Barcelona figures make headlines as Flick and Yamal draw praise
Alejandro Balde could leave Barcelona in January after only 12 minutes this season, with Juventus joining Manchester United in the race for the Spain defender.
Barcelona are planning a new deal for 18-year-old winger Sama Nomoko despite his long-term knee injury, underlining their faith in the La Masia prospect.
Lamine Yamal said he told Lionel Messi, ‘Thank you for everything you gave football’, after Spain’s 1-0 World Cup final win, and explained the move that led to Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner.
Raphinha said Hansi Flick ‘changed my life’, crediting the Barcelona coach with transforming his mentality after a flying start in a new central role.
Hansi Flick is continuing to back Gavi despite just 81 minutes in three games, keeping close contact and insisting the midfielder remains important amid fierce competition.
Barcelona ended interest in Lautaro Martínez after Inter refused to sell, then signed Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal on deadline day after Julián Álvarez was also unattainable.
Rodri said he will not lobby for the Ballon d'Or, insisting the award depends on performances, while stressing individual honours come from collective work at Barcelona.
Erling Haaland’s contract at Manchester City now runs until 2034, making any Barcelona move less likely after the striker signed a long-term new deal.
Ronald Araújo’s strong loan start at Liverpool is reportedly impressing the club, who could consider triggering their €55m option to buy from Barcelona.
Samuel Eto’o backed Lamine Yamal for the Ballon d’Or, calling the Barcelona winger the ‘Ballon d’Or of our hearts’ after his starring role for club and Spain.
Fermín López dismissed José Mourinho’s post-derby complaints as ‘his show’ and said Barcelona are focused on their own work rather than Real Madrid.
Barcelona and Catalan authorities are increasingly confident Spotify Camp Nou could host the 2030 World Cup final after being awarded the 2029 Champions League final.
Barcelona forward Anthony Gordon said Spain control games better than England, praising the decision-making and possession play he has experienced in La Liga.
Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or case rests on more than numbers - La Liga’s best player, 10 Champions League goal contributions and a World Cup with Spain.
Rodri said he believes in Manchester City’s ‘innocence’ over financial breaches and backed the club’s stance as they appeal.
Deco said Barcelona are not interested in Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel, easing Bayern Munich’s path in the race for the 15-year-old.
