Big clubs going after upcoming football star Erling Haaland is no secret. Barcelona are among the frontrunners to offer a contract to the Norwegian prodigy. However, several reports have come in that Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has agreed to take a pay cut at the club with the condition that the club uses the cash saving to fund a bid for Erling Haaland.

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Barcelona have been looking for a striker ever since the departure of Luis Suarez. The Catalan giants are reportedly still in talks with outgoing Man City star Sergio Aguero, who will be up for free transfer as his contract is set to run out this summer.&nbsp;

2020 Golden Boy Erling Haaland is having a prolific run with Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund and has attracted big shot clubs like Real Madrid and Man City. However, with Barcelona joining the race to buy him he could attract a record fee this summer.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi's future at Barcelona remains unclear, however, their new president Joan Laporta has devised a new 10-year contract to the 33-year-old to keep him at the club. But if 'La Pulga' decides to take a pay cut the wages will be slashed to half.&nbsp;

Haaland is reportedly valued at a massive sum of £154 million.&nbsp;

Big clubs going after upcoming football star Erling Haaland is no secret. Barcelona are among the frontrunners to offer a contract to the Norwegian prodigy. However, several reports have come in that Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has agreed to take a pay cut at the club with the condition that the club uses the cash saving to fund a bid for Erling Haaland.

Big clubs going after upcoming football star Erling Haaland is no secret. Barcelona are among the frontrunners to offer a contract to the Norwegian prodigy. However, several reports have come in that Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has agreed to take a pay cut at the club with the condition that the club uses the cash saving to fund a bid for Erling Haaland. ALSO READ: 'They urgently need our help': Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos expresses concerns about India's COVID-19 crisis Barcelona have been looking for a striker ever since the departure of Luis Suarez. The Catalan giants are reportedly still in talks with outgoing Man City star Sergio Aguero, who will be up for free transfer as his contract is set to run out this summer. 2020 Golden Boy Erling Haaland is having a prolific run with Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund and has attracted big shot clubs like Real Madrid and Man City. However, with Barcelona joining the race to buy him he could attract a record fee this summer. Lionel Messi's future at Barcelona remains unclear, however, their new president Joan Laporta has devised a new 10-year contract to the 33-year-old to keep him at the club. But if 'La Pulga' decides to take a pay cut the wages will be slashed to half. Haaland is reportedly valued at a massive sum of £154 million.

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi agrees to take pay cut for the sake of Erling Haaland bid: Reports

Barcelona suffered a shock 2-1 home defeat by Granada on Thursday, conceding two second-half goals to blow the chance of moving top of La Liga.

The result was a body blow for Barca, who had lost just once in their previous 22 league games and no longer have the destiny of the title in their own hands.

"We're really down. We tried until the end but we weren't good enough in the attacking third and they've scored with their two attacks," Barcelona defender Jordi Alba told Movistar.

"It was a unique chance to go top after such a tough year. It's not in our hands but we need to win all the five remaining games and see what happens."

Things started well for the Catalans, who took the lead on 23 minutes after Antoine Griezmann teed up Lionel Messi for his 26th league goal of the season.

The Argentine forward was denied by Granada keeper Aaron Escandell one-on-one shortly afterward, and it proved to be a vital step in the context of the game - as well as the title race.

Darwin Machis leveled the scores on 63 minutes after Oscar Mingueza failed to cut out Luis Suarez's through ball and in the aftermath, Barca coach Ronald Koeman was sent off by referee Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes.

The hosts were stunned 11 minutes from time when substitute Jorge Molina headed in Adrian Marin's pinpoint cross from close range to secure a first-ever away win at Barcelona for Diego Martinez's side.

Barca sits third in the standings on 71 points, two points behind league leaders Atletico Madrid. They trail great rivals Real Madrid, who also have 71, in second place due to their inferior head-to-head record.

Koeman's red card means the Dutchman will likely miss Sunday's trip to former club Valencia, as well as next weekend's title showdown with Atletico.

Barcelona suffered a shock 2-1 home defeat by Granada on Thursday, conceding two second-half goals to blow the chance of moving top of La Liga. The result was a body blow for Barca, who had lost just once in their previous 22 league games and no longer have the destiny of the title in their own hands.

Barcelona suffered a shock 2-1 home defeat by Granada on Thursday, conceding two second-half goals to blow the chance of moving top of La Liga. The result was a body blow for Barca, who had lost just once in their previous 22 league games and no longer have the destiny of the title in their own hands. "We're really down. We tried until the end but we weren't good enough in the attacking third and they've scored with their two attacks," Barcelona defender Jordi Alba told Movistar. "It was a unique chance to go top after such a tough year. It's not in our hands but we need to win all the five remaining games and see what happens." Things started well for the Catalans, who took the lead on 23 minutes after Antoine Griezmann teed up Lionel Messi for his 26th league goal of the season. The Argentine forward was denied by Granada keeper Aaron Escandell one-on-one shortly afterward, and it proved to be a vital step in the context of the game - as well as the title race. Darwin Machis leveled the scores on 63 minutes after Oscar Mingueza failed to cut out Luis Suarez's through ball and in the aftermath, Barca coach Ronald Koeman was sent off by referee Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes. The hosts were stunned 11 minutes from time when substitute Jorge Molina headed in Adrian Marin's pinpoint cross from close range to secure a first-ever away win at Barcelona for Diego Martinez's side. Barca sits third in the standings on 71 points, two points behind league leaders Atletico Madrid. They trail great rivals Real Madrid, who also have 71, in second place due to their inferior head-to-head record. Koeman's red card means the Dutchman will likely miss Sunday's trip to former club Valencia, as well as next weekend's title showdown with Atletico.

Barcelona blow the chance to move at the top of La Liga

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone insists his side are not getting carried away with the La Liga title in touching distance. 
 
Atletico had a 10-point lead at the top of the table just two months ago but the chasing pack have closed the gap in recent weeks, with Simeone`s men winning just two of their past five league outings. 
 
However, they were handed a major reprieve on Thursday when Granada beat Barcelona to leave Atletico two points clear at the top of the table on 73. 
 
Only three points separate the top four clubs, with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Sevilla all in hot pursuit of the leaders. 
 
Atletico know that winning their remaining five games - starting with a visit to Elche on Saturday - will allow the club to lift their first La Liga title since 2014. 
 
However, Simeone said they are not thinking that far ahead. 
 
"You`re just thinking and focusing more than ever on the next game," Simeone told a news conference. 
 
"With four sides so close together I can only think about the next game and put my confidence in the boys who are having a great season. 
 
"There`s always pressure there. If you play after and your rivals have won, there`s pressure - but you can say the same if you`re playing before them. You just need to focus on yourself in these situations. 
 
"It`s something new, but it`s good for Spanish football that there`s four sides battling it out for the title. Each game is more important than the other." 
 
Atleti will be without fullback Renan Lodi, who has a thigh injury. Otherwise Simeone has a fully fit squad to choose from for the trip to third from bottom Elche, who sit just a point from the safety zone as the season reaches its climax.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone insists his side are not getting carried away with the La Liga title in touching distance. Atletico had a 10-point lead at the top of the table just two months ago but the chasing pack have closed the gap in recent weeks, with Simeone`s men winning just two of their past five league outings.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone insists his side are not getting carried away with the La Liga title in touching distance. Atletico had a 10-point lead at the top of the table just two months ago but the chasing pack have closed the gap in recent weeks, with Simeone`s men winning just two of their past five league outings. However, they were handed a major reprieve on Thursday when Granada beat Barcelona to leave Atletico two points clear at the top of the table on 73. Only three points separate the top four clubs, with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Sevilla all in hot pursuit of the leaders. Atletico know that winning their remaining five games - starting with a visit to Elche on Saturday - will allow the club to lift their first La Liga title since 2014. However, Simeone said they are not thinking that far ahead. "You`re just thinking and focusing more than ever on the next game," Simeone told a news conference. "With four sides so close together I can only think about the next game and put my confidence in the boys who are having a great season. "There`s always pressure there. If you play after and your rivals have won, there`s pressure - but you can say the same if you`re playing before them. You just need to focus on yourself in these situations. "It`s something new, but it`s good for Spanish football that there`s four sides battling it out for the title. Each game is more important than the other." Atleti will be without fullback Renan Lodi, who has a thigh injury. Otherwise Simeone has a fully fit squad to choose from for the trip to third from bottom Elche, who sit just a point from the safety zone as the season reaches its climax.

Atletico Madrid's Simeone not getting carried away with title in sight

5,000 people took part in an indoor trial concert last month in Barcelona seeking pandemic-safe ways to celebrate mass events and it didn't result in a surge in Coronavirus infections.

Coronavirus: No rise in infections after trial concert in Barcelona

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga.

Real Madrid's draw with Real Betis on Saturday gave Atletico the chance to pull further clear but instead they ended the weekend with their lead reduced, a loss at San Mames the latest twist in Europe's most unpredictable domestic chase.

Barca had earlier beaten Villarreal by the same scoreline, with Antoine Griezmann's quick-fire double becoming all the more valuable after another Atletico slip.

Sevilla have largely been overlooked as possible champions in Spain but they are right in the mix as well now after a 2-1 win over Granada puts them just three points off the top and one behind Real Madrid.

Yet Barcelona were the biggest winners, with Ronald Koeman's team able to go top of the table if they win their game in hand at home to Granada on Thursday, even if Atletico might have a way back given they are still to play at Camp Nou on May 8.&nbsp;

Real Madrid host Sevilla a day later.&nbsp;

"There are four of us in that race and now emotionally, those who have the mental strength will be closer to winning," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone.&nbsp;

"We still know that we depend on ourselves."

Atletico have first place, for now at least, but they might be the least convincing of all the contenders.

Losing to Athletic Bilbao means they have won only six of their last 14 league games, with the momentum gained from consecutive wins over Eibar and Huesca proving short-lived.

The way some of Simeone's players dropped to their knees at the final whistle suggested this result, psychologically, could be difficult to recover from.

Alex Berengeur had already nodded in Ander Capa's cross in the eighth minute and Athletic should have doubled their advantage in the second half but Oihan Sancet fired over.

Luis Suarez, Joao Felix and Thomas Lemar all came on and Atletico grabbed a lifeline when Stefan Savic's flicked header found its way inside the back post with 13 minutes left.

Simeone pumped his fists, urging his players to seek a winner, but instead there was a sucker-punch from Athletic, Inigo Martinez darting free in the box and powering a superb header past Jan Oblak with four minutes remaining.

<h2>- Griezmann fires Barca -</h2>

Barcelona are surely now favourites to add a La Liga title to the Copa del Rey they won earlier this month.&nbsp;

Villarreal struck first through Samuel Chukwueze but Griezmann equalised with a sumptuous lob before capitalising on a misplaced backpass to make it two.

Helped by a red card for Villarreal's Manu Trigueros shortly after the hour, Barcelona held on for a crucial win.

"The players are hungry to win another trophy," said Koeman.&nbsp;

"The league is closer, I don't know how much closer, but it is. We are on a good run and if we win the six games left, we will be champions."

Griezmann started on the bench for the defeat by Real Madrid but has been recalled for the last three games in a row, repaying the faith with a goal now in each.

It remains to be seen whether Barcelona see the 30-year-old as a chance to raise funds in the summer, and also whether the offers are there, but Griezmann now has 23 goals this season, and 15 since the turn of the year.

Sevilla, meanwhile, pushed their case for the title and guaranteed their place in the top four but their win over Granada will be remembered for the bizarre way it ended.

Both teams were made to come back out and play another minute after referee Ricardo de Burgos admitted he blew too early for full-time.

Sevilla's players had already left and some of them had started to take their kit off, with midfielder Fernando pictured without his shirt on in the stands, shaking his head in disbelief.

Marcos Acuna had to put his boots, socks and shinpads back on.

"The referee stopped it because he thought time was up and then he told us he'd made a mistake," said Sevilla's Lucas Ocampos.&nbsp;

"It was finished. I've never seen anything like it. We had basically taken our kit off."

Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "The really important thing is Sevilla has achieved something historic. The effort of these players has been extraordinary."

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga.

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga. Real Madrid's draw with Real Betis on Saturday gave Atletico the chance to pull further clear but instead they ended the weekend with their lead reduced, a loss at San Mames the latest twist in Europe's most unpredictable domestic chase. Barca had earlier beaten Villarreal by the same scoreline, with Antoine Griezmann's quick-fire double becoming all the more valuable after another Atletico slip. Sevilla have largely been overlooked as possible champions in Spain but they are right in the mix as well now after a 2-1 win over Granada puts them just three points off the top and one behind Real Madrid. Yet Barcelona were the biggest winners, with Ronald Koeman's team able to go top of the table if they win their game in hand at home to Granada on Thursday, even if Atletico might have a way back given they are still to play at Camp Nou on May 8. Real Madrid host Sevilla a day later. "There are four of us in that race and now emotionally, those who have the mental strength will be closer to winning," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone. "We still know that we depend on ourselves." Atletico have first place, for now at least, but they might be the least convincing of all the contenders. Losing to Athletic Bilbao means they have won only six of their last 14 league games, with the momentum gained from consecutive wins over Eibar and Huesca proving short-lived. The way some of Simeone's players dropped to their knees at the final whistle suggested this result, psychologically, could be difficult to recover from. Alex Berengeur had already nodded in Ander Capa's cross in the eighth minute and Athletic should have doubled their advantage in the second half but Oihan Sancet fired over. Luis Suarez, Joao Felix and Thomas Lemar all came on and Atletico grabbed a lifeline when Stefan Savic's flicked header found its way inside the back post with 13 minutes left. Simeone pumped his fists, urging his players to seek a winner, but instead there was a sucker-punch from Athletic, Inigo Martinez darting free in the box and powering a superb header past Jan Oblak with four minutes remaining. - Griezmann fires Barca - Barcelona are surely now favourites to add a La Liga title to the Copa del Rey they won earlier this month. Villarreal struck first through Samuel Chukwueze but Griezmann equalised with a sumptuous lob before capitalising on a misplaced backpass to make it two. Helped by a red card for Villarreal's Manu Trigueros shortly after the hour, Barcelona held on for a crucial win. "The players are hungry to win another trophy," said Koeman. "The league is closer, I don't know how much closer, but it is. We are on a good run and if we win the six games left, we will be champions." Griezmann started on the bench for the defeat by Real Madrid but has been recalled for the last three games in a row, repaying the faith with a goal now in each. It remains to be seen whether Barcelona see the 30-year-old as a chance to raise funds in the summer, and also whether the offers are there, but Griezmann now has 23 goals this season, and 15 since the turn of the year. Sevilla, meanwhile, pushed their case for the title and guaranteed their place in the top four but their win over Granada will be remembered for the bizarre way it ended. Both teams were made to come back out and play another minute after referee Ricardo de Burgos admitted he blew too early for full-time. Sevilla's players had already left and some of them had started to take their kit off, with midfielder Fernando pictured without his shirt on in the stands, shaking his head in disbelief. Marcos Acuna had to put his boots, socks and shinpads back on. "The referee stopped it because he thought time was up and then he told us he'd made a mistake," said Sevilla's Lucas Ocampos. "It was finished. I've never seen anything like it. We had basically taken our kit off." Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "The really important thing is Sevilla has achieved something historic. The effort of these players has been extraordinary."

