Lionel Messi scored his 700th career goal but Barcelona suffered another blow to their La Liga title hopes after a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

Messi chipped in a penalty to reach another astonishing milestone at Camp Nou but twice Atletico hit back with spot-kicks of their own, Saul Niguez converting both after Barca took an early lead through Diego Costa's own goal.

The result gives Real Madrid the chance to move four points clear at the top of the table if they can overcome Getafe at home on Wednesday, a formidable lead with five games left.

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Atletico stay third, two points ahead of Sevilla, who won 3-0 at Leganes.

With a superior head-to-head, it would take a dramatic capitulation for Real Madrid not to lift the trophy from here but there is no guarantee Barcelona can finish strongly enough even to create pressure.

This was their third draw in four matches and with suggestions of disharmony between the players and coaching staff, the future of coach Quique Setien looks bleak too.

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"From the dressing room I feel supported, yes," he said. "And regarding the meeting with the board, I will not say what was said in that."

Setien was also asked about his job on Monday and had to play down the significance of a frank exchange of views in the dressing room following Saturday's draw at Celta Vigo.

Messi had also caused a stir by appearing to ignore Setien's assistant Eder Sarabia during a water break at Vigo and on Tuesday it was impossible to ignore the contrast with Atletico's players, who huddled around Diego Simeone while 50 metres away Setien stood alone.

At full-time, Setien stared into space with the look of a coach that is running out of time but he&nbsp;had taken bold decisions, leaving 120-million-euro signing Antoine Griezmann on the bench and handing another start to 20-year-old Riqui Puig.

"It's true that taking him out of the team like that is hard for a player of his level but the circumstances forced me to do it," said Setien of Griezmann. "Tomorrow I will speak to him, not to apologise, but it is a decision he has to understand."

Yet it started well for them as Costa endured a nightmare first quarter of an hour, first diverting Messi's corner into his own net after misjudging the flight of the ball at the near post.

Then he missed a penalty, won after the excellent Yannick Carrasco left Gerard Pique for dead and then cut back inside Arturo Vidal, who stuck out a leg.

Costa's shot was saved but VAR showed Marc-Andre ter Stegen had sprung off his line too early and Atletico were given a second chance. This time Saul took the ball and he scored the equaliser.

Messi dinked over the sliding Renan Lodi and then whistled a curling effort past the far post. His deflected free-kick forced Jan Oblak to adjust his feet and palm over.

Finally, it was laid on a plate for him shortly after half-time. Felipe clipped Nelson Semedo and Messi, with the 700th in sight, chipped the ball delicately down the middle.

But every time Barca pulled away, Atletico pegged them back. Another penalty was awarded, again instigated by the speedy Carrasco, who made the most of the slightest touch from Semedo.

Saul took responsibility again and while Ter Stegen got a hand to it, the ball squirmed into the corner.

Vidal twice went close, the second time heading wide Jordi Alba's cross, and Thomas Lemar might even have won it for Atletico in injury-time. For Barca, the draw was damaging enough.

Earlier, Sevilla's Oliver Torres scored twice and Munir El Haddadi added a third to see off Leganes and boost their hopes of holding onto fourth place.

Sevilla sit five points ahead of Getafe, having played a game more. Leganes stay 19th, nine points adrift of safety.

Lionel Messi scored his 700th career goal but Barcelona suffered another blow to their La Liga title hopes after a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Messi chipped in a penalty to reach another astonishing milestone at Camp Nou but twice Atletico hit back with spot-kicks of their own, Saul Niguez converting both after Barca took an early lead through Diego Costa's own goal.

Lionel Messi scored his 700th career goal but Barcelona suffered another blow to their La Liga title hopes after a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Messi chipped in a penalty to reach another astonishing milestone at Camp Nou but twice Atletico hit back with spot-kicks of their own, Saul Niguez converting both after Barca took an early lead through Diego Costa's own goal. The result gives Real Madrid the chance to move four points clear at the top of the table if they can overcome Getafe at home on Wednesday, a formidable lead with five games left. Also read: Real Madrid's Achraf Hakimi joins Inter Milan on a 50 million euro deal Atletico stay third, two points ahead of Sevilla, who won 3-0 at Leganes. With a superior head-to-head, it would take a dramatic capitulation for Real Madrid not to lift the trophy from here but there is no guarantee Barcelona can finish strongly enough even to create pressure. This was their third draw in four matches and with suggestions of disharmony between the players and coaching staff, the future of coach Quique Setien looks bleak too. Also read: Quique Setien's job in danger as Barcelona continue to disappoint "From the dressing room I feel supported, yes," he said. "And regarding the meeting with the board, I will not say what was said in that." Setien was also asked about his job on Monday and had to play down the significance of a frank exchange of views in the dressing room following Saturday's draw at Celta Vigo. Messi had also caused a stir by appearing to ignore Setien's assistant Eder Sarabia during a water break at Vigo and on Tuesday it was impossible to ignore the contrast with Atletico's players, who huddled around Diego Simeone while 50 metres away Setien stood alone. At full-time, Setien stared into space with the look of a coach that is running out of time but he had taken bold decisions, leaving 120-million-euro signing Antoine Griezmann on the bench and handing another start to 20-year-old Riqui Puig. "It's true that taking him out of the team like that is hard for a player of his level but the circumstances forced me to do it," said Setien of Griezmann. "Tomorrow I will speak to him, not to apologise, but it is a decision he has to understand." Yet it started well for them as Costa endured a nightmare first quarter of an hour, first diverting Messi's corner into his own net after misjudging the flight of the ball at the near post. Then he missed a penalty, won after the excellent Yannick Carrasco left Gerard Pique for dead and then cut back inside Arturo Vidal, who stuck out a leg. Costa's shot was saved but VAR showed Marc-Andre ter Stegen had sprung off his line too early and Atletico were given a second chance. This time Saul took the ball and he scored the equaliser. Messi dinked over the sliding Renan Lodi and then whistled a curling effort past the far post. His deflected free-kick forced Jan Oblak to adjust his feet and palm over. Finally, it was laid on a plate for him shortly after half-time. Felipe clipped Nelson Semedo and Messi, with the 700th in sight, chipped the ball delicately down the middle. But every time Barca pulled away, Atletico pegged them back. Another penalty was awarded, again instigated by the speedy Carrasco, who made the most of the slightest touch from Semedo. Saul took responsibility again and while Ter Stegen got a hand to it, the ball squirmed into the corner. Vidal twice went close, the second time heading wide Jordi Alba's cross, and Thomas Lemar might even have won it for Atletico in injury-time. For Barca, the draw was damaging enough. Earlier, Sevilla's Oliver Torres scored twice and Munir El Haddadi added a third to see off Leganes and boost their hopes of holding onto fourth place. Sevilla sit five points ahead of Getafe, having played a game more. Leganes stay 19th, nine points adrift of safety.

Messi scores 700th goal but Atletico draw hurts Barca's title hopes

Barcelona's title hopes suffered a hammer blow on Saturday as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Celta Vigo, handing Real Madrid the chance to move two points clear at the top of La Liga.

Luis Suarez twice put his team in front at Balaidos with his first goals since January but Iago Aspas bent in a late free-kick to earn Celta a draw, in what could prove a pivotal moment in the title race.

Barca face an even tougher test on Tuesday against in-form Atletico Madrid, who held off a late fightback from Alaves to win 2-1 at the Wanda Metropolitano. Atletico are third, now four points clear of Sevilla.

Before then, Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid side will hope to take a big step towards becoming champions by winning away at bottom club Espanyol on Sunday.&nbsp;

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Madrid own the superior head-to-head against Barcelona and have won four out of four since La Liga restarted earlier this month. With a kinder run-in than the Catalans, the trophy appears to be Madrid's to lose.&nbsp;

"The feeling is a negative one," said Suarez afterwards. "If we want to stay in the title race and have it in our hands we have to win all our games. But we now have to rely on Madrid to drop points."&nbsp;

Suarez played his best game since undergoing knee surgery in January, his first goal coming from a surprise free-kick from Lionel Messi, who crossed when everyone expected him to shoot.&nbsp;

Yet Barcelona's defensive frailties hurt them again and Celta should even have won it in injury-time, only for Nolito to miss a golden chance at the back post.

Celta climb to 16th, eight points clear of the bottom three.

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Quique Setien answered calls to start 20-year-old Riqui Puig and 17-year-old Ansu Fati, and the duo impressed, injecting energy and speed into Barca's attack.&nbsp;

Antoine Griezmann was left on the bench and when he came on, he was on the side of the wall that Aspas breached with his free-kick to find the bottom corner.&nbsp;

Messi was at the heart of everything going forward and it was his early corner that Gerard Pique headed against the crossbar.&nbsp;

With a free-kick on the edge of the area in the 20th minue and a 700th career goal in sight, Messi sized up the sprawl of Celta defenders in front of him.&nbsp;

But with everyone expecting a shot, Messi clipped a cross towards the post, where Suarez headed in.&nbsp;

Messi even tried to score from a corner but Celta had chances too on the break. A poor clearance from Marc-Andre ter Stegen went unpunished by Fedor Smolov, who then overhit his pass when Aspas was clear. Brais Mendez slid through and hit the post.&nbsp;

The warnings went unheeded and when Arturo Vidal played a careless pass early in the second half, Celta capitalised.

Aspas sent Okay Yokuslu sprinting in behind and he squared for Smolov to tap in.&nbsp;

Celta look invigorated but Barca landed a sucker-punch. Denis Suarez lost possession under pressure from Fati, Messi played into Luis Suarez, who backed in, turned and drove into the far corner.&nbsp;

It looked like they had weathered the storm but Celta hit back again, Aspas curling around the side of the wall and into the corner with two minutes left.&nbsp;

They should even have won it in injury-time as Denis Suarez teed up Nolito at the back post but a scuffed finish let Ter Stegen save on the line.&nbsp;

Atletico held on to beat Alaves as Joselu gave the visitors hope by converting an injury-time penalty after Saul Niguez's header and Diego Costa's spot-kick had put Diego Simeone's side in control.

Victory means Atletico have taken 13 from a possible 15 points since the resumption and ahead of their trip to Camp Nou on Tuesday.

