakes. “And there are still people who tell me they have them,” Míchel said. He also described receiving photographs on his phone that fans had originally taken on film, including pictures from chance encounters in the street or on holiday. Those messages have occasionally reconnected him with people he met many years earlier. Video: Diomande features in Madrid’s training highlights Real Madrid have shared two sequences featuring Yan Diomande in their training footage ahead of the Villarreal match. The clips offer another look at the winger’s technique as the squad prepares to resume its league campaign. Yan Diomande deserves to start, this kid deserves more than 5 minutes per game. What a talent pic.twitter.com/FyPHNutGO9 — 𝐟𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐯 (@fedevalv_) October 9, 2026
- Barca Blaugranes·9h ago·Both·transfers
Julián Álvarez changes agents as Barcelona rumors heat up again
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on September 20, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Ion Alcoba Beitia/Getty Images) | Getty Images Julián Álvarez has reportedly changed agents and that news has set the rumor mill into overdrive. His desire to join Barcelona from Atlético Madrid was the worst-kept secret in the past transfer window, but it did not materialize. With this new agent, there are whispers that the transfer may finally cross the finish line. He has ended his relationship with Fernando Hidalgo, who has been besides him almost all his professional career, and reportedly signed on with Javier Pastore. Pastore is an ex-player and Argentina international who played with, among other clubs, Paris Saint-Germain. He was also at one point linked with a move to Barça, though that never came to pass, either. The relationship between Hidalgo and Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has reportedly been fractured irreparably, with both sides accusing the other of misleading Álvarez. The hiring of Pastore, who also represents Enzo Fernández, now at Manchester City, could be seen as an attempted reset. Álvarez has reportedly not given up on his dream of joining Barcelona, and Atlético may be happy to finally pull the trigger after the transfer drama disrupted their planning for this season. It’s said the team’s spirits were sapped by the situation, and the player himself is uncomfortable and not performing to his very best. An incoming €120 million would also help Atléti if they spend it wisely. But do Barcelona still want the transfer? Sporting director Deco has suggested their interest has waned, though manager Hansi Flick is a big fan of the Argentine forward. And importantly, Raphinha has performed extremely well as a center-forward and Gabriel Jesus is adapting as his backup, plus Barcelona have promising young star Hamza Abdelkarim in that position. Álvarez is a quality player, but will the Catalans spend so much money to reinforce an attack that is already working extremely well?
- Barca Blaugranes·13h ago·Both·transfers
Barcelona confirm Raphinha out against Getafe and Galatasaray
Photo By Joaquin Corchero/Europa Press via Getty Images | Europa Press via Getty Images Barcelona will be without their captain and top scorer for the next two games as Raphinha has been ruled out for Saturday’s La Liga match against Getafe and Tuesday’s Champions League trip to Galatasaray. Hansi Flick spoke at a press conference on Friday and confirmed that tests showed Raphinha has a minor muscle issue and won’t be involved in the next two games out of an abundance of caution. “The tests show something, it’s not an injury, but we have to be careful because he had three injuries last year, and we have to take care of him. He won’t be available tomorrow or against Galatasaray.” Barça are taking the right course of action with their most important player as they save him for the massive three-game stretch against Real Betis, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid next week, and there’s more than enough depth in attack to deal with Getafe and Galatasaray to make sure the captain is fully fit.
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- Managing Madrid·22h ago·Both·transfers
Will Jose Mourinho Make Adjustments Ahead Of A Pivotal October Stretch?
These observations — where I look at Real Madrid’s history, its players on loan, Castilla, tactical tidbits, and other relevant thoughts — are now a regular thing. All previous editions can be found here. Shortly after Real Madrid were played off the park — primarily in a disastrous second half — of the Madrid Derby, head coach Jose Mourinho took to the podium with a print out copy of two egregious Atletico Madrid tackles in which one of them should’ve resulted in a direct red card. “Yes… we could have saved ourselves the press conference because the story of the match is here,” Mourinho said as he showed two photographs of Cuti Romero’s and Kang-in Lee’s challenges on Jude Bellingham and Fede Valverde respectively. “They are two clear red cards.” Mourinho didn’t spend time talking about Real Madrid’s performance. “The difficulties we had afterwards, 11 against 10, we can imagine what 50 minutes with 11 against nine would have been like,” Mourinho continued. “And therefore I have to limit myself to hugging my players, who gave everything. Who played a first half of great class, personality.” The press conference was not short, and the words about the referee continued at length. It was a massive attempt to distract everyone from the football that was played on the pitch. SUBSCRIBE: The Managing Madrid Podcast on YouTube Mourinho knew what he was doing, and he was right. The referee had been terrible — even consequential to the result — and the Portuguese wanted to shield his players. Mourinho even went out of his way to praise his players despite the poor performance. “If we want to remember Elche, Elche’s two sendings-off… no, but in the first minute, the yellow card for Diomande… what our players feel on the pitch is not normal,” Mourinho continued. “But I liked my team as a team. Very much in the first half and in the second… obviously very, very, very difficult. Very difficult to have the ball, to stop the possession of the ball of a good team and with one more player. But I liked the pride, the determination. And it is a good feeling for me. It is not being disappointed with my players, not having anything to reproach them for. Within the negative of the result, it is a positive feeling for me.” FOLLOW: Managing Madrid on Instagram SHOP: Mbappe Nueve Swag This is Mourinho’s bread and butter. He is too smart to not know that his team could’ve played better, or that certain stars are not pulling their weight the way the team needs them to. He is also self aware enough to know he didn’t set up his team to win. What he says publicly isn’t as important as to what he’s saying internally. Outwardly, the focus was the referee. Inwardly, that may not be the case — or at least Real Madrid fans will hope for all of that to be true. There is a fine line when it comes to analyzing this team so far, and crossing it too far in one direction may lead to an unnecessary, overly dramatic view of what’s happening. Real Madrid’s performance in the first half against Atletico Madrid was not good, but it was, from a scoreline standpoint, on equal terms. They looked horrendous attacking in transition, but they also prevented Atletico from scoring, and had Atletico been a man down instead — which objectively should’ve been the case — then we’re talking about a different scenario, and probably a win, and difference makers off the bench like Yan Diomande and Bernardo Silva would’ve had more room to operate. You could also argue that first half, scoreless, was somewhat acceptable — only in the sense that it’s a low bar in that stadium and Real Madrid almost never play well at the Metropolitano (arguably the hardest game on the schedule all year), and Atleti are the only team Real Madrid lost to even when Real Madrid were the best team in the world in the 2023 – 2024 season. Then there is the Real Betis game, where Real Madrid missed seven (yes seven) big chances. Not shots, big chances. Real Betis, meanwhile, had one big chance, and won. Processing that is important on some level, because if you replay these freak scenarios again, you’re looking at eight straight wins, second to Barcelona only on goal differential, and a different atmosphere both in the locker-room and the way the media has covered the team. But that’s an extreme, and football is not fair. Tough luck. You have to do what’s in your control: Put away your chances and play better on both ends of the field so that these tiny margins of error are not consequential. Your main league rival, Barcelona, cares little about margins. They’ve scored 27 goals from an xG of 25. Both numbers are so ridiculous for this stage of the season, that it doesn’t actually make sense. They are on course, statistically, to be even greater than Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona. Whether that’s sustainable or not is a different story; but what is true is that Real Madrid’s poor finishing has sustained at a poor rate for over a year now. It’s possible to read the reality of the team without being overly-reactionary. Real Madrid have had some bad luck, played some bad football, and, in between, played some positive football as well while a few players are playing really well. Other players, meanwhile, have been poor. Sounds like normal stuff. The problem is that there is little time or patience left after two years of losing, and being six points back against a rival who doesn’t look like it will give ground is extra torturous and unforgiving. The question now is how much Mourinho has learned in these opening eight games, and how much he is willing to adjust. If he continues with the same line-ups and same approach to games, we will continue seeing the same things: Bad performers, good performers, bad second halves, good chance creation — you get the idea. At this point, you don’t have all the sample size you need to make permanent decisions, but you do have enough data to extrapolate the good things while stripping away the bad things. Deciphering what those good and bad things are can be subjective, and Mourinho may even disagree with the general consensus. There is also another barrier: Even if he feels strongly about making a change, his hands may be tied because of political hierarchies in the team and pressure from the president. If that’s the case, Mourinho has a big decision to make: Die by his own sword, or die by Florentino’s sword. There is no question as to which one of those the ‘old Mourinho’ (circa 2010) would’ve chosen. But that was 16 years ago. People change. The bigger question is, if Mourinho changed, then why was he brought in now, far removed from being one of football’s elite managers? Is his football not outdated? FOLLOW for regular in-game updates: Managing Madrid on Twitter We’ll learn more about Mourinho’s Real Madrid in the upcoming two months, and whether or not his version of this team is different from his predecessors. The only way out of this mess is through a teardown and rebuild, and I don’t mean by selling the squad and building a new one — I mean by putting everyone in the current squad on equal flooring. The names on the back of the shirt must, to some extent, become irrelevant, and Mourinho needs to build the line-up from scratch, assuming hierarchies and star power don’t exist. Then, and only then, can a fresh tactical blueprint come about. Then, and only then, can he turn this team around and put them on a winning course. That’s easier said than done, of course, and everyone will have an opinion on what names need to be dropped and what names need to be promoted. But the entire point is this: Mourinho needs to have that power to do what he feels works best, without any added pressure or noise — whether it be from the president, the players, agents and entourages, or family members. Part of that responsibility needs to lie on Florentino Perez to give Mourinho that freedom, and, this may sound harsh: Mourinho will have do it anyway even if he doesn’t get that freedom. It is somewhat a lose-lose: keep doing things the same way and lose; or defy and maybe win or lose anyway. This is where the board needs to be held accountable as much as anyone else. If after four coaches the exact same problems persist, the problem is clearly not the coach, and throwing coaches around like they’re darts is exactly where Real Madrid were after 2004 — one of the darkest periods of the modern era. The parallels from then, to now, are jarring. In 2004, Vanderlei Luxemburgo subbed out Ronaldo Nazario in the 87th minute when the team was up 1-0 after David Beckham had received a red card. Florentino Perez called Luxemburgo after the game and told him he’s not allowed to do that again…. and that was Luxemburgo’s last game in charge. In 2025, we saw what happened when Xabi Alonso subbed off Vinicius Jr in a Clasico. The heavy hand descended, and Alonso lost the support of both the president and some of his star players. Tactical decisions, at this club, unfortunately, can come with devastating consequences. There are so many valid reasons for Real Madrid fans to be concerned from what they’ve seen from the last two years (and counting), and most realists would land on the negative side of agnosticism when it comes to the potential success of the team this season. But there are some reasons to believe Mourinho can turn it around, even if some of those reasons are latent. The team is deeper than it was last season. There are four (five if you include Ferland Mendy) proper full-backs. Ibrahima Konaté was a solid addition to the back line. Dean Huijsen looks good. Arda Güler is the best creator in Europe. Jude Bellingham looks unstoppable. Kylian Mbappe is still scoring at a prolific rate. The world’s best goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, is in between the posts. Carlos Espi is a profile Real Madrid hasn’t had since Joselu, and is currently on pace for a goal every 13 minutes. Yan Diomande is an upgrade over Franco Mastantuono. There is also the other side of the coin: The full-backs haven’t looked at their best, yet. Espi barely plays. This team isn’t built for Jose Mourinho’s 4-2-3-1, primarily because none of the midfielders in the double pivot can control games against elite opposition. Vinicius Jr who is being relied upon heavily on the left wing, looks a shell of himself. WATCH: 5 Real Madrid Questions That Need To Be Answered Perfect roles often don’t exist. Football can be ruthless and brutal. If you’re not able to adapt to different positions and roles, the industry may chew you up and spit you out. Getting a system tailored around your strengths is often reserved for the best of the best. Not everyone gets to be the alpha. The most successful teams right now have one thing in common: collective buy in, sacrifice, and a belief in the greater good being more important than any one individual. One of the bittersweet things Real Madrid fans experience on an ongoing basis is seeing so many of their stars thrive and dominate as alphas in their ideal roles — but it’s done at the international level rather than that club level. It’s a tough pillow to swallow and a challenging reality to grapple with. Brahim Diaz is the fulcrum of Morocco’s build-up, and he’s played just 99 minutes in La Liga this season. Vinicius in the World Cup was Brazil’s offensive channel. Mbappe doesn’t over-tangle with his co-stars in France. Camavinga looked good as the single pivot under Zinedine Zidane — in a position that doesn’t currently exist in Mourinho’s blueprint. Cucurella is an absolute defensive unit with Spain in a far less chaotic scheme. Thomas Tuchel has a team built to maximize Bellingham to a science. Güler is Türkiye. You get the idea. (To be fair to Güler and Bellingham, those two specifically have been great at both the club and international level this season.) That data tells us there is no shortage of talent here, but there is an overlap of talent in certain positions. Potentially not renewing Vinicius this past summer was seen by many as an opportunity to exchange a tactical mismatch for a tactical need, such as a controlling midfielder. “They’re incredible players, but the tactical structure could be more difficult,” Mourinho said in his first Real Madrid press conference this season. “[Carlo] Ancelotti found the perfect role for Vini with Brazil, [Didier] Deschamps found the perfect role for Kylian, and [Thomas] Tuchel found the perfect role for Jude [at the World Cup]. But it’s harder to find the perfect role for all three. I have a lot of confidence that we’ll do well when all three play together. I don’t think they’re incompatible at all.” This is by no means a sinking ship, but it is also not anywhere close to sailing smoothly. The next two months will tell us a lot: Barcelona are about to endure their first difficult stretch of the entire season, and Mourinho will show us, hopefully, what adjustments he has planned after observing the issues up close. It’s cliche, but possibly more true than ever: October is pivotal. It could be the difference between a nine point gap or a three point gap.
- Barca Blaugranes·1d ago·Both·transfers
Gossip: Barcelona learn how much it will cost to land Man Utd wonderkid JJ Gabriel
LEIGH, ENGLAND - AUGUST 31: JJ Gabriel of Manchester United U21 in action during the Premier League 2 match between Manchester United U21 and Leicester City U21 at Leigh Sports Village on August 31, 2026 in Leigh, England. (Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images) Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel turned 16 this week and the rumor mill is still busily speculating where he might end up after telling the Red Devils he wants out of Old Trafford. Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are all keen on the youngster and leading the race, according to Sky Sport Germany. Bayern have recently held talks but it’s thought a move to Spain looks the most likely option. Gabriel has not yet made his senior debut for Manchester United but still won’t come cheap, per the report. It’s estimated that any interested clubs will have to fork out “well over ten to fifteen million euros” to land the teenager. That price is said to include “transfer fee, bonuses, and other payments” and is the latest number being thrown about when it comes to Gabriel. There’s been talk already that Gabriel’s camp are demanding a seven-figure salary, a figure that may well put off some interested parties. Meanwhile, Manchester United have reportedly offered the teenager a scholarship contract but Gabriel is still expected to depart after deciding his future lies elsewhere.
- Barca Blaugranes·1d ago·Both
Jose Mourinho talks Negreira Case and ‘bad luck’ with referees
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Jose Mourinho, head coach of Real Madrid CF, looks on during the Spanish League, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium on September 20, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has spoken about the Negreira Case after UEFA confirmed receiving a dossier of information from Los Blancos. The Portuguese has given a new interview where he has discussed his “bad luck” with referees and his experience of being at Madrid during the Negreira years. “I don’t think the problem is me,” he told the Corriere dello Sport. “The problem is the bad luck I have when I arrive at a particular club. I experienced Negreira’s important period here at Real Madrid. Nobody knew it, but we lived through it. It happened. It happened. “I left afterwards, now everyone knows. But I was thinking about something: in Turkey, after a big Turkish scandal, this kind of situation happened to me often.” The Negreira Case has been back in the headlines recently after Madrid’s latest move, with Los Blancos believed to be ‘convinced’ action will be taken against Barca. The events have led La Liga president Javier Tebas to respond and to criticize Madrid. Tebas said the Negreira case is “extremely serious” and needs investigating but blasted Madrid for continuing with a “narrative that Negreira continues to influence Spanish refereeing today.”
- Barca Blaugranes·1d ago·Both·match
Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Who will referee the first Clasico of 2026-27?
MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26: (L-R) Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona, Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2025 in Madrid Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona and Real Madrid will meet for the first time in the 2026-27 later this month when the first Clasico of the season takes place at Camp Nou on October 25th. The game may still be a few weeks away but there’s already talk about who will referee the contest between the two bitter rivals. An official announcement will not be made until much closer to the game but the decision has already been taken, according to Radio Marca. Hernandez Hernandez has apparently been given the job again and will officiate what is one of the biggest games in world’s football. The match official was in charge of the last Clasico in May, when Barca won 2-0 at Camp Nou to seal another great victory over their rivals. The victory also secured Barcelona the league title, making it especially memorable. Hernandez has plenty of Clasico experience already. He has taken control of the game six times previously. In that time Barca have won three, drawn two and lost once.
- Barca Blaugranes·2d ago·Both
Former Barcelona goalkeeper Arnau Tenas: ‘If I said I wouldn’t want to return to Barça, I’d be lying’
VILLARREAL, SPAIN - MAY 24: Arnau Tenas of Villarreal CF celebrates during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Villarreal CF and Atletico de Madrid at Estadio de la Ceramica on May 24, 2026 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Former FC Barcelona Atlètic goalkeeper Arnau Tenas has revealed he dreams of returning to Barcelona. He currently plays for RCD Mallorca in the second division, having gone through spells at Paris Saint-Germain and Villarreal. Mostly a backup with those latter clubs, he has become a standout at Mallorca, keeping six clean sheets in eight starts. In a new interview on Catalan radio, Tenas said he was “very happy in Mallorca” and his mission now is to “to take Mallorca where it deserves to be—that is, in the First Division.” Having previously played in Ligue 1 in France and La Liga in Spain, both top divisions, going to the second division could be seen as the wrong move. Tenas disagreed, saying, “People have a lot of prejudices, but for me, it’s not a step backward—it’s a huge step forward.” Despite his satisfaction at his current club, Tenas admitted, “If I said I wouldn’t want to return to Barça, I’d be lying; it would be like coming home.” During his time at La Masia and the B team, Tenas played alongside current Barça stars like Gavi, Pau Cubarsí, Xavi Espart, and Eric Garcia. He also played alongside Kylian Mbappé at PSG. “He is a very good teammate, personable, and trained well,” Tenas said. Speaking about the current team at Barcelona, Tenas singled out Brazilian star Raphinha. “I’m really happy for Raphinha. Really happy for him,” he said. “Some people don’t see everything going on behind the scenes, and there were times when he was really struggling. What is he doing this season so far? What’s gotten into him? It’s incredible. He’s a beast.” Tenas joins Diego Kochen as another former Barcelona goalkeeper publicly stating their dream of a homecoming this week. Kochen recently debuted for the United States national team, first as a substitute. He then got his first start, where he kept a clean sheet against Mexico. He currently plays club football for Lyngby Boldklub in the Danish Superliga. “It’d be any kid’s dream to go back to such a big club,” Kochen said about a possible return to Barcelona.
- Managing Madrid·2d ago·Both·match
Hernández Hernández leading the race to referee El Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid -report
The Spanish Football Federation are set to appoint referee Hernández Hernández as the man in charge of the upcoming El Clásico between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, which will be played at the Camp Nou on October 25th. That’s according to a report from Radio MARCA, as the name of the referee will be announced in a few days. Barcelona newspaper Mundo Deportivo have echoed Radio MARCA’s report and confirm that Hernández Hernández will be the chosen one. Hernández Hernández has officiated Barcelona in 42 matches, resulting in 26 wins, 12 draws, and four losses for Barça. Meanwhile, he’s been in charge of 37 matches for Real Madrid, with a record of 21 wins, 6 draws, and 10 losses for Los Blancos.
- Sky Sports·3d ago·Both
No decision on JJ Gabriel future amid Barca, Real Madrid, Bayern & PSG interest
JJ Gabriel and his family are yet to make a decision on his future but it is increasingly likely his next club will be in Europe.