Atletico defeat by Athletic Bilbao hands initiative to Barcelona

Lionel Messi scored twice, including a stunning solo goal, as Barcelona blew away Athletic Bilbao to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, consigning their opponents to a second final defeat in two weeks.&nbsp;

The cup was won and lost in a whirlwind 12 minutes in Seville, which saw Barca score four times to clinch an emphatic 4-0 victory, with Messi at his devastating best.

It remains to be seen if his seventh Copa del Rey triumph is the last trophy Messi lifts in Barcelona colours but if this was to be a final flourish, the 33-year-old crafted a fitting farewell.&nbsp;

"It's very special to be captain of this team where I have spent my whole life and very special to be able to lift this cup," Messi said.

His first goal, and Barca's third, started with the Argentinian in his own half before a charging run down the right and a surge forward into the penalty area gave him the chance for a simple finish.&nbsp;

With the club's new president Joan Laporta in the crowd, Ronald Koeman's first title as Barcelona coach should also significantly boost his chances of remaining in charge beyond the summer.&nbsp;

"To win a title is important for me," Koeman admitted afterwards.

Yet Laporta was noticeably evasive when asked about Koeman's future.&nbsp;

"He is doing well," he said.

Koeman took over a team at rock bottom, humiliated by an historic loss to Bayern Munich and wounded by the attempts of Messi to leave the club for free.&nbsp;

But this 31st Copa del Rey success for the club is a testament to progress made and Koeman will hope it not only helps convince Messi to stay but gives Barca momentum now in a neck-and-neck title race in La Liga.

"Despite the changes at the club and the young players, at Barca you have to always fight for trophies," Koeman said.&nbsp;

"We have the first one and now we are going to fight to the last game in La Liga."

Gerard Pique said it felt like the club had been "reset".&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Turned it around' -</h2>

"Sometimes you fall down and you have to get up," Pique said. "It has been a difficult year but the team has turned it around."

Messi was sent off when Athletic Bilbao beat Barcelona, also at the La Cartuja, in January to win the Spanish Super Cup but they never looked like pulling off a repeat.&nbsp;

After Athletic lost to their Basque rivals Real Sociedad in last year's postponed final only two weeks ago, lifting themselves for another showpiece in the same stadium and against a tougher opponent was always going to be a big ask.&nbsp;

"In both finals we played well below the level that we're capable of," said Athletic coach Marcelino Garcia Toral.&nbsp;

Barcelona were almost ahead after four minutes as Sergio Busquets played in Messi, who rolled back for Frenkie de Jong but his sidefooted finish came back off the far post.&nbsp;

Sergino Dest dragged wide while Inigo Martinez had Athletic's best chance but as he stretched for the bouncing ball, he could only poke over.

Athletic seemed to have played their way into the match before half-time but Barcelona came out with renewed vigour, with Unai Simon making two brilliant saves to deny Antoine Griezmann and then Busquets, both from close range.&nbsp;

But when the resistance gave way, it became a collapse, with goals scored in the 60th, 63rd, 68th and 72nd minutes to leave Athletic's hopes in tatters.&nbsp;

First, Messi slipped in Dest down the right and his cross was diverted in by Griezmann before the second came from the opposite flank, Jordi Alba curled in a cross for De Jong to nod in.&nbsp;

The third was a spectacular from Messi, who started the move in his own half, leaping over one challenge and dodging another.&nbsp;

He took the ball back from Dest and drove down the right wing, away from three opponents and inside.&nbsp;

Messi twice played off De Jong, the second time after motoring forward into the penalty area, where he darted between two last Athletic defenders and slid the finish into the far corner.&nbsp;

His second, and Barca's fourth, was more straight-forward, Alba pulling a cross back for the Argentinian to tuck under a weak right hand from Simon and inside the post. For Athletic, there was no way back.

Lionel Messi scored twice, including a stunning solo goal, as Barcelona blew away Athletic Bilbao to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, consigning their opponents to a second final defeat in two weeks.

Lionel Messi scored twice, including a stunning solo goal, as Barcelona blew away Athletic Bilbao to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, consigning their opponents to a second final defeat in two weeks. The cup was won and lost in a whirlwind 12 minutes in Seville, which saw Barca score four times to clinch an emphatic 4-0 victory, with Messi at his devastating best. It remains to be seen if his seventh Copa del Rey triumph is the last trophy Messi lifts in Barcelona colours but if this was to be a final flourish, the 33-year-old crafted a fitting farewell. "It's very special to be captain of this team where I have spent my whole life and very special to be able to lift this cup," Messi said. His first goal, and Barca's third, started with the Argentinian in his own half before a charging run down the right and a surge forward into the penalty area gave him the chance for a simple finish. With the club's new president Joan Laporta in the crowd, Ronald Koeman's first title as Barcelona coach should also significantly boost his chances of remaining in charge beyond the summer. "To win a title is important for me," Koeman admitted afterwards. Yet Laporta was noticeably evasive when asked about Koeman's future. "He is doing well," he said. Koeman took over a team at rock bottom, humiliated by an historic loss to Bayern Munich and wounded by the attempts of Messi to leave the club for free. But this 31st Copa del Rey success for the club is a testament to progress made and Koeman will hope it not only helps convince Messi to stay but gives Barca momentum now in a neck-and-neck title race in La Liga. "Despite the changes at the club and the young players, at Barca you have to always fight for trophies," Koeman said. "We have the first one and now we are going to fight to the last game in La Liga." Gerard Pique said it felt like the club had been "reset". - 'Turned it around' - "Sometimes you fall down and you have to get up," Pique said. "It has been a difficult year but the team has turned it around." Messi was sent off when Athletic Bilbao beat Barcelona, also at the La Cartuja, in January to win the Spanish Super Cup but they never looked like pulling off a repeat. After Athletic lost to their Basque rivals Real Sociedad in last year's postponed final only two weeks ago, lifting themselves for another showpiece in the same stadium and against a tougher opponent was always going to be a big ask. "In both finals we played well below the level that we're capable of," said Athletic coach Marcelino Garcia Toral. Barcelona were almost ahead after four minutes as Sergio Busquets played in Messi, who rolled back for Frenkie de Jong but his sidefooted finish came back off the far post. Sergino Dest dragged wide while Inigo Martinez had Athletic's best chance but as he stretched for the bouncing ball, he could only poke over. Athletic seemed to have played their way into the match before half-time but Barcelona came out with renewed vigour, with Unai Simon making two brilliant saves to deny Antoine Griezmann and then Busquets, both from close range. But when the resistance gave way, it became a collapse, with goals scored in the 60th, 63rd, 68th and 72nd minutes to leave Athletic's hopes in tatters. First, Messi slipped in Dest down the right and his cross was diverted in by Griezmann before the second came from the opposite flank, Jordi Alba curled in a cross for De Jong to nod in. The third was a spectacular from Messi, who started the move in his own half, leaping over one challenge and dodging another. He took the ball back from Dest and drove down the right wing, away from three opponents and inside. Messi twice played off De Jong, the second time after motoring forward into the penalty area, where he darted between two last Athletic defenders and slid the finish into the far corner. His second, and Barca's fourth, was more straight-forward, Alba pulling a cross back for the Argentinian to tuck under a weak right hand from Simon and inside the post. For Athletic, there was no way back.

Sensational Messi scores twice as Barca beat Athletic to win Copa del Rey

Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas.&nbsp;

Benzema's superb piece of skill and a deflected Toni Kroos free-kick put Madrid in charge and while Oscar Mingueza pulled one back for Barca, they fell to defeat in what could be Lionel Messi's final appearance in this fixture.

Victory means Real Madrid go level on points with Atletico, with the top three now separated by a single point.&nbsp;

Atletico, without the injured Luis Suarez, face Real Betis on Sunday.&nbsp;

But Real Madrid now own the better head-to-head against both of their rivals while Barcelona and Atletico still have to play each other at Camp Nou in the run-in.

With Atletico stumbling and both Barca and Real Madrid hitting their stride, this game looked set to define, if not the title, then who would become favourites to be crowned champions in May.&nbsp;

The result was a riveting contest at a rain-soaked Alfredo di Stefano stadium - certainly one of the most exciting Clasicos in years - that saw both teams squander numerous chances, several efforts come back off the woodwork and Casemiro sent off in extra time. &nbsp;

With the last play of the game, Barcelona substitute Ilaix Moriba rattled Real Madrid's crossbar.

"We're still in it," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman.&nbsp;

"We've lost a game against a team who is also fighting for the league but we have eight game left and we will fight to the end."

Casemiro's red card had also given Messi a free-kick and the chance for a dramatic equaliser but instead the Argentinian made it seven games now without a goal against Real Madrid, with many wondering if his 45th Clasico will be his last.&nbsp;

Messi might yet turn the tide in the eight games still remaining but there is no doubt Madrid are in the groove after backing up beating Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday with another crucial victory.

They can finish the job in the Champions League at Anfield next week although Zinedine Zidane admitted afterwards his players are "physically at their limit".&nbsp;

"It was a difficult game, the first half was ours, but we suffered in the second," said Zidane. "We deserved the victory, because we had a lot of chances to score the third."

A breathless first half began with chances for both sides as Marc-Andre ter Stegen's sloppy clearance almost gave Benzema a clear run at goal before Messi slipped in Jordi Alba but the cross was intercepted by Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;

Real Madrid's opener came after a superb counter-attack from Barcelona, Messi going down too easily on the edge of the area, with Madrid pouring forward on the break.&nbsp;

Fede Valverde powered through midfield and fed wide to Lucas Vazquez, whose cross was expertly flicked inside the near post by Benzema.&nbsp;

The goal shook Barca, who were unable to restrain the speed of Madrid and particularly Vinicius Junior on the break.&nbsp;

Vinicius was brought down by Ronald Araujo on the edge of the area and Kroos' free-kick cannoned off the back off Sergino Dest and in, evading the efforts of Alba to head away on the line.&nbsp;

Valverde and Messi both struck the post before half-time, Valverde after another scintillating Madrid counter-attack and Messi from a corner, with Courtois beaten.&nbsp;

Koeman brought Antoine Griezmann on for Dest but as the rain poured down, Madrid poured forward. Kroos and Benzema both could have scored a third and they were punished for failing to capitalise.&nbsp;

Griezmann jumped over Alba's cross and as the ball skidded through, Mingueza did well to shin it into the net.&nbsp;

Araujo deflected Vinicius' cross onto his own post and Alba was denied by Courtois. Again, Madrid tore away, again they missed the chance, Vinicius running onto Luka Modric's pass but opting not to shoot, allowing Araujo to clear.&nbsp;

With 20 minutes left, Zidane took off Benzema, Vinicius and Kroos.&nbsp;

Referee Gil Manzano had to replace his equipment because of the rain. Messi changed his shirt for a dry one.&nbsp;

Barcelona wantd a late penalty when Ferland Mendy clipped Martin Braithwaite with his arm but the appeal was optimistic.&nbsp;

Casemiro was sent off in the 90th minute for a late challenge on Mingueza, that gave Messi a free-kick on the edge of the area but Courtois saved.&nbsp;

With Ter Stegen up and almost the last kick of the game, Ilaix rattled the crossbar. Madrid survived.&nbsp;

Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas.

Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas. Benzema's superb piece of skill and a deflected Toni Kroos free-kick put Madrid in charge and while Oscar Mingueza pulled one back for Barca, they fell to defeat in what could be Lionel Messi's final appearance in this fixture. Victory means Real Madrid go level on points with Atletico, with the top three now separated by a single point. Atletico, without the injured Luis Suarez, face Real Betis on Sunday. But Real Madrid now own the better head-to-head against both of their rivals while Barcelona and Atletico still have to play each other at Camp Nou in the run-in. With Atletico stumbling and both Barca and Real Madrid hitting their stride, this game looked set to define, if not the title, then who would become favourites to be crowned champions in May. The result was a riveting contest at a rain-soaked Alfredo di Stefano stadium - certainly one of the most exciting Clasicos in years - that saw both teams squander numerous chances, several efforts come back off the woodwork and Casemiro sent off in extra time. With the last play of the game, Barcelona substitute Ilaix Moriba rattled Real Madrid's crossbar. "We're still in it," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "We've lost a game against a team who is also fighting for the league but we have eight game left and we will fight to the end." Casemiro's red card had also given Messi a free-kick and the chance for a dramatic equaliser but instead the Argentinian made it seven games now without a goal against Real Madrid, with many wondering if his 45th Clasico will be his last. Messi might yet turn the tide in the eight games still remaining but there is no doubt Madrid are in the groove after backing up beating Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday with another crucial victory. They can finish the job in the Champions League at Anfield next week although Zinedine Zidane admitted afterwards his players are "physically at their limit". "It was a difficult game, the first half was ours, but we suffered in the second," said Zidane. "We deserved the victory, because we had a lot of chances to score the third." A breathless first half began with chances for both sides as Marc-Andre ter Stegen's sloppy clearance almost gave Benzema a clear run at goal before Messi slipped in Jordi Alba but the cross was intercepted by Thibaut Courtois. Real Madrid's opener came after a superb counter-attack from Barcelona, Messi going down too easily on the edge of the area, with Madrid pouring forward on the break. Fede Valverde powered through midfield and fed wide to Lucas Vazquez, whose cross was expertly flicked inside the near post by Benzema. The goal shook Barca, who were unable to restrain the speed of Madrid and particularly Vinicius Junior on the break. Vinicius was brought down by Ronald Araujo on the edge of the area and Kroos' free-kick cannoned off the back off Sergino Dest and in, evading the efforts of Alba to head away on the line. Valverde and Messi both struck the post before half-time, Valverde after another scintillating Madrid counter-attack and Messi from a corner, with Courtois beaten. Koeman brought Antoine Griezmann on for Dest but as the rain poured down, Madrid poured forward. Kroos and Benzema both could have scored a third and they were punished for failing to capitalise. Griezmann jumped over Alba's cross and as the ball skidded through, Mingueza did well to shin it into the net. Araujo deflected Vinicius' cross onto his own post and Alba was denied by Courtois. Again, Madrid tore away, again they missed the chance, Vinicius running onto Luka Modric's pass but opting not to shoot, allowing Araujo to clear. With 20 minutes left, Zidane took off Benzema, Vinicius and Kroos. Referee Gil Manzano had to replace his equipment because of the rain. Messi changed his shirt for a dry one. Barcelona wantd a late penalty when Ferland Mendy clipped Martin Braithwaite with his arm but the appeal was optimistic. Casemiro was sent off in the 90th minute for a late challenge on Mingueza, that gave Messi a free-kick on the edge of the area but Courtois saved. With Ter Stegen up and almost the last kick of the game, Ilaix rattled the crossbar. Madrid survived.