Barcelona's title hopes suffered a hammer blow on Saturday as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Celta Vigo, handing Real Madrid the chance to move two points clear at the top of La Liga.

Barcelona's title hopes suffered a hammer blow on Saturday as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Celta Vigo, handing Real Madrid the chance to move two points clear at the top of La Liga. Luis Suarez twice put his team in front at Balaidos with his first goals since January but Iago Aspas bent in a late free-kick to earn Celta a draw, in what could prove a pivotal moment in the title race. Barca face an even tougher test on Tuesday against in-form Atletico Madrid, who held off a late fightback from Alaves to win 2-1 at the Wanda Metropolitano. Atletico are third, now four points clear of Sevilla. Before then, Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid side will hope to take a big step towards becoming champions by winning away at bottom club Espanyol on Sunday. Also read: Police criticise Liverpool fans after Premier League street party Madrid own the superior head-to-head against Barcelona and have won four out of four since La Liga restarted earlier this month. With a kinder run-in than the Catalans, the trophy appears to be Madrid's to lose. "The feeling is a negative one," said Suarez afterwards. "If we want to stay in the title race and have it in our hands we have to win all our games. But we now have to rely on Madrid to drop points." Suarez played his best game since undergoing knee surgery in January, his first goal coming from a surprise free-kick from Lionel Messi, who crossed when everyone expected him to shoot. Yet Barcelona's defensive frailties hurt them again and Celta should even have won it in injury-time, only for Nolito to miss a golden chance at the back post. Celta climb to 16th, eight points clear of the bottom three. IN PICS | Smoke, flare and no social distancing: Liverpool fans turn the city red after winning Premier League 2019-20 Quique Setien answered calls to start 20-year-old Riqui Puig and 17-year-old Ansu Fati, and the duo impressed, injecting energy and speed into Barca's attack. Antoine Griezmann was left on the bench and when he came on, he was on the side of the wall that Aspas breached with his free-kick to find the bottom corner. Messi was at the heart of everything going forward and it was his early corner that Gerard Pique headed against the crossbar. With a free-kick on the edge of the area in the 20th minue and a 700th career goal in sight, Messi sized up the sprawl of Celta defenders in front of him. But with everyone expecting a shot, Messi clipped a cross towards the post, where Suarez headed in. Messi even tried to score from a corner but Celta had chances too on the break. A poor clearance from Marc-Andre ter Stegen went unpunished by Fedor Smolov, who then overhit his pass when Aspas was clear. Brais Mendez slid through and hit the post. The warnings went unheeded and when Arturo Vidal played a careless pass early in the second half, Celta capitalised. Aspas sent Okay Yokuslu sprinting in behind and he squared for Smolov to tap in. Celta look invigorated but Barca landed a sucker-punch. Denis Suarez lost possession under pressure from Fati, Messi played into Luis Suarez, who backed in, turned and drove into the far corner. It looked like they had weathered the storm but Celta hit back again, Aspas curling around the side of the wall and into the corner with two minutes left. They should even have won it in injury-time as Denis Suarez teed up Nolito at the back post but a scuffed finish let Ter Stegen save on the line. Atletico held on to beat Alaves as Joselu gave the visitors hope by converting an injury-time penalty after Saul Niguez's header and Diego Costa's spot-kick had put Diego Simeone's side in control. Victory means Atletico have taken 13 from a possible 15 points since the resumption and ahead of their trip to Camp Nou on Tuesday.

Title blow as Barcelona draw with Celta, Atletico hold off Alaves

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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Ramos justified his move when he denied Gareth Bale from taking the free-kick, he smashed the curling ball into the top corner. Madrid's 19-year-old prodigy, Vinicius Junior opened the score for the team in the first half.&nbsp;

Real Madrid and Barcelona are levelled on points in the table but due to superior goal differences, the Bernabeu side is on top.&nbsp;

"There are seven finals left," said Ramos. "There will be only one league in the year of coronavirus and we want to win it for the fans."

Gareth Bale got his first start since February 16 as coach Zinedine Zidane continued his rotation policy. Despite a start, the Welshman had an underwhelming display on the pitch and is unlikely to be a constant in the playing XI.&nbsp;

Vinicius Junior displayed a good form on the pitch as the Brazilian also hit the crossbar in the first half.

Eden Hazard continues to struggle with his ankle injury and was taken off shortly after an hour.&nbsp;

There was also the time in the end for history to be made as Mallorca's Luka Romero became the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days.

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday.

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday. Also read: Sergio Aguero's knee surgery goes well, expected to return in August Ramos justified his move when he denied Gareth Bale from taking the free-kick, he smashed the curling ball into the top corner. Madrid's 19-year-old prodigy, Vinicius Junior opened the score for the team in the first half. Real Madrid and Barcelona are levelled on points in the table but due to superior goal differences, the Bernabeu side is on top. "There are seven finals left," said Ramos. "There will be only one league in the year of coronavirus and we want to win it for the fans." Gareth Bale got his first start since February 16 as coach Zinedine Zidane continued his rotation policy. Despite a start, the Welshman had an underwhelming display on the pitch and is unlikely to be a constant in the playing XI. Vinicius Junior displayed a good form on the pitch as the Brazilian also hit the crossbar in the first half. Eden Hazard continues to struggle with his ankle injury and was taken off shortly after an hour. There was also the time in the end for history to be made as Mallorca's Luka Romero became the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days.

Sergio Ramos' free kick helps Real Madrid top the La Liga table

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona.&nbsp;

Barcelona's win puts the pressure back to Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid. If they beat Real Mallorca on Wednesday, they return to the top of La Liga.&nbsp;

"We knew it was going to be complicated," Setien said. "Also because of the situation, there is some anxiety because there's less and less margin for error.

"Sometimes we didn't play with that composure and that showed in the first half when were more inaccurate than usual. We gave some belief and confidence to Athletic."

Dependence on Messi was high and his performance determined the course of the match. Rakitic is among the few players who are likely to leave the club during the summer transfer window.&nbsp;

"It's a difficult period but we have to stick together," said Rakitic. "It was an important goal, it was a tough game, it was hard for us to open the game up."

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao. Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona.

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao. Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona. Barcelona's win puts the pressure back to Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid. If they beat Real Mallorca on Wednesday, they return to the top of La Liga. "We knew it was going to be complicated," Setien said. "Also because of the situation, there is some anxiety because there's less and less margin for error. "Sometimes we didn't play with that composure and that showed in the first half when were more inaccurate than usual. We gave some belief and confidence to Athletic." Dependence on Messi was high and his performance determined the course of the match. Rakitic is among the few players who are likely to leave the club during the summer transfer window. "It's a difficult period but we have to stick together," said Rakitic. "It was an important goal, it was a tough game, it was hard for us to open the game up."

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Real Madrid has toppled Barcelona and has become La Liga leaders after beating Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday.&nbsp;

Madrid's captain and defender Sergio Ramos opened the score for Real by scoring a penalty but soon was forced out after being injured. Striker Karim Benzema continued his form by scoring the second goal for the team.

Mikel Merino gave Real Sociedad a goal with seven minutes left but it wasn't enough to stop Madrid.&nbsp;

Once a contender for top four, Real Sociedad slipped to the sixth position after losing both the matches post the pandemic.&nbsp;

Ramos scored his 20th consecutive spot-kick in the 50th minute to become La Liga's highest-ever scoring defender on 68 goals, overtaking Ronald Koeman on the all-time list.

"He's the best defender in the world," said Zinedine Zidane. "What he has been doing and achieving for so many years is incredible."

However, Ramos limped off the ground just after 10 minutes. It looked like a knee injure. Losing Ramos could cost Madrid if the injure is proved serious.&nbsp;

"Right now it hurts a lot but that's just the bang I think," said Zidane afterwards. "That's the good news but we'll see."

Barcelona's failure to score against Seville has turned tables in favour of Real Madrid who was trailing by two points.&nbsp;

Real Madrid has toppled Barcelona and has become La Liga leaders after beating Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday. Madrid's captain and defender Sergio Ramos opened the score for Real by scoring a penalty but soon was forced out after being injured.

Real Madrid has toppled Barcelona and has become La Liga leaders after beating Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday. Madrid's captain and defender Sergio Ramos opened the score for Real by scoring a penalty but soon was forced out after being injured. Striker Karim Benzema continued his form by scoring the second goal for the team. Mikel Merino gave Real Sociedad a goal with seven minutes left but it wasn't enough to stop Madrid. Once a contender for top four, Real Sociedad slipped to the sixth position after losing both the matches post the pandemic. Ramos scored his 20th consecutive spot-kick in the 50th minute to become La Liga's highest-ever scoring defender on 68 goals, overtaking Ronald Koeman on the all-time list. "He's the best defender in the world," said Zinedine Zidane. "What he has been doing and achieving for so many years is incredible." However, Ramos limped off the ground just after 10 minutes. It looked like a knee injure. Losing Ramos could cost Madrid if the injure is proved serious. "Right now it hurts a lot but that's just the bang I think," said Zidane afterwards. "That's the good news but we'll see." Barcelona's failure to score against Seville has turned tables in favour of Real Madrid who was trailing by two points.

La Liga: Real Madrid topples Barcelona after beating Real Sociedad 2-1

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday.

Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend.

After their emphatic 3-0 win over Valencia on Thursday, Zinedine Zidane's side will move level on points with the Catalans if they beat Real Sociedad on Sunday and above them due to their superior record head-to-head.&nbsp;

"Seeing what we've done in the last two rounds, it's going to be very difficult to win this league," said a despondent Pique afterwards.&nbsp;

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Sevilla, in third, and Valencia, in eighth, always looked capable of shifting the dynamic at the top of the table, with Madrid capitalising to climb back to the summit for the first time since they beat&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;on March 1.

Asked about Pique's analysis,&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;coach Quique Setien said: "I think it comes from frustration. I am optimistic. I think it will be tough for anyone to take maximum points."

A valuable point for Sevilla, meanwhile, gives them a five-point cushion over Getafe in fifth, albeit having played a game more.