- Managing Madrid·3d ago·Both·transfers
Four Real Madrid Questions That Need To Be Answered
PARIS, FRANCE - JUNE 05: Jose Mourinho greets Real Madrid President Florentino Perez during the 69th FIFA Congress at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles on June 5, 2019 in Paris, France. (Photo by Mike Hewitt - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images These observations — where I look at Real Madrid’s history, its players on loan, Castilla, tactical tidbits, and other relevant thoughts — are now a regular thing. All previous editions can be found here. This is an abridged, article version of a much longer, in-depth podcast that Matt Wiltse and I recorded during the international break: The point of this exercise is simple: Most of us watching this team play have almost no answers, but many questions. This was the case last season as well when Xabi Alonso was appointed. Most of the questions, from then until now, remain. But to try to keep the conversation fresh rather than rehashed, I have come up with new questions this season, particularly after watching how the first eight games unfolded. These questions are directed towards several different people: Question #1, to Florentino Perez: Will you give the coach full control? This question comes first, because all of the subsequent questions become irrelevant if the answer to the above question is ‘no’. We cannot skip this step. Last season, the answer to this question was a bonafide ’no’. Florentino had the chance to intervene, when, after Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2 – 1 in October and were clear by five points, to come down and side with Alonso after Vinicius Jr’s public humiliation of him when being subbed out in the second half in what was otherwise a very positive night that didn’t need to be sabotaged. He didn’t, and whether or not you agree with Florentino’s decision to back Vinicius or not is somewhat irrelevant, because in retrospect, it was a clear mistake. To a less dramatic effect, Alvaro Arbeloa was also latter handcuffed in how much he was allowed to play Thiago Pitarch. What’s done is done. How much more pain and suffering does Florentino need to see in order to realize he was wrong? This question continues to linger. Florentino needs to go into Mourinho’s office, give him the keys, and proclaim: ‘do what you need to do, bench who you need to bench, promote who you need to promote. I want titles. Consider this the end of politics and star power.’ Question #2, to Jose Mourinho: Can you please be your unapologetic self? Look, I completely understand: Mourinho is calmer now; older, wiser, etc. He doesn’t need to poke anyone’s eyes out or fight anyone. I’m not asking him to. But I am asking him, for the sake of the success of Real Madrid C.F, as an institution, to make big changes and defy the aforementioned status quo — something his predecessors couldn’t do in the past two years. That may require defying Florentino’s player hierarchy. Yes, it sounds ridiculous to go against what your employer tells you to do, but I’m willing to bet if Mourinho continues doing the same things, he will be sacked — so he might as well get sacked doing things his own way. This is, again, to reiterate, ridiculous and harsh — especially coming from a writer on a keyboard, and even more ridiculous when you consider who it’s directed to: one of the greatest managers of all time. But it’s clear that the solutions are not going to come by repeating the same things. I have two additional sub-questions for Mourinho, in no particular order: Will you tolerate stars underperforming, or will you hold them accountable the way you did when you benched Karim Benzema once upon a time (who by the way, was one of Florentino’s absolute favourites)? How married are you to the 4-2-3-1 given that: A) the current box-to-box midfielders who are starting every week aren’t compatible together in a double pivot; and B) trying new formations may unlock new versions of this team and help the puzzle pieces fit a little better? Those are two main ones, and remaining questions, like getting more minutes for Bernardo Silva and Trent Alexander-Arnold to help with ball progression (and whoever else needs to play more) fall into the first question. Question #3, to Yan Diomande: How ready are you? This is an extremely harsh question. In no way, shape, or form should Real Madrid’s success hinge on the shoulders of a 19-year-old. But this question is not meant to put pressure on his shoulders, nor am I implying Diomande is the one that will make or break this team. The question stems from something else, and is the result of the first tactical domino that will likely have to fall: Vinicius Jr should be removed as an undisputed starter. If and when that happens — and it may be as soon as this month — then Diomande will likely start on the left. While I do believe that Vinicius should be removed from the starting lineup, I’m also not naive enough to believe all of Real Madrid’s problems get solved with that one action. There are still remaining questions, such as: can Mbappe exist with any pure winger on that side, or is it better to pair him with a non-traditional winger or midfielder to provide balance? Nevertheless, Diamonde will need to be ready to produce, to be efficient on the ball, to move the ball quickly, and to defend. Luckily, he’s already very good at all those things. Question #4, to the universe: How healthy will Real Madrid’s center-backs be? Self-explanatory. A healthy Eder Militao, Dean Huijsen, and Ibrahima Konaté would change the ceiling of this team, and Antonio Rüdiger can fill in with fresh legs whenever necessary. The moment we start resorting to a center-back partnership of Asencio – Tchouameni, I’m sweating. There are nine bonus questions in the episode above. Enjoy!
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- Managing Madrid·3d ago·Both·transfers
Madrid Daily: Konaté’s return, Espí’s wait and Carvajal’s Getafe talks
MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 06: Ibrahima Konaté player of Real Madrid is training during a training session at on October 06, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Helios de la Rubia/Real Madrid via Getty Images) | Real Madrid via Getty Images Real Madrid’s preparations for Saturday’s meeting with Villarreal gathered pace on Tuesday, with Ibrahima Konaté completing training with the group and several internationals returning to Valdebebas. Carlos Espí, meanwhile, will have to wait for his senior Spain debut after another matchday omission. Elsewhere, Sergio Canales has revisited the challenges of his time at Madrid, while Dani Carvajal is reportedly exploring a move that would keep him in the Spanish capital. Konaté completes group training as internationals return Ibrahima Konaté completed Tuesday’s session with the group, giving José Mourinho another defensive option ahead of Villarreal’s visit to the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, October 10, at 9 p.m. Madrid time. The Frenchman trained with a substantial bandage on his right knee as he continued his return from a collateral ligament injury. With Dean Huijsen suspended following his dismissal in the derby, Konaté’s progress puts him in contention to partner Antonio Rüdiger against Villarreal, although the starting lineup remains to be determined. Éder Militão also continued working with the group. Vinícius Júnior, Endrick, Brahim Díaz, Denzel Dumfries and Yan Diomande returned to the training complex after their international commitments. Their workloads differed, with some taking part in more intensive exercises and others concentrating on recovery. Kylian Mbappé and Fede Valverde worked in the gym. Mbappé’s presence followed his individual session on Monday afternoon, when he exercised indoors and on the pitch after returning to Madrid. He remains in rehabilitation following the hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee sustained while playing for France. AS reports that Mbappé’s time away from Madrid was agreed with Mourinho and the club, with a recovery program in place throughout. His return to Valdebebas does not yet amount to a return to full group training. Raúl Asencio has also begun his postoperative recovery work at the training complex. Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo continued their respective rehabilitation programs, including exercises with the ball. The remaining players involved with Spain and England are expected back following Tuesday’s international fixtures, allowing Mourinho to bring together more of his squad before the return to league action. Militao and Konaté both completed today's training session in full without any issues. Both ready 🔥 pic.twitter.com/2qB9MkJtUa — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) October 6, 2026 Espí left out of Spain’s squad for Croatia Carlos Espí will have to wait to make his senior international debut after being omitted from Spain’s 23-player matchday squad to face Croatia in Split. The Madrid striker was called up as an emergency replacement following Ferran Torres’ injury, having scored five goals in Spain’s 13-goal victory over San Marino at Under-21 level. However, Luis de la Fuente left him out of the squad against the Czech Republic in Oviedo and has made the same decision for the final match of the international window. Roberto Fernández retains his place among Spain’s attacking options. The Espanyol striker has been with the senior squad throughout the break and made his debut against the Czech Republic after missing out on the first two matchday squads. Espí will therefore not feature in either of Tuesday’s Spain fixtures: he is with the senior group rather than the Under-21 side facing Romania in Ibiza, but will not be involved against Croatia. Madrid teammates Huijsen and Marc Cucurella are both included in De la Fuente’s matchday squad. Canales: “I learned a lot, I don’t regret anything” Sergio Canales has reflected on the demands of joining Real Madrid as a teenager, describing an experience that changed his understanding of professional football even though it did not unfold as he had initially planned. Speaking to Manu Carreño on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, the Racing Santander midfielder explained that his original intention had been to sign for Madrid and continue developing elsewhere on loan. “I made the decision because of certain circumstances in Santander. My idea was to sign for Real Madrid and then go out on loan for a few years to gain more experience. But I learned a lot, I don’t regret anything, and at the end of that year, it completely changed my perspective on what it means to be a First Division player. It gave me a lot of strength to keep going despite the injuries I’ve had,” Canales said. Asked whether the move had come too early, he placed it within the wider experiences of a career repeatedly interrupted by injuries. “Did Madrid come to me too soon? Well, soon… In the end, everything happens for a reason. The career I’ve had, with so many injuries, has taught me to fight and overcome situations.” Canales also distinguished between the footballing education Madrid provided and the personal challenges of adapting to that environment at a young age. “It forces you to mature a lot as a footballer, but personally it’s a huge challenge. A lot is demanded of an 18 or 19-year-old player very quickly, which is normal, but you’ve just left school and haven’t had any training to learn how to deal with the situations that come your way.” Returning to Racing and considering his future Canales also revisited Barcelona’s attempts to recruit him as a child. He recalled visiting La Masia and meeting his idol, Juan Román Riquelme, but said his family ultimately chose to remain in Santander rather than uproot their lives when there was no guarantee that he would become a professional. His return to Racing after playing in Mexico, meanwhile, was motivated by a desire to contribute to the club that developed him. “Not to compare, but this is my home and I owe everything to Racing. I’m very fortunate for the career I’ve had, and it’s all thanks to Racing. Not only for giving me my debut, but for shaping me as a player and a person from a young age. So I felt I had to come back to give back some of that. Now I feel good and I’m trying to help the team.” At 35, Canales believes Racing could be his final club at the highest level, although he stopped short of announcing a retirement plan. “I would say that, as of today, and although life changes a lot, at the elite level this is probably the end. The adventure in Mexico has been amazing, so I’m not ruling anything out. I’m taking it one day at a time; what I want is to be fit and contribute here. And the moment I see that I can’t do that, I’ll never be a problem for Racing.” Report: Bordalás contacts Carvajal over Getafe move Dani Carvajal could continue his career at Getafe, with ABC reporting that talks are progressing positively over a potential move for the former Madrid defender. According to the report, José Bordalás has personally contacted Carvajal to explain the role he envisages for him and express his interest in bringing him to the Coliseum. Remaining close to his home and the opportunity to work with Bordalás are presented as factors that appeal to the full-back. The principal obstacle is Getafe’s ability to accommodate and register him within the club’s salary limit. The report says Getafe are examining their options and discussing the available room with LaLiga. The interest has therefore not yet translated into a completed signing. While the account describes optimism around the negotiations, an agreement remains dependent on resolving the financial and registration requirements. Villarreal sell out their 850-ticket Bernabéu allocation Villarreal will have 850 supporters at the Bernabéu after selling out their allocation for Saturday’s match. The visitors head into the fixture following victories in their last two league matches, with the timing of the game and the long weekend helping supporters make the trip to Madrid. The journey is also a regular one on the Villarreal Supporters’ Clubs Association’s away calendar. Villarreal are seeking their third league victory at the Bernabéu, having won two of their previous 26 visits. Madrid, meanwhile, return to competition for the first time since the derby defeat, with Mourinho’s team looking to begin their October schedule with three points.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·match
Barcelona come up with plan for Raphinha ahead of Getafe clash
SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates 1-2 during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Sevilla v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Sevilla Spain (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images FC Barcelona had quite the injury scare after Raphinha went off at half-time of Brazil’s 4-2 win against Australia. The forward has been on fire this season and is seen once again as a potential Ballon d’Or candidate. Thankfully, scans revealed no structural injury. It’s just swelling and pain. According to the latest reports, the Brazilian will be back against Getafe, though he will not start. It’s believed Hansi Flick will use him as a substitute only, if he is used at all. The Catalans have many tough fixtures around the corner, and it would be best if Raphinha was in prime condition for it. After playing Getafe at home on the 10th, Barcelona play Galatasaray three days later. Then they travel to face Real Betis away four days after. And just three days later, Barça play against Paris Saint-Germain in France. And what comes next is perhaps the biggest fixture of all: El Clásico against Real Madrid. It’s said the medical staff considers this minor injury a warning of sorts that his body could be nearing its limit. Some well-deserved rest may help him be back in tip-top shape for the big games awaiting Barça. Raphinha has started all eight games Barcelona has played this season, though he is frequently subbed off during the game. Gabriel Jesus could start his first game for Barcelona if Raphinha is rested.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·opinion
André Villas-Boas: It’s a shame for José Mourinho that Barcelona is in a great moment
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Jose Mourinho, head coach of Real Madrid CF, looks on during the Spanish League, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium on September 20, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images André Villas-Boas, president of FC Porto, has given his opinion on José Mourinho, his former boss, who currently manages Real Madrid. “José remains among the best in the world—I always knew that. And now he is coaching the best club in the world,” Villas-Boas said. “It’s a shame Barcelona is in this state,” he added. Villas-Boas managed Porto, just like Mourinho once did, before moving on to high-profile appointments at Chelsea FC and Tottenham Hotspur in the early 2010s. His last managerial job was with Marseille in 2021. “He finds [Barcelona] in a great moment—like when he left Inter,” Villas-Boas said. Mourinho joined Real Madrid in 2010, after Barcelona won the treble under Pep Guardiola in 2009. Mourinho had come from winning a treble with Inter Milan as well. Barcelona would repeat as UEFA Champions League winners in 2011. Mourinho did not win the Champions League with Real. Indeed, that triumph with Inter in 2010 is the last time Mourinho won European club football’s top prize so far. He did win La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España once each in three seasons managing los blancos. By comparison, Barcelona won La Liga twice, Copa del Rey once, and seven other cups, in addition to the Champions League, during Mourinho’s three seasons at Real. “These are the challenges Mourinho enjoys the most,” Villas-Boas said.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·transfers
Rumors: Barcelona and Real Madrid willing to make huge offer to land Man Utd wonderkid JJ Gabriel
DUBLIN, IRELAND - AUGUST 12: Joseph Junior Andreou Gabriel of Manchester United is pictured before the pre-season friendly match between Leeds United and Manchester United at Croke Park on August 12, 2026 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) | Getty Images Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel celebrates his 16th birthday today which is getting the rumor mill all excited once again, particularly about a move to Barcelona. The teenager has reportedly been training in Barcelona after telling Manchester United he wants to leave. Deco has played down talk of a move for the 16-year-old, insisting his club “aren’t involved,” but reporter Florian Plettenberg claims the Catalans could for for Gabriel. His latest update on X claims Barcelona and Real Madrid have “very concrete” interest in the teenager and are “ready to offer the XXL package of salary, bonuses and signing-on fee.” 🚨🆕 JJ Gabriel, Manchester United’s 15 y/o gem who turns 16 tomorrow, is set to receive a Cypriot passport in the near future, if all goes to plan. A free transfer in January is planned and therefore possible. #MUFC Real Madrid and Barcelona are currently very concrete – both… pic.twitter.com/Oi7nPNmS3T — Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) October 5, 2026 Bayern and PSG are also credited with interest in the teenager and a move away from the Premier League looks the most likely option at present. It’s thought Gabriel now has an EU passport which means he can go overseas before he turns 18. Gabriel has asked for his registration at Old Trafford to be cancelled, which Manchester United are expected to contest, but a transfer abroad would “bypass that issue,” per the Telegraph.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 6 October 2026; Preparations begin for Getafe, Eric Garcia returns to training
Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images Back at work – FC Barcelona Barça return to training with sights set on Saturday’s game against Getafe. Cubarsí, Bernal and Xavi Espart among 25 Golden Boy finalists – FC Barcelona The three young talents in contention for an award that Barça have won in three of the last five seasons. Records from a Clásico for the ages – FC Barcelona Sunday’s game with Real Madrid will go down in the FC Barcelona annals. France 4-1 Belgium | UEFA Nations League – UEFA Olise brace caps big win as Doué and Cherki inspire stunning turnaround. De Jong returned to work on the pitch but alone, while Eric trained with the group – MD The Dutchman took another step in his recovery while Eric Garcia showed he was fine after the knee discomfort he felt with Spain, which forced him to leave the national team camp.
- Barca Blaugranes·3d ago·Both·opinion
‘That’s outrageous’ – Javier Tebas hits out at Real Madrid over Negreira Case
MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 21: Javier Tebas, president of LaLiga, participates in a discussion on “Technology, Piracy, and Artificial Intelligence in Sports” during the ISDE Sports Convention at the Official College of Architects of Madrid on May 21, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Irina R. Hipolito/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images La Liga president has hit out at Real Madrid over the Negreira Case in a post on X in which he criticised Real Madrid TV and some journalists. Real Madrid have recently announced they have sent a dossier to UEFA regarding the case and Barcelona and want a quick outcome. In the meantime, the club’s TV channel regularly criticizes the refereeing in La Liga, something Tebas says is “outrageous.” “I still think exactly the same about the Negreira case: what happened was extremely serious and must be investigated to the very end. But it’s one thing is to investigate facts that ended years ago, and quite another to build, in 2026, the narrative that Negreira continues to influence Spanish refereeing today. That’s outrageous. And repeating it from Real Madrid TV doesn’t make it true,” he posted on X. “Precisely for that reason, a judicial procedure has existed for years: to clarify whether the payments made had an influence on the refereeing system, particularly on referees’ promotions and relegations, and to determine whether those facts may constitute sporting corruption and generate the corresponding criminal liabilities. “Let the judges investigate, let all the evidence be examined, and let it be taken to the end. But, in the meantime, what do some people want? For us to eliminate FC Barcelona and its current leaders from LALIGA’s life? For LALIGA to replace the courts, issue its own verdict, and execute a penalty before there is a judicial resolution?” Tebas went to to say that the constant haranguing of match officials “isn’t pursuing the truth” and is simply “trying to keep the narrative alive.” “Moreover, in the context of Spanish sporting discipline, the facts are time-barred. This has also been explained many times. One can be extremely tough on what happened—I have been from the very first moment—and at the same time refuse to accept the poisoning of the narrative that, so many years after those facts ended, Negreira continues to influence Spanish refereeing,” he added. “That isn’t pursuing the truth. It’s trying to keep a narrative alive. The facts are serious enough not to need inventing others.that is what http://Real.Madrid tv, @DAlvarez1976 , @Paul_Tenorio, @MelchorRuizCope does.” La Liga resumes this weekend with Barcelona sitting top of the table in Spain, five points clear of Atletico and Real Betis in second and third and six ahead of Real Madrid in fourth.
- Managing Madrid·3d ago·Both·opinion
La Liga president Tebas speaks about Negreira case
La Liga president Javier Tebas spoke about the influence of the Negreira case in Spanish football and shared his thoughts about the referees. “I continue to think exactly the same thing about the Negreira case: what happened was very serious and must be investigated until the end,” said Tebas. However, he also disagreed with most of Real Madrid’s complaints. “It’s one thing to investigate facts that concluded years ago, and quite another to construct in 2026 the narrative that Negreira is still influencing Spanish refereeing today. That’s outrageous. And repeating it on Real Madrid TV doesn’t make it true,” he added. “What do some people want? For us to eliminate FC Barcelona and its current directors from LaLiga’s life? For LaLiga to replace the courts, issue its own verdict, and execute a sentence before there’s even a judicial resolution?” he concluded.
- Barca Blaugranes·4d ago·Both·opinion
‘Not even 1%’ – Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has his say on Negreira Case
MUNICH, GERMANY - MAY 29: Former footballer Andres Iniesta applauds during the Opening Ceremony ahead of the UEFA Champions League Final 2025 between Paris Saint-Germain and FC Internazionale Milano at Champions Festival on May 29, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Pau Barrena - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has said there’s simply “no debate” when asked about the Negreira Case after Real Madrid sent a dossier of information to UEFA last week regarding the Catalan giants. The midfielder says that even if every match during the period in question was analyzed there would be absolutely no evidence found. “From a purely footballing perspective, there’s no debate,” he told AS. “The discussion hasn’t reached its conclusion, but even if we analyzed every match from that era, we wouldn’t find even 1% of those alleged instances of favoritism. “I never heard of, saw, or felt any assistance. In every match, fans and players alike witness favoritism shown to the opposing team.” Iniesta went to add, in a separate interview with Mundo Deportivo, that all of Barca’s titles were won purely on merit. “I don’t have much of an opinion because ultimately these are situations beyond one’s control, but all I know is that during that period we achieved everything through sporting merit, and anything that might arise off the field will have to be resolved elsewhere. What happened on the field is what happened,” he added. Meanwhile, Real Madrid are believed to have “convinced” themselves that UEFA will have to take action against Barca and have called for Europe’s governing body to work with the “utmost urgency” on the matter.