Real Madrid edge thrilling Clasico to go top of La Liga

Midfielders are the leaders in the thick of the action, the craftsmen who ensure the ball follows its intended course; they're the ones responsible for making sure the team functions like a well-oiled machine.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zidane-hopes-there-will-be-more-clasicos-for-messi-and-ramos-376467" hreflang="en">Zidane hopes there will be more Clasicos for Messi and Ramos</a>

El Clasico brings together some of LaLiga Santander's best midfielders – and true trailblazers in this position – to pitch battle.

Toni Kroos, the most reliable midfielder

With a 93.52% pass completion rate, Real Madrid’s midfielder,&nbsp;Toni Kroos&nbsp;takes the crown as the player on either side with the best passing accuracy, nearing perfection in the 1,882 passes he has completed this season. German precision also makes him the midfielder with the best percentage of successful passes in the opposition half, with 92.29%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="mm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="baa72cd0-315a-4c4f-a417-2252492b0ce3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Toni%20Kroos%20%28Real%20Madrid%29.jpeg" /> 
Photo credit: LaLiga</h6>

He is closely followed by FC Barcelona midfielders&nbsp;Frenkie de Jong, who has notched up a passing accuracy of 91.83%, and&nbsp;Sergio Busquets.

We know that the work of midfielders is crucial to both teams, and ElClasico may well be decided in the middle of the park. So, in addition to reliability, let's analyse some of the stats behind the midfielders turning up to the season's most anticipated face-off and determine who the leaders are in each position.&nbsp;

Toni Kroos, the midfielder with the most assists&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="mm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="271596ca-bd0c-479e-a1c8-38c7408d06ea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ENG_Toni%20Kroos%20season%20stats.jpeg" /> 
Photo credit: LaLiga</h6>

The German midfielder comes out on top again, and with good reason! We are talking about one of the biggest stars in every match Real Madrid play. He is the organizer and navigator for&nbsp;Los Blancos&nbsp;and, with eight assists, he once again not only stands as the midfielder who has set up most goals this season among the long-standing rivals but also the second-highest in assists in LaLiga Santander, along with Leo Messi and Marcos Llorente.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Frenkie&nbsp;de Jong, the midfielder with the most passes&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="vv" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e488ec52-a381-424e-b28f-e644b69ffb2c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Frenkie%20de%20Jong%20%28FC%20Barcelona%29.jpeg" /> 
Photo credit: LaLiga</h6>

FC Barcelona's playmaker midfielder leads the pack in this position for the most passes made this season. The Dutch player has been a genuine mainstay for FC Barcelona this term, having played 2,455 minutes and completed 2,227 passes – nearly one pass per minute! An amazing achievement if we take into account the possession percentage of each team throughout the game. Despite not being a 'true' goal threat, he has scored three and produced four assists in LaLiga Santander to date.&nbsp;

Casemiro, the best midfielder at winning the ball back&nbsp;

The scales on this occasion tilt decidedly in the direction of Real Madrid, with the Brazilian positioned, thanks to winning the ball back 58 times, as the player who has regained possession the most this season between the two teams set to play in El Clasico this weekend. He also ranks second highest in winning the ball back in LaLiga Santander, behind only D. Alaves’ Ruben Duarte.

Casemiro's job is absolutely vital. With his strong defensive profile, he plays an essential role for&nbsp;Los Blancos&nbsp;not only in winning the ball back and initiating counterattacks but also as a key disruptor of the opponent's game.&nbsp;

Luka Modric, the leading midfielder in attempted dribbles&nbsp;

Another leading stat for Real Madrid, with Luka Modric a cut above the rest among the players on either sides when it comes to dribbling. The Croatian midfielder has attempted the most dribbles this season, a total of 63, of which he has successfully completed 74.6%. He has established himself as another key cog in the centre of the pitch for Zidane’s side and is also the player who has beaten the most opponents in LaLiga Santander when running with the ball. Frenkie de Jong, with 53, takes the second position among the players with the most dribbles. In third is Real Madrid's&nbsp;'Isco'&nbsp;with 31 attempted dribbles and a success rate of 83.87%.&nbsp;

But these are not the only midfielders arriving at the top of their game and ready to rumble. At FC Barcelona, young talents such as&nbsp;Pedri, having netted two goals, and&nbsp;Riqui Puig&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ilaix Moriba, with a goal each, have stealthily been developing match after match and are more than ready to form part of Koeman's starting line-up for El Clasico. In addition, the Dutch coach also has Miralem Pjanic, who has played 600 minutes this season, at his disposal.&nbsp;

In the opposing midfield, Real Madrid have&nbsp;Lucas Vazquez&nbsp;and&nbsp;Fede Valverde&nbsp;to complete possible line-ups for the iconic encounter on Saturday, 10 April. Uruguay's Valverde already knows what it is like to score in a match of this importance, having netted the opener in the first EL Clasico this season played at the Camp Nou.

Watch ElClasico tonight live and exclusive at 00.30 AM&nbsp;on Facebook Watch

Midfielders are the leaders in the thick of the action, the craftsmen who ensure the ball follows its intended course; they're the ones responsible for making sure the team functions like a well-oiled machine.

Midfielders are the leaders in the thick of the action, the craftsmen who ensure the ball follows its intended course; they're the ones responsible for making sure the team functions like a well-oiled machine. ALSO READ: Zidane hopes there will be more Clasicos for Messi and Ramos El Clasico brings together some of LaLiga Santander's best midfielders – and true trailblazers in this position – to pitch battle. Toni Kroos, the most reliable midfielder With a 93.52% pass completion rate, Real Madrid’s midfielder, Toni Kroos takes the crown as the player on either side with the best passing accuracy, nearing perfection in the 1,882 passes he has completed this season. German precision also makes him the midfielder with the best percentage of successful passes in the opposition half, with 92.29%. Photo credit: LaLiga He is closely followed by FC Barcelona midfielders Frenkie de Jong, who has notched up a passing accuracy of 91.83%, and Sergio Busquets. We know that the work of midfielders is crucial to both teams, and ElClasico may well be decided in the middle of the park. So, in addition to reliability, let's analyse some of the stats behind the midfielders turning up to the season's most anticipated face-off and determine who the leaders are in each position. Toni Kroos, the midfielder with the most assists Photo credit: LaLiga The German midfielder comes out on top again, and with good reason! We are talking about one of the biggest stars in every match Real Madrid play. He is the organizer and navigator for Los Blancos and, with eight assists, he once again not only stands as the midfielder who has set up most goals this season among the long-standing rivals but also the second-highest in assists in LaLiga Santander, along with Leo Messi and Marcos Llorente. Frenkie de Jong, the midfielder with the most passes Photo credit: LaLiga FC Barcelona's playmaker midfielder leads the pack in this position for the most passes made this season. The Dutch player has been a genuine mainstay for FC Barcelona this term, having played 2,455 minutes and completed 2,227 passes – nearly one pass per minute! An amazing achievement if we take into account the possession percentage of each team throughout the game. Despite not being a 'true' goal threat, he has scored three and produced four assists in LaLiga Santander to date. Casemiro, the best midfielder at winning the ball back The scales on this occasion tilt decidedly in the direction of Real Madrid, with the Brazilian positioned, thanks to winning the ball back 58 times, as the player who has regained possession the most this season between the two teams set to play in El Clasico this weekend. He also ranks second highest in winning the ball back in LaLiga Santander, behind only D. Alaves’ Ruben Duarte. Casemiro's job is absolutely vital. With his strong defensive profile, he plays an essential role for Los Blancos not only in winning the ball back and initiating counterattacks but also as a key disruptor of the opponent's game. Luka Modric, the leading midfielder in attempted dribbles Another leading stat for Real Madrid, with Luka Modric a cut above the rest among the players on either sides when it comes to dribbling. The Croatian midfielder has attempted the most dribbles this season, a total of 63, of which he has successfully completed 74.6%. He has established himself as another key cog in the centre of the pitch for Zidane’s side and is also the player who has beaten the most opponents in LaLiga Santander when running with the ball. Frenkie de Jong, with 53, takes the second position among the players with the most dribbles. In third is Real Madrid's 'Isco' with 31 attempted dribbles and a success rate of 83.87%. But these are not the only midfielders arriving at the top of their game and ready to rumble. At FC Barcelona, young talents such as Pedri, having netted two goals, and Riqui Puig and Ilaix Moriba, with a goal each, have stealthily been developing match after match and are more than ready to form part of Koeman's starting line-up for El Clasico. In addition, the Dutch coach also has Miralem Pjanic, who has played 600 minutes this season, at his disposal. In the opposing midfield, Real Madrid have Lucas Vazquez and Fede Valverde to complete possible line-ups for the iconic encounter on Saturday, 10 April. Uruguay's Valverde already knows what it is like to score in a match of this importance, having netted the opener in the first EL Clasico this season played at the Camp Nou. Watch ElClasico tonight live and exclusive at 00.30 AM on Facebook Watch

Breaking it down: El Clasico’s statistical midfield match-ups

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga.&nbsp;

Barca looked set for a damaging stalemate at Camp Nou after Atletico's defeat by Sevilla on Saturday but Valladolid had Oscar Plano harshly sent off with 12 minutes left and Dembele snatched a 1-0 victory.&nbsp;

His strike could prove a crucial moment in the Spanish title race, with Barca now breathing down Atletico's necks ahead of Saturday's meeting with Real Madrid, who are three points off the top.&nbsp;

If Ronald Koeman's men win at Valdebebas, they will claim first place for 24 hours at least, before a depleted and deflated Atletico play away at Real Betis on Sunday.&nbsp;

They will have to play better after being frustrated by a determined Valladolid side, with Lionel Messi delivering some firm words to his team-mates in the tunnel at half-time.&nbsp;

"We have to step it up a gear, we have to play with more rhythm," Messi said. "If not it's going to get complicated for us."&nbsp;

It might have been more complicated had Plano not been shown a red card in the 78th minute, his hack on Dembele from behind giving Barca a crucial advantage for the final stages.&nbsp;

"We struggled in the first half, to create scoring opportunities in attack, and also at the back, our pressing was not very good," said Koeman. "I saw a Barca that was a little slow, tired, we did not have control of the game.

"In the second half we have improved. We have shown that without playing well, we are capable of winning games."

Victory makes it six in a row for them in La Liga, another win - particularly after an unconvincing performance - enhancing the sense that momentum now lies with Atletico's rivals.

Defeat also compounded what Valladolid coach Sergio admitted on Sunday had already been a "sh**ty week" after five of his players tested positive for Covid-19, leaving him without 12 players, with six others injured and one more suspended.&nbsp;

To mark Messi breaking Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for the club, he was presented with a framed shirt before kick-off, which he accepted with his family on the pitch. Messi passed Xavi's previous record of 767 appearances last month, with this his 769th.&nbsp;

Valladolid were not just able to compete in the first half, they were probably the better side and could have led when Kenan Kodro's early header struck the bar.&nbsp;

Dembele broke through and dragged back for Messi, whose shot was blocked, while Pedri's long-range effort fizzed through and came back off the post.&nbsp;

But Barcelona were flat, their passing predictable and there was concern in Messi's voice when he told his team-mates to find a different gear in the second half.&nbsp;

Valladolid were almost undone by a Messi through ball for Dembele, who held his run but could not finish before the leaping Antoine Griezmann headed the rebound wide.&nbsp;

Barcelona looked more dangerous on the break than in possession and they were lucky to escape a penalty when Oscar Plano poked the ball onto the outstetched hand of Jordi Alba.&nbsp;

Koeman made three changes shortly after, Martin Braithwaite, Francisco Trincao and Ronald Araujo replacing Griezmann, Sergio Busquets and Oscar Mingueza.&nbsp;

But Barca's biggest boost came 12 minutes from the end, when Plano was sent off for chasing Dembele back and tripping the Frenchman from behind. A yellow card seemed the more obvious decision.

Trincao went close and the winner came in the last minute as Frenkie de Jong's cross was flicked to the back post by Ronald Aruajo. Dembele was free and lashed into the corner.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga.

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga. Barca looked set for a damaging stalemate at Camp Nou after Atletico's defeat by Sevilla on Saturday but Valladolid had Oscar Plano harshly sent off with 12 minutes left and Dembele snatched a 1-0 victory. His strike could prove a crucial moment in the Spanish title race, with Barca now breathing down Atletico's necks ahead of Saturday's meeting with Real Madrid, who are three points off the top. If Ronald Koeman's men win at Valdebebas, they will claim first place for 24 hours at least, before a depleted and deflated Atletico play away at Real Betis on Sunday. They will have to play better after being frustrated by a determined Valladolid side, with Lionel Messi delivering some firm words to his team-mates in the tunnel at half-time. "We have to step it up a gear, we have to play with more rhythm," Messi said. "If not it's going to get complicated for us." It might have been more complicated had Plano not been shown a red card in the 78th minute, his hack on Dembele from behind giving Barca a crucial advantage for the final stages. "We struggled in the first half, to create scoring opportunities in attack, and also at the back, our pressing was not very good," said Koeman. "I saw a Barca that was a little slow, tired, we did not have control of the game. "In the second half we have improved. We have shown that without playing well, we are capable of winning games." Victory makes it six in a row for them in La Liga, another win - particularly after an unconvincing performance - enhancing the sense that momentum now lies with Atletico's rivals. Defeat also compounded what Valladolid coach Sergio admitted on Sunday had already been a "sh**ty week" after five of his players tested positive for Covid-19, leaving him without 12 players, with six others injured and one more suspended. To mark Messi breaking Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for the club, he was presented with a framed shirt before kick-off, which he accepted with his family on the pitch. Messi passed Xavi's previous record of 767 appearances last month, with this his 769th. Valladolid were not just able to compete in the first half, they were probably the better side and could have led when Kenan Kodro's early header struck the bar. Dembele broke through and dragged back for Messi, whose shot was blocked, while Pedri's long-range effort fizzed through and came back off the post. But Barcelona were flat, their passing predictable and there was concern in Messi's voice when he told his team-mates to find a different gear in the second half. Valladolid were almost undone by a Messi through ball for Dembele, who held his run but could not finish before the leaping Antoine Griezmann headed the rebound wide. Barcelona looked more dangerous on the break than in possession and they were lucky to escape a penalty when Oscar Plano poked the ball onto the outstetched hand of Jordi Alba. Koeman made three changes shortly after, Martin Braithwaite, Francisco Trincao and Ronald Araujo replacing Griezmann, Sergio Busquets and Oscar Mingueza. But Barca's biggest boost came 12 minutes from the end, when Plano was sent off for chasing Dembele back and tripping the Frenchman from behind. A yellow card seemed the more obvious decision. Trincao went close and the winner came in the last minute as Frenkie de Jong's cross was flicked to the back post by Ronald Aruajo. Dembele was free and lashed into the corner.