Barca could have few complaints at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.&nbsp;

They never really troubled Sevilla for any prolonged period and the closest Lionel Messi came to scoring the 700th goal of his career were a pair of free-kicks tipped over.&nbsp;

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The sight of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen jogging up for a late corner demonstrated how big a blow they considered dropping points to be.&nbsp;

Yet Real Sociedad are still in the hunt for Champions League qualification and will offer Madrid no guarantees on Sunday while games against Getafe, Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal mean there are still plenty of hurdles for Zidane's team to overcome.&nbsp;

Barcelona&nbsp;though would appear to have the tougher run-in, with Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Villarreal and local rivals Espanyol coming up.

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after Barcelona were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday. Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend.

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after Barcelona were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday. Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend. After their emphatic 3-0 win over Valencia on Thursday, Zinedine Zidane's side will move level on points with the Catalans if they beat Real Sociedad on Sunday and above them due to their superior record head-to-head. "Seeing what we've done in the last two rounds, it's going to be very difficult to win this league," said a despondent Pique afterwards. Also read: Benzema and Asensio volleys fire Madrid to Valencia victory Sevilla, in third, and Valencia, in eighth, always looked capable of shifting the dynamic at the top of the table, with Madrid capitalising to climb back to the summit for the first time since they beat Barcelona on March 1. Asked about Pique's analysis, Barcelona coach Quique Setien said: "I think it comes from frustration. I am optimistic. I think it will be tough for anyone to take maximum points." A valuable point for Sevilla, meanwhile, gives them a five-point cushion over Getafe in fifth, albeit having played a game more. Barca could have few complaints at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. They never really troubled Sevilla for any prolonged period and the closest Lionel Messi came to scoring the 700th goal of his career were a pair of free-kicks tipped over. Also read: Neymar ordered to pay 6.7 million euros to Barcelona The sight of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen jogging up for a late corner demonstrated how big a blow they considered dropping points to be. Yet Real Sociedad are still in the hunt for Champions League qualification and will offer Madrid no guarantees on Sunday while games against Getafe, Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal mean there are still plenty of hurdles for Zidane's team to overcome. Barcelona though would appear to have the tougher run-in, with Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Villarreal and local rivals Espanyol coming up.

Gerard Pique pessimistic over Barcelona title bid after Sevilla draw

Barcelona cruised past Leganes after beating them 2-0. Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati scored for the Catalan Giants on Tuesday.&nbsp;

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Lionel Messi scored his 699th goal for his country and club by a penalty after he was brought down because of a rough dive by Unai Bustinza. Messi has scored 26 goals in 33 appearances this season, in the eight matches, he has seven goals and eight assists to his name.&nbsp;

<img alt="zx" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba2ff7cf-b2e5-4cad-8f53-06fdaf1e06fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_109.jpg" />

The lead was provided by Anfu Fati, the 17-year-old continues to have a dream season after scoring five times in eight games.&nbsp;

This win has ensured a five points lead over Real Madrid. But Madrid is set to play Valencia on Thursday and win against them could reduce the gap to two points.&nbsp;

Barca defender Gerard Pique will need stitches after a nasty challenge split his shinpad.&nbsp;

<img alt="m ," data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40ef079d-19e2-4cb5-abb8-edeb1b6994cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_131.jpg" />

Leganes has become the bottom-most team in the La Liga table and fear of relegation looms at large.&nbsp;

Barcelona had 75 per cent of the possession in the game. The team had 10 shots out of which 5 were on target.&nbsp;

Barcelona cruised past Leganes after beating them 2-0. Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati scored for the Catalan Giants on Tuesday. Also read: Bayern Munich win eighth successive Bundesliga title Lionel Messi scored his 699th goal for his country and club by a penalty after he was brought down because of a rough dive by Unai Bustinza.

Barcelona cruised past Leganes after beating them 2-0. Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati scored for the Catalan Giants on Tuesday. Also read: Bayern Munich win eighth successive Bundesliga title Lionel Messi scored his 699th goal for his country and club by a penalty after he was brought down because of a rough dive by Unai Bustinza. Messi has scored 26 goals in 33 appearances this season, in the eight matches, he has seven goals and eight assists to his name. The lead was provided by Anfu Fati, the 17-year-old continues to have a dream season after scoring five times in eight games. This win has ensured a five points lead over Real Madrid. But Madrid is set to play Valencia on Thursday and win against them could reduce the gap to two points. Barca defender Gerard Pique will need stitches after a nasty challenge split his shinpad. Leganes has become the bottom-most team in the La Liga table and fear of relegation looms at large. Barcelona had 75 per cent of the possession in the game. The team had 10 shots out of which 5 were on target.

La Liga: Ansu Fati and Lionel Messi ensure easy victory for Barcelona over Leganes

Lionel Messi returned without a beard and with a goal and two assists as Barcelona resumed their La Liga title challenge on Saturday with a thumping 4-0 victory over Real Mallorca.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-misses-penalty-as-juve-squeeze-into-final-with-milan-draw-305512" hreflang="en">Ronaldo misses penalty as Juve squeeze into final with Milan draw</a>

After three months away because of the coronavirus pandemic, Barca exploded into the lead with just 64 seconds played when Arturo Vidal headed in and Martin Braithwaite struck a second from a Messi headed assist.&nbsp;

Jordi Alba latched onto a Messi pass to add a third but not before play was briefly stopped by a pitch invader, who was able to run on, despite the match being closed to fans.&nbsp;

Messi then scored a fourth in injury time for his 25th goal of the season.&nbsp;

"I'm happy because starting like this is an enormous boost for what's to come," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien.

Victory extends Barca's advantage at the top of La Liga to five points over Real Madrid, who can reduce the gap back to two when they restart at home to Eibar on Sunday.&nbsp;

La Liga's first match back came on Thursday between Sevilla and Real Betis, with teams scheduled to each play their remaining 11 matches of the season in less than six weeks.&nbsp;

Messi will be crucial to Barcelona's hopes of holding off Madrid but their captain, who turns 33 this month, may have to pace himself, especially after an injury-interrupted season.&nbsp;

Clean shaven, and without any sign of the thigh problem that prevented him from training earlier this month, Messi played 90 minutes and looked like he had never been away.

- Suarez back - 
His goal was set up by Luis Suarez and the sight of the Uruguayan coming off the bench would have been welcome for coach Setien too.&nbsp;

Suarez has not played since undergoing knee surgery in January and was able to recover during the suspension. He could play an important part in the run-in.&nbsp;

Asked what pleased him most, Setien said: "The satisfaction of seeing Luis again on the field. You have to admire the performance he gave in those 35 minutes that he played. Starting like this is very important for him and for the team as well."

Mallorca, who sit 18th in La Liga, were never going to offer the sternest of tests but this was a useful outing for both Barcelona's fitness and morale.&nbsp;

Before matches were suspended in Spain because of coronavirus on March 12, Barca had regained top spot but only after being convincingly beaten by Madrid the week before.&nbsp;

This performance suggests time away might have done them good and it remains to be seen now how Madrid respond. Madrid's next four matches all come after their title rivals have played first.&nbsp;

Barcelona were in front after just over a minute as Frenkie de Jong did well to recover the ball from a loose touch before Alba sent a deep cross to the arriving Vidal, who headed in.&nbsp;

Mallorca were under relentless pressure as Braithwaite and Messi both went close to adding a second. Mallorca's Takefusa Kubo, on loan from Real Madrid, forced a good save out of Marc-Andre ter Stegen on the break.

But Barca scored a second before half-time as an Alba cross span up and both De Jong and then Messi feathered headers across for Braithwaite to bang in on the half-volley, his first goal for the club.&nbsp;

Both teams eased off in the second period and there were smiles on the Barcelona players' faces when a pitch invader ran on in the 52nd minute wearing an Argentina shirt. He posed for a picture with Alba before being escorted away.&nbsp;

Alba added a third after finishing off Messi's clipped ball over the top and then Messi grabbed a goal himself. Suarez fooled his marker by letting the ball run across his body and Messi weaved inside where he could unleash with his right foot.&nbsp;

Mallorca's defeat, combined with losses for Leganes and Celta Vigo, made it the perfect day for Espanyol, who made up ground on their relegation rivals by beating Alaves.

Chinese striker Wu Lei, who tested positive for coronavirus in March, scored on his first game back to seal a 2-0 victory and put Espanyol within three points of safety.&nbsp;

They are now level on points with Leganes, who lost 2-1 at home to Real Valladolid, and three behind Celta, who conceded in the 91st minute for a 1-0 defeat by Villarreal.

Lionel Messi returned without a beard and with a goal and two assists as Barcelona resumed their La Liga title challenge on Saturday with a thumping 4-0 victory over Real Mallorca.