- Football España·4d ago·Both·match
Haaland’s 2027 Talk Puts Real Madrid and Barcelona in Focus
Haaland Spain move reports point to 2027 as a possible window, with Real Madrid and Barcelona monitoring while Arsenal remain an alternative. The post Haaland’s 2027 Talk Puts Real Madrid and Barcelona in Focus appeared first on Football España.
- Managing Madrid·4d ago·Both·transfers
Madrid Daily: Mbappé returns to Valdebebas as Villas-Boas backs Mourinho
KOCAELI, TURKEY - SEPTEMBER 25: (EDITORS NOTE: Tonal effects have been applied to this image) Kylian Mbappe of France during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Türkiye and France at Kocaeli Stadium on September 25, 2026 in Kocaeli, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Real Madrid’s return to competition is approaching, and Monday brought Kylian Mbappé back to Valdebebas to continue his recovery from a knee injury. The forward is targeting Saturday’s meeting with Villarreal, although his availability remains unconfirmed. Meanwhile, André Villas-Boas has expressed confidence in José Mourinho, describing the challenge of facing an in-form Barcelona as precisely the kind of situation the Madrid coach enjoys. Mbappé resumes individual work with Villarreal in mind Kylian Mbappé completed an individual session at Real Madrid City on Monday afternoon after returning to the Spanish capital earlier in the day. The club confirmed that he worked both inside the facilities and on the pitch, performing exercises with and without the ball as he continued his rehabilitation. According to AS, the forward landed in Madrid at 11:16 a.m., after his teammates’ session had begun at 10:30 a.m. His own training had been arranged for the afternoon, and he arrived at Valdebebas at approximately 5 p.m. for a combination of gym work, physiotherapy and exercises on the grass. The timing of his arrival attracted attention, but his absence from Madrid had been authorized. Mundo Deportivo reports that Mbappé spent time in France and Switzerland with permission from both the club and Mourinho, while following the recovery guidelines established for his knee injury. His return therefore should not be presented as an unauthorized absence from training. Images of the forward’s activities during that period—including an evening out in Paris and a bicycle ride—generated criticism from some supporters. Those discussions have accompanied his rehabilitation, but the reporting also states that he continued working with physiotherapists and following the club’s prescribed program while away. Mbappé suffered the injury while scoring France’s winning goal against Turkey on September 25. He subsequently left the national-team camp and underwent examinations in Madrid the following day, when the club confirmed a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee. Madrid’s medical statement did not specify a recovery period. Reports initially placed his expected absence at 10 to 12 days, putting the Villarreal fixture within reach if his recovery progressed as anticipated. Monday’s session represents a step toward that objective, rather than confirmation that he has returned to full group training or is ready to start. The club’s latest update says Mbappé is working “with the aim of being available for this Saturday’s match against Villarreal.” The match takes place at the Santiago Bernabéu on October 10 at 9 p.m. Madrid time. Six players continue recovery programs ahead of a busy October Madrid’s morning session brought together Mourinho’s available first-team players and a group from the academy. They began with activation exercises and rondos before moving into possession drills and a small-sided match, finishing with running exercises on the grass. The club listed Raúl Asencio, Ibrahima Konaté, Mbappé, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde and Rodrygo as continuing their respective recovery programs. No return dates were included in the training report. Villarreal opens a five-match October schedule. Madrid then visit Roma in the Champions League on October 14, host Sevilla on October 18, and welcome RB Leipzig on October 21, before travelling to Barcelona for the Clásico on October 25. Villas-Boas: “These are the challenges Mourinho enjoys the most” André Villas-Boas has backed Mourinho to meet the demands of his return to Real Madrid. Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, the Porto president praised the coach’s standing in the game while acknowledging the difficulty of competing against Barcelona in their current form. “José Mourinho is still among the best in the world, I always knew it. And now he’s managing the best club in the world,” Villas-Boas said. He drew a comparison with the challenge Mourinho encountered when he first arrived in Madrid from Inter, emphasizing that the strength of the opposition would be a source of motivation. “It’s a shame that Barcelona is in this situation. He’s finding them at a great moment, just like when he left Inter. But these are the challenges Mourinho enjoys the most.” AS also highlighted recent support from Wesley Sneijder, the former Madrid midfielder who played under Mourinho at Inter. Sneijder offered an unequivocal assessment of his former coach’s suitability for the task: “Mourinho is the only manager capable of turning Real Madrid around.”
- Barca Blaugranes·4d ago·Both·transfers
Julian Alvarez’s value drops after failed Barcelona transfer and tough start to season with Atletico
Atletico Madrid's Argentine forward #19 Julian Alvarez sits on the bench during the Spanish league football match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid CF at the Metropolitano stadium in Madrid on September 20, 2026. (Photo by Oscar DEL POZO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Julian Alvarez’s market value has dropped by 10 million euros following a tough start to the season with Atletico after a proposed move to Barcelona failed to materialize. Barca wanted to add the Argentina international to their ranks but saw a transfer blocked by Atletico. The Catalans reportedly made an offer of €100 million, but Atletico wanted far more for their striker. Alvarez missed training and game time at the start of the season due to illness, as the transfer saga continued, but has since returned to action and has made four appearances for Diego Simeone’s side. Yet the events over the summer have seen his market value take a hit. According to Transfermarkt, Alvarez’s value has dropped from €120m to €110m in the latest update. Vinicius Junior & Julián Alvarez, who both rejected a move to Arsenal this summer, have just seen their market values decreased in today's LaLiga update 📉 🔗 Read why: https://t.co/VZStccEJDD pic.twitter.com/o1DpxXCtXw — Transfermarkt English (@TMuk_news) October 5, 2026 Transfermarkt’s LaLiga market value coordinator Tobias Blaseio has shared his thoughts on the drop in value. “Many people expected the Argentine to make a move this summer,” he said. “Instead, an unprecedented transfer farce ensued. In the end, Alvarez lost the most and will need some time to regain his standing in Madrid – if that’s even possible. “On the field, it had an entirely negative impact; in the league, the striker has managed only 83 minutes of playing time. This summer certainly didn’t do his reputation as a player any favours.” There was speculation that Barca could go back for Alvarez in the winter or next summer. However, the club have since brought in Gabriel Jesus and Deco has claimed Alvarez “is in the past.”
- Barca Blaugranes·4d ago·Both·opinion
Barcelona stars Pau Cubarsi, Xavi Espart and Marc Bernal among the finalists for the 2026 Golden Boy Award
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Pau Cubarsi 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 Barcelona stars Pau Cubarsi, Xavi Espart and Marc Bernal are among the 25 final nominees for the 2026 Golden Boy award. The trio have made it onto the shortlist after impressing for the Catalan giants and are nominated alongside other exciting talents such as Ayyoub Bouaddi, Lennart Karl, Junior Kroupi and Yan Diomande. Here’s a look at the finalists. 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝟐𝟓 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄! We present the 𝟐𝟓 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐁𝐨𝐲, the award celebrating the best U21 players competing in European football leagues pic.twitter.com/9wpeiW48RV — Golden Boy (@GoldenBoyAwards) October 5, 2026 Cubarsi is the favorite for victory following a season where he won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup with Barcelona as well as the World Cup with Spain. The defender also netted the FIFA Young Player Award at the World Cup following an exemplary campaign with Luis de la Fuente’s side. If Cubarsi does win, he will follow in the footsteps of team-mates Pedri, Gavi and Lamine Yamal who have all previously claimed the prize. The winner will be announced at an event in November in Turin. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Who do you think should win the 2026 Golden Boy Award? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
- Managing Madrid·4d ago·Both·transfers
Daily Thread: 05 October 2026
The Daily Merengue is a place where you can feel free to d all things football. Do not be alarmed by the overt RMCF bias. It’s in the name! Shoutout to the mods who do a fantastic job, Ezek, Valyrian Steel, Kung_Fu_Zizou, Juninho, NeRObutBlanco and yours truly, Felipejack. Real Madrid football returns The current international break ends tomorrow and Real Madrid return to action this Saturday, against Villareal. Real will play 8 games, including El Clasico, before the upcoming international break, in November. Real Madrid will play 8 games before the next international break in November: 🏠 10/10: Villarreal (21:00) ✈️ 14/10: Roma (21:00) 🏆 🏠 18/10: Sevilla (21:00) 🏠 21/10: Leipzig (21:00) 🏆 ✈️ 25/10: BARCELONA (21:00) ✈️ 01/11: Racing Santander (16:15) ✈️ 04/11: AEK (18:45) 🏆… pic.twitter.com/PMsdbh2SIg — Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) October 5, 2026 Contract extensions Tchouameni and Guler had their contract extended until 2031! Per Romano, Real is planning on extending Courtois contract.
- Barca Blaugranes·4d ago·Both·transfers
Barcelona set for real test of title credentials after perfect start to 2026-27 campaign
Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha (R) celebrates with teammate Spanish forward #10 Lamine Yamal after scoring his team's second goal during the Spanish league football match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium in Seville on September 19, 2026. (Photo by JORGE GUERRERO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona couldn’t have had a better start to their 2026/27 season, with their eight consecutive wins in all competitions setting a new club record. Not even the great Cruyff or Guardiola teams managed such a feat, and without a recognised centre-forward to boot, that really is something worth celebrating for Hansi Flick and Co. This October is certainly going to sort the men out from the boys, however. In the space of 21 days, Barca will play Getafe, Real Betis, Real Madrid and Alaves in the league, as well as Galatasaray and current Champions League holders, Paris Saint-Germain. October is calling. 📞 🎟️ https://t.co/OvhtRHC1SF@EGYPTAIR pic.twitter.com/iz55cxgdsh — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 1, 2026 Thankfully, there don’t appear to be too many issues for the club’s medical team to deal with as a result of this international break, and if Flick doesn’t have a full-strength squad to choose from, he’ll have as near as possible. Given that Barca have suffered badly because of injuries while players have been away on international duty before, that’s a real bonus. Given the strength of opposition and the travelling required in the middle of the month, Flick has arguably got to call upon the entire squad to be fit and raring to go. A home game against Getafe opens the month before three difficult away games in a row against Galatasaray, Betis and PSG. While the results are clearly important, by the time that El Clasico comes around on October 25, it will be Barca’s fifth game in 15 days, so how the squad is managed in terms of minutes etc is absolutely vital. No league was ever won in October, of course, but with so many games this month, should Barca’s good form continue, they could put a real marker down in the league if they edge further ahead. Given just how well the blaugranes were playing before the break, it’ll be interesting to see whether having their rhythm broken begins to cause them issues. There’s always likely to be a dip at some point in any event, and if Barca are going to wobble, perhaps having one now is preferable to during the business end of the season. At least no opponent can be under any illusion that they are playing the most in-form team in Europe, and if they are going to take points off Barca, they’ll have to work harder than ever to do so. In order to be able to do that, Barca will have to ease off the accelerator, and there doesn’t appear to be any chance of Flick allowing his players to take it easy. The businesslike quality with which they’ve approached every game so far has served them well, so why change a winning formula? Strap yourselves in…
- Barca Blaugranes·4d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 5 October 2026; Claudia Pina shines bright as Barça Femení destroy Real Madrid in El Clásico
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images | Getty Images Barça 7-0 Real Madrid: Classic stuff – FC Barcelona Barça Femeini enjoyed a historic night at the Spotify Camp Nou, thrashing Real Madrid 7-0 in front of 40,533 fans, a new Liga attendance record. Clàudia Pina was the undisputed star of the Clásico, scoring four times before the break, before Pajor and Sydney completed the rout in the second half. HIGHLIGHTS | LEAGUE | Barça v Real Madrid – FC Barcelona All the action from the Women’s Clásico at the Spotify Camp Nou. Portugal 2-1 Norway: Portugal book spot in last eight – UEFA Portugal seal their spot in the last eight of the Nations League thanks to a comeback victory in an engaging contest. The Seleção deserved maximum points for a fourth time in as many Group A4 contest this term, looking the most likely to score a winner as the fixture progressed. Laporta: “Players who defined an era have left, and others are coming who will define this era” – Mundo Deportivo “We are proud to make it possible for these players to be a global benchmark,” he declared after the 7-0 victory against Real Madrid. Pina, the MVP, tore into Real Madrid: “I’m more anti-Madrid than Cata Coll” – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona forward scored four goals, led the team’s impressive performance against Real Madrid, and stole the show in a Clásico to remember: “Barça will always be Barça and we’ve made a statement.” Graham Hansen, after the 7-0 win against Real Madrid: “I stayed here for matches like this” – Mundo Deportivo The Norwegian player celebrated the magic of the Spotify Camp Nou after the 7-0 victory and left a message for the fans: “It’s normal that there are people who think and want you to lose, but we’ve been winning for a long time.” Pere Romeu, after Barça’s rout in El Clásico: “It must be tough to concede a result like that” – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona coach analyzed the 7-0 victory against Real Madrid and praised Pina after her four goals at the Spotify Camp Nou: “I’m very happy for her, she trains, she competes and she’s a great person.”
- Football España·4d ago·Both·match
Seven-goal Clásico keeps Barcelona five points clear
Barcelona vs Real Madrid ended 7-0 as Clàudia Pina scored four, extending Barcelona’s perfect Liga F start and five-point lead at the top. The post Seven-goal Clásico keeps Barcelona five points clear appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·transfers
Evaluating Barcelona’s backup striker options for Raphinha
SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Sevilla v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Sevilla Spain (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Coming out of the international break, Hansi Flick will have one big question on his mind. If not Raphinha, then who? The Brazilian had fans holding their breath when he was taken off at half-time for Brazil, and sent back to Barcelona for rest and recovery. We still don’t know the full extent of the injury, but best case scenario he makes it back next weekend against Getafe. Flick will know, however, that he dodged a bullet, and if he’s not careful with how his manages his most productive player, there could be costly knock on effects that follow. Coming up this month are trips to Galatasaray and PSG in the Champions League, and tough tests in Spain against Real Betis and Real Madrid. Flick needs Raphinha in the biggest matches, which is why he needs to figure out his plan B up front so that his striker can be fully fit and firing on all cylinders when the pressure is on. The obvious and safest choice is Gabriel Jesus. So far, he has been the player that Flick has turned to late in games to give Raphinha a rest when the match is already out of reach. Context is key here. Jesus has been great in his cameo appearances, but can he do the job expected of him offensively and defensively as a starter in Flick’s system? That’s where I start to have my doubts, and I’m sure Flick is going back and forth too. Another option would be to go with the players who are the hottest at the moment. That would mean Anthony Gordon, most likely through the middle, flanked by Karim Adeyemi and Lamine Yamal. Gordon hasn’t scored yet for Barcelona, but over the break, he has been on fire for England, scoring in all three of his starting appearances. Surely it would be surprising if Flick opts to not play the hot hand? The bold choice would be to give the nod to Hamza Abdelkarim, the top scorer of the preseason. If he doesn’t start getting minutes now, the possibility of a loan move in January will start to become more real. He’s too talented, eager, and full of promise, to not be playing. The young Eyptian, in fact, scored again in emphatic fashion for his nation at an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier last week. There are also wild card options. Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo’s names have been tossed around. Some have even wondered if Lamine Yamal could be used as a false nine. Regardless of the final choice, Flick will have to make a decision soon. Raphinha is critical to Barcelona’s chances this season, and given his recent injury record, he must be protected from himself, which means giving him rest when possible, and even when it seems inconvenient. Barcelona are off to a flying start, but they will be dragged into the trenches in October. The best way to emerge victorious is together as a unit, and that means proving they can win without Raphinha. The very first test will be against Getafe, who are always a stubborn opponent. Will we see Raphinha in action? Maybe it’s best that he starts from the bench, and Flick gets a chance to see who else he can turn to. Bigger challenges await. The Barcelona players are a showing a hunger that’s been contagious. Time to let others feast.
- Guardian Football·5d ago·Both·match
Clàudia Pina hits four as Barcelona score seven goals to demolish Real Madrid
Barcelona 7-0 Real Madrid Lead at the top stretched to five points Clàudia Pina smashed in four goals as Barcelona demolished Real Madrid 7-0 to earn a five point lead at the top of Liga F on Sunday over their rivals. The 25-year-old Spain international was in lethal form in front of goal as a dominant Barça won the Clásico battle with ease at the Camp Nou in front of over 40,000 fans, continuing their perfect start to the campaign. The match was pushed back by two hours after torrential rain in the Catalonia region over the weekend. Continue reading...
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
Claudia Pina dazzles as Barcelona Femeni smash seven past Real Madrid in El Clasico
BARCELONA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 04: Claudia Pina of Barcelona celebrates scoring her team’s second goal during the Liga F Moeve 2026/27 match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on October 04, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Claudia Pina scored four times on Sunday as Barcelona Femeni hammered Real Madrid 7-0 at Camp Nou in El Clasico to maintain their perfect start to the season. The Barcelona star needed just four minutes to open the scoring, showing great skill to dribble past several defenders in the penalty area and then poke the ball home. 4 minutos ha tardado Pina en abrir la lata 🔥 El Barça se adelanta en el Camp Nou #LigaFMoeve | #BarçaRealMadrid pic.twitter.com/Cfcc4KHlNC — Liga F (@LigaF_oficial) October 4, 2026 Barcelona should then have been awarded a penalty when Arianna Caruso clearly pulled Sydney Schertenleib’s shirt inside the box but somehow VAR decided there was no offence and the hosts were denied. Madrid may have escaped that one but they could do nothing about an inspired Pina. The second goal came from her boot just before the half hour when she latched onto a rebound to make it 2-0. Pina then completed her hat-trick before the half-time whistle was blown, combining well with Patri Guijarro before finding the back of the net to claim the match ball. 🎩 ¡HAT-TRICK DE CLAUDIA PINA! Tres goles en apenas media hora para poner su firma en el partidazo del Spotify Camp Nou 📺 En directo en @DAZN_ES y @MPlusDeportes#LigaFMoeve | #BarçaRealMadrid pic.twitter.com/zHUkIP4e2p — Liga F (@LigaF_oficial) October 4, 2026 Barcelona weren’t done there, either. Caroline Graham Hansen made it 4-0, slotting home a left-footed finish before Pina swapped passes with Pajor and then lashed home from inside the box. The second half began in very much the same vein, with Barca scoring again to make it 6-0. Graham Hansen latched onto a through ball and unselfishly squared for Pajor to knock home. The icing on the cake was applied late on by Sydney, who capped off a fantastic performance from Barca Femeni with a stunning goal. The Swiss star fired home a great finish from the edge of the box, finding the top corner to complete the humiliation for Madrid in front of 40,533 spectators at Camp Nou.
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·opinion
What is your favorite Lamine Yamal goal for Barcelona and Spain?