Barca edge closer to Atletico after late Dembele winner against Valladolid

An impromptu party took place in Barcelona's beach define COVID-19 restrictions. As per the police dozens of people danced on the beach despite repeated warning that they were breaking health regulations.

Barcelona: People continued to party despite warnings from Police

Music fans in Barcelona had rapid COVID-19 tests ahead of attending a rock concert on Saturday in a trial that, if successful, could provide a route to recovery for the ravaged live music industry in Spain and beyond. 
 
Some 5,000 people will attend the sold-out concert for Spanish indie band Love of Lesbian, and will not be required to observe social distancing. Attendees will have to wear face masks throughout the concert in the Palau Sant Jordi arena. 
 
"(This concert) is about the excitement of going out, consuming culture, and dancing in a more or less safe environment," said Sebastian, 47, a teacher getting tested ahead of the concert. "We`re going to dance and have a great time." 
 
The pilot concert, which has been approved by health authorities, will serve as a test for whether similar events will be able to start up again. 
"It will be safer to be in the Palau Sant Jordi than walking down the street," concert co-organiser Jordi Herreruela told Reuters. 
Pre-concert testing was offered at three locations in Barcelona and carried out by 80 nurses wearing full personal protective equipment. Some people winced as nurses swabbed their noses. 
 
By midday, of the 2,400 people already screened, three had tested positive and one had come into contact with a positive case, Dr Josep Maria Libre, one of the doctors overseeing the testing, told Reuters. They would not be able to attend the concert and would get a refund. 
Attendees received the results of their antigen tests in 10 to 15 minutes via an app on their phones. The test and a mask were included in the ticket price. 
 
"People have understood perfectly the measures we`re adopting," said co-organiser Dani Poveda. 
 
"It is a very responsible audience... We know everyone will be looking at this concert as a possible model for how to keep advancing in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused so much damage, both to our sector and many others."

Music fans in Barcelona had rapid COVID-19 tests ahead of attending a rock concert on Saturday in a trial that, if successful, could provide a route to recovery for the ravaged live music industry in Spain and beyond.

Music fans in Barcelona had rapid COVID-19 tests ahead of attending a rock concert on Saturday in a trial that, if successful, could provide a route to recovery for the ravaged live music industry in Spain and beyond. Some 5,000 people will attend the sold-out concert for Spanish indie band Love of Lesbian, and will not be required to observe social distancing. Attendees will have to wear face masks throughout the concert in the Palau Sant Jordi arena. "(This concert) is about the excitement of going out, consuming culture, and dancing in a more or less safe environment," said Sebastian, 47, a teacher getting tested ahead of the concert. "We`re going to dance and have a great time." The pilot concert, which has been approved by health authorities, will serve as a test for whether similar events will be able to start up again. "It will be safer to be in the Palau Sant Jordi than walking down the street," concert co-organiser Jordi Herreruela told Reuters. Pre-concert testing was offered at three locations in Barcelona and carried out by 80 nurses wearing full personal protective equipment. Some people winced as nurses swabbed their noses. By midday, of the 2,400 people already screened, three had tested positive and one had come into contact with a positive case, Dr Josep Maria Libre, one of the doctors overseeing the testing, told Reuters. They would not be able to attend the concert and would get a refund. Attendees received the results of their antigen tests in 10 to 15 minutes via an app on their phones. The test and a mask were included in the ticket price. "People have understood perfectly the measures we`re adopting," said co-organiser Dani Poveda. "It is a very responsible audience... We know everyone will be looking at this concert as a possible model for how to keep advancing in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused so much damage, both to our sector and many others."

5,000 music fans have COVID tests before non-distanced concert in Barcelona

Lionel Messi celebrated becoming Barcelona's highest appearance maker of all time by scoring twice as his rampant side crushed Real Sociedad 6-1 away in La Liga on Sunday with a stunning team display.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-incredible-pep-guardiola-lauds-manchester-citys-match-winning-form-372030" hreflang="en">'It's incredible': Pep Guardiola lauds Manchester City's match-winning form</a>

Antoine Griezmann opened the scoring by netting against his old club in the 36th minute and right back Sergino Dest stretched Barca's lead shortly before halftime after latching on to a sweeping pass from Messi.

Dest struck again early in the second half before Messi controlled a sumptuous pass from Sergio Busquets and scored to mark a night on which he overtook Xavi Hernandez as Barca's record appearance maker, with 768 games for the club.

Ousmane Dembele struck his side's fifth goal of the night in the 71st minute after a brilliant solo run while Sociedad's Ander Barrenetxea hit arguably the best goal of the game to give his side a rare moment of joy.

Messi, however, had the final say, finishing off a flowing team move in the 89th minute to score his 23rd league goal of the season, increasing his lead at the top of the scoring charts.

The victory took Barca above Real Madrid into second place in the standings on 62 points, four behind leaders Atletico Madrid with 10 games left to play.

"This is a difficult place to come, Barca always used to struggle here but we came flying out of the blocks," said Griezmann.

"We worked very hard, we won the ball lots of times deep in their half and reacted well every time we lost it. It was a great Barcelona performance."

Barca used to dread facing Sociedad away from home, failing to beat them in San Sebastian for more than a decade, and even though they ended up hammering the Basques they did not get off to the best start.

Sociedad forward Alexander Isak should have given the hosts an early lead from close range but could only shoot straight at keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who denied the Swede again moments before Dest doubled Barca's lead.

"This wasn't our best game and they were clearly better than us and overwhelmed us," said Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal.

"They were more ruthless than us; we went into halftime feeling bad as they scored all their chances while we couldn't convert ours and the second half was very different as a result. But no-one likes to lose like that."

Lionel Messi celebrated becoming Barcelona's highest appearance maker of all time by scoring twice as his rampant side crushed Real Sociedad 6-1 away in La Liga on Sunday with a stunning team display.

Lionel Messi celebrated becoming Barcelona's highest appearance maker of all time by scoring twice as his rampant side crushed Real Sociedad 6-1 away in La Liga on Sunday with a stunning team display. ALSO READ: 'It's incredible': Pep Guardiola lauds Manchester City's match-winning form Antoine Griezmann opened the scoring by netting against his old club in the 36th minute and right back Sergino Dest stretched Barca's lead shortly before halftime after latching on to a sweeping pass from Messi. Dest struck again early in the second half before Messi controlled a sumptuous pass from Sergio Busquets and scored to mark a night on which he overtook Xavi Hernandez as Barca's record appearance maker, with 768 games for the club. Ousmane Dembele struck his side's fifth goal of the night in the 71st minute after a brilliant solo run while Sociedad's Ander Barrenetxea hit arguably the best goal of the game to give his side a rare moment of joy. Messi, however, had the final say, finishing off a flowing team move in the 89th minute to score his 23rd league goal of the season, increasing his lead at the top of the scoring charts. The victory took Barca above Real Madrid into second place in the standings on 62 points, four behind leaders Atletico Madrid with 10 games left to play. "This is a difficult place to come, Barca always used to struggle here but we came flying out of the blocks," said Griezmann. "We worked very hard, we won the ball lots of times deep in their half and reacted well every time we lost it. It was a great Barcelona performance." Barca used to dread facing Sociedad away from home, failing to beat them in San Sebastian for more than a decade, and even though they ended up hammering the Basques they did not get off to the best start. Sociedad forward Alexander Isak should have given the hosts an early lead from close range but could only shoot straight at keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who denied the Swede again moments before Dest doubled Barca's lead. "This wasn't our best game and they were clearly better than us and overwhelmed us," said Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal. "They were more ruthless than us; we went into halftime feeling bad as they scored all their chances while we couldn't convert ours and the second half was very different as a result. But no-one likes to lose like that."

Record-breaking Messi scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Sociedad 6-1

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.&nbsp;

Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner.&nbsp;

"He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us."

Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time.&nbsp;

But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid.

Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals.&nbsp;

"He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra."

Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form.

They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May.&nbsp;

Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself.&nbsp;

"You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona."

"We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar.&nbsp;

Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in.&nbsp;

Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in.&nbsp;

Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out.&nbsp;

De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake.&nbsp;

Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday. Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner. "He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us." Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time. But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid. Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals. "He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra." Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form. They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May. Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself. "You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona." "We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar. Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in. Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in. Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out. De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake. Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Messi celebrates levelling Xavi record with double against Huesca

Lionel Messi scored one stunning goal but then had a penalty saved as Barcelona failed in their attempt to produce a second Champions League comeback for the ages against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, a 1-1 draw taking the French side through to the quarter-finals 5-2 on aggregate.

Kylian Mbappe netted a hat-trick as PSG stunned Barca 4-1 in the first leg last month, and he extended their advantage in this last-16 tie by netting a first-half penalty in the second leg to put last season's runners-up ahead on the night.

But Messi made it 1-1 with a ferocious strike from 30 metres and the Argentine had the chance to put the visitors ahead after Antoine Griezmann was fouled in the area, only for the outstanding Keylor Navas to tip his spot-kick onto the bar.

Barcelona certainly went for it, but there was to be no repeat of their infamous recovery against the same opponents four years ago, when they lost the first leg 4-0 but triumphed 6-1 in the return.

It is the first time they have gone out before the quarter-finals since 2007 and, after Juventus were knocked out on Tuesday, neither Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo will feature in the last eight for the first time since 2005.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman can nevertheless be encouraged by the way his team played on a cold, wet and windy night at an empty Parc des Princes.

"We are out, and that is what counts in our sport, but we can feel good about it because we had chances to make life difficult for our opponents," Koeman told Movistar Plus.

"We deserved more, and things could have been different had it been 2-1 at half-time."

Barcelona have been a club in crisis for some time but they have a new president in Joan Laporta, who will hope to restore calm at boardroom level, and they can still hope to finish the season strongly domestically.

Meanwhile PSG are safely through to the quarter-finals as they look to go one better than last season and win the Champions League for the first time.

They will feel this tie marks another step forward in their quest to become Europe's dominant force, after three defeats at Barcelona's hands in knockout ties since the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of a decade ago.

<h2>- Mbappe's tie, Navas' night -</h2>

Victory was achieved despite Neymar missing both legs due to injury, with Mbappe providing enough stardust on his own.

Yet after lighting up the first leg, the French World Cup winner found the going tougher in the return, and coach Mauricio Pochettino will face some questions about his side's approach.

"We are in the quarter-finals and we are very happy," he told RMC Sport, adding: "Sometimes in football you need to be prepared to suffer."

There were jitters, with Barcelona dominating almost from the first minute and squandering chance after chance in the opening half-hour.

Poor decision-making from Ousmane Dembele did not help the away side, although he also saw one ball across the face of goal just escape the outstretched leg of Messi.

As an impromptu fireworks display broke out just outside the stadium, Navas then produced his first superb save midway through the first half when he turned Sergino Dest's shot onto the woodwork, and it was against the run of play that PSG went ahead.

Clement Lenglet caught the heel of Mauro Icardi in the area in the 28th minute, a foul that was almost invisible on first viewing but was confirmed by English referee Anthony Taylor after a VAR review.

Mbappe scored from the spot for his fourth goal in the tie and his 26th of the season.

Barcelona kept coming though, and Messi equalised with a shot from range that was like a tracer bullet that whistled into the top corner, not the kind of goal he scores often.

It was his 25th this season, and he could have scored again in first-half stoppage time as Layvin Kurzawa was penalised for catching Griezmann in the box.

However, Messi was denied by Navas, the former Real Madrid goalkeeper dousing Barcelona's hopes as he continued to do in the second half.

"Navas had a brilliant game. He is a world-class goalkeeper and you saw that tonight," said Pochettino.

Lionel Messi scored one stunning goal but then had a penalty saved as Barcelona failed in their attempt to produce a second Champions League comeback for the ages against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, a 1-1 draw taking the French side through to the quarter-finals 5-2 on aggregate.

Lionel Messi scored one stunning goal but then had a penalty saved as Barcelona failed in their attempt to produce a second Champions League comeback for the ages against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, a 1-1 draw taking the French side through to the quarter-finals 5-2 on aggregate. Kylian Mbappe netted a hat-trick as PSG stunned Barca 4-1 in the first leg last month, and he extended their advantage in this last-16 tie by netting a first-half penalty in the second leg to put last season's runners-up ahead on the night. But Messi made it 1-1 with a ferocious strike from 30 metres and the Argentine had the chance to put the visitors ahead after Antoine Griezmann was fouled in the area, only for the outstanding Keylor Navas to tip his spot-kick onto the bar. Barcelona certainly went for it, but there was to be no repeat of their infamous recovery against the same opponents four years ago, when they lost the first leg 4-0 but triumphed 6-1 in the return. It is the first time they have gone out before the quarter-finals since 2007 and, after Juventus were knocked out on Tuesday, neither Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo will feature in the last eight for the first time since 2005. Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman can nevertheless be encouraged by the way his team played on a cold, wet and windy night at an empty Parc des Princes. "We are out, and that is what counts in our sport, but we can feel good about it because we had chances to make life difficult for our opponents," Koeman told Movistar Plus. "We deserved more, and things could have been different had it been 2-1 at half-time." Barcelona have been a club in crisis for some time but they have a new president in Joan Laporta, who will hope to restore calm at boardroom level, and they can still hope to finish the season strongly domestically. Meanwhile PSG are safely through to the quarter-finals as they look to go one better than last season and win the Champions League for the first time. They will feel this tie marks another step forward in their quest to become Europe's dominant force, after three defeats at Barcelona's hands in knockout ties since the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of a decade ago. - Mbappe's tie, Navas' night - Victory was achieved despite Neymar missing both legs due to injury, with Mbappe providing enough stardust on his own. Yet after lighting up the first leg, the French World Cup winner found the going tougher in the return, and coach Mauricio Pochettino will face some questions about his side's approach. "We are in the quarter-finals and we are very happy," he told RMC Sport, adding: "Sometimes in football you need to be prepared to suffer." There were jitters, with Barcelona dominating almost from the first minute and squandering chance after chance in the opening half-hour. Poor decision-making from Ousmane Dembele did not help the away side, although he also saw one ball across the face of goal just escape the outstretched leg of Messi. As an impromptu fireworks display broke out just outside the stadium, Navas then produced his first superb save midway through the first half when he turned Sergino Dest's shot onto the woodwork, and it was against the run of play that PSG went ahead. Clement Lenglet caught the heel of Mauro Icardi in the area in the 28th minute, a foul that was almost invisible on first viewing but was confirmed by English referee Anthony Taylor after a VAR review. Mbappe scored from the spot for his fourth goal in the tie and his 26th of the season. Barcelona kept coming though, and Messi equalised with a shot from range that was like a tracer bullet that whistled into the top corner, not the kind of goal he scores often. It was his 25th this season, and he could have scored again in first-half stoppage time as Layvin Kurzawa was penalised for catching Griezmann in the box. However, Messi was denied by Navas, the former Real Madrid goalkeeper dousing Barcelona's hopes as he continued to do in the second half. "Navas had a brilliant game. He is a world-class goalkeeper and you saw that tonight," said Pochettino.