Lionel Messi returned without a beard and with a goal and two assists as Barcelona resumed their La Liga title challenge on Saturday with a thumping 4-0 victory over Real Mallorca. Also read: Ronaldo misses penalty as Juve squeeze into final with Milan draw After three months away because of the coronavirus pandemic, Barca exploded into the lead with just 64 seconds played when Arturo Vidal headed in and Martin Braithwaite struck a second from a Messi headed assist. Jordi Alba latched onto a Messi pass to add a third but not before play was briefly stopped by a pitch invader, who was able to run on, despite the match being closed to fans. Messi then scored a fourth in injury time for his 25th goal of the season. "I'm happy because starting like this is an enormous boost for what's to come," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien. Victory extends Barca's advantage at the top of La Liga to five points over Real Madrid, who can reduce the gap back to two when they restart at home to Eibar on Sunday. La Liga's first match back came on Thursday between Sevilla and Real Betis, with teams scheduled to each play their remaining 11 matches of the season in less than six weeks. Messi will be crucial to Barcelona's hopes of holding off Madrid but their captain, who turns 33 this month, may have to pace himself, especially after an injury-interrupted season. Clean shaven, and without any sign of the thigh problem that prevented him from training earlier this month, Messi played 90 minutes and looked like he had never been away. - Suarez back - His goal was set up by Luis Suarez and the sight of the Uruguayan coming off the bench would have been welcome for coach Setien too. Suarez has not played since undergoing knee surgery in January and was able to recover during the suspension. He could play an important part in the run-in. Asked what pleased him most, Setien said: "The satisfaction of seeing Luis again on the field. You have to admire the performance he gave in those 35 minutes that he played. Starting like this is very important for him and for the team as well." Mallorca, who sit 18th in La Liga, were never going to offer the sternest of tests but this was a useful outing for both Barcelona's fitness and morale. Before matches were suspended in Spain because of coronavirus on March 12, Barca had regained top spot but only after being convincingly beaten by Madrid the week before. This performance suggests time away might have done them good and it remains to be seen now how Madrid respond. Madrid's next four matches all come after their title rivals have played first. Barcelona were in front after just over a minute as Frenkie de Jong did well to recover the ball from a loose touch before Alba sent a deep cross to the arriving Vidal, who headed in. Mallorca were under relentless pressure as Braithwaite and Messi both went close to adding a second. Mallorca's Takefusa Kubo, on loan from Real Madrid, forced a good save out of Marc-Andre ter Stegen on the break. But Barca scored a second before half-time as an Alba cross span up and both De Jong and then Messi feathered headers across for Braithwaite to bang in on the half-volley, his first goal for the club. Both teams eased off in the second period and there were smiles on the Barcelona players' faces when a pitch invader ran on in the 52nd minute wearing an Argentina shirt. He posed for a picture with Alba before being escorted away. Alba added a third after finishing off Messi's clipped ball over the top and then Messi grabbed a goal himself. Suarez fooled his marker by letting the ball run across his body and Messi weaved inside where he could unleash with his right foot. Mallorca's defeat, combined with losses for Leganes and Celta Vigo, made it the perfect day for Espanyol, who made up ground on their relegation rivals by beating Alaves. Chinese striker Wu Lei, who tested positive for coronavirus in March, scored on his first game back to seal a 2-0 victory and put Espanyol within three points of safety. They are now level on points with Leganes, who lost 2-1 at home to Real Valladolid, and three behind Celta, who conceded in the 91st minute for a 1-0 defeat by Villarreal.

Lionel Messi caps Barcelona win over Real Mallorca on La Liga return

Barcelona and Real Madrid resume one of the tightest title races in recent memory when La Liga kicks back into action this week in empty stadiums, after a three-month pause due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Just before the season was postponed on March 10, former Real great Jorge Valdano had likened the two teams’ inconsistent form to a race between two limping men, but both sides are set to be refreshed and stronger after the long break.

Barca are boosted by the return of Luis Suarez from a knee injury that looked set to rule him out for the season, and his aggression and power should help them ease their problems in breaking down sides.

Real will again enjoy the services of Eden Hazard after he was sidelined with a fractured ankle in February. Also back is Spain forward Marcos Asensio, who should ease the burden on Karim Benzema, their runaway leading scorer with 14 strikes.

Barca, targeting a third consecutive Spanish title, led Real by two points when the season was postponed.

The break has also given their ageing squad some much-needed rest, while the extra time on the training ground should help them further adapt to the ideas of coach Quique Setien, who succeeded Ernesto Valverde in January.

With no fans allowed into venues and Real playing their home games at the 6,000-capacity Alfredo Di Stefano stadium while the Santiago Bernabeu is being refurbished, it will be a title race unlike any other.

“We will miss that boost and support you get from the crowd, who have a huge influence,” said Setien.

Barca have a slightly more comfortable run-in in their remaining 11 fixtures in the space of five weeks, with home games against Athletic Bilbao and Atletico Madrid plus trips to Sevilla and Villarreal looking like their toughest games.

Real, who beat Barca in March only to blow their lead at the top by losing to Real Betis, have five potentially tricky fixtures: Valencia, Getafe and Villarreal at home, plus trips to Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao.

Barcelona and Real Madrid resume one of the tightest title races in recent memory when La Liga kicks back into action this week in empty stadiums, after a three-month pause due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Barcelona and Real Madrid resume one of the tightest title races in recent memory when La Liga kicks back into action this week in empty stadiums, after a three-month pause due to the coronavirus pandemic. Just before the season was postponed on March 10, former Real great Jorge Valdano had likened the two teams’ inconsistent form to a race between two limping men, but both sides are set to be refreshed and stronger after the long break. Barca are boosted by the return of Luis Suarez from a knee injury that looked set to rule him out for the season, and his aggression and power should help them ease their problems in breaking down sides. Real will again enjoy the services of Eden Hazard after he was sidelined with a fractured ankle in February. Also back is Spain forward Marcos Asensio, who should ease the burden on Karim Benzema, their runaway leading scorer with 14 strikes. Barca, targeting a third consecutive Spanish title, led Real by two points when the season was postponed. The break has also given their ageing squad some much-needed rest, while the extra time on the training ground should help them further adapt to the ideas of coach Quique Setien, who succeeded Ernesto Valverde in January. With no fans allowed into venues and Real playing their home games at the 6,000-capacity Alfredo Di Stefano stadium while the Santiago Bernabeu is being refurbished, it will be a title race unlike any other. “We will miss that boost and support you get from the crowd, who have a huge influence,” said Setien. Barca have a slightly more comfortable run-in in their remaining 11 fixtures in the space of five weeks, with home games against Athletic Bilbao and Atletico Madrid plus trips to Sevilla and Villarreal looking like their toughest games. Real, who beat Barca in March only to blow their lead at the top by losing to Real Betis, have five potentially tricky fixtures: Valencia, Getafe and Villarreal at home, plus trips to Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao.

Barcelona and Real Madrid renew close-run title race

Lionel Messi returned to the Camp Nou on Saturday after missing two group training sessions with a slight leg injury, while Luis Suarez is set to be fit for the La Liga restart next week, according to AFP.

Lionel Messi returned to the Camp Nou on Saturday after missing two group training sessions with a slight leg injury, while Luis Suarez is set to be fit for the La Liga restart next week, according to AFP. Messi trained alone indoors on Wednesday and Friday, but worked on the sidelines of a group session at Barca's home stadium, the report said quoting Spanish press. La Liga leaders Barcelona play their first match since mid-March at Real Mallorca next Saturday. Suarez will be fit to play for the first time since undergoing knee surgery in January after reporting feeling no pain following training. Messi and Suarez have scored 38 goals between them in all competitions this season. Barcelona lead Real Madrid by two points at the top of the table with 11 matches remaining. (With inputs from AFP)

Messi returns to Barcelona training after leg injury, Suarez fit again

Barcelona and Argentina skipper Lionel Messi said that he is looking forward to playing in La Liga again, but the playing behind closed doors is "weird". Also read: Bayern's Mueller turns on charm in English as Bundesliga woos world Lionel Messi had resumed training with Barcelona after weeks of coronavirus lockdown in Spain that forced him to stay at home.

Barcelona and Argentina skipper Lionel Messi said that he is looking forward to playing in La Liga again, but the playing behind closed doors is "weird". Also read: Bayern's Mueller turns on charm in English as Bundesliga woos world Lionel Messi had resumed training with Barcelona after weeks of coronavirus lockdown in Spain that forced him to stay at home. La Liga is set to resume on June 12. Also read: Lifting Premier League trophy in empty stadium would be 'strange', says Henderson "We cannot think about what we are leaving behind this year. It is better to think about the future," said Messi on the website of sports brand Adidas. Football isn't ready. pic.twitter.com/4nmNnqJErr — FC Barcelona (from 🏠) (@FCBarcelona) May 26, 2020 × "Like going back to day-to-day training, seeing your teammates, playing your first few games. No doubt it will be strange at first, but I am looking forward to competing again! He said playing behind closed doors with no one to cheer "implies a series of challenges. The preparation at squad level is the same as for any other match, but it is true that individually you have to train and get mentally prepared to play without people because it is very weird." "It will be like starting over," he said. "Technically it will be the same season, but I think all teams and players will experience it differently." The six-time Ballon d'Or winner was ready to lead Argentina in this year's Copa America that is hosted by Colombia, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, the competition was postponed in march and now will take place in June and July next year. "Postponing the Copa America was a huge disappointment, but of course it was reasonable and most logical," Messi said. "The Copa was going to be a big event for me this year and I was looking forward to playing in it again," he said. "It was hard when I heard about the postponement, but I understood it perfectly," he said. (Inputs from an agency)

Lionel Messi awaits La Liga but also concerned about playing without fans

Getafe's president Angel Torres said that his club came close to sign Lionel Messi and appoint Pep Guardiola as a manager.

According to Torres, he had a close relationship with former Barcelona president Joan Laporta through which he was close getting two of the most influential icons in the football world.&nbsp;

"In Messi's first or second year [in the first team], we came really close to bringing him to Getafe on loan," Torres told Marca.

"In the end, [then manager Frank] Rijkaard didn't agree to it and we were left with just our desire.”

In 2008, Torres approached for Guardiola while he set to manage the Catalonia giants. He felt Guardiola would be an apt successor of Michael Laudrup. Laudrup was a potential candidate to manage Barca. Instead, Pep succeded Rijkaard at Camp Nou.

"One day, [Barcelona sporting director] Txiki [Begiristain] was at a European draw in Switzerland and the idea was that Laudrup would go to Barcelona and we would get Guardiola as a replacement because, to start with, Laporta wasn't convinced by Pep at all,” Torres said.

Under Pep, Barcelona won 14 major trophies, including three successive La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues trophies between 2008 and 2012.

Whereas, Messi continues his prolific professional career at Barcelona, scoring 627 goals in 718 appearances, winning a club-record 34 trophies.

Getafe's president Angel Torres said that his club came close to sign Lionel Messi and appoint Pep Guardiola as a manager. According to Torres, he had a close relationship with former Barcelona president Joan Laporta through which he was close getting two of the most influential icons in the football world.