Photo by Torbjorn Tande/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images | DeFodi Images via Getty Images Lamine Yamal scored another brilliant goal in Spain’s win over Czechia on Saturday as the teenager has already reached double figures for club and country this season and continues to add to his growing list of beautiful strikes. His curling effort into the top corner against Czechia has become his trademark, but Yamal has all sorts of iconic goals in his young career already. Yamal made his introduction to the world stage with a sensational goal from outside the box in the EURO 2024 semi-final against France when he was still a 16-year-old, and that remains one of his very best goals to this day. But Lamine has plenty of great ones for Barça, including an incredible solo effort in the Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan at Montjuïc last year, a right-footed rocket into the roof of the net at the Bernabéu in El Clásico two years ago, and an amazing solo run through several Real Madrid defenders in the 2025 Spanish Super Cup Final. Those are just some of Lamine’s best goals, and it feels like he’ll add many more to the collection in the next few years for both Barça and La Roja. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: What is your favorite Lamine Yamal goal for Barcelona and Spain? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
- Barca Blaugranes·5d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 4 October 2026; Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon score again, Frenkie de Jong steps up injury recovery
Photo by Alex Caparros - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images | UEFA via Getty Images CLÁSICO PREVIEW | Barcelona v Real Madrid – FC Barcelona The first women’s Barça v Real Madrid fixture this season is at the Spotify Camp Nou, with kick-off now at 7.00pm CEST. The same old story, this time in Oviedo (3-1) – RFEF Spain beat the Czech Republic and added another three points in the UEFA Nations League Group A3 standings. Croatia 0-7 England: A record UEFA Nations League victory for the Three Lions in Rijeka – England Football The Three Lions were in complete control in front of a reduced crowd in Rijeka, as they inflicted a record defeat on the hosts. Lamine Yamal is still ‘on fire’ and scores another great goal right at the start – Mundo Deportivo The man from Rocafonda opened the scoring for Spain just five minutes into the match against the Czech Republic with a rocket into the top corner, and now has 4 goals in this Nations League. Tuchel: “Gordon has reached another level” – Mundo Deportivo The England manager praised the Barcelona forward, who has scored in all three matches he has played for his national team during this international break. De Jong shows off his progress before rejoining the group and sends a message – Mundo Deportivo The Dutchman, who has yet to make his debut this season due to the injury he suffered to his right knee during the World Cup, is closer to returning.
- Managing Madrid·5d ago·Both·match
Huijsen and Cucurella rested for Spain in Czechia win
OVIEDO, SPAIN - OCTOBER 03: Dean Huijsen of Spain arrives at the stadium before the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Spain and Czechia at Carlos Tartiere on October 03, 2026 in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo by Juanma - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Spain secured a 3-1 win over Czechia in Oviedo on Saturday night to stay top of UEFA Nations League A Group 3 with nine points from three games, but did so without any Real Madrid players involved. Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Mikel Merino were all on the scoresheet, with Jiri Sláma scoring a consolation goal for Czechia, who also had captain Vladislav Krejci sent off. Coach Luis de la Fuente opted to rest both central defender Dean Huijsen and left-back Marc Cucurella. It comes just days after the duo both played the full 90 minutes in a 4-1 win over Croatia. That game marked Huijsen’s first Spain appearance since March, having been left out of the 2026 World Cup squad. Huijsen was replaced in defence by Aymeric Laporte, the Athletic Club defender who was first choice for Spain’s victorious efforts in the summer. He partnered with Atlético Madrid defender Robin Le Normand, with the curious coincidence of both having been born in France. Cucurella was replaced by a former Real Madrid man in La Fábrica product Fran García. The 27-year-old defender, who joined Real Betis this summer, was a late call-up to replace Álex Grimaldo, who withdrew with an injury having been in line to start against Croatia before pulling up with a muscle problem which has seen him return to Atlético Madrid. Spain now face one more game in this international break, facing Croatia in Split on Tuesday night, and will then complete the UEFA Nations League group stage with two games, against Czechia in Prague and against England in Madrid, in November.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·transfers
Gossip: Chelsea reignite interest in Barcelona’s Jules Koundé
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 9: Jules Koundé of FC Barcelonaa seen during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between FC Barcelona and Feyenoord Rotterdam at Camp Nou on September 9, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Chelsea FC are said to be on the hunt for a long-term target, who initially turned them down to join FC Barcelona in 2022. A new report says the Blues are looking at signing Jules Koundé to reinforce their defense. Barça, for their part, may be interested in selling players to raise funds in January. Koundé is no longer a guaranteed starter, competing with Eric Garcia, João Cancelo, and Xavi Espart in the full-back positions. The Frenchman is reportedly open to a move to London, to join a team he almost joined four years ago. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is said to want more cover at right-back, especially as Malo Gusto could leave. All of these signs could point to a transfer, though, of course, there’s a long road ahead to an agreement if all parties do indeed decide to pursue such a thing. Koundé is currently with France, where he is dealing with more frustration over playing time, or lack of it. Since starting the match against Turkiye, Koundé has not featured for Zinedine Zidane. He has a contract with Barcelona until 2027, signed last year. He signed from Sevilla for 50 million euro.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·transfers
Barcelona star Anthony Gordon considered one of England’s ‘main men’ by Harry Kane
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC - SEPTEMBER 29: Harry Kane of England celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Anthony Gordon during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Czechia and England at Fortuna Arena on September 29, 2026 in Prague, Czech Republic. (Photo by Gabriel Kuchta - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Anthony Gordon, who has enjoyed a strong start at FC Barcelona since joining from Newcastle United in the past transfer window, is one of England’s main men now, according to their captain and star, Harry Kane. “His performances in the last couple of games have been some of his best that he has played in an England shirt,” Kane said. “I think he is just relishing putting the shirt on and being one of the main men in the team.” The BBC reports that Gordon is one of manager Thomas Tuchel’s “untouchables” alongside Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Declan Rice, and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Publicly, the manager did not tip his hand fully. When asked whether Gordon was one of the first names on the team sheet, Tuchel said “He’s getting there.” However, Gordon’s recent performances, both in the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Nations League, have certainly caught the boss’s eye. “He’s defending his shirt, he’s defending his position – an excellent performance again after his performance against Spain. “He was very decisive [against the Czech Republic] and had an excellent goal. It was very, very difficult but the technique and finishing was excellent,” Tuchel said. England won that match 2-0, with Kane scoring as well. This came after England lost 3-2 to world champions Spain. “He scored against Spain so he has decisive actions and he’s defending his shirt and his position. He does it on the highest level and he’s a very important player,” Tuchel continued. “He is an important player for us and he showed that during the World Cup,” Kane said. At the beginning of the World Cup, Gordon was not a guaranteed starter and competed for a starting role with Marcus Rashford, who coincidentally had left Barcelona and been essentially replaced by Gordon. However, by the end of the tournament, Gordon was clearly the preferred option. He assisted Bellingham’s controversial equalizer against Norway, which the Norwegians claimed should not have counted because the ball hit a cable while it was in the air at the start of the sequence. England would go onto win 2-1 after extra time, thanks to a goal by Bellingham that was created after Norway’s goalkeeper, Ørjan Nyland, allowed a shot to rebound off him. Gordon also scored the opening goal in the semifinal against Argentina. He was subbed off in the 72nd minute for Ezri Konsa, a defender, as part of a wider push by Tuchel to defend the lead. The strategy backfired and Argentina won thanks to two late goals, one from Enzo Fernández and the other from Lautaro Martínez, both assisted by Lionel Messi.
- Football España·6d ago·Both
A season, not seven games, should define Mourinho’s Madrid
Marc Cucurella says the Real Madrid project needs time after two defeats left the club six points behind Barcelona in LaLiga. The post A season, not seven games, should define Mourinho’s Madrid appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both·match
Zlatan Ibrahimovic reveals his La Liga, Champions League and Ballon d’Or picks
Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images | Getty Images Zlatan Ibrahimovic is tipping Barcelona to win La Liga and the Champions League this season and also thinks Lamine Yamal will claim the Ballon d’Or. Barcelona sit top of La Liga in the early weeks of the season after a perfect start to the season as they aim to make it three titles in a row under Hansi Flick. The Catalans are also hoping they can be crowned European champions once again after reaching the quarter-finals and the semi-finals under their German coach. Zlatan has been asked which teams he thinks will pick up the biggest prizes this season and is confident his former club can achieve success at home and abroad. Zlatan's picks for some of the biggest awards and league winners in Europe are spicy 👀🔥 pic.twitter.com/PC75L9skMQ — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 2, 2026 Ibra has also gone with Yamal for the Ballon d’Or ahead of the official announcement later this month. The Barcelona star is one of the favorites to claim the Golden Ball but faces competition from Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe.
- Barca Blaugranes·6d ago·Both
FC Barcelona News: 3 October 2026; Raphinha named La Liga Player of the Month (again)
Photo by Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images | NurPhoto via Getty Images Raphinha, EA SPORTS LaLiga Player of the Month for September – LALIGA The FC Barcelona captain has won the award again after also being named the competition’s best player last month. Barça breathes a sigh of relief after Raphinha’s tests: he’ll be available against Getafe – Mundo Deportivo After returning from Australia with edema in his right thigh, the club confirmed that the Brazilian is not injured and will be able to play in the league’s return to action. Cubarsi: “Working on your mental health is the most important thing” – Mundo Deportivo “When someone feels the need to raise their hand because they are going through a difficult time, they shouldn’t be judged,” the Barcelona defender explained to Reuters. Mbappé is eyeing a return against Barça – Mundo Deportivo Real Madrid want the French striker to be fully fit for El Clásico, although the expectation is that he will be recovered before then. 6-0: Lewandowski can’t stop scoring and nets a hat-trick against Romania – Mundo Deportivo The former Barcelona striker, now with the Chicago Fire in MLS, was the star of Poland’s rout, which secured their first victory in theNations League.
- Football España·6d ago·Both·match
Barcelona’s Six-Point Lead Puts Real Madrid Under Clásico Pressure
Barcelona vs Real Madrid is a potential title-race turning point, with a six-point gap, Mourinho’s return and wider tensions shaping the Clásico. The post Barcelona’s Six-Point Lead Puts Real Madrid Under Clásico Pressure appeared first on Football España.
- BBC Sport·6d ago·Both
The student playing in La Liga: Introvert Rodri's unique rise to top
Rodri is already playing a key role at Barcelona after turning down Real Madrid this summer. Guillem Balague looks at his journey so far.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·match
Raphinha wins second straight La Liga Player of the Month award after Barcelona heroics
Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Spanish league football match between FC Barcelona and Racing Santander at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona on September 16, 2026. (Photo by Lluis GENE / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona captain Raphinha has been named La Liga’s Player of the Month for September after maintaining his brilliant start to the season. The Brazilian scooped the award for August and has won it again after a month where he scored against Valencia, bagged two assists versus Levante and took home the match ball after wins over Racing and Sevilla. Back to back winner. 🏆 Raphinha is the PLAYER OF THE MONTH of Spetemeber in #LALIGAEASPORTS 👉 https://t.co/cUvRhJBqit#LALIGAPOTM | #PREMIOSLALIGA pic.twitter.com/ETlWfasAUC — LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) October 2, 2026 It’s more deserved recognition for Raphinha following his impressive showings for Hansi Flick’s side after a summer where he’s switched roles and is now playing as a No. 9. The Brazil international beat off competition from Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe, Atletico’s Jonathan David, Sergio Camello of Rayo and Elche’s Fer Nino to win September’s award. Raphinha has since gone on to pick up an injury and may now be given a breather in Barcelona’s next game against Getafe, allowing the rest of the competition a headstart in the race to win next month’s La Liga Player of the Month Prize.
- Football España·7d ago·Both
Barcelona Await UEFA Review After Real Madrid Sends Negreira Documents
UEFA investigation into Barcelona will assess Real Madrid’s Negreira case documents, with no finding, sanction or timetable announced. The post Barcelona Await UEFA Review After Real Madrid Sends Negreira Documents appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·opinion
Should Barcelona rest Raphinha against Getafe even after ruling out an injury?
Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona received some very good news on Friday as tests ruled out any sort of injury for Raphinha after the captain departed the Brazil camp with a minor hamstring issue. Europe’s top scorer will be available for next weekend’s La Liga match at home to Getafe, which kicks off a brutal stretch of games for Barça in October. The Blaugrana play three road games in a row after Getafe, with Champions League trips away to Galatasaray and PSG and a tough league test against Real Betis in the middle. Then there’s the first El Clasico of the season against Real Madrid to finish an insane two-week stretch, and Hansi Flick will surely want Raphinha to feature in all those games. It’s certainly worth wondering if the best strategy is to keep Raphinha out of the Getafe clash completely, even if the captain is completely healthy and looking to continue his record-breaking start to the season. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Should Barcelona rest Raphinha against Getafe even after ruling out an injury? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·match
Real Madrid ‘convinced’ UEFA will take action against Barcelona after sending dossier
MADRID, SPAIN - JUNE 07: Florentino Perez speaks with the media after winning the Real Madrid’s presidential election day at Eurobuilding Hotel on June 07, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Real Madrid are reportedly “convinced” that UEFA will take action against Barcelona after sending in a dossier regarding the Negreira Case to Europe’s governing body. UEFA issued a statement on Thursday to confirm receipt of the information from Los Blancos, with Madrid then calling for the “utmost urgency” to be applied to the matter. Real Madrid now believe their extensive dossier “will be key for UEFA to take action against Barcelona” as they “now have the necessary information on the case” which Madrid feel had previously been lacking, according to Mundo Deportivo. Los Blancos think that Barcelona’s payments to Negreira “constitute a serious violation of UEFA’s code of ethics” and that their dossier justifies the need to sanction the Catalans. Florentino Perez and Co are hoping that Barca will be stripped of their titles and given a European ban if action is taken against the Catalan giants. The Madrid chief has previously ranted that his team have had seven titles stolen from them due to the alleged corruption. Barcelona have reacted to the updates this week by issuing a statement to clarify that UEFA have not reopened any new proceedings against the club and they are still waiting for the criminal case to be held in Spain.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·transfers
Barcelona decide on next Clasico shirt sponsor ahead of Camp Nou clash with Real Madrid
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 10: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates the victory 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 Eric Alonso/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona and Spotify have reportedly decided they will feature Tyler, The Creator as their next shirt sponsor for the upcoming Clasico against Real Madrid. As part of Barca’s sponsorship deal with Spotify, that Catalan giants have been featuring artists on their shirts for the big game against their bitter rivals for several seasons now. According to RAC1, Tyler, The Creator is next in line and Barca will use the American rapper’s logo on their kits for the match on October 25th against Madrid at Camp Nou. ‼️ EXPLICAT a @rac1 🎙️ @RogerSaperas 🎶 Confirmat: Tyler, the Creator serà l'artista que lluirà a la samarreta del Barça en el Clàssic del 25 d'octubre 👕 Tal com va avançar Sport, era l'opció preferida del club#TuDiràs #frac1 pic.twitter.com/h7H8Zug81Q — El Barça juga a RAC1 (@FCBRAC1) October 1, 2026 Tyler, The Creator will be the ninth artist to feature on Barca shirts (after the likes of Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, the Rolling Stones and Oliva Rodrigo) and it’s rumored his ‘GOLF’ slogan (in reference to his clothing brand GOLF WANG) could be used. 🚨💣 CONFIRMADO: ¡TYLER, THE CREATOR, EL PRÓXIMO ARTISTA EN LA CAMISETA DEL CLÁSICO! 👕 La palabra “GOLF”, su marca de ropa, aparecería en la camiseta ℹ️ @memorabilia1899 pic.twitter.com/iFnHUY8I8I — SocBlaugrana (@SocBlaugranaFC) October 2, 2026 Tyler, The Creator has been embroiled in controversy during his career and was even banned from entering the UK a decade ago amid claims his lyrics encouraged hatred, violence, and intolerance. He has since gone on to win three Grammy Awards and pulls in over 38 million listeners monthly on Spotify.
- Barca Blaugranes·7d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 2 October 2026; Raphinha set for further tests, João Cancelo scores in Portugal win
Photo by Ernest Kolodziej/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images | Getty Images FC Barcelona statement – FC Barcelona In response to the reports published regarding the alleged reactivation of the UEFA proceedings in the Negreira case, FC Barcelona wishes to make the following clarifications. Big games coming up in October – FC Barcelona Getafe, Galatasaray, Betis, PSG, Real Madrid and Alavés all coming up in a busy month at home and abroad. Cancelo goal against Racing, best of the month – FC Barcelona Portuguese fullback receives award for his stunning strike from outside the area against Racing de Santander at the Spotify Camp Nou. Denmark 2-4 Portugal: João Cancelo scores as Portugal win six-goal thriller – UEFA Six superb goals and 90 minutes of thrilling football! Denmark and Portugal have served up quite a spectacle at Parken. It’s hard to ask for much more. Portugal maintain their perfect record with three wins from three, while the race behind them in Group A4 remains wide open. João Cancelo, EA SPORTS LaLiga Goal of the Month for September – LALIGA The FC Barcelona player opened the scoring against Real Racing with a spectacular strike from outside the box that found the net after hitting the crossbar. Raphinha, already in Barcelona awaiting medical tests – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona captain landed in Barcelona on Thursday from Australia. Given the accumulated fatigue he arrived with, the tests on his right thigh will be done this Friday.
- BBC Sport·8d ago·Both
Real submit 'substantial' dossier in Barca payments case
Real Madrid have sent Uefa "evidence of extraordinary gravity" relating to payments made by Barcelona to a former vice-president of Spain's referees' committee.
- Managing Madrid·8d ago·Both·match
Carlos Espi scores five goals for Spain U21
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 13: Footballer Carlos Espí walks in the paddock during the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Madring on September 13, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Kym Illman/Getty Images) | Getty Images After coming off the bench in Spain U-21’s last game in the loss to Finland, Carlos Espi was put in the starting line-up ahead of Gonzalo Garcia against San Marino today. It was, as expected, a complete bloodbath. Spain won 13-0, and Espi scored five goals while handing out two assists. Don't let Barca and Man City corruption distract you from the fact that Carlos Espi had 5 goals and 2 assists today — Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) October 1, 2026 These are the games that feel even less difficult than actual training exercises, and one of those games where San Marino’s players looked like they were ready for the final whistle right at kick off. Spain had 80% possession, shot the ball 48 (!!!!) times, created 10 big chances, scored 13, and had over 500 passes more than their opponents. Most of Espi’s goals were pretty straightforward, and there isn’t much sense blasting all of them in this article, but here is his fifth and final goal on the night: Carlos Espi just scored his 5th goal of the game. ☠️pic.twitter.com/ru9f6yfl4B https://t.co/QdjeLeXitL — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) October 1, 2026 Former Real Madrid academy product Jacobo Ramon also scored in the demolition, while Iker Bravo had two assists and five key passes. Spain U-21 have one more game remaining during this international break: a game against Romania next Tuesday. A win in that game will guarantee them top spot in Group A UEFA EURO U-21 qualification.