Messi misses penalty as Barcelona fail in latest PSG comeback attempt

Joan Laporta returned as Barcelona president on Sunday after winning the club's elections by a landslide, with his central pledge to try to persuade Lionel Messi to stay.&nbsp;

Laporta was last president at Barca between 2003 and 2010, which included overseeing the hugely successful appointment of Pep Guardiola as coach and the iconic treble-winning team of 2008/9.&nbsp;

In total, the club won four La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues during Laporta's seven-year spell in charge.

The 58-year-old will return after holding off competition from Victor Font and Toni Freixa, the other two candidates to gain enough support to make the final stage.&nbsp;

Laporta won 30,184 votes, Font 16,679 and Freixa 4,769 from a total of 55,611 lodged by the club's members.

Amid champagne celebrations shared with his team on Sunday night, Laporta shouted with a grin on his face: "Now let's go to Paris and see if we can make another 'remontada' happen!"&nbsp;

Barcelona face Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in the Champions League last 16, with a 4-1 deficit to make up from the opening leg.&nbsp;

Longer-term, Laporta's task will be to rebuild a club in crisis, with crippling debts exacerbated by the pandemic, its reputation damaged and Messi considering leaving for free when his contract expires this summer.&nbsp;

He has said he will do everything possible to keep Messi at Camp Nou and campaigned heavily on the idea he was the best-placed candidate to convince the Argentinian, owing to their relationship during his previous time in charge.&nbsp;

In his victory speech, Laporta picked up on Messi showing up to vote earlier in the day. "Seeing Leo, the best player in the world, come to vote with his son is for me a sign of what we have said all along," Laporta said.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Leo loves Barca' -</h2>

"Leo loves Barca and knows that we are a big family. Hopefully that can help us encourage him to stay."

A change of regime also leaves coach Ronald Koeman's position uncertain, with Laporta insisting the Dutchman "deserves respect" for his work this season while maintaining his future will depend on results.

Koeman's contract runs until 2022.&nbsp;

"I am not worried because I have a contract and when we know who is going to be the president of course we will talk and I want him to show me his way," Koeman said on Friday.&nbsp;

Laporta's main rival for the presidency was Font, who was the early favourite after claiming he would bring former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez in as coach.&nbsp;

But the team's progress under Koeman and Laporta's superior campaign cast doubt over the promise, with Laporta questioning last week why Xavi had not come out in support of Font publicly.&nbsp;

Xavi may have been keen to keep his options open and the Spaniard caused a stir on Sunday by liking, and then unliking, an Instagram post of Laporta casting his ballot.&nbsp;

Laporta will also have to make decisions on Xavi's other former team-mates still at the club like Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who have contributed so much but whose peak years are now behind them.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Great family' -</h2>

Perhaps most importantly, his job will be to heal the deep mistrust that has developed between the board of directors and the dressing room, led by Messi and Pique.&nbsp;

"We are a great family," Laporta said. "We have a feeling of belonging to this club and that feeling will make us all go together to face the challenges that lie ahead."

The last president Josep Maria Bartomeu was forced to resign in October after the club's members succeeded in achieving a vote of no confidence against him.&nbsp;

But Bartomeu quit before facing the vote after overseeing a disastrous final year that included Messi attempting to leave, the team being humiliated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League and the club posting gross debts of 1.2 billion euros.&nbsp;

Bartomeu spent the night in prison last Monday after being arrested as part of a police investigation into alleged corruption.&nbsp;

Voters had been due to go to the polls on January 24 but were prevented due to restrictions in relating to the pandemic, meaning the election was postponed.

Ballots on Sunday were held at six different polling stations in Catalonia and Andorra between 9am and 9pm, while just over 22,000 voters were able to vote by post for the first time.&nbsp;

Laporta's victory was confirmed officially by the club at just before midnight.&nbsp;

Joan Laporta returned as Barcelona president on Sunday after winning the club's elections by a landslide, with his central pledge to try to persuade Lionel Messi to stay.

Joan Laporta returned as Barcelona president on Sunday after winning the club's elections by a landslide, with his central pledge to try to persuade Lionel Messi to stay. Laporta was last president at Barca between 2003 and 2010, which included overseeing the hugely successful appointment of Pep Guardiola as coach and the iconic treble-winning team of 2008/9. In total, the club won four La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues during Laporta's seven-year spell in charge. The 58-year-old will return after holding off competition from Victor Font and Toni Freixa, the other two candidates to gain enough support to make the final stage. Laporta won 30,184 votes, Font 16,679 and Freixa 4,769 from a total of 55,611 lodged by the club's members. Amid champagne celebrations shared with his team on Sunday night, Laporta shouted with a grin on his face: "Now let's go to Paris and see if we can make another 'remontada' happen!" Barcelona face Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in the Champions League last 16, with a 4-1 deficit to make up from the opening leg. Longer-term, Laporta's task will be to rebuild a club in crisis, with crippling debts exacerbated by the pandemic, its reputation damaged and Messi considering leaving for free when his contract expires this summer. He has said he will do everything possible to keep Messi at Camp Nou and campaigned heavily on the idea he was the best-placed candidate to convince the Argentinian, owing to their relationship during his previous time in charge. In his victory speech, Laporta picked up on Messi showing up to vote earlier in the day. "Seeing Leo, the best player in the world, come to vote with his son is for me a sign of what we have said all along," Laporta said. - 'Leo loves Barca' - "Leo loves Barca and knows that we are a big family. Hopefully that can help us encourage him to stay." A change of regime also leaves coach Ronald Koeman's position uncertain, with Laporta insisting the Dutchman "deserves respect" for his work this season while maintaining his future will depend on results. Koeman's contract runs until 2022. "I am not worried because I have a contract and when we know who is going to be the president of course we will talk and I want him to show me his way," Koeman said on Friday. Laporta's main rival for the presidency was Font, who was the early favourite after claiming he would bring former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez in as coach. But the team's progress under Koeman and Laporta's superior campaign cast doubt over the promise, with Laporta questioning last week why Xavi had not come out in support of Font publicly. Xavi may have been keen to keep his options open and the Spaniard caused a stir on Sunday by liking, and then unliking, an Instagram post of Laporta casting his ballot. Laporta will also have to make decisions on Xavi's other former team-mates still at the club like Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who have contributed so much but whose peak years are now behind them. - 'Great family' - Perhaps most importantly, his job will be to heal the deep mistrust that has developed between the board of directors and the dressing room, led by Messi and Pique. "We are a great family," Laporta said. "We have a feeling of belonging to this club and that feeling will make us all go together to face the challenges that lie ahead." The last president Josep Maria Bartomeu was forced to resign in October after the club's members succeeded in achieving a vote of no confidence against him. But Bartomeu quit before facing the vote after overseeing a disastrous final year that included Messi attempting to leave, the team being humiliated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League and the club posting gross debts of 1.2 billion euros. Bartomeu spent the night in prison last Monday after being arrested as part of a police investigation into alleged corruption. Voters had been due to go to the polls on January 24 but were prevented due to restrictions in relating to the pandemic, meaning the election was postponed. Ballots on Sunday were held at six different polling stations in Catalonia and Andorra between 9am and 9pm, while just over 22,000 voters were able to vote by post for the first time. Laporta's victory was confirmed officially by the club at just before midnight.

Barca given fresh start as Laporta elected new club president

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi set up both goals in Pamplona as Jordi Alba hammered home in the first half before the 18-year-old Ilaix Moriba came off the bench to curl in an impressive shot late in the second.&nbsp;

"Thankfully Leo gave me the pass and I don't know how I cut in and shot with my left foot, I'm just glad it went in," Ilaix said. "I will never forget it, I will take that goal to my grave."

Ilaix's strike was his first goal in La Liga and another breakthrough moment for a Barca youngster, 24 hours before the club hopes a brighter future can begin under a new president.&nbsp;

Before the winner of the elections -- contested by Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa -- is confirmed on Sunday night, Atletico will face Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano, where Barcelona will surely be hoping for anything other than a home win.&nbsp;

A few weeks ago, Ronald Koeman's side looked too far adrift in the title race but 10 victories out of 11 have shot them back into contention, even if Atletico remain in the driving seat with two games in hand.&nbsp;

"Any result is good for us," said Koeman.

After coming from two goals down to beat Sevilla after extra-time in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barcelona now have one trophy, and perhaps even a domestic double, in their sights.&nbsp;

Their success in recent months has owed much to a talented crop of youngsters, with Ilaix -- a dynamic but technically gifted midfielder -- the latest to emerge.

"Every time he comes into the team he gives the team something extra," said Koeman. "Because of his personality, his energy, most of all he's good with the ball, and physically he's a strong boy. He's gaining ground and showing he can be more with the first team."

Barca faced some nervy moments early on as Jonathan Calleri tried an ambitious lob from distance before Ruben Garcia's curler from the edge of the area required an athletic save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen.&nbsp;

Messi shot wide and then set up the opener, drifting in from the right and spotting the scuttling Alba racing in behind on the opposite side. Messi clipped a pass through three Osasuna defenders for Alba to collect and he lashed it high and in from the angle.&nbsp;

Garcia deserved an equaliser soon after for his first touch alone, a sumptuous cushioning of a long ball forward, but Ter Stegen was again there to deny the finish.&nbsp;

There was more control about the second half but Barcelona needed a second to make it comfortable and substitute Ilaix seized his moment, shaping to shoot with his right before coolly rolling onto his left and whipping his shot into the corner.&nbsp;

While Barcelona sustained momentum from their midweek victory in the cup, Sevilla failed to bounce back, instead sinking to another loss away at Elche earlier on Saturday.

Raul Guti and Guido Carrillo sealed a crucial 2-1 win for Elche, with Luuk de Jong adding a late consolation for Sevilla, who have now lost three consecutive matches in eight days.

They sit six points ahead of Real Sociedad in fifth. Elche climb to 17th, two points above the bottom three.

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga. Lionel Messi set up both goals in Pamplona as Jordi Alba hammered home in the first half before the 18-year-old Ilaix Moriba came off the bench to curl in an impressive shot late in the second. "Thankfully Leo gave me the pass and I don't know how I cut in and shot with my left foot, I'm just glad it went in," Ilaix said. "I will never forget it, I will take that goal to my grave." Ilaix's strike was his first goal in La Liga and another breakthrough moment for a Barca youngster, 24 hours before the club hopes a brighter future can begin under a new president. Before the winner of the elections -- contested by Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa -- is confirmed on Sunday night, Atletico will face Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano, where Barcelona will surely be hoping for anything other than a home win. A few weeks ago, Ronald Koeman's side looked too far adrift in the title race but 10 victories out of 11 have shot them back into contention, even if Atletico remain in the driving seat with two games in hand. "Any result is good for us," said Koeman. After coming from two goals down to beat Sevilla after extra-time in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barcelona now have one trophy, and perhaps even a domestic double, in their sights. Their success in recent months has owed much to a talented crop of youngsters, with Ilaix -- a dynamic but technically gifted midfielder -- the latest to emerge. "Every time he comes into the team he gives the team something extra," said Koeman. "Because of his personality, his energy, most of all he's good with the ball, and physically he's a strong boy. He's gaining ground and showing he can be more with the first team." Barca faced some nervy moments early on as Jonathan Calleri tried an ambitious lob from distance before Ruben Garcia's curler from the edge of the area required an athletic save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Messi shot wide and then set up the opener, drifting in from the right and spotting the scuttling Alba racing in behind on the opposite side. Messi clipped a pass through three Osasuna defenders for Alba to collect and he lashed it high and in from the angle. Garcia deserved an equaliser soon after for his first touch alone, a sumptuous cushioning of a long ball forward, but Ter Stegen was again there to deny the finish. There was more control about the second half but Barcelona needed a second to make it comfortable and substitute Ilaix seized his moment, shaping to shoot with his right before coolly rolling onto his left and whipping his shot into the corner. While Barcelona sustained momentum from their midweek victory in the cup, Sevilla failed to bounce back, instead sinking to another loss away at Elche earlier on Saturday. Raul Guti and Guido Carrillo sealed a crucial 2-1 win for Elche, with Luuk de Jong adding a late consolation for Sevilla, who have now lost three consecutive matches in eight days. They sit six points ahead of Real Sociedad in fifth. Elche climb to 17th, two points above the bottom three.

Barcelona raise the stakes in Madrid derby after Osasuna win

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad.

Voting started at 09.00 local time (0800 GMT) in an election reshaped by the coronavirus pandemic.

The three candidates are former president Joan Laporta, the favourite according to the Catalan press, Toni Freixa and Victor Font.

They are running to replace Josep Maria Bartomeu, who resigned in October and was briefly taken in for questioning following police raids on the club on Monday into the 'Barcagate' scandal which revolves around allegations that Barcelona carried out a defamation campaign against current and former players critical of club leadership.&nbsp;

"These are the most important elections in the history of Barca," Laporta told the club web site after voting.

Barcelona is in crisis on and off the field.&nbsp;

In October, it announced losses of announced losses of 97 million euros ($114 million) for last season and debts that had more than doubled to 488 million euros. Star player Lionel Messi is out of contract in the summer. In the Champions League, Barcelona travel to Paris on Wednesday trailing Paris Saint-Germain &nbsp;4-1 after a humiliating first-leg home loss. Form in La Liga has improved and on Saturday Barcelona climbed to second, two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand.&nbsp;

In previous elections, members have cast their votes in person at the club's Nou Camp headquarters, but because of Covid-19 members have also been allowed to apply for postal votes.

The club said that of the 110,920 members, 22,811 had applied to vote remotely.

Polling stations have also been set up in Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa and Lleida in Catalonia and in Andorra but the club said that 78,987 members had indicated they would vote, as they always have, at the Camp Nou.

Even though it began to rain in Barcelona shortly after the polls opened, the club reported on their web site at 09.45 that "the large influx of members to the stadium continues." The club posted a photo of queueing supporters wearing masks and rubbing gel on their hands.

"Members should have no doubt about coming to vote," said &nbsp;Carles Tusquets, head of the interim management committee that has run the club since Bartomeu resigned on October 27.&nbsp;

The polling will continue until 21.00 local time and the result is expected before midnight. &nbsp;

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad.