Getafe's president Angel Torres said that his club came close to sign Lionel Messi and appoint Pep Guardiola as a manager. According to Torres, he had a close relationship with former Barcelona president Joan Laporta through which he was close getting two of the most influential icons in the football world. "In Messi's first or second year [in the first team], we came really close to bringing him to Getafe on loan," Torres told Marca. "In the end, [then manager Frank] Rijkaard didn't agree to it and we were left with just our desire.” In 2008, Torres approached for Guardiola while he set to manage the Catalonia giants. He felt Guardiola would be an apt successor of Michael Laudrup. Laudrup was a potential candidate to manage Barca. Instead, Pep succeded Rijkaard at Camp Nou. "One day, [Barcelona sporting director] Txiki [Begiristain] was at a European draw in Switzerland and the idea was that Laudrup would go to Barcelona and we would get Guardiola as a replacement because, to start with, Laporta wasn't convinced by Pep at all,” Torres said. Under Pep, Barcelona won 14 major trophies, including three successive La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues trophies between 2008 and 2012. Whereas, Messi continues his prolific professional career at Barcelona, scoring 627 goals in 718 appearances, winning a club-record 34 trophies.

Came close to sign Lionel Messi and Pep Guardiola: Getafe President

Ronaldo, Messi, Salah: Star players return to field for training!

Top British epidemiologist Neil Ferguson has resigned. He broke lockdown rules by allowing a woman into his home. Ferguson had been advising the British government on the pandemic response.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-has-no-evidence-says-china-on-coronavirus-origin-in-lab-297036" hreflang="en">Pompeo has no evidence, says China on coronavirus origin in lab</a>

Pakistan claims many of its citizens returning from the UAE are infected. Pakistan has accused the UAE of not screening people before allowing them to return.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-keep-coronavirus-task-force-indefinitely-says-trump-amid-rising-us-death-toll-297041" hreflang="en">Will keep coronavirus task force indefinitely, says Trump amid rising US death toll</a>

The UAE government has dismissed Pakistan's claims.

Nearly 58,000 students returned to school in Wuhan, the original epicentre of the pandemic in China.

121 high schools and vocational schools opened their gates for students. All faculty and students had to undergo health tests before return.

Taiwan has accused global health officials of being dishonest. It says world bodies have failed in their responsibilities. The island claims its absence from the upcoming world health assembly would harm global response to the pandemic.

The territory of 23 million people has reported only 438 cases of coronavirus.

The Spanish prime minister has sought parliamentary approval to extend the state of emergency. Pedro Sanchez says lifting lockdown early would be an unforgivable error.

Current measures will expire at midnight on Saturday. The conservatives have opposed the move.

The mayor of Manaus in Brazil has appealed for international aid. He has written a letter to 21 embassies and sent video messages to world leaders.

Mayor Arthur Neto is seeking scanners, ventilators and PPEs. Mass graves are being dug in cemeteries as the region reported 459 deaths. 
&nbsp; 
Pakistan reported its highest single-day death toll. 40 people died in Pakistan in the past 24 hours due to coronavirus. More than 22,550 people are infected in Pakistan. The death toll stands at 526.

Indonesia has postponed local elections from September to December. President Joko Widodo has signed an emergency decree.

Elections for posts of governors, mayors and district chiefs will now be held in December.

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and other Barcelona stars returned to the club’s training ground. Players will undergo mandatory medical tests this week. The Spanish government has relaxed lockdown measures. Players have been allowed to train individually.

&nbsp;A retired farmer has been given an honorary degree by New York. The farmer and his sick wife donated 1 of their 5 n-95 masks for medical workers. Dennis Rukhne was 2 credits shy of a degree when he left school due to the death of his father in 1971.

Andrew Cuomo called the farmer’ an inspiration and his donation, humanity at its best.

Top British epidemiologist Neil Ferguson has resigned. He broke lockdown rules by allowing a woman into his home. Ferguson had been advising the British government on the pandemic response.

Top British epidemiologist Neil Ferguson has resigned. He broke lockdown rules by allowing a woman into his home. Ferguson had been advising the British government on the pandemic response. Also read: Pompeo has no evidence, says China on coronavirus origin in lab Pakistan claims many of its citizens returning from the UAE are infected. Pakistan has accused the UAE of not screening people before allowing them to return. Also read: Will keep coronavirus task force indefinitely, says Trump amid rising US death toll The UAE government has dismissed Pakistan's claims. Nearly 58,000 students returned to school in Wuhan, the original epicentre of the pandemic in China. 121 high schools and vocational schools opened their gates for students. All faculty and students had to undergo health tests before return. Taiwan has accused global health officials of being dishonest. It says world bodies have failed in their responsibilities. The island claims its absence from the upcoming world health assembly would harm global response to the pandemic. The territory of 23 million people has reported only 438 cases of coronavirus. The Spanish prime minister has sought parliamentary approval to extend the state of emergency. Pedro Sanchez says lifting lockdown early would be an unforgivable error. Current measures will expire at midnight on Saturday. The conservatives have opposed the move. The mayor of Manaus in Brazil has appealed for international aid. He has written a letter to 21 embassies and sent video messages to world leaders. Mayor Arthur Neto is seeking scanners, ventilators and PPEs. Mass graves are being dug in cemeteries as the region reported 459 deaths. Pakistan reported its highest single-day death toll. 40 people died in Pakistan in the past 24 hours due to coronavirus. More than 22,550 people are infected in Pakistan. The death toll stands at 526. Indonesia has postponed local elections from September to December. President Joko Widodo has signed an emergency decree. Elections for posts of governors, mayors and district chiefs will now be held in December. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and other Barcelona stars returned to the club’s training ground. Players will undergo mandatory medical tests this week. The Spanish government has relaxed lockdown measures. Players have been allowed to train individually. A retired farmer has been given an honorary degree by New York. The farmer and his sick wife donated 1 of their 5 n-95 masks for medical workers. Dennis Rukhne was 2 credits shy of a degree when he left school due to the death of his father in 1971. Andrew Cuomo called the farmer’ an inspiration and his donation, humanity at its best.

Coronavirus tracker: Pandemic across the globe!

Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook.

In his first meeting with the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu and technical secretary Eric Abidal, Braithwaite was told one of the main reasons Barca were buying him was his mentality.

"I felt like they really knew me," Braithwaite says in an interview with AFP. "They knew how strong I am mentally and they said that was one of the things that made them go for me. They thought I was up for the test."&nbsp;

The toughness they saw owes much to when Braithwaite was 18 and playing for Esbjerg FB in Denmark. A broken leg prompted him to transform his attitude and start writing objectives down in a notebook.&nbsp;

"I was already a professional footballer but I wasn't respecting the job and I wasn't respecting the boy that had a dream to be here," Braithwaite says. "I took it for granted."&nbsp;

A year later, Braithwaite was in a hotel after joining Toulouse when he took out his notebook again.&nbsp;

"I came to a page of some objectives, maybe three or four years earlier, and I saw I had written Toulouse," Braithwaite says. "When I saw that, I thought, 'Wow, the power of the mind is really strong'.&nbsp;

"And when I was 27 or 28, I wrote I would play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Now I'm here, where I said I would be 10 years ago."

<h2>- 'Embarrassed' -</h2>

Braithwaite draws upon his childhood too, when a hip condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes left him in a wheelchair between the age of five and seven.&nbsp;

"I remember I felt sad. I felt embarrassed," he says. "I was just a kid who wanted to play. I remember the look people would give me, like I was different.&nbsp;

"Of course, I came through that and look where I am today but at the same time it makes me humble and grateful for the things I have."&nbsp;

For some, Barcelona buying Braithwaite was a result of opportunism, through the use of an obscure La Liga rule, and caused by bad planning, after a chaotic transfer window left the squad short.

But Braithwaite sees it as hard work paying off. Even during lockdown, he adds extra training to the club programme and watches videos of his teammates, learning where they move, run and pass, to speed up his adaptation.

"People see me as the emergency signing because that was how I got here," he says. "What people don't know is that for so many years I've put in my mind that I want to be here. It's not a coincidence.

"I'm at Barca, I signed for four years and I see my future here."

But his departure from Leganes left a bitter taste, even if few blamed Braithwaite for completing a dream move, not even Leganes, who were "fantastic, they understood".

<h2>- Maybe the rule should be changed' -</h2>

The rule that allowed Barcelona to sign a player outside the transfer window due to injuries meant Leganes, in the relegation zone, were unable to replace their top scorer, who joined the league leaders.

"Yeah, maybe the rule should be changed," Braithwaite said. "I understand because Leganes lost one of their main players, they can't get a replacement and they are in a difficult situation. I completely understand that."

Braithwaite played three games for his new team before the coronavirus caused La Liga to be suspended and he impressed, his willingness to run in behind and strike combinations with Lionel Messi quickly earning the praise of Barcelona fans.

"It's not difficult when you play with Messi. You just have to run and the ball is at your feet," he says.

But off the pitch, Barca have been consumed by political controversies, which have continued even as the games have stopped. Last month, the players' distrust of the board resurfaced around negotiations over wage cuts.

"Honestly inside the club there is a really good atmosphere," Braithwaite says. "We're not focusing on what is happening on the outside, we just want to play."&nbsp;

The season restarting is complex too, with La Liga's current plan to reintroduce training gradually before resuming games in June behind closed doors, which could last until next year.

"It's out of my control," says Braithwaite. "If the people in charge feel there is no risk in going back, I trust them. This is bigger than football right now, it's about people's health. We have to move cautiously."

Braithwaite's dedication means he has a better chance than most of hitting the ground running. But even he admits playing for Barcelona has occasionally caused his ice-cool demeanour to slip.

"When I'm playing and training, I'm doing what I always do," he says. "But sometimes at the start I would catch myself in the mirror at the training ground. I would see the badge on my shirt and I would think, 'Damn, I'm really here'."

Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook.

Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook. In his first meeting with the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu and technical secretary Eric Abidal, Braithwaite was told one of the main reasons Barca were buying him was his mentality. "I felt like they really knew me," Braithwaite says in an interview with AFP. "They knew how strong I am mentally and they said that was one of the things that made them go for me. They thought I was up for the test." The toughness they saw owes much to when Braithwaite was 18 and playing for Esbjerg FB in Denmark. A broken leg prompted him to transform his attitude and start writing objectives down in a notebook. "I was already a professional footballer but I wasn't respecting the job and I wasn't respecting the boy that had a dream to be here," Braithwaite says. "I took it for granted." A year later, Braithwaite was in a hotel after joining Toulouse when he took out his notebook again. "I came to a page of some objectives, maybe three or four years earlier, and I saw I had written Toulouse," Braithwaite says. "When I saw that, I thought, 'Wow, the power of the mind is really strong'. "And when I was 27 or 28, I wrote I would play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Now I'm here, where I said I would be 10 years ago." - 'Embarrassed' - Braithwaite draws upon his childhood too, when a hip condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes left him in a wheelchair between the age of five and seven. "I remember I felt sad. I felt embarrassed," he says. "I was just a kid who wanted to play. I remember the look people would give me, like I was different. "Of course, I came through that and look where I am today but at the same time it makes me humble and grateful for the things I have." For some, Barcelona buying Braithwaite was a result of opportunism, through the use of an obscure La Liga rule, and caused by bad planning, after a chaotic transfer window left the squad short. But Braithwaite sees it as hard work paying off. Even during lockdown, he adds extra training to the club programme and watches videos of his teammates, learning where they move, run and pass, to speed up his adaptation. "People see me as the emergency signing because that was how I got here," he says. "What people don't know is that for so many years I've put in my mind that I want to be here. It's not a coincidence. "I'm at Barca, I signed for four years and I see my future here." But his departure from Leganes left a bitter taste, even if few blamed Braithwaite for completing a dream move, not even Leganes, who were "fantastic, they understood". - Maybe the rule should be changed' - The rule that allowed Barcelona to sign a player outside the transfer window due to injuries meant Leganes, in the relegation zone, were unable to replace their top scorer, who joined the league leaders. "Yeah, maybe the rule should be changed," Braithwaite said. "I understand because Leganes lost one of their main players, they can't get a replacement and they are in a difficult situation. I completely understand that." Braithwaite played three games for his new team before the coronavirus caused La Liga to be suspended and he impressed, his willingness to run in behind and strike combinations with Lionel Messi quickly earning the praise of Barcelona fans. "It's not difficult when you play with Messi. You just have to run and the ball is at your feet," he says. But off the pitch, Barca have been consumed by political controversies, which have continued even as the games have stopped. Last month, the players' distrust of the board resurfaced around negotiations over wage cuts. "Honestly inside the club there is a really good atmosphere," Braithwaite says. "We're not focusing on what is happening on the outside, we just want to play." The season restarting is complex too, with La Liga's current plan to reintroduce training gradually before resuming games in June behind closed doors, which could last until next year. "It's out of my control," says Braithwaite. "If the people in charge feel there is no risk in going back, I trust them. This is bigger than football right now, it's about people's health. We have to move cautiously." Braithwaite's dedication means he has a better chance than most of hitting the ground running. But even he admits playing for Barcelona has occasionally caused his ice-cool demeanour to slip. "When I'm playing and training, I'm doing what I always do," he says. "But sometimes at the start I would catch myself in the mirror at the training ground. I would see the badge on my shirt and I would think, 'Damn, I'm really here'."

Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca

Spanish giants Barcelona are aiming to sign Spurs man Tanguy Ndombele, to add more manpower to the midfield. The deal will include two players from Catalan giants as they are unable to buy a player with cash.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/summer-transfer-rumours-check-out-where-your-favourite-football-stars-could-play-next-season-292907" hreflang="en">Summer transfer rumours: Check out where your favourite football stars could play next season!</a>

Barca are unable to pay the 54 million pounds due to the financial impact of coronavirus, so they have decided to offer Spurs a chance to sign centre-back Samuel Umtiti and right-back Nelson Semedo.

Inter Milan also aims to buy a defensive midfielder, they showed interest in Barca midfielder Arthur. But Arthur has said that he will stay in Barcelona. Barca could also aim for N'golo Kante in an exchange for Philippe Coutinho.

Umtiti has been an&nbsp;interesting prospect to Spurs in the past but he has not made the impact he would have liked at the Nou Camp and has long struggle&nbsp;with injuries.

Semedo has been a regular this season but has also been offered to Inter Milan, and the Serie A club is keen to buy the player.

The economy has been hard hit due to the coronavirus pandemic. Bayern Munich boss feels that this year's transfer window will not see any high buy-outs.&nbsp;

FIFA has decided to release large operational funds for 2019 and 2020 to its member associates as an initial step of a relief plan to neutralise the economic impact of the COVID-19. The news was confirmed by the soccer body on Friday. &nbsp;

Spanish giants Barcelona are aiming to sign Spurs man Tanguy Ndombele, to add more manpower to the midfield. The deal will include two players from Catalan giants as they are unable to buy a player with cash.

Spanish giants Barcelona are aiming to sign Spurs man Tanguy Ndombele, to add more manpower to the midfield. The deal will include two players from Catalan giants as they are unable to buy a player with cash. Also see: Summer transfer rumours: Check out where your favourite football stars could play next season! Barca are unable to pay the 54 million pounds due to the financial impact of coronavirus, so they have decided to offer Spurs a chance to sign centre-back Samuel Umtiti and right-back Nelson Semedo. Inter Milan also aims to buy a defensive midfielder, they showed interest in Barca midfielder Arthur. But Arthur has said that he will stay in Barcelona. Barca could also aim for N'golo Kante in an exchange for Philippe Coutinho. Umtiti has been an interesting prospect to Spurs in the past but he has not made the impact he would have liked at the Nou Camp and has long struggle with injuries. Semedo has been a regular this season but has also been offered to Inter Milan, and the Serie A club is keen to buy the player. The economy has been hard hit due to the coronavirus pandemic. Bayern Munich boss feels that this year's transfer window will not see any high buy-outs. FIFA has decided to release large operational funds for 2019 and 2020 to its member associates as an initial step of a relief plan to neutralise the economic impact of the COVID-19. The news was confirmed by the soccer body on Friday.

Barcelona includes its main players for deal for Spurs Tanguy Ndombele

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.&nbsp;

Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018.&nbsp;

After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack.&nbsp;

"The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said.&nbsp;

On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well."&nbsp;

Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio.&nbsp;

"I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head."&nbsp;

Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'"&nbsp;

Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio.

Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola.&nbsp;

"Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'."

"They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them."

"Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria.&nbsp;

Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club.&nbsp;

He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final.&nbsp;

Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan.&nbsp;

"People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."&nbsp;

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents. Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018. After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack. "The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said. On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well." Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio. "I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head." Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'" Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio. Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola. "Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'." "They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them." "Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria. Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club. He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final. Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan. "People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."

'Everything clouds over and goes dark' - Iniesta on depression at Barcelona

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957.

Barcelona vice-president Jordi Cardoner, who recovered after contracting the dreaded COVID-19, revealed that the club is providing very quick response to raise funds during an emergency situation. The Spanish giants had plans to sell the stadium’s title rights in the 2023-24 season in a hope to bring 300 million Euros for a 25-year-old contract to pay for the renovation of the stadium and other facilities.

“We want to send a universal message: For the first time someone will have the opportunity to put their name on Camp Nou and the revenues will go to all of humanity, not just Barca,” club vice president Jordi Cardoner was quoted as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/contracts-exchanged-and-deposit-paid-newcastle-united-takeover-set-to-be-completed-in-blockbuster-move-293818" hreflang="en">Contracts exchanged and deposit paid: Newcastle United takeover set to be completed in blockbuster move</a>

“The initiative arose in an emergency situation. We think that we have to have a very quick response, putting our crown jewel at the service (of the fight).?”

Cardoner further said if possible sponsors for the one-year-deal want to include the prospect of a long-term deal then Barcelona would consider it while adding that the Blaugrana want to listen to offers with whom they could team up and provide more funds to combat the coronavirus.

“Camp Nou is sending out an S.O.S.,” Cardoner said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mesut-ozil-refuses-to-take-pay-cut-despite-being-highest-earner-at-arsenal-293800" hreflang="en">Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal</a>

“We are open to everything. We want to maximize economic participation and to ensure that the partners share our same social values.”

The stadium will maintain the name ‘Camp Nou’ in addition to including the sponsor, the club said.

After Barcelona finds a new sponsor, the decision will then have to be approved by a general assembly of club members of around 140,000 – which is likely to be held in October.

Meanwhile, more than 20,000 people have died in Spain, a death toll second only to the United States.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957.

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957. Barcelona vice-president Jordi Cardoner, who recovered after contracting the dreaded COVID-19, revealed that the club is providing very quick response to raise funds during an emergency situation. The Spanish giants had plans to sell the stadium’s title rights in the 2023-24 season in a hope to bring 300 million Euros for a 25-year-old contract to pay for the renovation of the stadium and other facilities. “We want to send a universal message: For the first time someone will have the opportunity to put their name on Camp Nou and the revenues will go to all of humanity, not just Barca,” club vice president Jordi Cardoner was quoted as saying. ALSO READ: Contracts exchanged and deposit paid: Newcastle United takeover set to be completed in blockbuster move “The initiative arose in an emergency situation. We think that we have to have a very quick response, putting our crown jewel at the service (of the fight).?” Cardoner further said if possible sponsors for the one-year-deal want to include the prospect of a long-term deal then Barcelona would consider it while adding that the Blaugrana want to listen to offers with whom they could team up and provide more funds to combat the coronavirus. “Camp Nou is sending out an S.O.S.,” Cardoner said. ALSO READ: Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal “We are open to everything. We want to maximize economic participation and to ensure that the partners share our same social values.” The stadium will maintain the name ‘Camp Nou’ in addition to including the sponsor, the club said. After Barcelona finds a new sponsor, the decision will then have to be approved by a general assembly of club members of around 140,000 – which is likely to be held in October. Meanwhile, more than 20,000 people have died in Spain, a death toll second only to the United States.

Barcelona to sell title rights of Camp Nou to raise funds for COVID-19 battle

Barcelona will bring legal action against a former vice-president who has made accusations of management corruption, the La Liga champions announced on Monday.

Last week Barcelona furiously denied accusations from Emili Rousaud, who was one of six directors to resign on Thursday, that someone at the club had "put their hands in the till".

"The Board of Directors categorically denies any action that could be described as corruption and have agreed to bring the corresponding criminal action accordingly," Barca said in a statement.

"FC Barcelona cannot tolerate allegations that seriously damage the institution's image. The criminal action to be taken is in defence of the honour of the club and its employees. The existence of an ongoing audit must put an end to this matter."