- Managing Madrid·8d ago·Both·transfers
Madrid Daily: Asencio’s surgery, Cestero’s return and Mourinho’s denial
MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 12: Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Real Madrid celebrates scoring his sides second goial with head coach Jose Mourinho of Real Madrid during the la Liga match between Real Madrid and Levante at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 12, 2012 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Jasper Juinen/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid began October with confirmation of Raúl Asencio’s surgery, while Castilla are preparing to welcome Jorge Cestero back for Friday’s derby. Those developments bring different priorities for the club: a rehabilitation process for one defender and a return to competition for one of the academy’s leading midfielders. Mourinho, meanwhile, has moved to distance himself from comments attributed to him about Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation with Portugal. Asencio undergoes successful surgery and receives Mourinho visit Raúl Asencio underwent successful surgery on Thursday to address a stress fracture in his right tibia, Real Madrid have confirmed. Dr. Manuel Leyes performed the operation under the supervision of the club’s medical services, with the defender due to begin his recovery process in the coming days. “Our player Raúl Asencio underwent successful surgery today, performed by Dr. Manuel Leyes, to repair a stress fracture in his right tibia. The operation was supervised by the Real Madrid Medical Services. Asencio will begin his recovery process in the coming days,” the club’s statement read. According to AS, Asencio had been managing the problem for several months and initially pursued conservative treatment, but the persistence of the injury ultimately led to the decision to operate. The newspaper reports an expected absence of two to three months. Madrid have not announced a return date, so suggestions of a comeback around Christmas or early in 2027 remain estimates rather than a confirmed schedule. Mourinho visited Asencio in hospital following the procedure. The club confirmed the visit and said the coach checked on the defender’s condition after the operation. Mourinho rejects attributed Ronaldo comments as “fake news” José Mourinho has denied making statements about Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation with Portugal, using an Instagram story to label the comments attributed to him “fake news.” Portuguese newspaper O Jogo reported that the alleged remarks had circulated particularly in Brazilian media. According to MARCA, as reported by GOAL, Mourinho maintains that he has not spoken about the matter and has “no comment” to offer. The report says the Madrid coach wishes to avoid becoming involved and retains respect for Ronaldo, Portugal coach Jorge Jesus and the Portuguese Football Federation. His public intervention was therefore a denial of the attributed statements, rather than an assessment of the situation within the national team. Cestero set to return for Castilla’s derby Jorge Cestero is expected to return to Castilla’s squad for Friday, October 2’s derby against Atlético Madrileño at the Alfredo Di Stéfano, according to AS. The report says the club considers the disciplinary episode that kept him out against Alcorcón resolved. Cestero’s omission followed a disagreement with Julián López de Lerma after the midfielder was left on the bench against Sant Andreu. When asked about his subsequent absence, the Castilla coach described it as a technical decision without publicly detailing the disagreement. He nevertheless emphasized that Cestero remained an important part of his plans. “We’re focused on player development. We want all the players to be able to showcase their abilities, compete, and be part of the team,” López de Lerma said. “Jorge will be a very important player for us this season.” His return would provide another midfield option as Castilla seek a response to their draw against Sant Andreu and defeat to Alcorcón. The immediate development is his expected inclusion in the squad, rather than confirmation that he will start the derby. Mbappé shares his World Cup awards ahead of Ballon d’Or ceremony Kylian Mbappé posted photographs on Thursday displaying the Golden Boot and Bronze Ball he won at the 2026 World Cup. The awards recognized his position as the tournament’s leading scorer and third-best player, respectively. Mbappé finished the competition with ten goals, retaining the Golden Boot he had won in Qatar four years earlier. The photographs arrive with the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaching on October 26 in London. MARCA reported that voting closed three days before the post, meaning the images appeared after ballots had been submitted. Mbappé is among the nominees alongside Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane and defending winner Ousmane Dembélé. Mbappé has spoken openly in recent weeks about his belief that this is “a good year to win it,” while also rejecting suggestions of a lasting disagreement with Dembélé. “I’ve already spoken with him, there’s no problem, he’s a friend,” Mbappé said. Courtois has also publicly supported his Madrid teammate’s candidacy. Mastantuono reflects on World Cup omission and life in Italy Franco Mastantuono discussed the disappointment of missing Argentina’s World Cup squad after returning to international action in Wednesday’s 4–0 friendly victory over Bolivia. The Fiorentina player came on in the second half and said that, despite his frustration at being omitted from Lionel Scaloni’s final list, he continued to support the team throughout the tournament. “It’s tough to be left off the World Cup roster, but I’ve always encouraged my teammates and Argentina to do well. They had an incredible World Cup and made all Argentinians proud,” Mastantuono said. He is now looking to establish himself during the next stage of Argentina’s development. “A new process begins, I feel good and I can have an opportunity, but above all I want to work for the National Team,” he said. Mastantuono also credited Scaloni with giving him freedom on the pitch and spoke positively about the changes that followed his move to Italian football. “He gives me a lot of freedom to play and I’m grateful for that. I’ve felt very good since I went to Italy and my life has changed a bit. I’ve really enjoyed it,” he explained. Scaloni, meanwhile, urged patience with Argentina’s younger players. Discussing Leonel Flores, Mastantuono and Nico Paz, the coach emphasized the need to support their development rather than expect decisive contributions in every appearance. Both league Clásicos will use an exclusive Puma ball LaLiga and Puma have unveiled a dedicated match ball for both league meetings between Barcelona and Real Madrid this season. Its first appearance will come at Spotify Camp Nou on October 25 at 9 p.m. Madrid time, in the tenth round of LaLiga. The design combines bright colours, bold shapes and retro-inspired details intended to reference the history of the fixture. Although its appearance is specific to the Clásico, the ball retains the technical specifications of the standard 2026–27 LaLiga match ball, including an eight-panel seamless construction and a textured polyurethane surface. Mbappé and Ester Expósito reportedly seen in Paris Reports citing footage circulating on social media have placed Mbappé and Spanish actress Ester Expósito at the Paris nightclub Boum Boum. Ouest-France’s MadeInFoot reported the outing on Thursday, with the images attracting attention during the forward’s recovery from injury. Mbappé’s confirmed diagnosis is a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee, according to Madrid’s September 26 medical statement. The club has not specified a return date. The report of the evening out does not establish a breach of the club’s medical instructions. Managing Madrid Podcast: Gabe Lezra on the rising cost of watching football Managing Madrid founder Gabe Lezra joins Kiyan Sobhani for a discussion about the rising cost of watching Real Madrid and the wider business of sports broadcasting The episode examines opposition to the Paramount merger, the consequences of media consolidation for supporters, and whether Florentino Pérez correctly identified the problems facing football’s broadcasting model. Kiyan and Gabe also discuss how much more fans can be expected to pay and whether clubs could eventually sell coverage directly to supporters rather than rely on broadcasters. The conversation also turns to the public and media response to the Negreira case, alongside the broader question of how football can remain accessible to the people who follow it:
- Barca Blaugranes·8d ago·Both·match
Barcelona respond to Real Madrid, UEFA statements on Negreira Case
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 24: Joan Laporta, President of FC Barcelona, speaks during presentation of the Centenary events of the FC Barcelona Basketball section at Auditori 1899 on August 24, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Barcelona have issued a statement in response to communications from UEFA and Real Madrid today. UEFA confirmed receipt of documentation regarding the Negreira Case from Real Madrid earlier, while Los Blancos then called on Europe’s governing body to work with “utmost urgency” on the matter. Barcelona have now responded to both communications with the following statement. “In response to the reports published regarding the alleged reactivation of the UEFA proceedings in the Negreira case, FC Barcelona wishes to make the following clarifications: “UEFA has not opened any new proceedings against FC Barcelona. The proceedings were initiated in 2023, with the appointment of two investigators who have since carried out the action they deemed appropriate. The Club has always complied with all their requests. These proceedings have not been reopened because they have never been closed. “The UEFA statement confirms receipt of documentation submitted by Real Madrid and indicates that the investigators will assess it within the framework of the existing investigation. The same text expressly refers, on two occasions, to an investigation and a review that are “ongoing.” It therefore does not announce the opening, reopening, or reactivation of any proceedings, nor does it contain any assessment of the substance or value of the documentation provided.” Barcelona also add they have received no requests from further information at this point but will co-operate fully. “It is up to the investigators to determine what action, if any, they consider appropriate regarding this documentation. As of today, they have not made any new requests to FC Barcelona nor have they forwarded Real Madrid’s complaint to the Club. Should they do so, the Club will respond accordingly, as it has done up to now. “In accordance with the applicable legislation governing this matter, these proceedings are subject to the outcome of the criminal case currently being heard in Spain and will continue to be so. “Since the investigation began, FC Barcelona has continued to obtain its UEFA licence without objection and has participated in UEFA competitions. “FC Barcelona reiterates its full cooperation with the competent authorities and calls for rigour and accuracy in the reporting of this procedure.” The latest reports suggest the investigation should by completed by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the two teams are set to meet on the pitch this month, with El Clasico scheduled for October 26th.
- Barca Blaugranes·8d ago·Both·match
Real Madrid call for ‘utmost urgency’ in Negreira Case after UEFA issue statement
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and Barcelona president Joan Laporta during the La Liga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Real Madrid have called on UEFA to work with the “utmost urgency” on the Negreira Case after Europe’s governing body confirmed receipt of documentation from Los Blancos on Thursday. The capital club issued the following statement on their website. “The complaint filed by our club includes extensive documentation and evidence regarding events of extraordinary seriousness, which directly affect the integrity of the competition and confidence in the refereeing system. “Real Madrid C.F. considers it essential that, now that UEFA has this documentation, the investigation proceeds with the utmost urgency until its full conclusion, and that the competent bodies take the appropriate decisions in accordance with the severity of the verified facts. “Our club will continue to actively collaborate with UEFA and take all actions within its power to clarify events that it deems incompatible with the principles of integrity, transparency, and fair play that should govern European football.” UEFA had earlier confirmed a “substantial amount of documents” have been received from Real Madrid in regards to Barcelona and the investigation into the Negreira Case. President Florentino Perez revealed earlier this year that his club had been compiled a dossier on Barcelona to send to Europe’s governing body. “UEFA can confirm that it has received from Real Madrid CF a substantial amount of documents related to the ongoing investigation into FC Barcelona in the matter involving José María Enríquez Negreira, former vice-president of the Technical Committee of Referees of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (the so-called “Negreira case”),” read the statement. “UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors have also received these latest documents, which they will assess as part of their ongoing review of the case.” Real Madrid reportedly want Barcelona stripped of their titles and handed a ban from European competition for their role in the Negreira Case. Barcelnoa president Joan Laporta has previously said allegations his club made payments to influence referees were “totally false.” He also spoke at length about the whole Negreira Case at a press conference back in 2023 (which you can read here). The investigation was originally opened in 2023 and the fresh documentation from Real Madrid will now be added to the case and reviewed by UEFA officials. The investigation is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
- Managing Madrid·8d ago·Both·match
OFFICIAL: Real Madrid issue statement following UEFA’s announcement over Negreira case
Real Madrid have published an announcement on their website following UEFA’s own statement confirming that they have received documents over the Negreira case. In light of the communication issued today by UEFA regarding the so-called ‘Negreira case,’ Real Madrid C.F. states the following: UEFA has confirmed the receipt of the complaint filed by Real Madrid C.F. and the continuation of the investigation concerning payments made over the past two decades by F.C. Barcelona to the former vice president of the Technical Committee of Referees. The complaint filed by our club includes extensive documentation and evidence regarding events of extraordinary seriousness, which directly affect the integrity of the competition and confidence in the refereeing system. Real Madrid C.F. considers it essential that, now that UEFA has this documentation, the investigation proceeds with the utmost urgency until its full conclusion, and that the competent bodies take the appropriate decisions in accordance with the severity of the verified facts. Our club will continue to actively collaborate with UEFA and take all actions within its power to clarify events that it deems incompatible with the principles of integrity, transparency, and fair play that should govern European football. Source: Realmadrid.com
- Managing Madrid·8d ago·Both
OFFICIAL: UEFA open investigation into Barcelona over Negreira case
UEFA have published a statement announcing that they’ve opened an investigation into FC Barcelona over the documents that Real Madrid sent their way in recent months. UEFA can confirm that it has received from Real Madrid CF a substantial amount of documents related to the ongoing investigation into FC Barcelona in the matter involving José María Enríquez Negreira , former vice-president of the Technical Committee of Referees of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (the so-called “Negreira case”). UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors have also received these latest documents, which they will assess as part of their ongoing review of the case. Real Madrid believe that some kind of punishment will be handed to Barcelona, according to reports published in the Spanish press. However, fans should not expect a quick resolution on this case.
- Barca Blaugranes·8d ago·Both·opinion
Does Raphinha get enough credit at Barcelona?
SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been chatting about Barcelona and feels that captain Raphinha doesn’t get the credit he deserves. Raphinha has enjoyed a stellar start to the season for Barcelona, scoring 14 goals in eight games as Hansi Flick’s side have made a perfect start to the campaign. Yet Raphinha is not among the final nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or award and also missed out in 2025 in a decision he has admitted he found painful and has baffled Atletico boss Diego Simeone. Courtois says he’s a big fan of Raphinha’s and believes Barcelona are not quite the same team when the Brazilian is unavailable. “I really like Raphinha; for me, he’s a key player for Barça. When he hasn’t been there, they’ve suffered a lot, and when he’s there, they’re playing well,” he told reporters. “So I think Raphinha doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves, but he’s a key player for this team. He scores a lot of goals because he’s a great player.” So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Does Barcelona captain Raphinha get the recognition he deserves? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
- Barca Blaugranes·8d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 1 October 2026; Barça Femení score six in Rome, Injured Raphinha returns to Catalunya
Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images | Getty Images Spectacular September for Lamine Yamal – FC Barcelona Incredible month brings nine goals and seven assists following a stunning display against Croatia. AS Roma 0-6 FC Barcelona Femení: Big win ahead of the Clásico – FC Barcelona European champions continue to win big, with players returning and more positive vibes ahead of Real Madrid visit. Raphinha, dropped from the Brazil squad, returns to Barcelona – Mundo Deportivo The striker underwent medical tests after the Australia-Brazil match which detected edema in his right thigh and he will not play in the friendly against India as a precaution. Kane bows to Gordon: “He belongs at the highest level” – Mundo Deportivo The Bayern Munich striker and England captain highlighted the progress of the FC Barcelona winger, who scored the opening goal against the Czech Republic. Flick’s six options if Raphinha doesn’t recover – Mundo Deportivo Gabriel Jesus, Hamza, Gordon, Olmo, Fermín and even Lamine could fill in for the Brazilian if he doesn’t recover from his hamstring edema or is rested against Getafe.
- Managing Madrid·9d ago·Both·match
The Most Prolific Creative Force In Europe: Arda Güler
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Arda Guler of Real Madrid during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico Madrid v Real Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on September 20, 2026 in Madrid Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Earlier today, Real Madrid announced that Arda Güler is the team’s player of the month for September. That adds up — he has probably been the team’s best player this season and the only reason why he is not the league’s best performer full stop is because Raphina ingested some vibranium into his veins and has looked unstoppable. Nevertheless, beyond Real Madrid, Güler has not just been the team’s best creator — he’s also been the world’s best creator. And that’s not an exaggeration. Güler has been slinging key passes out of his eye balls. One look up, the chance is already created. Over and over again, the Turk has prolifically created chances out of thin air, and if not for poor finishing from his teammates, he’d lead the league in assists. Güler has created an xGA of 3.01, per Statmuse, with only two assists to his name. Lamine Yamal, meanwhile, has four assists from an xGA of 2.71. Freak finishing vs poor finishing is often the deciding factor when it comes to assist numbers. Güler has created 28 chances in La Liga, the most of any player in the league — four more than Lamine Yamal and 12 more than the next tier of creators: Unai López, Edu Expósito and Iñigo Vicente. To put it into perspective how prolific he is at creating chances, he creates a chance every 12.5 minutes, and a big chance every 43.6 minutes. He is the best creator in Europe right now. He's producing big chances out of his eye balls. Creates a chance every 12.5 minutes and a big chance every 43.6 minutes. Lamine Yamal / Dybala come close if you're looking at total numbers, but not when you parce it up per 90. https://t.co/Gl4QyN30Ds — Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) September 30, 2026 Güler’s 28 chances created are also the most in Europe. When you look at total numbers, Lamine Yamal comes close, but if you look at the numbers per 90 (which is apt given that Güler hasn’t started every game), he doubles Lamine Yamal’s numbers (3.73 chances created vs 7.28 — a surreal number). To put those numbers into perspective, despite playing the least amount of minutes out of the top creators in Europe, he still has the highest volume of chances created. ‘Hidden’ in those key pass numbers are some set pieces, but you should be fine with that. If it was easy racking up key passes by merely being the team’s primary free-kick taker, then everyone would lead the charts. But they don’t, and poking fun at it doesn’t make sense, and it’s something lazy analysts used to do to drag Toni Kroos as well. It will be interesting to see where the data lies over the entire season. Güler is currently on pace to dwarf his already impressive numbers from last season. Off the bench against Rayo Vallecano, he had an unfathomable five chances created in 18 minutes alone. One thing is for sure, Real Madrid don’t have any issues generating chances if Arda Güler is on the pitch. And with that simple truth, he objectively should not be on the bench, at all. View this post on Instagram
- Barca Blaugranes·9d ago·Both·opinion
Who’s the best option if Barcelona need to replace Raphinha due to injury?
SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates 1-2 during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Sevilla v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Sevilla Spain (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona have been hit with a major injury scare over the international break as Raphinha was taken off at half-time of Brazil’s friendly against Australia due to a thigh problem. Raphinha will miss Brazil’s next friendly against India but the early indications are it’s not a serious problem and won’t keep him on the sidelines for long. It’s possible Raphinha could miss Barcelona’s next game against Getafe due to the problem and particularly as the Catalans have some key fixtures coming up next month against Real Madrid and PSG. Raphinha’s recent injury record also suggests that Hansi Flick may have to handle the 29-year-old with care this season. However, the German coach certainly has plenty of quality attacking options that will allow him to rotate. Replacing a key player such as Raphinha is never easy but Flick has Gabriel Jesus, Hamza Abdelkarim, Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yamal as his attacking options. So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is: Who is the best option to replace Raphinha when the Barcelona star is unavailable? Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
- Barca Blaugranes·9d ago·Both·match
‘Every time they speak, they attack Barcelona’ – Joan Laporta takes aim at Real Madrid
Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, greets Florentino Perez, president of Real Madrid, during the LaLiga EA Sports football match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain, on October 26, 2025. (Photo by Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona president Joan Laporta has taken aim at Real Madrid once again and has spoken out after a date was set for the two clubs to meet in court. The Catalans have threatened legal action against Florentino Perez following his comments made earlier this year, and Laporta says the club had no choice but to take action. “What we cannot accept is the distortion of the truth, and that every time they speak publicly, they attack Barça. Our legal department reacts to these situations. We do so with everyone who has condemned us before we’ve even been tried and has said things that weren’t true, and we continue in the same vein,” he told Mundo Deportivo. “What I hope is that they rectify this and that it gets resolved. As you know, relations with Real Madrid have broken down. “They appeared in the Negreira case, which we understand was only to prolong the case and justify their television channel’s actions and a predetermined narrative. And that’s where the conflict lies, and the existing relationship is nonexistent.” The two clubs are now due to meet in a court in Madrid on November 25th for a conciliation hearing, with Barca willing to file a complaint if Perez does not retract his comments.
- Barca Blaugranes·9d ago·Both·match
Espanyol sporting director apologizes for saying Lamine Yamal should win Ballon d’Or
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 31: Lamine Yamal of Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s fifth goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between FC Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano de Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou on August 31, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images Monchi, the sporting director of RCD Espanyol, has offered some apologies and some explanations for saying Lamine Yamal should win the Ballon d’Or, football’s highest individual honor. Yamal plays for FC Barcelona, Espanyol’s crosstown rivals. “I was asked a question, and I stirred up a bit of controversy among the Perico fans. I apologize to anyone I offended,“ Monchi said on Spanish radio. “I was given the choice of Kylian Mbappé (French), Harry Kane (English), or Lamine Yamal (Spanish), and I opted for the Spanish option.” Yamal is among the favorites for the award, having won the FIFA World Cup with Spain. “Obviously, as a Perico, I should have named anyone else,” Monchi mused. “I didn’t do it out of any malice. I know what it means to have the Perico feeling; I’ve identified with it from day one and felt it on the street. If I offended anyone, I apologize, because it was really just a case of me wearing the Spanish flag.” Barcelona are due to visit Espanyol at RCDE Stadium in Cornellà de Llobregat on January 3 of next year.
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both·match
Huijsen and Cucurella’s game in numbers vs. Croatia
SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 29: Dean Huijsen of Spain celebrates the victory during the UEFA Nations league match between Spain v Croatia at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 29, 2026 in Seville Spain (Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain had nine of the leading 10 players for touches in the final third. Lamine Yamal had 41 touches in the final third, more than any other player. Fabián Ruiz generated 0.402 xT from open-play passes, more than any other player. Croatia supplied seven of the leading 10 players for defensive actions. Josko Gvardiol recorded 14 defensive actions, more than any other player. Petar Sucic created two shooting chances, the joint-highest figure in the match. Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen contributed 22 progressive passes, the highest figure in the match. He also recorded 10 progressive carries, the highest figure in the match. He also added 104 touches, the highest figure in the match. Madrid’s Marc Cucurella contributed two key passes, the joint-highest figure in the match. He also recorded 18 touches in the final third, fifth in the match. He also recorded one take-on. Those contributions came over 92 minutes for Spain.
- BBC Sport·10d ago·Both·transfers
Real Madrid considering Van Dijk - Wednesday's gossip
Real Madrid are waiting for Virgil van Dijk to become a free agent, Bayern Munich offer Michael Olise a long-term contract and are eyeing Barcelona's Jules Kounde.