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad. Voting started at 09.00 local time (0800 GMT) in an election reshaped by the coronavirus pandemic. The three candidates are former president Joan Laporta, the favourite according to the Catalan press, Toni Freixa and Victor Font. They are running to replace Josep Maria Bartomeu, who resigned in October and was briefly taken in for questioning following police raids on the club on Monday into the 'Barcagate' scandal which revolves around allegations that Barcelona carried out a defamation campaign against current and former players critical of club leadership. "These are the most important elections in the history of Barca," Laporta told the club web site after voting. Barcelona is in crisis on and off the field. In October, it announced losses of announced losses of 97 million euros ($114 million) for last season and debts that had more than doubled to 488 million euros. Star player Lionel Messi is out of contract in the summer. In the Champions League, Barcelona travel to Paris on Wednesday trailing Paris Saint-Germain 4-1 after a humiliating first-leg home loss. Form in La Liga has improved and on Saturday Barcelona climbed to second, two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand. In previous elections, members have cast their votes in person at the club's Nou Camp headquarters, but because of Covid-19 members have also been allowed to apply for postal votes. The club said that of the 110,920 members, 22,811 had applied to vote remotely. Polling stations have also been set up in Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa and Lleida in Catalonia and in Andorra but the club said that 78,987 members had indicated they would vote, as they always have, at the Camp Nou. Even though it began to rain in Barcelona shortly after the polls opened, the club reported on their web site at 09.45 that "the large influx of members to the stadium continues." The club posted a photo of queueing supporters wearing masks and rubbing gel on their hands. "Members should have no doubt about coming to vote," said Carles Tusquets, head of the interim management committee that has run the club since Bartomeu resigned on October 27. The polling will continue until 21.00 local time and the result is expected before midnight.

Polls open for presidential election at troubled Barcelona

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has conceded his future is out of his hands ahead of the club`s looming presidential election. 
 
The Catalans have been without a permanent president since previous incumbent Josep Maria Bartomeu resigned last October. However, club members will elect a new chief on Sunday. 
 
One of the three candidates, Victor Font, has campaigned on the basis he will bring former midfielder and current Al Sadd coach Xavi Hernandez in as a new head coach. 
 
Koeman, who has led his side to second in the La Liga table and the final of the Copa del Rey, said whoever wins the election holds the key to his future. 
 
"It`s not in my hands. The only thing I know is that I have another year of my contract to run after this season," Koeman told a news conference ahead of Saturday`s league trip to Osasuna. 
 
"In a couple of days there`ll be a new president and he`ll have his say. I`m just focused on winning games. The rest of it is out of my hands. 
 
"There`s so many games we don`t have time to think about much else. At the end of the day, the new president will decide and I`m fed up of these questions." 
 
Barca sit five points behind league leaders Atletico Madrid having played a game more, but have the chance to capitalise on the fact the league leaders play fellow title challengers Real Madrid this weekend. 
 
The Dutchman said on this one occasion Barca would be backing arch-rivals Real given the points gap to Atleti. 
 
"It`s always better that the side in first place drops points, but first thing`s first, and that`s that we have to win," he said. 
 
Koeman will be without central defenders Gerard Pique and Ronald Araujo for the trip to Pamplona. Midfielder Miralem Pjanic has returned to full training following an ankle knock.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has conceded his future is out of his hands ahead of the club`s looming presidential election. The Catalans have been without a permanent president since previous incumbent Josep Maria Bartomeu resigned last October.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has conceded his future is out of his hands ahead of the club`s looming presidential election. The Catalans have been without a permanent president since previous incumbent Josep Maria Bartomeu resigned last October. However, club members will elect a new chief on Sunday. One of the three candidates, Victor Font, has campaigned on the basis he will bring former midfielder and current Al Sadd coach Xavi Hernandez in as a new head coach. Koeman, who has led his side to second in the La Liga table and the final of the Copa del Rey, said whoever wins the election holds the key to his future. "It`s not in my hands. The only thing I know is that I have another year of my contract to run after this season," Koeman told a news conference ahead of Saturday`s league trip to Osasuna. "In a couple of days there`ll be a new president and he`ll have his say. I`m just focused on winning games. The rest of it is out of my hands. "There`s so many games we don`t have time to think about much else. At the end of the day, the new president will decide and I`m fed up of these questions." Barca sit five points behind league leaders Atletico Madrid having played a game more, but have the chance to capitalise on the fact the league leaders play fellow title challengers Real Madrid this weekend. The Dutchman said on this one occasion Barca would be backing arch-rivals Real given the points gap to Atleti. "It`s always better that the side in first place drops points, but first thing`s first, and that`s that we have to win," he said. Koeman will be without central defenders Gerard Pique and Ronald Araujo for the trip to Pamplona. Midfielder Miralem Pjanic has returned to full training following an ankle knock.

Koeman says Barca future still uncertain as election looms

FC Barcelona on Tuesday have released a statement after police raided the offices of the club while carrying several arrests, including former Barca president Josep Bartomeu on Monday.

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The statement read: "Regarding the entry and search by the Catalan Police force this morning at the Camp Nou offices by order of the Instructing Court number 13 in Barcelona, which is in charge of the case relating to the contacting of monitoring services on social networks, FC Barcelona have offered up their full collaboration to the legal and police authorities to help make clear facts which are subject to investigation."

"The information and documentation requested by the judicial police force relate strictly to the facts relative to this case."

"FC Barcelona express its utmost respect for the judicial process in place and for the principle of presumed innocence for the people affected within the remit of this investigation."

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Along with Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head Roman Ponti were also arrested or their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents.

In 2020, it was claimed that the Spanish giants had paid a whopping sum to a social media company in a bid to carry online criticism of important club figures in what turned out to be a scandalous 'Barcagate'.

Allegedly, the likes of Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Xavi and Gerard Pique were among those targeted by I3 Ventures in a three-year smear campaign'. The reason behind the attacks included Messi's reluctance to pen a new deal at the Camp Nou while iconic defender Pique was attacked for his project to revamp the Davis Cup.

However, Barcelona's then-president Bartomeu had denied the accusations. However, eight Barcelona members decided to launch an official police complaint which resulted in an investigation.&nbsp;

Emili Rousaud, who resigned as Barcelona vice president in March last year, said in an interview with RAC1: "If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has had their hand in the till." The club took legal action against him.

Rousaud was among six Barca executives to leave their posts, with a joint letter citing the controversy as a key issue needing to be resolved.

Bartomeu said the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media and announced an internal audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers, which cleared the club of financial corruption in July.

FC Barcelona on Tuesday have released a statement after police raided the offices of the club while carrying several arrests, including former Barca president Josep Bartomeu on Monday.

FC Barcelona on Tuesday have released a statement after police raided the offices of the club while carrying several arrests, including former Barca president Josep Bartomeu on Monday. ALSO READ: Ex Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu arrested over 'Barcagate' scandal against Lionel Messi & Co The statement read: "Regarding the entry and search by the Catalan Police force this morning at the Camp Nou offices by order of the Instructing Court number 13 in Barcelona, which is in charge of the case relating to the contacting of monitoring services on social networks, FC Barcelona have offered up their full collaboration to the legal and police authorities to help make clear facts which are subject to investigation." "The information and documentation requested by the judicial police force relate strictly to the facts relative to this case." "FC Barcelona express its utmost respect for the judicial process in place and for the principle of presumed innocence for the people affected within the remit of this investigation." ALSO READ: Solskjaer rages at penalty talk as Man Utd draw another blank at Chelsea Along with Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head Roman Ponti were also arrested or their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents. In 2020, it was claimed that the Spanish giants had paid a whopping sum to a social media company in a bid to carry online criticism of important club figures in what turned out to be a scandalous 'Barcagate'. Allegedly, the likes of Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Xavi and Gerard Pique were among those targeted by I3 Ventures in a three-year smear campaign'. The reason behind the attacks included Messi's reluctance to pen a new deal at the Camp Nou while iconic defender Pique was attacked for his project to revamp the Davis Cup. However, Barcelona's then-president Bartomeu had denied the accusations. However, eight Barcelona members decided to launch an official police complaint which resulted in an investigation. Emili Rousaud, who resigned as Barcelona vice president in March last year, said in an interview with RAC1: "If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has had their hand in the till." The club took legal action against him. Rousaud was among six Barca executives to leave their posts, with a joint letter citing the controversy as a key issue needing to be resolved. Bartomeu said the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media and announced an internal audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers, which cleared the club of financial corruption in July.

FC Barcelona release statement after Josep Bartomeu's arrest over 'Barcagate' scandal

Former Barcelona president&nbsp;Josep&nbsp;Maria Bartomeu and his former advisor Jaume Masferrer were released after appearing before a judge&nbsp;investigating 2020’s ‘Barcagate’ scandal, a Spanish court said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Both Bartomeu and Masferrer were arrested on Monday and&nbsp;"exercised their right not to speak". The judge ordered a conditional release as the investigation continues, the Barcelona court said in a statement.&nbsp;

The court added that the judge had sought to question them as part of the ‘Barcagate’ scandal investigation, which was opened&nbsp;in May 2020, into the suspected crime of business corruption and false administration.&nbsp;

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Whereas two other club official – Barca’s current chief executive Oscar Grau and head of legal services Roma Gomez Ponti were released on Monday. Notably, the series of arrest and the operation comes less than a week before Barcelona presidential elections are&nbsp;to be held.&nbsp;

The ‘Barcagate’ scandal includes allegations that the Catalan club made payments to a company named I3 Ventures in a bid to boost the image of the club on social media platforms. A part of the campaign included&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the likes of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Pep Guardiola among other notable personalities associated with the club.&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;had&nbsp;described the controversy as "strange" in an interview with Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo.&nbsp;

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Bartomeu maintained the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media&nbsp;before resigning in October 2020. Bartomeu’s successor at the club is due to be elected on Sunday with three candidates – Joan Laporta, Toni&nbsp;Freixa&nbsp;and Victor Font – involved in the elections.&nbsp;

Former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu and his former advisor Jaume Masferrer were released after appearing before a judge investigating 2020’s ‘Barcagate’ scandal, a Spanish court said on Tuesday.

Former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu and his former advisor Jaume Masferrer were released after appearing before a judge investigating 2020’s ‘Barcagate’ scandal, a Spanish court said on Tuesday. Both Bartomeu and Masferrer were arrested on Monday and "exercised their right not to speak". The judge ordered a conditional release as the investigation continues, the Barcelona court said in a statement. The court added that the judge had sought to question them as part of the ‘Barcagate’ scandal investigation, which was opened in May 2020, into the suspected crime of business corruption and false administration. ALSO READ: Argentines bring legend Diego Maradona back to life with mosaics Whereas two other club official – Barca’s current chief executive Oscar Grau and head of legal services Roma Gomez Ponti were released on Monday. Notably, the series of arrest and the operation comes less than a week before Barcelona presidential elections are to be held. The ‘Barcagate’ scandal includes allegations that the Catalan club made payments to a company named I3 Ventures in a bid to boost the image of the club on social media platforms. A part of the campaign included criticising the likes of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Pep Guardiola among other notable personalities associated with the club. Messi had described the controversy as "strange" in an interview with Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo. ALSO READ: FC Barcelona release statement after Josep Bartomeu's arrest over 'Barcagate' scandal Bartomeu maintained the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media before resigning in October 2020. Bartomeu’s successor at the club is due to be elected on Sunday with three candidates – Joan Laporta, Toni Freixa and Victor Font – involved in the elections.

Ex-Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu released after appearing before judge

Former Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head&nbsp;Roman Ponti have been arrested by the police for their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents.

Police on Monday raided the offices of FC Barcelona while carrying several arrests. The massive&nbsp;development comes just six days ahead of Barcelona presidential elections, a Catalan regional police spokesman told AFP.

Spain's Cadena Ser radio reported that one of those arrested was former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu, who had resigned in October 2020, along with&nbsp;CEO Oscar Grau and the club's head of legal services. However, the police said that the operation was being run by officers from the financial crimes unit.

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In 2020, it was claimed that the Spanish giants had paid a whopping sum to a social media company in a bid to carry online criticism of important club figures in what turned out to be a scandalous 'Barcagate'.

Allegedly, the likes of Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Xavi and Gerard Pique were among those targeted by I3 Ventures in a three-year smear campaign'. The reason behind the attacks included Messi's reluctance to pen&nbsp;a new deal at the Camp Nou while iconic defender Pique was attacked for his project to revamp the Davis Cup.

However, Barcelona's then-president Bartomeu had denied the accusations. However, eight Barcelona members decided to launch an official police complaint which resulted in an investigation.&nbsp;

Emili Rousaud, who resigned as Barcelona vice president in March last year,&nbsp;said in an interview with RAC1: "If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has had their hand in the till." The club took legal action against him.

Rousaud was among six Barca executives to leave their posts, with a joint letter citing the controversy as a key issue needing to be resolved.

Bartomeu said the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media and announced an internal audit by&nbsp;PricewaterhouseCoopers, which cleared the club of financial corruption in July.

"Let one thing be clear," Bartomeu said. "To the question: Have we commissioned the monitoring of social networks? The answer is yes.

"To the question: Have we commissioned to discredit people or institutions through social networks? The answer is no and we will take action against all those who accuse us of that."

Former Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head Roman Ponti have been arrested by the police for their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents.

Former Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head Roman Ponti have been arrested by the police for their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents. Police on Monday raided the offices of FC Barcelona while carrying several arrests. The massive development comes just six days ahead of Barcelona presidential elections, a Catalan regional police spokesman told AFP. Spain's Cadena Ser radio reported that one of those arrested was former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu, who had resigned in October 2020, along with CEO Oscar Grau and the club's head of legal services. However, the police said that the operation was being run by officers from the financial crimes unit. ALSO READ: Atletico hold La Liga rivals at bay with tight Villarreal win In 2020, it was claimed that the Spanish giants had paid a whopping sum to a social media company in a bid to carry online criticism of important club figures in what turned out to be a scandalous 'Barcagate'. Allegedly, the likes of Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Xavi and Gerard Pique were among those targeted by I3 Ventures in a three-year smear campaign'. The reason behind the attacks included Messi's reluctance to pen a new deal at the Camp Nou while iconic defender Pique was attacked for his project to revamp the Davis Cup. However, Barcelona's then-president Bartomeu had denied the accusations. However, eight Barcelona members decided to launch an official police complaint which resulted in an investigation. Emili Rousaud, who resigned as Barcelona vice president in March last year, said in an interview with RAC1: "If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has had their hand in the till." The club took legal action against him. Rousaud was among six Barca executives to leave their posts, with a joint letter citing the controversy as a key issue needing to be resolved. Bartomeu said the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media and announced an internal audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers, which cleared the club of financial corruption in July. "Let one thing be clear," Bartomeu said. "To the question: Have we commissioned the monitoring of social networks? The answer is yes. "To the question: Have we commissioned to discredit people or institutions through social networks? The answer is no and we will take action against all those who accuse us of that."

Ex Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu arrested over 'Barcagate' scandal against Lionel Messi & Co

Barcelona reignited their title hopes after Lionel Messi and Ousmane Dembele scored in a 2-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday to put them two points behind Atletico Madrid.&nbsp;

Atletico still have two games in hand, the first of those coming against sixth-placed Villarreal on Sunday, but a dip in form from La Liga's leaders has given their chasing rivals hope.&nbsp;

Barca looked dead and buried a few weeks ago but this was their ninth win out of 10 in La Liga, a surge that has put them back in contention, with Atletico playing against Real Madrid next weekend.