Rousaud's allegations focus on February's social media controversy, when Barcelona were accused of hiring a company called I3 Ventures to discredit opponents of the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu online, including players like Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique.&nbsp;

"If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has put their hand in the till," Rousaud told the programme RAC1 on Friday.

Bartomeu terminated the club's contract with I3 Ventures in February.&nbsp;

Barcelona added in their statement that an audit of the club's social media monitoring contracts being carried out by PriceWaterhouseCoopers was being slowed down by the coronavirus pandemic.

"The current State of Alarm as a result of Covid-19 has had an impact on the development of certain analytical procedures," the statement read.&nbsp;

The announcement is the latest episode in a political crisis for the club under Bartomeu. All six resigning board members have called for the club's 2021 presidential election to be brought forward.

Rousaud had been appointed as a club vice-president in January and was seen as a leading candidate to succeed Bartomeu, who cannot stand again for the post.

Instead, Rousaud quit alongside fellow vice-president Enrique Tombas, as well as directors Silvio Elias, Josep Pont, Jordi Calsamiglia and Maria Teixidor.&nbsp;

In recent months Bartomeu has been involved in a string of political spats being played out in public.

Messi reacted angrily in January to Eric Abidal, the club's technical secretary, suggesting the players were to blame for the sacking of coach Ernesto Valverde and last month, the Argentinian star criticised the club's handling of negotiations with the squad over pay cuts.&nbsp;

Barcelona will bring legal action against a former vice-president who has made accusations of management corruption, the La Liga champions announced on Monday. Last week Barcelona furiously denied accusations from Emili Rousaud, who was one of six directors to resign on Thursday, that someone at the club had "put their hands in the till".

Barcelona will bring legal action against a former vice-president who has made accusations of management corruption, the La Liga champions announced on Monday. Last week Barcelona furiously denied accusations from Emili Rousaud, who was one of six directors to resign on Thursday, that someone at the club had "put their hands in the till". "The Board of Directors categorically denies any action that could be described as corruption and have agreed to bring the corresponding criminal action accordingly," Barca said in a statement. "FC Barcelona cannot tolerate allegations that seriously damage the institution's image. The criminal action to be taken is in defence of the honour of the club and its employees. The existence of an ongoing audit must put an end to this matter." Rousaud's allegations focus on February's social media controversy, when Barcelona were accused of hiring a company called I3 Ventures to discredit opponents of the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu online, including players like Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique. "If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has put their hand in the till," Rousaud told the programme RAC1 on Friday. Bartomeu terminated the club's contract with I3 Ventures in February. Barcelona added in their statement that an audit of the club's social media monitoring contracts being carried out by PriceWaterhouseCoopers was being slowed down by the coronavirus pandemic. "The current State of Alarm as a result of Covid-19 has had an impact on the development of certain analytical procedures," the statement read. The announcement is the latest episode in a political crisis for the club under Bartomeu. All six resigning board members have called for the club's 2021 presidential election to be brought forward. Rousaud had been appointed as a club vice-president in January and was seen as a leading candidate to succeed Bartomeu, who cannot stand again for the post. Instead, Rousaud quit alongside fellow vice-president Enrique Tombas, as well as directors Silvio Elias, Josep Pont, Jordi Calsamiglia and Maria Teixidor. In recent months Bartomeu has been involved in a string of political spats being played out in public. Messi reacted angrily in January to Eric Abidal, the club's technical secretary, suggesting the players were to blame for the sacking of coach Ernesto Valverde and last month, the Argentinian star criticised the club's handling of negotiations with the squad over pay cuts.

Barca announce legal action against ex-director who made 'corruption' allegations

Barcelona's star player Lionel Messi has lauded health workers across the world for their courage in their battle against coronavirus pandemic. Lionel Messi has been spending his time with his family after the complete shutdown of global football.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-messi-neymar-ramos-are-doing-during-coronavirus-self-quarantine-286940">What Messi, Neymar, Ramos are doing during coronavirus self-quarantine</a>

Messi took to Instagram and wrote: "Yesterday the World Health Worker Week came to an end and, together with @unicef, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the work they do. Anonymous heroes who endure long days and nights away from their families, so that ours can be safe from #COVID19.

For continuing, despite everything, their noble commitment to caring for pregnant women, and keeping children and adolescents protected. #YoMeQuedoEnCasa #StayAtHome #Unicef."

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-5AM8lKdbT/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Ayer terminaba la Semana Mundial de los trabajadores de Salud y, junto a @unicef , quiero hacerles llegar mi más profundo agradecimiento por la tarea que realizan. Héroes anónimos que soportan largos días y noches lejos de sus familias, para que las nuestras estén a salvo del # COVID19. Por continuar, pese a todo, su noble compromiso de cuidar a las mujeres embarazadas, y mantener a las niñas, niños y adolescentes protegidos. _______ Yesterday the World Health Worker Week came to an end and, together with @unicef, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the work they do. Anonymous heroes who endure long days and nights away from their families, so that ours can be safe from #COVID19. For continuing, despite everything, their noble commitment to caring for pregnant women, and keeping children and adolescents protected. #YoMeQuedoEnCasa #StayAtHome #Unicef</a>

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COVID-19 has now infected &nbsp;1,853,155 &nbsp;people worldwide and 114,247 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 423,625 people of that tally have recovered.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Barcelona's star player Lionel Messi has lauded health workers across the world for their courage in their battle against coronavirus pandemic. Lionel Messi has been spending his time with his family after the complete shutdown of global football.

Barcelona's star player Lionel Messi has lauded health workers across the world for their courage in their battle against coronavirus pandemic. Lionel Messi has been spending his time with his family after the complete shutdown of global football. Also see: What Messi, Neymar, Ramos are doing during coronavirus self-quarantine Messi took to Instagram and wrote: "Yesterday the World Health Worker Week came to an end and, together with @unicef, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the work they do. Anonymous heroes who endure long days and nights away from their families, so that ours can be safe from #COVID19. For continuing, despite everything, their noble commitment to caring for pregnant women, and keeping children and adolescents protected. #YoMeQuedoEnCasa #StayAtHome #Unicef." View this post on Instagram Ayer terminaba la Semana Mundial de los trabajadores de Salud y, junto a @unicef , quiero hacerles llegar mi más profundo agradecimiento por la tarea que realizan. Héroes anónimos que soportan largos días y noches lejos de sus familias, para que las nuestras estén a salvo del # COVID19. Por continuar, pese a todo, su noble compromiso de cuidar a las mujeres embarazadas, y mantener a las niñas, niños y adolescentes protegidos. _______ Yesterday the World Health Worker Week came to an end and, together with @unicef, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the work they do. Anonymous heroes who endure long days and nights away from their families, so that ours can be safe from #COVID19. For continuing, despite everything, their noble commitment to caring for pregnant women, and keeping children and adolescents protected. #YoMeQuedoEnCasa #StayAtHome #Unicef A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) on Apr 12, 2020 at 11:21am PDT × COVID-19 has now infected 1,853,155 people worldwide and 114,247 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 423,625 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Coronavirus: Lionel Messi expresses 'deepest gratitude' towards health workers

Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi has been in news recently after transfer rumour emerged on social media that the Argentine was moving to Inter Milan this summers.&nbsp;

But the six-time Ballon d'Or has shut these rumours by posting an Instagram story calling it "fake news".&nbsp;

The striker has even denied a move to his childhood club to Newell's Old Boys.&nbsp;

There were certain rumours about Messi paying the bail money to help his former teammate Ronaldinho's release from a Paraguayan jail.&nbsp;

He took these reports as 'Lie No. 1' (Inter Milan move) and 'Lie No.2' (bail money for Ronaldinho).

"What they said about Newell's Old Boys a few weeks ago is also false, thank God no one believed them," Messi added in the Instagram post.

<img alt="nn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b861a90e-d0aa-4629-bc60-6efc0948606e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture_6.JPG" />

According to Reuters, Brazilian legend Ronaldinho Gaucho was released from jail into house arrest in Paraguay on Tuesday after he and his brother paid $1.6 million in bail.

Messi slammed the reports and has hinted to stay at Barcelona at least until the end of his current contract that expires in 2021. Messi has had a troubled relationship with Barcelona's top brass in the recently. The Argentina superstar had slammed Barcelona sporting director Eric Abidal over his comments on players not working hard which sparked off the rumours of Messi not staying in the club.&nbsp;

Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi has been in news recently after transfer rumour emerged on social media that the Argentine was moving to Inter Milan this summers.

Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi has been in news recently after transfer rumour emerged on social media that the Argentine was moving to Inter Milan this summers. But the six-time Ballon d'Or has shut these rumours by posting an Instagram story calling it "fake news". The striker has even denied a move to his childhood club to Newell's Old Boys. There were certain rumours about Messi paying the bail money to help his former teammate Ronaldinho's release from a Paraguayan jail. He took these reports as 'Lie No. 1' (Inter Milan move) and 'Lie No.2' (bail money for Ronaldinho). "What they said about Newell's Old Boys a few weeks ago is also false, thank God no one believed them," Messi added in the Instagram post. According to Reuters, Brazilian legend Ronaldinho Gaucho was released from jail into house arrest in Paraguay on Tuesday after he and his brother paid $1.6 million in bail. Messi slammed the reports and has hinted to stay at Barcelona at least until the end of his current contract that expires in 2021. Messi has had a troubled relationship with Barcelona's top brass in the recently. The Argentina superstar had slammed Barcelona sporting director Eric Abidal over his comments on players not working hard which sparked off the rumours of Messi not staying in the club.

'Fake News': Barcelona star Lionel Messi slams rumours related to him

Jurgen Klopp has finally revealed the details of the emotions that the club and he as a manager went through during Philippe Coutinho's exit.&nbsp;

Brazilian playmaker's switch to Camp Nou was considered "difficult" decision by the Reds, as told by Jurgen Klopp.

Liverpool resisted the player's move to Barcelona, in fact, handed him a new contract but Countinho was still allowed to leave.&nbsp;

Philippe Coutinho moved to Barcelona in August 2018 after a $130 million deal was sanctioned.&nbsp;

During a local podcast, Klopp said: "I really respected Phil's switch from the first second.