- Barca Blaugranes·10d ago·Both·transfers
Bigger than Barcelona: Raphinha is again a victim of the greed that is ruining football
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 19: Raphinha #11 of Brazil walks downfield during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C match between Brazil and Haiti at Philadelphia Stadium on June 19, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images Maybe this is just the world we’re living in now where anything people enjoy must be run through the capital machine to extract every ounce of profit. To come clean, I’m not interested in any of these games being played across the world. Instead, as a Barca fan, I find myself holding my breath. At the moment, Barcelona are the toast of town because their brand of football is so unique. We tune in for the beauty and the art of it. Against all odds, it appears once again that Hansi Flick is painting a masterpiece. At the center of the project is Raphinha who has scored 14 goals in 8 games playing a position that is new to him at a time when Barcelona had no one else to fill it. This is a story for the imagination. It’s the escapism that fans crave in a world where the rich are consolidating power, while the rest of us have less control over our lives. Barcelona are what they are at the moment because of the human ingenuity of the people on the field. Supporters pay big bucks to see these games, to buy the shirts, and spend hours of their valuable time each week to support the club they love. Sports are about people. Money continues to corrupt it. When will we reach a breaking point? Hopefully, Raphinha’s injury isn’t too serious. Regardless, every time we have an international break, the inevitable happens, and finally it should serve as a wake up call. This is bigger than Barcelona. The disappointment hurts even more for us because the Blaugrana are off to such an impressive start. Even if it’s just “muscular discomfort,” it’s even more of a reason to take seriously as a symptom of the overload players are subjected to. At a minimum, the quality of play will be reduced as the long and dense season chugs along, and the risk of more serious injuries compounds. So far, here’s a list of some of the other star victims over the past week: Kylian Mbappe, Kai Havertz, Cody Gakpo, and Alexander Isak. Significant members of the supporting cast like Eric Garcia and Ibrahima Konaté went down too. All of this with big Champions League games coming up in October. This is the stage where the stars are meant to appear and perform. Instead, we’re sacrificing them to meaningless friendly games across the world, and made up competitions like the UEFA Nations League that are supposed to persuade us to care at a time when we would otherwise tune out. This is an abuse of power, and the greed must be called out as such in order to protect the future of the game. Without the artists there’s no art. Football is competing for the all of our attention. If it’s not the best quality, why would we bother when there are so many other options for entertainment? FIFA is one of the biggest symbols of corruption in the world. In many ways, they’re copying the model of American sports where just this weekend, for no reason at all, the NFL played a game in Brazil. The rest of the world isn’t interested in American football, but that won’t stop the finance folks from trying to find new ways to expand and capitalize on their product. The world is in love with football for a reason. It’s the beautiful game, and it comes from the people with the distinct flavor of the communities where they live. The players make it what it is, but they are not machines, and they must be protected. We’re all in this together. More money means higher salaries for the players too. Change will only happen when everyone speaks up in unison, and prioritizes creating the conditions for the best product possible. Can’t say I’m optimistic. When Barcelona returns from the break, however, it’ll be interesting to see if they’re able to pick up where they left off. October will be a very demanding month. The onus will be on Hansi Flick to manage the busy calendar, but sometimes you just wish he could be a coach, and not have to concern himself with external factors that are out of his control. That was never the assignment at Barcelona unfortunately. Flick knows the drill. Nothing comes easy. No excuses. At a minimum, Barcelona is full of players who are building a culture that is bigger, hopefully, than the impact of any one person. Time will tell.
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both·transfers
Madrid Daily: Militão’s progress, Clásico prices and Ancelotti’s message to Vinícius
Brazil's forward #07 Vinicius Junior (L) and Italian head coach Carlo Ancelotti (R) react after losing the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match between Brazil and Norway at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 5, 2026. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Real Madrid continued their international-break preparations on Tuesday, with Éder Militão again working alongside his teammates while five players remained in rehabilitation. Away from Valdebebas, Carlo Ancelotti offered support for Vinícius Júnior after the forward scored for Brazil, Barcelona opened its Clásico ticket presale, and Nasser Al-Khelaifi discussed Madrid’s potential return to the European club association. Militão trains with teammates for a second successive day Éder Militão continued his reintegration into training on Tuesday, participating alongside Madrid’s available players for the second consecutive session. The defender is working his way back after a lengthy injury absence, with his involvement representing another step toward returning to competition rather than confirmation that he is ready for selection. Mourinho’s available first-team players were joined by a group from the academy for the session at Real Madrid City. Training began with activation exercises and rondos before moving into possession work and a small-sided match. The players finished with running exercises on the grass. The club’s report listed Ibrahima Konaté, Kylian Mbappé, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde and Rodrygo as continuing their recovery programs. It did not provide return dates for any of them. Madrid’s next competitive fixture is the home meeting with Villarreal on October 10. Join Kiyan Sobhani for a live Q&A today Managing Madrid’s Kiyan Sobhani will go live on YouTube today, September 29, at 1 p.m. Eastern / 7 p.m. Madrid time, to answer your questions about Real Madrid. From the latest injury updates and the upcoming schedule to the team’s performances under Mourinho, there is plenty to discuss. All Madridistas are invited to join—submit your questions in the live chat and take part in the conversation: Different recovery timelines for Mbappé, Rodrygo and Mendy According to AS, the examinations carried out on Mbappé on September 26 identified a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee, with an estimated absence of 10 to 12 days. That remains a reported recovery estimate rather than confirmation of his availability for Madrid’s next match. Rodrygo and Mendy are on longer timelines. AS reports that Rodrygo has progressed to individual ball work following his serious knee injury, with December a tentative target for his return. Mendy is also working with the ball after undergoing hamstring-tendon surgery in May. His comeback is being projected toward the end of 2026, although the report stresses that Madrid do not want to set a firm deadline given his injury history. Clásico presale opens with tickets listed from €476.50 Barcelona have begun selling tickets to members for the first league Clásico of the season, which takes place at Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday, October 25, at 9 p.m. Madrid time. The initial sale is reserved for members, with a 48-hour priority window and a five-percent member discount. Mundo Deportivo reported that the cheapest ticket it found at the start of the sale was €476.50 in Gol 1. Other advertised prices included €699 in Córner 1, €799 in Lateral 2 Superior and €899 in Tribuna 2 Superior. Seats in Tribuna 2 Inferior and Tribuna 1 were listed at €999. Hospitality packages are priced separately and extend considerably higher. The same report listed Balcony Gol seats at €2,050, with some pitchside packages reaching €5,500. Barcelona use dynamic pricing, meaning the figures can change with demand and the availability of seats in each section; the initial listings are not a fixed price range for the remainder of the sale. Ancelotti backs Vinícius: “I’m going to be very patient with him” Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged that Vinícius Júnior is below his best but reiterated his confidence in the forward after Brazil’s 4–2 friendly victory over Australia in Brisbane. Vinícius won and converted a second-half penalty to score Brazil’s fourth goal. “I know him very well, and he’s a key player for Brazil, and for me as well. He’s also a key player for the team’s history and for the future,” Ancelotti said. “He’s not at his best right now, but even so, he can make the difference, as he did today.” The Brazil coach also made clear that his approach would be supportive: “I’m going to be very patient with him.” Vinícius said afterwards that returning to the scoresheet was important for his confidence. He explained that Bruno Guimarães, who would ordinarily have taken the penalty in Raphinha’s absence, understood that he needed the opportunity after a run of games without scoring. Al-Khelaifi says Madrid are “in the process of returning” to EFC Nasser Al-Khelaifi has said Real Madrid are working toward rejoining European Football Clubs (EFC), the organization formerly known as the European Club Association. Speaking at its general assembly in Copenhagen, the EFC chairman and PSG president thanked Florentino Pérez for the discussions and presented a potential Madrid return as part of a move toward greater cooperation between clubs. “I would like to thank Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez for believing that the future of European football must be built on unity and collective interests; we are pleased that they are in the process of returning to the EFC family,” Al-Khelaifi said. He also welcomed Barcelona’s return to the organization. “In this regard, I would also like to thank Barcelona president Joan Laporta for his confidence in the EFC; welcome back to the family.” The distinction in Al-Khelaifi’s wording is important: he described Madrid’s return as an ongoing process, rather than announcing that its readmission had been completed. Anas Laghrari’s attendance also attracted attention because of his connections to Madrid. However, AS reported that he was present on behalf of A22, the company behind the Super League project, rather than as a Real Madrid representative. His presence therefore should not be treated as confirmation that Madrid have formally rejoined the association. Video: Zidane laughs off an introduction as Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was briefly introduced as Real Madrid’s coach during an interview following France’s victory over Belgium. The journalist immediately recognized the mistake, prompting laughter from Zidane before the introduction was corrected: La reacción de Zinedine Zidane cuando el reportero le dice: “Estoy aquí con el entrenador del REAL MADRID” 🥹🥹🥹 Te amamos Zizou. pic.twitter.com/8Pav0nrnQL — MT2 (@madrid_total2) September 29, 2026
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both·match
Real Madrid feared Mbappé was going to need surgery -report
When Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé suffered his knee injury during France’s match against Turkey the club feared that he was going to need surgery, according to a report published on AS. Ultimately, Mbappé escaped said outcome also because he decided to leave the field, per that same report. The French star has been diagnosed with a hyper-extended knee and while he should be available when Los Blancos take on Villarreal right after the break, Real Madrid’s coaching staff could decide to manage his minutes knowing that their next two away games in Rome and Barcelona could be crucial. If Mbappé does end up missing a game, Mourinho could decide to start Carlos Espí or Bellingham in the center of the attacking line.
- Barca Blaugranes·10d ago·Both·match
Hansi Flick named La Liga Coach of the Month again after Barcelona’s impressive start to the season
SANT JOAN DESPI, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 18: Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona, attends his press conference during the training day of FC Barcelona ahead the Spanish League, LaLiga EA Sports, football match against Sevilla FC at Ciudad Esportiva Joan Gamper on September 18, 2026 in Sant Joan Despi, Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Hansi Flick has been named La Liga’s Coach of the Month for September after overseeing a brilliant start to the season with Barcelona. The German coach guided his team to victories over Valencia, Levante, Racing and Sevilla to continue the team’s perfect defence of their title. The performances have ensured Flick has picked up another monthly award, beating off competition from Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone and Manuel Pellegrini of Real Betis. Un mes increíble con el @FCBarcelona_es. 💙❤️ Hansi Flick es el 𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐌𝐄𝐒 de septiembre en #LALIGAEASPORTS. 🏆https://t.co/QoySWTkcSf #PREMIOSLALIGA | #LALIGACOACHOFTHEMONTH pic.twitter.com/ThxgiUHDMg — LALIGA (@LaLiga) September 29, 2026 Flick had won the award twice in each of the last two seasons and may well beat that record this time around if his team can continue on their current trajectory. La Liga is currently paused due to the international break but will deliver some intriguing fixtures when action resumes in October. Barcelona pick up their season against Getafe and then face Real Betis and Real Madrid in La Liga in what promises to be a key set of fixtures.
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both·match
Vinicius scores, Endrick assists as Brazil defeat Australia 2-4
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 29: Vinicius Jose Paixao de Oliveira Junior of Brazil celebrates scoring a goal during the International Friendly match between Australia Socceroos and Brazil at Suncorp Stadium on September 29, 2026 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images) | Getty Images Brazil returned to winning ways by defeating Australia 2-4 in Brisbane, in what was the second of two friendly matches between the two nations following their 1-1 draw last Friday. Brazil took an early lead as Vanderson’s powerful strike from inside the box in the third minute sailed past Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach and into the top corner. It is the first goal ever for Monaco’s 25-year-old right-back with the Seleção. Despite Brazil’s strong start, Australia managed to take the lead, scoring twice in a five-minute span. In the 28th minute, Benfica’s 22-year-old centre-back Alessandro Circati found himself alone in the far post following a corner to flick the ball into the back of the net. The play was originally called offside on the pitch, but following VAR intervention was correctly counted. That was followed in the 33rd minute by midfielder Connor Metcalfe’s spectacular left-footed strike from outside box which flew past Brazilian goalkeeper Otávio. Brazil managed to tie the match right before halftime as Danilo Santos was judged to have been fouled inside the box in the 45 minute with Raphinha converting the ensuing kick from 11 meters. Endrick, who started Friday’s match at centre-forward, would come on as play resumed in the second half to replace Raphinha. There were conflicting reports during the match as to whether the Barcelona forward left the pitch due to an injury concern. Endrick assisted in the goal that would give Brazil the lead. Vinicius carried the ball into the penalty area in the 69th minute before sending a quick pass to Endrick near the goal-line, the Madrid forward sending a low cross into the goalkeeper’s box that Bruno Guimarães pounced on with his left foot for Brazil’s 3rd goal: Vinicius -> Endrick -> Guimaraes pic.twitter.com/8mIE5Fspok — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) September 29, 2026 In addition to participating in the build-up to Guimarães goal, Vinicius provoked a penalty in the 79th minute, nutmegging the first defender before Sporting’s Nestory Irankunda, who scored Australia’s lone goal on Friday, fouled the Madrid winger inside the box. Vinicius took the ensuing penalty, stutter-stepping as he approached the ball before calmly sending the ball to the right of Beach to score Brazil’s fourth goal on the night: Vinicius puts Brazil up 4-2 from the spot! pic.twitter.com/Ke4rc45615 — Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) September 29, 2026 Vinicius had seven touches inside Austrialia’s penalty box and two key passes, including a low cross into the box in the 76th minute that Chelsea’s Estevao sailed over the crossbar, leading Brazil in both categories. Brazil next face India on Saturday at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. Saturday’s fixture marks Brazil’s first-ever senior men’s match on Indian soil.
- Managing Madrid·10d ago·Both
Open Thread: September 29, 2026
The Open Thread/Daily Merengue is a place where you can discuss anything and everything related to football. Feel free to discuss the topics presented here, or start your very own discussions! The Open thread will be posted every day by one of the mods you’d totally do a UCL night with: Valyrian Steel, Felipejack, Kung_Fu_Zizou (AKA KFZ), Juninho, Ezek and, of course… yours truly. “Ball’s in Your Court” 🚨 BREAKING: Florentino Perez has been called up to court over Barcelona's defamation lawsuit, after the president said "Barcelona robbed me of many league titles" If Florentino retracts his statement during this hearing, Barcelona will drop the lawsuit. If Florentino refuses… pic.twitter.com/JhifYZfv1y — Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 28, 2026 Banter 🚨🚨💣 BREAKING: Real Madrid have MISDIAGNOSED Kylian Mbappe again, by checking his ELBOW instead of his KNEE. The player will return to Valdebebas for more tests. [RMTV] pic.twitter.com/KpzxcnjEVB — Madrib Central (@MadribCentral) September 29, 2026 ZZ Passion For those who missed it, Zizou rocketed the ball in celebration after Olise won the game in almost-last-minute fashion. 🚨🗣️ Zinedine Zidane: “The last player I remember that had me celebrating like this was Cristiano Ronaldo. That tells you how amazing Michael Olise is.” 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/yE1TTpa2dQ — 90Minutes Report (@90MinutesHQ) September 29, 2026
- Barca Blaugranes·10d ago·Both·match
FC Barcelona News: 29 September 2026; Eric Garcia avoids injury, Lamine Yamal talks Champions League hopes
Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images | Getty Images One win away from best ever start to LaLiga – FC Barcelona After the lengthy international break, FC Barcelona will host Getafe with the chance to equal the record set in the 2013/14 season. Gordon feels more valued at Barça than in the Premier League – Mundo Deportivo “In England they never respected my quality and intelligence. In Spain they truly appreciate it,” he told ITV Sport. Eric Garcia, at the Ciutat Esportiva for a medical check-up – Mundo Deportivo The Barça defender, after leaving the Spanish national team camp due to discomfort in his left knee, visited the medical services, where the tests sent by the RFEF were confirmed: there is no injury, just a precaution. Lamine Yamal: “Hopefully we can bring the Champions League to Barcelona this year” – Mundo Deportivo The Barcelona star analyzed the current situation and referred to the team’s main objective: to win the top continental competition again. Ancelotti changes course and applies the Flick formula to Brazil: Raphinha is the ‘9’ following the Endrick fiasco – SPORT Carletto, heavily criticized for the Seleção’s dismal showing, changes the tactical setup, introduces a new midfielder, and gives Raphinha a more prominent role in the second friendly against Australia.
- Football España·10d ago·Both·transfers
Haaland’s City future draws scrutiny amid legal case
The Haaland transfer story remains exploratory as Real Madrid and Barcelona monitor Manchester City's legal situation around Erling Haaland. The post Haaland’s City future draws scrutiny amid legal case appeared first on Football España.
- Barca Blaugranes·11d ago·Both·match
Barcelona pencil in potential return date for Frenkie de Jong after knee injury
Frenkie De Jong of FC Barcelona during the La Liga EA Sports 2026/2027 match between FC Barcelona and Real Racing Club de Santander at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium on September 16, 2026. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona are hoping that Frenkie de Jong will return to training with his team-mates after the international break ahead of a potential comeback in November. De Jong hasn’t played yet this season for his club side after sustaining a knee injury during the World Cup and opting for conservative treatment. According to Diario AS, the current aim is for De Jong to return to full training on October 5th. The club expect him to need around three weeks to get up to speed, meaning he could be available for the first time this season for the game against Alaves in La Liga on November 1st. The update means that De Jong will miss key games against PSG and Real Madrid next month but the hope is that his return is now on the horizon. Netherlands team manager Xavi Hernandez has said that the Dutchman is feeling good and happy with how his recovery is progressing when quizzed about the midfielder during the current international break. Yet De Jong does face a real battle for minutes when he does return, particularly following the arrival of Rodri this summer. However, his return to fitness will provide Hansi Flick with another valuable midfield option as the Barcelona boss aims to deliver more silverware this season.