"We've taken some big hits and we have got up again," said Barca's Gerard Pique.&nbsp;

"Of course the title race is on, there is confidence and a lot of hope in this team."&nbsp;

Sevilla started the day as arguably the form team at the top, having won all of their last six league games, the last five of those without conceding a goal.&nbsp;

But they were second best at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, a dominant performance from Barcelona exposing them still as slightly short of Spain's top three.&nbsp;

It also creates an intriguing back-drop to Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final second leg when these two teams meet again, with Barca hoping to overturn a 2-0 deficit at Camp Nou.&nbsp;

Although Pedri and Ronald Araujo could be doubts after both were substituted in the second half with injury problems.&nbsp;

"We believe we can come back but Wednesday is a different game," said coach Ronald Koeman. "We have to play a perfect match, only then do we have a chance."

Koeman could well stick with his new 3-5-2 system, which saw Jordi Alba and Sergino Dest playing as wing-backs ahead of a back three and Dembele deployed up front alongside Messi.&nbsp;

Without Antoine Griezmann, who dropped to the bench, Koeman sacrificed some creativity in the final third for control through the middle, not to mention the threat of Dembele in behind.&nbsp;

Certainly for the best part of an hour Sevilla struggled to escape Barcelona's press or establish any sustained pressure, even after Julen Lopetegui introduced three substitutes at half-time and switched formation to match their opponents.&nbsp;

Marc-Andre ter Stegen was passed fit to play by the team doctor despite hurting his right thumb in the warm-up and in truth it was hardly tested in the first half.&nbsp;

Barca controlled the game and while Alba and Dest never really advanced as much as Koeman might have liked, Frenkie de Jong and Pedri were a constant threat through the middle, with the speedy Dembele just in front.&nbsp;

Chances, though, were few and far between and it took a counter-attack for Barcelona to take the lead.&nbsp;

Fernando gave the ball away cheaply up front and two passes were enough, Messi curling the decisive one through for Dembele to race clear and finish.&nbsp;

Lopegtegui reacted with three changes at half-time and two more after the hour but even by matching Barcelona's system, Sevilla struggled to gain a foothold.&nbsp;

Alba came up just short of De Jong's cross, Dest slammed against the post and Messi blazed over after another surge from Dembele.&nbsp;

One of Lopetegui's substitutes Youssef En-Nesyri had Sevilla's best chance but headed over.&nbsp;

Yet without a second goal, a nervy finale was always likely and En-Nesyri found the corner on the turn but had the goal ruled out for a handball, his tussle with Araujo seeing Barca's defender go off and he booted some chairs over in frustration.&nbsp;

But Sevilla's push was brief, ended by Messi with six minutes left.&nbsp;

He traded passes with Ilaix Moriba, nipped inside Diego Carlos and tried to finish with a chip. Bono saved but the ball came to Messi, one yard out.&nbsp;

Barcelona reignited their title hopes after Lionel Messi and Ousmane Dembele scored in a 2-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday to put them two points behind Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona reignited their title hopes after Lionel Messi and Ousmane Dembele scored in a 2-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday to put them two points behind Atletico Madrid. Atletico still have two games in hand, the first of those coming against sixth-placed Villarreal on Sunday, but a dip in form from La Liga's leaders has given their chasing rivals hope. Barca looked dead and buried a few weeks ago but this was their ninth win out of 10 in La Liga, a surge that has put them back in contention, with Atletico playing against Real Madrid next weekend. "We've taken some big hits and we have got up again," said Barca's Gerard Pique. "Of course the title race is on, there is confidence and a lot of hope in this team." Sevilla started the day as arguably the form team at the top, having won all of their last six league games, the last five of those without conceding a goal. But they were second best at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, a dominant performance from Barcelona exposing them still as slightly short of Spain's top three. It also creates an intriguing back-drop to Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final second leg when these two teams meet again, with Barca hoping to overturn a 2-0 deficit at Camp Nou. Although Pedri and Ronald Araujo could be doubts after both were substituted in the second half with injury problems. "We believe we can come back but Wednesday is a different game," said coach Ronald Koeman. "We have to play a perfect match, only then do we have a chance." Koeman could well stick with his new 3-5-2 system, which saw Jordi Alba and Sergino Dest playing as wing-backs ahead of a back three and Dembele deployed up front alongside Messi. Without Antoine Griezmann, who dropped to the bench, Koeman sacrificed some creativity in the final third for control through the middle, not to mention the threat of Dembele in behind. Certainly for the best part of an hour Sevilla struggled to escape Barcelona's press or establish any sustained pressure, even after Julen Lopetegui introduced three substitutes at half-time and switched formation to match their opponents. Marc-Andre ter Stegen was passed fit to play by the team doctor despite hurting his right thumb in the warm-up and in truth it was hardly tested in the first half. Barca controlled the game and while Alba and Dest never really advanced as much as Koeman might have liked, Frenkie de Jong and Pedri were a constant threat through the middle, with the speedy Dembele just in front. Chances, though, were few and far between and it took a counter-attack for Barcelona to take the lead. Fernando gave the ball away cheaply up front and two passes were enough, Messi curling the decisive one through for Dembele to race clear and finish. Lopegtegui reacted with three changes at half-time and two more after the hour but even by matching Barcelona's system, Sevilla struggled to gain a foothold. Alba came up just short of De Jong's cross, Dest slammed against the post and Messi blazed over after another surge from Dembele. One of Lopetegui's substitutes Youssef En-Nesyri had Sevilla's best chance but headed over. Yet without a second goal, a nervy finale was always likely and En-Nesyri found the corner on the turn but had the goal ruled out for a handball, his tussle with Araujo seeing Barca's defender go off and he booted some chairs over in frustration. But Sevilla's push was brief, ended by Messi with six minutes left. He traded passes with Ilaix Moriba, nipped inside Diego Carlos and tried to finish with a chip. Bono saved but the ball came to Messi, one yard out.

Barcelona brush aside Sevilla to reignite La Liga hopes

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Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament.&nbsp;

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Barcelona captain Lionel Messi put the Catalan giants in front after scoring a penalty in the first half of the match, however, French striker Kylian Mbappe scored an equaliser with a classy piece of control and finishing to complete a flowing team move also involving Marco Verratti and Layvin Kurzawa, ending his goalless streak in tournament's knockout rounds.

In the 65th minute, Mbappe scored his second goal, taking the club ahead in the match for the first time. Moise Kean extended the lead by scoring in the 70th minute.&nbsp;

Mbappe completed his treble in the 85th minute by curling the ball past the German into the top corner.

His coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the striker and said he is happy at the club.

"He is top class, a great player and he is happy in our club," he said.

"Kylian felt calm before the game. During yesterday's training session he asked me "how many times have you won at Camp Nou?" I replied in Spanish that just one and he said "well tomorrow you are going to win the second time" and now after the game, we met at the pitch and he said "I told you that you was going to win your second match, you have won your second time here," Pochettino added.&nbsp;

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman was left "disappointed" after the result and said that the team was lacking a lot of things.&nbsp;

He said: "I'm going back home sad and disappointed above all due to the differences in the second half but I have said a few times that we are lacking a lot of things, especially for the level you need in the Champions League. This doesn't mean that we aren't in the right path but we have to be realistic because the team is changing. In many positions the squad is very young and we are missing important players and we were unable to stop them in the second half. We have to accept that, analyze it and improve."

Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament. ALSO READ: David Alaba confirms he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of season Barcelona captain Lionel Messi put the Catalan giants in front after scoring a penalty in the first half of the match, however, French striker Kylian Mbappe scored an equaliser with a classy piece of control and finishing to complete a flowing team move also involving Marco Verratti and Layvin Kurzawa, ending his goalless streak in tournament's knockout rounds. In the 65th minute, Mbappe scored his second goal, taking the club ahead in the match for the first time. Moise Kean extended the lead by scoring in the 70th minute. Mbappe completed his treble in the 85th minute by curling the ball past the German into the top corner. His coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the striker and said he is happy at the club. "He is top class, a great player and he is happy in our club," he said. "Kylian felt calm before the game. During yesterday's training session he asked me "how many times have you won at Camp Nou?" I replied in Spanish that just one and he said "well tomorrow you are going to win the second time" and now after the game, we met at the pitch and he said "I told you that you was going to win your second match, you have won your second time here," Pochettino added. Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman was left "disappointed" after the result and said that the team was lacking a lot of things. He said: "I'm going back home sad and disappointed above all due to the differences in the second half but I have said a few times that we are lacking a lot of things, especially for the level you need in the Champions League. This doesn't mean that we aren't in the right path but we have to be realistic because the team is changing. In many positions the squad is very young and we are missing important players and we were unable to stop them in the second half. We have to accept that, analyze it and improve."

UEFA Champions League: Kylian Mbappe's hattrick sinks Messi's Barcelona at Camp Nou

&nbsp;Lionel Messi scored with two scorching strikes as Barcelona hammered Alaves 5-1 on Saturday in La Liga to warm up for their upcoming Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style.

Portuguese forward Francisco Trincao put Barca in front after a cut-back from 18-year-old debutant midfielder Ilaix Moriba and Messi thought he had doubled the lead later on when knocking in on the rebound but the goal was ruled out for a marginal offside against Antoine Griezmann.

Messi then took matters in to his own hands from outside the area and thumped the ball off the far post with such venom that it landed just inside the opposite post.

Alaves's Luis Rioja pounced on a mistake by Ilaix to reduce the deficit in the second half but Barca came roaring back with a second strike from Trincao, another long-range missile from Messi and then a fifth goal crafted by Messi and Griezmann and finished off by left back Junior Firpo.

A seventh consecutive league win took Barca up to second in the standings on 46 points, eight behind leaders Atletico Madrid.

"Messi is in a fantastic moment of form," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman.

"We know how decisive he is and right now he is in the mood. With him playing in this form, everything is easier. If we want to beat PSG, we need Leo and everyone else at the top of their game."

Barca had suffered a painful 2-0 defeat to Sevilla in Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg and Koeman rotated his side to make for fresher legs for Tuesday's first leg at home to PSG.

He rested Jordi Alba and started without Sergino Dest, Ousmane Dembele and Pedri but there was no rest for Messi, who unleashed a ferocious shot for his first goal.

He also sparked the move for Barca's third goal, racing on to a through ball and attempting to round keeper Fernando Pacheco, who succeeded in snuffing out Messi but could only parry the ball into the path of Trincao, who tucked it into the net.

Messi was hungry for a second goal of his own, however, and got one less than 60 seconds later, dribbling past two defenders outside the area and rattling a left-footed shot into the far corner.

Now toying with his prey, he released Griezmann with a delicious chipped pass and the Frenchman sent in a low cross for Firpo to complete the thrashing.

Koeman expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance after making several changes and said they were feeling confident ahead of Tuesday's showdown against PSG, who will be without an injured Neymar.

"We believe we can get through the tie. They have some injuries but so do we and we'll have to play very well to knock them out," added the coach.

"We have to be more efficient than ever in attack and strong in defence. I'm sure it'll be a marvellous game."

Lionel Messi scored with two scorching strikes as Barcelona hammered Alaves 5-1 on Saturday in La Liga to warm up for their upcoming Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style.

Lionel Messi scored with two scorching strikes as Barcelona hammered Alaves 5-1 on Saturday in La Liga to warm up for their upcoming Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style. Portuguese forward Francisco Trincao put Barca in front after a cut-back from 18-year-old debutant midfielder Ilaix Moriba and Messi thought he had doubled the lead later on when knocking in on the rebound but the goal was ruled out for a marginal offside against Antoine Griezmann. Messi then took matters in to his own hands from outside the area and thumped the ball off the far post with such venom that it landed just inside the opposite post. Alaves's Luis Rioja pounced on a mistake by Ilaix to reduce the deficit in the second half but Barca came roaring back with a second strike from Trincao, another long-range missile from Messi and then a fifth goal crafted by Messi and Griezmann and finished off by left back Junior Firpo. A seventh consecutive league win took Barca up to second in the standings on 46 points, eight behind leaders Atletico Madrid. "Messi is in a fantastic moment of form," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "We know how decisive he is and right now he is in the mood. With him playing in this form, everything is easier. If we want to beat PSG, we need Leo and everyone else at the top of their game." Barca had suffered a painful 2-0 defeat to Sevilla in Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg and Koeman rotated his side to make for fresher legs for Tuesday's first leg at home to PSG. He rested Jordi Alba and started without Sergino Dest, Ousmane Dembele and Pedri but there was no rest for Messi, who unleashed a ferocious shot for his first goal. He also sparked the move for Barca's third goal, racing on to a through ball and attempting to round keeper Fernando Pacheco, who succeeded in snuffing out Messi but could only parry the ball into the path of Trincao, who tucked it into the net. Messi was hungry for a second goal of his own, however, and got one less than 60 seconds later, dribbling past two defenders outside the area and rattling a left-footed shot into the far corner. Now toying with his prey, he released Griezmann with a delicious chipped pass and the Frenchman sent in a low cross for Firpo to complete the thrashing. Koeman expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance after making several changes and said they were feeling confident ahead of Tuesday's showdown against PSG, who will be without an injured Neymar. "We believe we can get through the tie. They have some injuries but so do we and we'll have to play very well to knock them out," added the coach. "We have to be more efficient than ever in attack and strong in defence. I'm sure it'll be a marvellous game."

Barcelona rout Alaves to fire warning shot to PSG

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-beat-tigres-1-0-in-club-world-cup-final-for-sixth-title-in-9-months-363133" hreflang="en">Bayern beat Tigres 1-0 in Club World Cup final for sixth title in 9 months</a>

Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute in the French Cup clash against Caen forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;

The span of the injury casts a major cloud on Neymar's availability for the second leg of Champions League too, as Parc des Princes will host Barcelona on March 10.&nbsp;

The Brazil international spent four seasons at Barcelona and scored 105 goals before making a world record 222 million euros ($269.51 million) move to PSG in 2017.

However, PSG will be worried as Angel Di Maria and Neymar will be absent for the crucial fixture.&nbsp;

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday.

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday. ALSO READ: Bayern beat Tigres 1-0 in Club World Cup final for sixth title in 9 months Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute in the French Cup clash against Caen forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe. The span of the injury casts a major cloud on Neymar's availability for the second leg of Champions League too, as Parc des Princes will host Barcelona on March 10. The Brazil international spent four seasons at Barcelona and scored 105 goals before making a world record 222 million euros ($269.51 million) move to PSG in 2017. However, PSG will be worried as Angel Di Maria and Neymar will be absent for the crucial fixture.

