Barcelona fitness, exits and World Cup buzz
Leak teases Barcelona’s 26-27 Nike Mamba away kit, highlighting short-sleeve and long-sleeve versions.
Dani Olmo says Madrid’s Negreira focus aims to ‘destabilise’ Barcelona, stressing Barça’s recent La Liga, Copa del Rey and Supercopa titles and their focus on winning while relations remain tense.
Anthony Gordon, recently signed by Barcelona, is set to start for England against Mexico, preferred to Marcus Rashford after assisting both of Harry Kane’s goals vs DR Congo.
Cristiano Ronaldo praises Lamine Yamal ahead of Spain vs Portugal, calling the Barcelona winger’s future ‘very bright’ as they prepare to meet in the World Cup knockout tie in Dallas.
Barcelona confirm Ansu Fati’s permanent move to Monaco, ending a 14-year journey marked by a record-breaking start, the No 10 shirt and injuries that stalled his rise. A fresh start awaits in Ligue 1.
Jules Koundé excelled for France in the 1-0 win over Paraguay at right-back: 56/59 passes, 3/4 long balls, 25 carries, 4 recoveries, 4 clearances, 3/4 ground duels, 2/2 aerial duels.
Barcelona monitor Rafael Leao, with Deco in the US. The Milan winger, linked again despite costs of €60-70m, can impress against Spain as he battles for starts on Portugal’s left.
Flick to start pre-season on 13 July with nine available: Ter Stegen, Szczesny, Balde, Christensen, Gerard Martín, Hector Fort, Casado, Bernal, Bardghji. De Jong, Araujo, Raphinha to rejoin later.
Ex-Barcelona loanee Marcus Rashford dazzles in England training with a nutmeg during rondo ahead of Mexico last-16 tie, as he vies with Barcelona’s Anthony Gordon for the left-wing spot.
Gavi says he would welcome Julián Álvarez to Barcelona, backs Oyarzabal to stay at Real Sociedad, hails Lamine Yamal as decisive and calls Messi ‘the best of all time’. Focus now on Spain vs Portugal.
Frenkie de Jong played for Netherlands with a right knee issue against Sweden, Tunisia and 110 minutes vs Morocco, yet featured in all four games. He is not expected to miss Barcelona’s pre-season.