- Managing Madrid·11d ago·Both·transfers
Madrid Daily: Militão rejoins training, Florentino’s court date, and Cestero’s omission
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 28: Eder Militao player of Real Madrid during a training session at Ciudad Real Madrid on September 28, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Maria Jimenez/Real Madrid via Getty Images) | Real Madrid via Getty Images Éder Militão took another step toward his return on Monday, joining part of Real Madrid’s training session as preparations continued for the October 10 meeting with Villarreal. With several teammates still recovering, his progress was the main development at Valdebebas. Elsewhere, Barcelona’s dispute with Florentino Pérez has a conciliation date, Thomas Tuchel has discussed Jude Bellingham’s competitive edge, and Cestero’s absence from Castilla has drawn attention. Militão takes another step in his recovery Éder Militão participated in running exercises alongside his teammates on Monday, beginning his reintegration into group training after the tendon injury that has kept him out since April. The Brazilian’s involvement was the principal development in a session focused on physical work, with much of Mourinho’s squad still away on international duty. Militão underwent surgery on April 28 to repair a rupture of the proximal tendon of the biceps femoris in his left leg. Five months later, his participation with the group represents progress toward a competitive return, although it does not establish that he is ready to play against Villarreal on October 10. His workload is expected to increase gradually rather than move immediately from rehabilitation to match selection. The defender’s return to group exercises follows a visit to Valdebebas by Dr. Lasse Lempainen, the specialist who performed the operation. Lempainen examined Militão and worked with Madrid’s medical and performance staff to assess the next stage of his recovery. “Great day in Madrid with Éder Militão and the medical and performance staff of Real Madrid. A full day dedicated to his return as Éder continues to progress according to plan following surgery for his serious tendon injury,” Lempainen wrote on social media. “It was a pleasure for us to contribute our expertise and experience to his return to the pitch, with the ultimate goal of helping him return safely and perform at the highest level again. Many thanks to Éder and all the Real Madrid staff for the excellent collaboration and a very successful day. Returning to the pitch is a milestone. Getting back to your highest level of performance is the goal.” Elsewhere in the session, Ibrahima Konaté, Kylian Mbappé and Fede Valverde continued their recovery work. Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo also remained in rehabilitation, although both were able to work with the ball on the pitch. Barcelona and Florentino Pérez given November conciliation date Barcelona and Florentino Pérez have been summoned to a conciliation hearing in Madrid on November 25 at 9:40 a.m., according to EFE, citing judicial sources. The hearing concerns Barcelona’s request for the Madrid president to retract statements about the Negreira case before the Catalan club potentially proceeds with a criminal complaint alleging calumnias. It is a preliminary conciliation proceeding, not a criminal trial or a ruling on the disputed statements. Barcelona submitted its application on June 12, following Pérez’s press conference on May 12 and an interview the following day. The club argues that his remarks damaged its image and reputation. Among the statements Barcelona challenged was Pérez’s allegation that Madrid had been deprived of league titles. “I’ve been here I don’t know how many seasons and I’ve only won seven Champions Leagues and seven Leagues, which could have been 14 because seven Leagues were stolen from me,” Pérez said. Pérez also called for UEFA to intervene over the Negreira case and announced that Madrid were preparing a dossier for the governing body. Barcelona rejected his accusations and set out its position in the statement announcing the conciliation request. “The aim of this request is for Mr. Pérez to retract certain statements he made knowing them to be false, statements which are defamatory and offensive to the Club’s image and reputation. Should this request not be properly addressed, FC Barcelona will proceed with filing the corresponding criminal complaint,” Barcelona stated. The November hearing will therefore provide an opportunity to resolve the dispute before the further legal action Barcelona has announced. The club’s description of Pérez’s statements remains its allegation, rather than a conclusion reached by the court. Riquelme: “Selling Real Madrid remains a red line” Enrique Riquelme has discussed his electoral defeat and the circumstances that could prompt him to become involved in Real Madrid’s institutional affairs again. Speaking to Expansión, the businessman, who received 35% of the vote against Florentino Pérez, said he accepted the result and had not intended to maintain a daily campaign against the club’s leadership. “It was expected that I would be there afterwards, day after day, battling, but that’s not the case. I accept the result and support the team like any other Madrid fan,” Riquelme said. He left open the possibility of another candidacy but stopped short of committing to one. “I respect the results that occurred and the only thing I ask for is unity within Real Madrid, even though there are things I don’t like. Time will tell if I run again or not,” he said. “I ran when I saw what was happening and I didn’t like it from an institutional point of view.” Riquelme identified a possible change to the club’s ownership model as the issue he would continue to monitor, while explicitly acknowledging that he did not currently see a sale taking place. “The sale of the club remains a red line. I will be very attentive to any possible change in the statutes to prevent the sale from happening. I will take action if I see that happening, although I must say that I don’t see it happening at the moment.” For now, he has made no announcement about another presidential campaign, saying only that time and the club’s circumstances would determine whether he runs again. Tuchel on Bellingham: “It’s better for him to play with some anger” Thomas Tuchel has backed the competitive intensity Jude Bellingham displayed during England’s 3–2 defeat to Spain at Wembley, while emphasizing that the midfielder’s workload will be assessed throughout the international window. Bellingham provided an assist and created five chances in the match, which also included an exchange with Madrid teammate Marc Cucurella. Speaking ahead of England’s meeting with the Czech Republic on Tuesday, Tuchel suggested that those confrontations can bring out Bellingham’s best football. “It’s better for him to play with some anger. That’s what he likes to do. I think sometimes he looks for those moments to ignite his fire,” Tuchel said. Asked about the incident with Cucurella, the England manager distinguished between Bellingham’s relationships with his club teammates and his approach when facing them internationally. “I don’t think he knows any of his teammates when he’s with the national team. He wants to win. He doesn’t know any of his teammates. He’s still friends with them, but not for the full 90 minutes.” Tuchel would like to use Bellingham throughout England’s four-match schedule, but said the medical staff would help determine what was appropriate. “I’d love to have him on the field four times. But we’ll have to consult with the physiotherapists; we’re not going to put Jude at risk.” Moleiro says Villarreal have their own reasons to demand a win Alberto Moleiro has acknowledged Madrid’s need to respond when league football resumes, but says Villarreal will approach the meeting with ambitions of their own. Speaking to AS, the midfielder framed the match as an opportunity for his team to demonstrate that it belongs near the top of the table. “Yes, we know how important it is for Real Madrid to win, but we also need to win, and we want to win because we want to be at the top. And if we want to be at the top, we have to compete in these kinds of matches, win them, and show that we deserve to be there. And I think we can do it, so let’s see what happens.” Madrid host Villarreal at the Bernabéu on October 10, their first competitive fixture following the international break. Report: Mourinho chose Madrid return after Portugal discussions José Mourinho held discussions about becoming Portugal’s national-team coach before accepting Real Madrid’s offer to return, according to a report attributed to AS. The account places the Portuguese federation’s approach before the World Cup, as it prepared for Roberto Martínez’s departure. According to the report, Mourinho had spoken with federation officials about the conditions of the role when Pérez approached him about returning to Madrid. The coach was then in charge of Benfica, and Madrid subsequently met the contractual requirements to secure his departure. The report identifies Pérez’s relationship with Mourinho as an important factor in the decision. It says the two had remained in contact after the Portuguese coach’s first spell at the club, with Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez ultimately deciding to pursue another managerial return, as Madrid had previously done with Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti. Portugal subsequently turned to Jorge Jesus. The account concerns the discussions preceding Mourinho’s appointment at Madrid, rather than a new approach during the current season. Cestero’s Castilla omission reportedly followed disciplinary issue Jorge Cestero’s absence from Castilla’s squad against Alcorcón was a disciplinary measure following a disagreement over his substitute role against Sant Andreu, according to reporting carried by Mundo Deportivo. The midfielder’s omission was described publicly as a technical decision rather than an injury-related absence. The reports say Cestero expressed his dissatisfaction after being left out of the starting lineup, prompting a response from the club. Whether he will return for Friday’s reserve-team derby against Atlético Madrileño remains unclear. Julián López de Lerma did not publicly detail the disagreement when asked about the midfielder. Instead, Castilla’s coach emphasized the developmental role of the team and Cestero’s continued importance. “We are focused on player development; we want all the players to be able to showcase their abilities, compete, and be part of the team. Jorge is and will be a very important player for us this season.” The omission interrupts a period in which Cestero had featured in Mourinho’s preseason plans and helped Madrid win the Under-20 Intercontinental Cup at the Bernabéu. His next involvement with Castilla will depend on the coaching staff’s decision over his return to the squad.
- Barca Blaugranes·11d ago·Both·match
Barcelona optimistic on Eric Garcia fitness after defender withdraws from Spain squad with knee injury
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 19: Eric Garcia of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona are optimistic that Eric Garcia has not suffered any serious knee injury after he withdrew from the Spain squad with a knee injury. Garcia missed Saturday’s Nations League win over England after feeling discomfort in the warm-up and has since pulled out of the remaining games over the international break. According to Mundo Deportivo, Garcia has since returned to Barcelona for more medical checks which confirmed he is OK and should be fit for Barcelona’s next game against Getafe. The decision to release Garcia from the Spain squad was a precautionary move and he now has time to rest and recover before Barcelona’s season continues on October 10th. The news will be welcomed at Barcelona ahead of some key fixtures in October and particularly with Andreas Christensen currently sidelined through injury. Barcelona are due to face Getafe, Real Betis and Real Madrid in La Liga next month and also take on Galatasaray and PSG in the Champions League.
- Managing Madrid·11d ago·Both·match
Open Thread: September 28, 2026
The Open Thread/Daily Merengue is a place where you can discuss anything and everything related to football. Feel free to discuss the topics presented here, or start your very own discussions! The Open thread will be posted every day by one of the mods you’d totally do a movie marathon night with: Valyrian Steel, Felipejack, Kung_Fu_Zizou (AKA KFZ), Juninho, Ezek and, of course… yours truly. Well OK I can Believe that 🚨 JUST IN: The Portugal National Team had made Jose Mourinho an OFFER, but the coach turned it DOWN to join Real Madrid. @jfelixdiaz pic.twitter.com/Ke9ArmmHGu — Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 28, 2026 …Right… 🚨 BREAKING: Real Madrid are VERY CLOSELY monitoring Gilberto Mora (17). Barcelona are also very interested. @diarioas pic.twitter.com/VgDQvw9CKC — Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 27, 2026 What are we doing? Playing the Pied Piper of Hamelin? Edu’s Self-Reflection 🚨 Eduardo Camavinga when asked what he’s missing to be a starter at Real Madrid: “Consistency, I’d say”. “I’ve had good performances before, but it’s consistency that matters”. “You need to stay focused on the pitch and make fewer mistakes”. pic.twitter.com/0aCJOzvVw0 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 28, 2026
- Managing Madrid·11d ago·Both·transfers
Mbappé expected to be available to face Villarreal right after the FIFA break -report
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé sustained a hyper-extended knee during France’s match against Turkey and while some reports initially indicated that he could miss several weeks, it looks like he will be ready to face Villarreal in Los Blancos’ first game after the FIFA break, according to a report from COPE. Mbappé escaped a serious injury as France coach and Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane told the press after the game that his injury “didn’t look good.” The French Football Federation then announced that he had suffered a tendon injury, with Real Madrid’s own medical team publishing the hyper-extension report on Saturday. With a crucial El Clásico against Barcelona less than a month away, Real Madrid will need to make sure that Mbappé stays healthy and fresh during their next few games. In that context, seeing him getting some rest during one of Madrid’s upcoming matches would not be surprising.
- Barca Blaugranes·11d ago·Both·transfers
Barcelona linked with USMNT gem Cavan Sullivan amid Man City chaos as agent offers update
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 26: Cavan Sullivan #8 of United States celebrates following the team's victory in the International Friendly match between United States and Peru at Inter.co Stadium on September 26, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Alex Menendez/USSF/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona and Real Madrid are being credited with interest in USMNT gem Cavan Sullivan as the fallout of news that Manchester City have been found guilty of multiple financial breaches continues. Sullivan is currently set to join the Premier League side in 2028 when he turns 18, but his agent has suggested that may not be the case after all. “Manchester City is one of the biggest clubs in the world. What they have built cannot be erased from history. It is true that there is a pre-agreement with them for Sullivan, but you never know what can happen. We hope that they solve everything in the best possible way,” Dan Segal said, according to Sport. The report adds that Barcelona were among a host of top clubs keen on Sullivan before he opted for Manchester City. There is now doubt over whether that deal will actually go through due to the uncertainty hanging over City in the wake of last week’s blockbuster news. There’s still no clear indication of what sanctions City may face if found guilty, but there’s been speculation the club could be fined, be handed a hefty points deduction or even have their titles stripped. The news has already led to talk of top players – such as Erling Haaland potentially leaving – and it seems Sullivan’s future may be in doubt as well. The teenager is widely regarded as America’s top young talent and made his debut for the USMNT earlier this month against Peru at the age of just 16.
- Barca Blaugranes·12d ago·Both·transfers
Gossip: Barcelona keeping an eye on Estevao’s situation at Chelsea
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 09: Estevao of Chelsea reacts during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Chelsea and Leeds United at Stamford Bridge on September 09, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona were heavily linked with Estevao Willian before the Brazilian made the move to Premier League side Chelsea from Palmeiras. Yet it seems the Catalans are still thinking about the Brazilian as he struggles to impress new boss Xabi Alonso at Stamford Bridge. An update from Diario Sport claims that Estevao is still liked at Barcelona, with Deco “closely following” his situation at Chelsea. Estevao has played only 23 minutes for the Blues so far this season and is said to be growing frustrated with life in west London. There’s also a claim that there have been some disagreements between club and player, not least because “the footballer is not willing to continue gaining muscle mass, as he did in his first season in England because he fears that he may end up losing ability, which is his best offensive weapon, and speed.” There’s no suggestion yet that Estevao wants out of Chelsea, but Deco is said to be keeping tabs on the situation. Barca’s sporting director has said previously that one of the reasons that Barcelona didn’t go for Estevao was because “we have a player for the same position and with similar characteristics called Lamine Yamal.” Meanwhile, Estevao’s agent pointed to the club’s difficult financial situation as the reason the deal failed to materialize and added that the Brazilian still has “a special affection for Barcelona.”
- Barca Blaugranes·12d ago·Both·match
Raphinha not expected to rest as Carlo Ancelotti comes up with plan for Barcelona ace
Brazil's Raphinha attends a training session at Ballymore in Brisbane on September 24, 2026, ahead of their friendly football match between Australia and Brazil on September 25. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP via Getty Images) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- | AFP via Getty Images Barcelona captain Raphinha played all 90 minutes for Brazil against Australia in their first friendly of the international break and doesn’t look set for a rest any time soon. Carlo Ancelotti is now preparing for a second game against Australia on Tuesday and, although he may make changes to his starting XI, he’s not expected to rest Raphinha. Reports in Brazil claim that Ancelotti has been testing Raphinha as a No. 9 with the national team in training and could play him as a striker in place of Endrick. Raphinha has been playing as a 9 for Barcelona to great effect this season, scoring 14 goals in all competitions in a blistering start to the new campaign. Ancelotti’s side disappointed in their first game against Australia which is likely to lead to changes. The current thinking is that Raphinha, Vinicius and Bruno Guimaraes will be the only starters to remain in the XI for Tuesday’s match.
- Barca Blaugranes·12d ago·Both·transfers
‘Lamine Yamal is pure football’ – Joao Felix backs Barcelona star for Ballon d’Or
Lamine Yamal right winger of Barcelona and Spain celebrates the second goal of his team during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Joao Felix has described Lamine Yamal as “pure football” and backed the Barcelona star to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The Portugal international, who spent time at Barca on loan, says Yamal is the type of player that keeps fans “glued to the TV.” “I’ve always maintained that the Ballon d’Or goes to the player you see and think, ‘Wow.’ This is a star and deserves to be remembered in football history,” he told AS. “If there’s a player who keeps you glued to the TV, it’s Lamine. “It’s true that Mbappé and Kane have had great seasons, but Lamine is pure football. “He also won the World Cup. In World Cup years, winning it is always crucial to be closer to the Ballon d’Or.” After winning the World Cup with Spain, Yamal has gone on to start the season in great form for Barcelona. The teenage has also been impressing with Spain again, scoring in Saturday’s 3-1 win over England.
- Managing Madrid·13d ago·Both
Top 10 players: England 2-3 Spain
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Jude Bellingham of England is fouled by Rodri of Spain leading to a penalty during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between England and Spain at Wembley Stadium on September 26, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images) | The FA via Getty Images England supplied seven of the leading 10 players for xT created from open-play passes. Jude Bellingham generated 0.505 xT from open-play passes, more than any other player. Elliot Anderson played 13 progressive passes, the joint-highest figure in the match. Spain supplied four of the leading six players for long-ball completion. Rodri completed 83.3% of his long balls. Lamine Yamal made 12 progressive carries, more than any other player. Jude Bellingham contributed 0.505 xT from open-play passes, the highest figure in the match. He also recorded 13 progressive passes, the joint-highest figure in the match. Alongside that, he added five key passes, the highest figure in the match. Those contributions came over 95 minutes for England. Marc Cucurella had a long ball completion rate of 66.7%, third in the match. He also recorded one take-on. He added 11 touches in the final third, ninth in the match. Rodri contributed 13 progressive passes, the joint-highest figure in the match. He also recorded 92 touches, the highest figure in the match. He added 18 defensive actions, the highest figure in the match.
- Guardian Football·13d ago·Both·match
Oyarzabal earns Spain Nations League win as England pay for Kane penalty miss
It was another high-profile game when Thomas Tuchel’s England let a lead slip in the second half and went on to lose. But unlike the last time, it was not one for recriminations. The England support can accept losing when their team plays with cut and thrust. More to the point, they can accept losing to Spain who, at times, played football from a different stratosphere. England were game. They were driven by Jude Bellingham, who ran on adrenaline and played to the point of maximum expression. They had positive surges either side of the interval, especially the one towards the end of the first half when goals from Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane put them in charge, hauling them back after Lamine Yamal’s second-minute goal. Continue reading...
- Managing Madrid·13d ago·Both·match
Marc Cucurella endures night to forget as Spain beat England
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Bukayo Saka of England is challenged by Marc Cucurella of Spain during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between England and Spain at Wembley Stadium on September 26, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) | Getty Images Reigning world champions Spain donned their second star on their jersey for the first time as they took on World Cup semi-finalists England at Wembley Stadium in the UEFA Nations League, securing a 3-2 win to start the campaign. Real Madrid’s Marc Cucurella played the full 90 minutes but had a tough time up against Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, as well as being involved in both England goals and having penalty shouts against him. Lamine Yamal gave Spain an early lead on only two minutes, but Cucurella was caught out as Anthony Gordon played a one-two on the counter attack with Jude Bellingham. Minutes later, Harry Kane gave England the lead with a header which Cucurella could only knee into his own net. Kane’s effort was headed on target, so he avoided an own goal, but he perhaps could have cleared the shot. Cucurella then had two penalty shouts against him, one for handball and another for bringing down Saka, but Italian referee Davide Massa ignored both. Harry Kane did miss from the spot after a foul by Barcelona midfielder Rodri, before Spain mounted a comeback with Álex Baena pouncing on a poor possession loss from Nico O’Reilly, and Mikel Oyarzabal then giving Spain a 3-2 lead. Fellow Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen was also back in the squad after being left out of the World Cup, but was an unused substitute at Wembley on Saturday night.
- BBC Sport·13d ago·Both
Bayern target Barcelona's Olmo - Sunday's gossip
Bayern Munich target Dani Olmo, Trent Alexander-Arnold is staying at Real Madrid, Premier League clubs show interest in Spurs' Micky van de Ven, plus more.
- Barca Blaugranes·13d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon on target as Spain beat England in Nations League
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after scoring their side's first goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between England and Spain at Wembley Stadium on September 26, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon were both on target as Spain beat England 3-2 on Saturday night in an entertaining game in the Nations League at Wembley Stadium. Manager Luis de la Fuente named five Barcelona players in his starting XI, with Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Rodri, Dani Olmo and Yamal all given the nod. Pedri and Fermin Lopez both had to settle for a place on the bench, while Barca team-mate Gordon was named as a starter for England. However, there was a late change ahead of kick-off as Garcia was ruled out at the last minute and replaced by Marc Pubill due to a knee problem. The late disruption didn’t affect Spain at all as Yamal put the visitors ahead with less than two minutes on the clock. Marc Guehi managed to gift Yamal possession and he curled the ball home to give the world champions an early lead at Wembley. The goal is the third quickest goal England have ever conceded at Wembley Stadium, according to Opta. Ferran Torres thought he had made it 2-0 shortly afterwards but his goal was ruled out for offside. England hit back on 36 minutes when Gordon equalised from a quick counter-attack. Jude Bellingham drove forwards and played the ball to Gordon who ran through and finished past a back-tracking Unai Simon. The Three Lions then scored again just before half-time to take the lead. Nico O’Reilly’s cross was headed goalwards by Harry Kane and went in via a deflection off Marc Cucurella. Thomas Tuchel’s side then had the chance to extend their lead after the break. Rodri was penalised for a foul on Bellingham in the penalty area, gifting England a spot-kick. Kane stepped up to take the penalty but slipped and saw his effort crash against the crossbar. That miss proved costly as Spain were quickly level. Substitute Dani Olmo took advantage of more poor defending from England to pounce on the ball and feed Alex Baena who curled home Spain’s second. Spain weren’t done there, either. Baena was involved again in La Roja’s third which was finished by a lovely dink over goalkeeper James Trafford from fellow substitute Mikel Oyarzabal.
- Managing Madrid·13d ago·Both
BREAKING: Mbappé escapes serious injury, out two weeks
TOPSHOT - France's forward #10 Kylian Mbappe celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Nations League (League A, Group 1) first leg football match between Turkey and France at the Kocaeli Stadium in Izmit, on September 25, 2026. (Photo by OZAN KOSE / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé has escaped a serious injury and will only need to miss around two weeks after being diagnosed with an hyperextended knee, Real Madrid announced on their official website. Mbappé can be considered doubtful for the team’s next match against Villarreal but should definitely be ready to face Barcelona in El Clásico on October 25th. This is very good news for Real Madrid, as Mbappé’s injury appeared to be very serious when he needed to be taken out of France’ s match against Turkey.
- Managing Madrid·13d ago·Both
OFFICIAL: Mbappé suffers tendon injury on his left knee
The French Football Federation have announced that Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé has suffered a tendon injury on his left knee. Sur sa frappe victorieuse, Kylian Mbappé s’est blessé au genou. Il souffre d’une lésion tendineuse et est forfait pour la suite du rassemblement. Bon rétablissement Kylian 💙 pic.twitter.com/S3YV9oscSO — Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) September 25, 2026 This is the same knee that bothered him throughout most of the 2025-26 season. Mbappé will get more tests on his injury at Valdebebas, where he should get some clarification about how much time he will need to miss in order to properly recover from it. Real Madrid face Barcelona in a decisive El Clásico on October 25th, so the French striker potentially missing that game should not be entirely ruled out depending on the extent of his injury. Los Blancos should release their own injury report during the weekend.