Neymar to miss trip to Barcelona for Champions League clash due to groin injury

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race.&nbsp;

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Defending champions Real are, currently, third in the La Liga table with a gap of 10 points with Atletico, who still have a game in hand.&nbsp;

Former French star lost his cool in a recent press conference after questions regarding his future in the club were asked. &nbsp;

"What makes me laugh is you ask me why I might be annoyed (at questions over his future)," he said ahead of Saturday's visit to basement club Huesca.

"I don't deserve to be treated like that by the press. We won the league last season and I'd hope for a bit of respect.

"We've earned the right to fight for La Liga this season, at least give us the season. Next season, there'll need to be changes, but this year let us, the team who won the league last season, fight for it this year, too. It wasn't 10 years ago, it was last season.

"Just show us a little bit of respect for what we've achieved. You (the press) say a lot. Why don't you tell me to my face that you want me out of the club, not just behind my back."

Zidane is facing media after recovering from coronavirus after testing positive last month.&nbsp;

"I've been locked in a cage for two weeks, I can't wait to get out and show that I'm going to fight until the end," he said.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race. ALSO READ: Leicester's Jamie Vardy available for Sunday clash after hernia surgery Defending champions Real are, currently, third in the La Liga table with a gap of 10 points with Atletico, who still have a game in hand. Former French star lost his cool in a recent press conference after questions regarding his future in the club were asked. "What makes me laugh is you ask me why I might be annoyed (at questions over his future)," he said ahead of Saturday's visit to basement club Huesca. "I don't deserve to be treated like that by the press. We won the league last season and I'd hope for a bit of respect. "We've earned the right to fight for La Liga this season, at least give us the season. Next season, there'll need to be changes, but this year let us, the team who won the league last season, fight for it this year, too. It wasn't 10 years ago, it was last season. "Just show us a little bit of respect for what we've achieved. You (the press) say a lot. Why don't you tell me to my face that you want me out of the club, not just behind my back." Zidane is facing media after recovering from coronavirus after testing positive last month. "I've been locked in a cage for two weeks, I can't wait to get out and show that I'm going to fight until the end," he said.

'I don't deserve to be treated like that': Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane loses cool

Two of the candidates in Barcelona's presidential election, Joan Laporta and Victor Font, insisted on Monday that Lionel Messi "generates more" than he earns, after his "colossal" club contract was published in a Spanish newspaper.&nbsp;

"Leo generates much more income than the money he costs," Joan Laporta, who is seeking to regain the presidency, told Rac1 radio.&nbsp;

"We have done a study and he generates a third of Barca's total income."

"It's not only the economic return," Laporta said. "But also the emotional and sporting return, and the vivid moments he gives us."&nbsp;

Messi is in the last year of his contract.&nbsp;

On Sunday, under the headline "the colossal contract that ruins Barcelona", El Mundo published details of the current deal, signed in 2017. It said Messi could have earned 555 million euros ($674 million) by the time the deal expires.

Barcelona responded by saying it was not the source of the leak and it planned to sue El Mundo. The club did not, however, contradict the details.

Laporta is one of three candidates for the election on March 7. One of his rivals, Font, spoke on Onda Cero radio.

"To imply that Barca is ruined because of Messi is an absolutely erroneous conclusion," he said.&nbsp;

Both candidates condemned the "leak" to the Madrid newspaper and both promised they would do everything to keep Messi at Barca.&nbsp;

"We have to do everything possible to keep Messi, in 2017 and today too," said Font.

Laporta, the president when Messi first broke into the Barcelona team, agreed.

"I will do everything possible to keep Messi at Barca. I have had signals that he is happy in Barcelona, that he wants to stay."

Two of the candidates in Barcelona's presidential election, Joan Laporta and Victor Font, insisted on Monday that Lionel Messi "generates more" than he earns, after his "colossal" club contract was published in a Spanish newspaper.

Two of the candidates in Barcelona's presidential election, Joan Laporta and Victor Font, insisted on Monday that Lionel Messi "generates more" than he earns, after his "colossal" club contract was published in a Spanish newspaper. "Leo generates much more income than the money he costs," Joan Laporta, who is seeking to regain the presidency, told Rac1 radio. "We have done a study and he generates a third of Barca's total income." "It's not only the economic return," Laporta said. "But also the emotional and sporting return, and the vivid moments he gives us." Messi is in the last year of his contract. On Sunday, under the headline "the colossal contract that ruins Barcelona", El Mundo published details of the current deal, signed in 2017. It said Messi could have earned 555 million euros ($674 million) by the time the deal expires. Barcelona responded by saying it was not the source of the leak and it planned to sue El Mundo. The club did not, however, contradict the details. Laporta is one of three candidates for the election on March 7. One of his rivals, Font, spoke on Onda Cero radio. "To imply that Barca is ruined because of Messi is an absolutely erroneous conclusion," he said. Both candidates condemned the "leak" to the Madrid newspaper and both promised they would do everything to keep Messi at Barca. "We have to do everything possible to keep Messi, in 2017 and today too," said Font. Laporta, the president when Messi first broke into the Barcelona team, agreed. "I will do everything possible to keep Messi at Barca. I have had signals that he is happy in Barcelona, that he wants to stay."

Barcelona presidential rivals insist Messi is worth it

La Liga club Barcelona on Sunday said that they will be taking legal action against Spanish newspaper El Mundo for publishing star player Lionel Messi's contract with the club.

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The newspaper published full details of Lionel Messi's contract with Barcelona that was from 2017 to June 2021.&nbsp;

According to the report, which was previously described by French newspaper L'Equipe as the most lucrative in football, had contributed to the club's recent financial troubles, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recently, Barcelona's interim president Carles Tusquets said the club was forced to delay payments to players after the Catalan giants' last account revealed a debt of $592.24 million.&nbsp;

The Spanish club denied any responsibility for the publication of the contract in a statement, adding they regretted its release as it was a "private document governed by the principle of confidentiality between the parties".

The statement added: "FC Barcelona expresses its absolute support for Lionel Messi, especially in the face of any attempt to discredit his image, and to damage his relationship with the entity where he has worked to become the best player in the world and in football history."

La Liga club Barcelona on Sunday said that they will be taking legal action against Spanish newspaper El Mundo for publishing star player Lionel Messi's contract with the club.

La Liga club Barcelona on Sunday said that they will be taking legal action against Spanish newspaper El Mundo for publishing star player Lionel Messi's contract with the club. ALSO READ: Chelsea boss Tuchel convinced goal-shy Werner can turn around poor form The newspaper published full details of Lionel Messi's contract with Barcelona that was from 2017 to June 2021. According to the report, which was previously described by French newspaper L'Equipe as the most lucrative in football, had contributed to the club's recent financial troubles, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, Barcelona's interim president Carles Tusquets said the club was forced to delay payments to players after the Catalan giants' last account revealed a debt of $592.24 million. The Spanish club denied any responsibility for the publication of the contract in a statement, adding they regretted its release as it was a "private document governed by the principle of confidentiality between the parties". The statement added: "FC Barcelona expresses its absolute support for Lionel Messi, especially in the face of any attempt to discredit his image, and to damage his relationship with the entity where he has worked to become the best player in the world and in football history."

Barcelona sues Spanish newspaper for revealing Lionel Messi's contract details

Barcelona's annual financial report has revealed that the Spanish giant have a mammoth debt due to the coronavirus pandemic and some big-money transfers in recent seasons.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-zlatan-ibrahimovic-romelu-lukaku-involved-in-heated-war-of-words-during-milan-derby-359696" hreflang="en">Watch: Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Romelu Lukaku involved in heated war of words during Milan Derby</a>

According to the Barcelona's financial reports released on Wednesday, the club revealed debt reaching $1.5 billion, along with the short-term debt of roughly $886 million. As per the release, Barcelona's biggest area of spending is its wage bill, an area of spending that represents 74 per cent of the club's income.

The release also revealed that club owes around $153 million to other clubs for the transfer deals that took place in recent years. The Catalan giants owe $35 million to Liverpool for the signing of Philippe Coutinho, $19million to Ajax for Frenkie de Jong and nearly $12 million to Bordeaux for Malcolm, with each requiring payments by June 30. The club also owes money to Gremio and Bayern Munich for the purchases of Arthur and Arturo Vidal, who are no more a part of the club.

Club's revenue from match tickets has been null since fans have not been allowed in the stadium due to coronavirus pandemic for almost a year now. The club was set to earn $68 million in the ongoing season with the return of the fans but the surge in cases has put the plan on hold, keeping the stadium empty.&nbsp;

The only way the club can survive the current crisis is by letting their star forward Lionel Messi go. Messi's wages have been taking the club's financial situation from bad to worse, and if the Argentine decides to stay in the club, he will have to undergo a cut in salary.&nbsp;

Barcelona's annual financial report has revealed that the Spanish giant have a mammoth debt due to the coronavirus pandemic and some big-money transfers in recent seasons.

Barcelona's annual financial report has revealed that the Spanish giant have a mammoth debt due to the coronavirus pandemic and some big-money transfers in recent seasons. ALSO READ: Watch: Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Romelu Lukaku involved in heated war of words during Milan Derby According to the Barcelona's financial reports released on Wednesday, the club revealed debt reaching $1.5 billion, along with the short-term debt of roughly $886 million. As per the release, Barcelona's biggest area of spending is its wage bill, an area of spending that represents 74 per cent of the club's income. The release also revealed that club owes around $153 million to other clubs for the transfer deals that took place in recent years. The Catalan giants owe $35 million to Liverpool for the signing of Philippe Coutinho, $19million to Ajax for Frenkie de Jong and nearly $12 million to Bordeaux for Malcolm, with each requiring payments by June 30. The club also owes money to Gremio and Bayern Munich for the purchases of Arthur and Arturo Vidal, who are no more a part of the club. Club's revenue from match tickets has been null since fans have not been allowed in the stadium due to coronavirus pandemic for almost a year now. The club was set to earn $68 million in the ongoing season with the return of the fans but the surge in cases has put the plan on hold, keeping the stadium empty. The only way the club can survive the current crisis is by letting their star forward Lionel Messi go. Messi's wages have been taking the club's financial situation from bad to worse, and if the Argentine decides to stay in the club, he will have to undergo a cut in salary.

Barcelona gets hit by major financial turmoil as club's debt nears $1.5 billion

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season. While Barca sit atop the&nbsp;list, the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich complete the top three.&nbsp;

For the first time since 2013, Manchester United dropped out of the top three of the Deloitte Football Money League while Liverpool's on-pitch success helped them be in the top five for the first time since 2001-02 season.&nbsp;

Manchester City continue to remain in the sixth spot with Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur (9), Arsenal (11) and Everton (17) also placed in the top 20.&nbsp;

Given the hardships amid COVID-19 pandemic, the top 20 clubs witnessed a revenue decline of 12 per cent as compared to the 2018-19 season. The sharp decline comes due to a drop in broadcast revenue and fall in matchday revenue.&nbsp;

<img alt="Deloitte" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4521844f-90a0-4723-93ee-2bb615100f16" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/deloitte-uk-dfml21-info-slide1.jpg" />

Tim Bridge, director of Deloitte Sports Business Group, said that the "digital model" helped Liverpool sit on the fifth spot besides their Premier League success.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europes-top-clubs-face-two-billion-euro-coronavirus-hit-report-359468" hreflang="en">Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report</a>

"The on-pitch success is a massive factor," Bridge&nbsp;told Sky Sports. "Building on winning the Champions League and then taking the Premier League crown for the first time has had a significant impact. They have moved significantly towards a more digital model, and have been doing for a number of years.&nbsp;

"That has benefitted them in comparison to others during the pandemic because they are able to engage with their fans in a&nbsp;way others&nbsp;probably had to pay catch-up."&nbsp;

While Liverpool played both their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 matches in one financial year, Manchester City were forced to play the fixtures in two financial years due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

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"But with those placings, take a little bit of care because with the timings of the fixtures they were able to generate more revenue ahead of Manchester City," said Bridge.&nbsp;

"Had timings been a little bit different, those rankings may have been different."&nbsp;

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Whereas Manchester United had largest year-on-year decline among the top 20 clubs in the Deloitte Football Money League. Bridge&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;that the sharp drop comes due to their lack of Champions League football.&nbsp;

Bridge said: "The reason for the decrease is predominantly driven by the pandemic, as you can imagine Manchester United with a huge fanbase generate significant amounts of revenue every time they play at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

"They are going to be impacted in a more significant way than many other clubs. Of course, last year they didn't have Champions League football either, so the revenue differential from competing in the Europa League compared to the Champions League had a significant impact on the numbers.&nbsp;

"But caution is needed. With Bayern Munich moving ahead of them, they were able to complete their domestic season in the timeframe, so the numbers for Bayern represent a full year of domestic football, whereas for United they are curtailed."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season.

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season. While Barca sit atop the list, the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich complete the top three. For the first time since 2013, Manchester United dropped out of the top three of the Deloitte Football Money League while Liverpool's on-pitch success helped them be in the top five for the first time since 2001-02 season. Manchester City continue to remain in the sixth spot with Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur (9), Arsenal (11) and Everton (17) also placed in the top 20. Given the hardships amid COVID-19 pandemic, the top 20 clubs witnessed a revenue decline of 12 per cent as compared to the 2018-19 season. The sharp decline comes due to a drop in broadcast revenue and fall in matchday revenue. Tim Bridge, director of Deloitte Sports Business Group, said that the "digital model" helped Liverpool sit on the fifth spot besides their Premier League success. ALSO READ: Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report "The on-pitch success is a massive factor," Bridge told Sky Sports. "Building on winning the Champions League and then taking the Premier League crown for the first time has had a significant impact. They have moved significantly towards a more digital model, and have been doing for a number of years. "That has benefitted them in comparison to others during the pandemic because they are able to engage with their fans in a way others probably had to pay catch-up." While Liverpool played both their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 matches in one financial year, Manchester City were forced to play the fixtures in two financial years due to COVID-19 pandemic. Testing Times: Football Money League from Deloitte UK × "But with those placings, take a little bit of care because with the timings of the fixtures they were able to generate more revenue ahead of Manchester City," said Bridge. "Had timings been a little bit different, those rankings may have been different." ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics Whereas Manchester United had largest year-on-year decline among the top 20 clubs in the Deloitte Football Money League. Bridge emphasised that the sharp drop comes due to their lack of Champions League football. Bridge said: "The reason for the decrease is predominantly driven by the pandemic, as you can imagine Manchester United with a huge fanbase generate significant amounts of revenue every time they play at Old Trafford. "They are going to be impacted in a more significant way than many other clubs. Of course, last year they didn't have Champions League football either, so the revenue differential from competing in the Europa League compared to the Champions League had a significant impact on the numbers. "But caution is needed. With Bayern Munich moving ahead of them, they were able to complete their domestic season in the timeframe, so the numbers for Bayern represent a full year of domestic football, whereas for United they are curtailed."

Barcelona top Deloitte Football Money League, Manchester United witness biggest drop

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