- Barca Blaugranes·13d ago·Both·match
‘I’d give it to Raphinha right now’ – Ex-Barcelona boss says Brazilian deserves Ballon d’Or
SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) | Getty Images Former Barcelona boss Quique Setien says he thinks Raphinha deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Raphinha is not even on the final shortlist for the award, with Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe the current favorites. However, Setien is in no doubt at all that Raphinha is the world’s best player at the moment. “There’s no need to overthink it. I’d give it to Raphinha right now,” he told Cadena SER. “I’m absolutely certain of it. Because he’s the best player. And he’s not only the most effective and the one who plays the most, but he’s also the one who runs the most, works the hardest, and helps his team the most. He’s an absolutely complete footballer.” Raphinha saw injury disrupt his 2025-26 campaign with Barcelona, while Brazil only made it to the last 16 of World Cup 2026. But he’s started the current campaign in blistering form, scoring 14 goals already, to help fire Barcelona to the top of La Liga.
- Managing Madrid·14d ago·Both·match
Endrick and Vinicius play 65 minutes in Brazil’s first match since being eliminated from the World Cup
TOWNSVILLE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 25: Vinicius Junior (R) of Brazil and Paul Okon-Engstler (L) of Australia contest for the ball during the International Friendly match between Australia Socceroos and Brazil at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on September 25, 2026 in Townsville, Australia. (Photo by Ayush Kumar/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Despite limited playing time with Real Madrid this season, Endrick was named by Carlo Ancelotti as the starting centre-forward for Brazil’s friendly match against Australia at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Friday — Brazil’s first match since being eliminated at the World Cup by Norway. Friday’s match is the first of two where the nations will face each other over the course of five days. Joining Endrick up front was Vinicius on the left wing, Raphinha in a 10 role, and Estevao on the right wing. Endrick managed just 10 touches and four passes (completing three), and won only one of four duels before being pulled in the 65th minute. Vinicius was more active in the match, completing 22 of 26 passes including distributing three key passes — the most on Brazil when he exited the pitch. The Madrid winger had two of Brazil’s five shots on target in the match, both saved by Australia keeper Patrick Beach. Vinicius also contributed six ball recoveries, most on Brazil for outfield players despite the limited minutes. It was three minutes after the Madrid players left the pitch that Australia opened the scoring, with 20 year-old Nestory Irankunda’s sensational free kick in the 68th minute freezing Corinthians keeper Hugo Souza who watched the ball fly past his right and into the back of the net. And the Socceroos were on the verge of victory before Rayan headed in a Raphinha corner kick in the 95th minute. Australia’s only victory against Brazil remains their 1-0 win in the third place match at the 2001 Confederations Cup in South Korea. The nations face each other again on Tuesday at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland.
- Barca Blaugranes·14d ago·Both·transfers
‘Not very interested’ – Barcelona star Lamine Yamal reacts to Real Madrid’s referee complaints
SEVILLE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 19: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 19, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) | Getty Images Lamine Yamal has been quizzed on Real Madrid’s refereeing complaints and says he’s “not interested” in the regular toxicity coming out of the Santiago Bernabeu. Los Blancos were at it again after losing to Atletico Madrid in La Liga at the weekend, and Yamal has been asked for his thoughts on the situation. However, Barca’s World Cup winner made it clear that he doesn’t want to get involved in Real Madrid’s complaints and is focused purely on winning with Hansi Flick’s side. “I’m not very involved to be honest, I’m not very interested. As long as Barça continue to win there is nothing to talk about, only our game and the victories,” he told Teledeporte. Yamal has been part of a Barcelona team that has made a perfect start to the season and he’s taken time out to praise the club’s new signings. “So much Gordon, who came on very well, Rodri, Adeyemi… They are giving a great level. We have arrived very well physically,” he added. “Also the more years the coach has been here, the more we understand each other and the players, then, too.” Barcelona head into the international break six points clear of Real Madrid in the race for the title, with the two teams set to meet for the first time this season on October 25th at Camp Nou.
- Guardian Football·14d ago·Both·match
Socceroos denied famous win as late Brazil goal cancels out Irankunda stunner
Australia 1-1 Brazil in international friendly in Townsville Irankunda hits free kick before Rayan equalises deep in added time It was a Friday night in which the stars descended on Townsville. There was Bruno Guimarães, Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior in the Brazilian XI, with Endrick leading the line and Estêvão out on the flank, all instructed by Carlo Ancelotti in the dugout. But on this evening, their limelight was stolen by Australia’s star boy Nestory Irankunda. His magnificent 68th-minute free kick may have been cancelled out at the death by Rayan’s header, ensuring Australia and Brazil shared a 1-1 draw at Queensland Country Bank Stadium, but on a night in which some of the planet’s biggest and best were on hand, Irankunda stood up to be counted. Continue reading...
- Guardian Football·14d ago·Both·match
Australia v Brazil: men’s international football friendly – live
Updates from the first of two games in Queensland Any thoughts? Get in touch with an email Brazil might be looking to refresh their squad after their World Cup disappointment but there is still more than enough star power to light up any stage. Barcelona and Brazil forward Raphinha is one of the biggest stars of the lot, and will help lead the line against the Socceroos in Townsville. The No 9 spoke to Sid Lowe about embracing his new role as a leader of the team and the focal point of the attack. What kind of leader [I am] depends on the moment. If I have to be slightly tougher, I can. But I prefer nicer moments, jokes. The last two years have been spectacular so I haven’t had to be the pesado [pain in the arse] often. I know that annoys people but someone has to do it sometimes. Very honoured and proud to be in this position [playing Brazil]. I enjoyed it as a player thoroughly, enjoying it as a coach, and as I did at the World Cup and tonight, we have a huge challenge against one the world’s best. We [Carlo Ancelotti] have caught up a few days ago in Brisbane. He’s just a fantastic man and obviously one of the world’s greatest managers. He’s done so much in his career and won so many titles I’m sure he doesn’t have enough room at home with all the trophies he’s won. So it’ll an honour and a pleasure to share the pitch with him. Continue reading...
- Barca Blaugranes·14d ago·Both·transfers
FC Barcelona News: 25 September 2026; Deco talks Julian Alvarez and JJ Gabriel
Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid sits on the bench prior to the LaLiga EA Sports football match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid, Spain, on September 20, 2026. (Photo by Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Deco puts an end to the ‘Julián Álvarez Case’ and moves on at Barcelona: “It’s in the past” | Marca Barcelona sporting director Deco says that Julian Alvarez ‘is now in the past’ after missing out on the Atletico Madrid star in the summer transfer window. Wins for Cancelo and Bisiwu, draw for Adeyemi | FC Barcelona Three Barcelona stars were in action on Thursday. Joao Cancelo played in Portugal’s win, while Jesse Bisiwu was also victorious with Belgium’s Under-21s. Karim Adeyemi played in Germany’s draw with the Netherlands. Barcelona ‘not interested’ in JJ Gabriel move | Telegraph Deco has claimed that Barcelona are not interested in trying to sign JJ Gabriel from Manchester United. The 15-year-old has told the club he wants to leave and been linked with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Raphinha: ‘In my head I was leaving Barça, but a few small words can change you’ | The Guardian Barcelona captain Raphinha has revealed how he almost left the club in 2024 and also spoke about his switch to the No. 9 and his relationship with Hansi Flick. Bayern Munich are preparing a massive January transfer bid for Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo | GOAL Bayern Munich are eyeing a January move for Barcelona star Dani Olmo. The Bavarians are looking at potential replacements for Jamal Musiala and Michael Olise. Bisiwu: “The player who has impressed me the most is Raphinha” | Marca Jesse Bisiwu says the Barcelona player who has impressed him the most since he arrived is Raphinha due to the intensity he shows even in training. Xavi Espart: “Being with the senior national team would be incredible, that’s where the best are” | Marca Barcelona youngster Xavi Espart admits he would love to be called up to the senior Spain team after making an impressive start to the season with Hansi Flick’s side.
- Managing Madrid·15d ago·Both·match
BALLON D’OR REGRESSION | OPEN THREAD | SEPTEMBER 25, 2026
Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho TALENT RECESSION INDICATOR A major talent recession indicator is when Ballon d’or nominees are practically begging and lobbying for the Ballon d’or in their public interviews. The interviews from Lamine and Mbappe are strategically released by the media around this time and made to look like they’re going head to head against each other. Which i expect to show in the voting as both of them will come out the top 2 out of 3 candidates for the award. But seriously, these guys should avoid giving these interviews next time. It’s actually sad and very weird for both of them. Mbappe saying he’ll dedicate it to africa, cuz of his Cameroonian roots LOL….If that ain’t the most political thing i’ve ever heard a ballon d’or candidate say. And then there’s Yamal going the low IQ route, saying goals shouldn’t matter?? and that we should start counting how many defenders a player can draw away for another player to score. Anyways, this generation, IMO, is far less talented than the previous one. All across the board, from attack, to midfield to defense, to Goalies. The ballon d’or is clearly in the lobbying phase. GENERATIONS The talent level of today is so low, that the ballon d’or is now being transparent and telling us their set criteria for the award. For the first time since it’s inception. They NEVER did this during the Ronaldo-Messi hegemony period, nor before that. Correct me if I’m wrong. Maybe because there’s no one embracing the villan role like CR7, nor anyone trying to play the good boy hero like Messi in this ultra-system football generation. So France Football is unwillingly stuck keeping things honest concerning the Ballon D’or. They’re now counting character disposition for the award…LLLLLOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLL!!! Oh the Irony of the crooked organization that is France Football. WAR Our club has been taking a different approach to the media and Tebas. We’re now, more than ever, going to outright war with public figures in La Liga and Spanish media. What changed? we’ve been seldom in the past but now we’re blasting anything that tries to smut us. Well, i’m here for it, till there’s change in public perception, principles and policies of the league.
- Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Both·transfers
‘Julian Alvarez is in the past’ – Deco says Gabriel Jesus is the ‘perfect fit’ for Barcelona
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid looks on before the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on September 20, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona spent the summer trying to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid but were unable to land the striker as Los Colchoneros refused to sell the Argentina international. There’s been talk that Barcelona could try for Alvarez again in the coming windows but Deco has suggested that the club’s interest in the forward has now ended. “The idea was always to bring in a mobile number nine, with the ability to link up with teammates, and Julián was one of those players,” he said, per Mundo Deportivo. “It wasn’t possible; we made an offer. The club has always said they wouldn’t sell him, and we’ve had to look for other solutions. “Gabriel Jesus wasn’t in our plans, and the moment we decided that Julián was impossible, we started looking for solutions, and Gabriel was the perfect fit for us.The idea hasn’t changed; it was to find a player with the same profile.” Barcelona have gone on to enjoy a stunning start to the season without Alvarez, with Raphinha leading the charge as the club’s No. 9.
- Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Both·transfers
The quiet numbers behind Barcelona’s loud start to the season
Raphinha Dias Belloli of FC Barcelona celebrates a goal during the La Liga EA Sports match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan in Seville, Spain, on September 19, 2026. (Photo by Jose Luis Contreras/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images It’s not an exaggeration to say Barcelona have started the 2026/2027 season with a bang. The big numbers that have rightfully grabbed the headlines include the unprecedented perfect start of eight straight wins, as well as Raphinha setting the club record for 12 goals in the first eight La Liga matches. Now, it’s not how you start that matters, but how you finish. This will be a long season, and the measure of success will ultimately be trophies. It’s worth managing our excitement, but we should also appreciate and understand that the early success is the result of merit, not good fortune. How exactly is Barcelona achieving these results? The wins and the goals? Most important, is it sustainable? The first stat in my mind is the work rate. In the first seven La Liga matches, compared to Real Madrid, Barcelona have run approximately 21km more as a team. Of all the numbers, this is the most critical in my opinion, and it also raises questions about whether Barcelona can keep it up. Before we talk about all the goals, and by the way the Blaugrana have scored 36 so far, we should understand in Hansi Flick’s mind the conditions that are necessary for making attacking football effective. Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi are here for a reason. They run and do the work. When either plays, combined with Raphinha up front, who is another work horse, Barcelona is already a better pressing team than a year ago when Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski were leading the line. It’s not just that Barcelona are running a lot, it’s the type of running in high value situations. We are seeing more work rate from the forwards defensively, and less of the center backs sprinting back in desperation to chase down a ball played in behind. Flick understood that this is not something you can easily coach. You really do need players who have the character. That’s why Anthony Gordon was such a statement signing, and frankly why Real Madrid is still struggling to keep up with the fight and physicality of the modern game where hard work beats talent. Adding on to the distance covered, one stat that explains the effect of it is that Barça are outperforming their expected underlying numbers at both ends of the pitch. They’re averaging 4.5 goals scored per game against an xG of 3.67. This shows that they have improved a lot in their finishing. It’s one thing to generate chances, as Flick’s Barca has always done, and quite another to be clinical. On the other end, they’re surrendering only one goal per game against an xG of 1.05. So expectations here are matching reality. That means while the attack is running riot, the defense it doing what they’re supposed to do. The strategy isn’t shutouts. Flick knows his team will surrender a goal and that’s OK, so long as the unforced errors are limited. This lays the foundation for the team to do what they are trained to do, overwhelm the opponent by attacking relentlessly. Finally, one stat I’d throw out as significant is Barcelona’s undefeated record on the road. Barcelona have been not intimidated by opposing fans. Take the Sevilla game for example, Barcelona were tested, but the environment couldn’t break them. Consistency is king. No matter where you’re playing, you play your game, nothing changes. Like Diego Simeone said, Barcelona press you like crazy in your own stadium. They’re fearless, and confident in what they do and how they do it. Away from home, Barcelona have actually surrendered less goals. At the Camp Nou, it’s been five goals in four games, and on the road it’s been three goals in four games. Let’s continue to cheer on Raphinha as he continues his campaign for the Pichichi, and maybe even a future Ballon d’Or. Let’s allow ourselves to be elated by the perfect start to the season, and enjoy it for as long as the streak lasts. Numbers aside, the reason we should be bullish on Barcelona, can be understood through the eye test. There are smiles on the faces of players and fans alike. There is pride because Barcelona is doing what the club was born to do. To play beautiful football, and to dominate the game accordingly. It’s a combination of work ethic, talent, and grace, and it’s an undeniable recipe for success. Allow yourself to enjoy the show. There’s every reason to believe that it could be history in the making.
- Sky Sports·15d ago·Both·match
Ballon d'Or: Kane, Yamal, Mbappe and the main runners and riders assessed
With a month left until the Ballon d'Or 2026 winner is announced in London on October 26, will favourite Harry Kane lift the trophy on home soil or will Lamine Yamal become the youngest winner in the award's history?
- Guardian Football·15d ago·Both
Vinícius Júnior et al land in unlikely outpost of Townsville as Brazil reboot begins | Joey Lynch
The Seleção’s rebuild after their latest World Cup exit begins against the Socceroos in a place better known for rugby league than joga bonito It’s a safe bet that Vinícius Júnior, who plays week in and week out for Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, doesn’t know about North Queensland Fury. Why would he? Indeed, it is likely that none of the Brazil side that landed in Townsville on Thursday are aware of Australian football’s history in the region. Nor, perhaps, the city itself, until recently. Maybe in the spirit of cultural exchange, then, Raphinha will be posting #BringBackTheFury on his Instagram page by the time the Seleção departs the Sunshine State next week. Such a post would only feel slightly more surreal than the Barcelona attacker rubbing shoulders at Townsville airport with almost 80 junior rugby league sides from around Queensland, jetting in for the Gordon Tallis Cup. Continue reading...
- Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Both·match
Raphinha to start Brazil friendly as Carlo Ancelotti hails ‘spectacular’ Barcelona star
Brazil's Raphinha attends a training session at Ballymore in Brisbane on September 24, 2026, ahead of their friendly football match between Australia and Brazil on September 25. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP via Getty Images) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- | AFP via Getty Images Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Barcelona star Raphinha will start Friday’s friendly against Australia in Townsville on Friday. Raphinha has travelled across the globe to play in the friendly and Ancelotti has named his starting XI for the match at a pre-game press conference. Here’s how Brazil will line-up: Hugo Souza; Matheuzinho, Marquinhos, Vitor Reis and Douglas Santos; Danilo and Bruno Guimarães; Estevão, Raphinha, Endrick and Vini Jr. Ancelotti explained why he’s gone with a strong XI for the game. “For us, the important thing is to play well, to start winning games. The truth is that these games can be an opportunity for some. I believe we have a base and we have to continue with it, of players who played in the World Cup, who can help in the progression of our young players that we have here,” he told reporters. The Brazil boss also spoke about the form of Vinicius Jr and Raphinha, who have enjoyed rather different starts to the new La Liga campaign. “The two are in different situations right now. Obviously, Raphinha is doing spectacular things in a position that wasn’t his before, but it seems like it is now too,” he added. “Vini… he might not be at his best right now, but we are confident that both of them will be fundamental for the future.” Brazil are due to play two games against Australia and will then jet off to India for their third friendly of the international break.
- Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Both·match
Lamine Yamal or Harry Kane? Anthony Gordon talks Ballon d’Or picks
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates with teammate Anthony Gordon of FC Barcelona after their victory in the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between FC Barcelona and Feyenoord at Camp Nou on September 09, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona star Anthony Gordon says that team-mate Lamine Yamal and England colleague Harry Kane are his two picks for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The two players are among the favorites for the Golden Ball, along with Kylian Mbappe, but Gordon says Yamal and Kane are his top two. “For me, it has to be one of the two in terms of what they’ve achieved,” he told talkSPORT. “What Lamine’s achieved at such a young age. The kind of player he is, is ridiculous. He’s on a whole other level right now. For a 19-year-old to be doing what he’s doing is crazy.” Gordon then spoke about Kane and feels the Bayern striker is also in with a strong shout. “But if we were talking off last season, H has got as big of an argument as anybody because his season was historic,” he added. “The amount of goals he scored, the things he’s done for us within the World Cup, they both have large arguments. So I wish them both the best of luck.” Gordon is currently with Kane and the England squad for Nations League fixtures, with the Three Lions set to come up against Yamal and Spain on Saturday night.
- Barca Blaugranes·15d ago·Both·transfers
FC Barcelona News: 24 September 2026; Deco meets JJ Gabriel’s agent, Barca hopeful of Marc-Andre ter Stegen sale
LEIGH, ENGLAND - AUGUST 31: JJ Gabriel of Manchester United U21 in action during the Premier League 2 match between Manchester United U21 and Leicester City U21 at Leigh Sports Village on August 31, 2026 in Leigh, England. (Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images) Summit between Deco and JJ Gabriel’s agent: Barça, on the lookout for young talent | Marca Barcelona sporting director Deco has held a meeting with the agent of Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel as the teenager seeks a new club after deciding to leave the Premier League club. Barca already smell business with Ter Stegen | Sport Barcelona are growing optimistic they can sell goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the summer. The goalkeeper is playing regularly and has been recalled to the Germany squad as their No. 1, increasing his value after a tough time with injuries. Four Barça players nominated for LaLiga’s September awards | FC Barcelona Raphinha, Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi and Hansi Flick are all in the running for September’s La Liga awards. Raphinha is up for best player, Cancelo for best goal, Cubarsi for best Under-23 player and Flick for best coach. Rodri: “Real Madrid showed interest from the very beginning and went all out for me.” | Cope Barcelona star Rodri has been talking about the summer transfer window and says that Real Madrid went all out to try and sign him from Manchester City before he joined Hansi Flick’s side. Barça are obliged to sell if they want to make signings in January | Marca Barcelona’s economic vice-president Ferran Olive says the club would have to sell players in January if they were to strengthen the squad by making transfers in the winter window. Barça 5-2 Paris FC: Stupendous start | FC Barcelona Barcelona Femeni kicked off the defence of their UEFA Women’s Champions League trophy with a 5-2 win over Paris FC. Kerolin, Clara Serrajordi, and Caroline Graham Hansen as well as Ewa Pajor who scored a brace. Xavi: “We did our bit in this Barça” | Diario Sport Former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez has praised Hansi Flick’s current team but says his team played a part after helping to bring through several youngsters into the first team during his time in charge.