"Not that I do that all the time but it felt oh wow that could be difficult.

"So it's not about yes we signed a new contract so many weeks before that but it was really clear he would not have asked me for any other club but for this club, there was no chance.

"Then we had to be hard in the summer because we had no other solution. We lost Adam Lallana [to injury] in that time as well, we would have lost two players.

"That's not possible, you cannot solve that on the transfer market.

"He was open to that [staying] and that was really cool. Then you have to be fair in the window and say we can do it, we don't like it but we can do it."

Coutinho has had a nightmare spell with the Catalonia giants, he is currently playing for the German side, Bayern Munich. But he still has not yet found his lost form.&nbsp;

The Brazilian is eyeing a move to Premier League next season but Klopp considers him a boy of past, and Liverpool has seemed to move on.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp has finally revealed the details of the emotions that the club and he as a manager went through during Philippe Coutinho's exit. Brazilian playmaker's switch to Camp Nou was considered "difficult" decision by the Reds, as told by Jurgen Klopp.

Jurgen Klopp has finally revealed the details of the emotions that the club and he as a manager went through during Philippe Coutinho's exit. Brazilian playmaker's switch to Camp Nou was considered "difficult" decision by the Reds, as told by Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool resisted the player's move to Barcelona, in fact, handed him a new contract but Countinho was still allowed to leave. Philippe Coutinho moved to Barcelona in August 2018 after a $130 million deal was sanctioned. During a local podcast, Klopp said: "I really respected Phil's switch from the first second. "Not that I do that all the time but it felt oh wow that could be difficult. "So it's not about yes we signed a new contract so many weeks before that but it was really clear he would not have asked me for any other club but for this club, there was no chance. "Then we had to be hard in the summer because we had no other solution. We lost Adam Lallana [to injury] in that time as well, we would have lost two players. "That's not possible, you cannot solve that on the transfer market. "He was open to that [staying] and that was really cool. Then you have to be fair in the window and say we can do it, we don't like it but we can do it." Coutinho has had a nightmare spell with the Catalonia giants, he is currently playing for the German side, Bayern Munich. But he still has not yet found his lost form. The Brazilian is eyeing a move to Premier League next season but Klopp considers him a boy of past, and Liverpool has seemed to move on.

Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has complimented Chelsea's prodigal player Mason Mount.&nbsp;

Mason Mount has a had a hell of a season with the blues where he scored six goals and has five assists.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old has earned a fixed spot under the manager Frank Lampard.&nbsp;

The Argentine has praised Mount on his form, he said: “Having watched him play he has the potential to be one of the best.”

Messi has had a prolific run in Barcelona, he has a goalscoring record of 627 goals in 718 appearances for the Catalan side.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old has scored 19 goals in 22 games in this year's La Liga. Though the league has been suspended due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic, the forward is spending some quality time with his family.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi on Monday confirmed that the entire Barcelona squad has agreed to take a pay cut by 70 per cent while football is on hold due to COVID-19 pandemic. There was plenty of speculation going around whether Barcelona players will agree to take the wage-reduction amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, however, with Messi coming out in public and announcing the news, all the rumours have been shelved. &nbsp;

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has complimented Chelsea's prodigal player Mason Mount. Mason Mount has a had a hell of a season with the blues where he scored six goals and has five assists.

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has complimented Chelsea's prodigal player Mason Mount. Mason Mount has a had a hell of a season with the blues where he scored six goals and has five assists. The 21-year-old has earned a fixed spot under the manager Frank Lampard. The Argentine has praised Mount on his form, he said: “Having watched him play he has the potential to be one of the best.” Messi has had a prolific run in Barcelona, he has a goalscoring record of 627 goals in 718 appearances for the Catalan side. The 32-year-old has scored 19 goals in 22 games in this year's La Liga. Though the league has been suspended due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic, the forward is spending some quality time with his family. Lionel Messi on Monday confirmed that the entire Barcelona squad has agreed to take a pay cut by 70 per cent while football is on hold due to COVID-19 pandemic. There was plenty of speculation going around whether Barcelona players will agree to take the wage-reduction amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, however, with Messi coming out in public and announcing the news, all the rumours have been shelved.

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi praises Mason Mount on his form

Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho Gaucho was arrested in Paraguay on Friday for attempting to enter the country with an adulterated passport, Paraguayan police said.

Gilberto Fleitas, the head of the investigations unit of the Paraguayan police, said Ronaldinho and his brother were taken into custody just hours after a judge refused to ratify a prosecutor's proposal for an alternative punishment.

"The detention order has been carried out," Fleitas told Reuters.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/soccer-bahrains-baqer-gets-10-game-ban-for-racist-gesture-269939">Football: Bahrain's Baqer gets 10-game ban for racist gesture</a>

TV pictures showed the pair being taken in a police vehicle from the Sheraton hotel in Asuncion to a police station on the outskirts of the city.

Ronaldinho and his brother Roberto Assis, who is also his business manager, are expected to face a judge on Saturday who will decide whether to free the pair or keep them in custody while investigations continue.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-cup-mbappe-treble-over-lyon-fires-psg-into-finals-284366">French Cup: Mbappe treble over Lyon fires PSG into finals</a>

Their unexpected arrest came just hours after the two brothers appeared set to leave the landlocked South American nation and draw a line under their tumultuous stay that began on Wednesday when they were questioned by police after presenting falsified passports on arrival at the Asuncion airport.

Federico Delfino, a prosecutor investigating the case, said he believed the two had been tricked into accepting Paraguayan passports on arrival and recommended that because they had cooperated with official they be released after paying an alternative punishment.

However, a judge rejected that accord on Friday and just minutes later the deal was abrogated by the top public prosecutor.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pakistan-brazil-friendly-football-aiming-to-promote-the-game-among-youngsters-350">&nbsp;Ronaldinho, Anelka play football in Pakistan</a>

Arrest warrants were then issued for both the former Gremio, AC Milan and Paris St-Germain player and his brother.

Officers from the organised crime and economic crimes units have been tasked with handling the case, a statement from the top prosecutor’s office said.

Reuters has contacted the lawyer for both men to ask for comment on Friday's developments.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldinho-set-to-visit-pakistan-to-promote-football-13373/amp">Ronaldinho set to visit Pakistan to promote football</a>

The brothers were invited to Paraguay by a local casino owner and had arrived on Wednesday to take part in a soccer clinic for children and a book launch.

Although he last played professionally in 2015, Ronaldinho, who also turned out for Brazilian clubs Atletico Mineiro, Flamengo and Fluminense, is still hugely popular with global football fans for his skills and showmanship.

The 39-year-old was the best player in the world at his peak in the early part of this century.

He was named FIFA World Player of the year in 2004 and 2005 and won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006.

Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho Gaucho was arrested in Paraguay on Friday for attempting to enter the country with an adulterated passport, Paraguayan police said.

Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho Gaucho was arrested in Paraguay on Friday for attempting to enter the country with an adulterated passport, Paraguayan police said. Gilberto Fleitas, the head of the investigations unit of the Paraguayan police, said Ronaldinho and his brother were taken into custody just hours after a judge refused to ratify a prosecutor's proposal for an alternative punishment. "The detention order has been carried out," Fleitas told Reuters. Also Read: Football: Bahrain's Baqer gets 10-game ban for racist gesture TV pictures showed the pair being taken in a police vehicle from the Sheraton hotel in Asuncion to a police station on the outskirts of the city. Ronaldinho and his brother Roberto Assis, who is also his business manager, are expected to face a judge on Saturday who will decide whether to free the pair or keep them in custody while investigations continue. Also Read: French Cup: Mbappe treble over Lyon fires PSG into finals Their unexpected arrest came just hours after the two brothers appeared set to leave the landlocked South American nation and draw a line under their tumultuous stay that began on Wednesday when they were questioned by police after presenting falsified passports on arrival at the Asuncion airport. Federico Delfino, a prosecutor investigating the case, said he believed the two had been tricked into accepting Paraguayan passports on arrival and recommended that because they had cooperated with official they be released after paying an alternative punishment. However, a judge rejected that accord on Friday and just minutes later the deal was abrogated by the top public prosecutor. Also Read: Ronaldinho, Anelka play football in Pakistan Arrest warrants were then issued for both the former Gremio, AC Milan and Paris St-Germain player and his brother. Officers from the organised crime and economic crimes units have been tasked with handling the case, a statement from the top prosecutor’s office said. Reuters has contacted the lawyer for both men to ask for comment on Friday's developments. Also Read: Ronaldinho set to visit Pakistan to promote football The brothers were invited to Paraguay by a local casino owner and had arrived on Wednesday to take part in a soccer clinic for children and a book launch. Although he last played professionally in 2015, Ronaldinho, who also turned out for Brazilian clubs Atletico Mineiro, Flamengo and Fluminense, is still hugely popular with global football fans for his skills and showmanship. The 39-year-old was the best player in the world at his peak in the early part of this century. He was named FIFA World Player of the year in 2004 and 2005 and won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006.

Former Barcelona forward Ronaldinho arrested in Paraguay

Barcelona save their first leg fixture against Napoli after Antoine Griezmann's vital second-half equaliser at San Paolo Stadium on Tuesday. Scores stand 1-1 after&nbsp;the first leg.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776">Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban</a>

A stunning curling strike by Napoli's Dries Mertens put the hosts (Napoli) in front in the 31st minute. The Belgian has drawn level with Marek Hamsik as Napoli's all-time top scorer with 121 goals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-use-la-liga-rule-to-sign-martin-braithwaite-281899">Barcelona use La Liga rule to sign Martin Braithwaite</a>

Sergio Busquets and Arturo Vidal will be missing out the second leg in the Round of 16 at Camp Nou.&nbsp;

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Busquests was booked for a foul on Dries Mertens in the 49th minute. This Yellow card means that Busquets will miss out the home fixture in the Round of 16.&nbsp;

Arturo Vidal picked up two yellow cards in the final stages of the game and was sent off after a foul on Mario Rui.&nbsp;

Nelson Semedo was at the risk of being suspended but saw his way through the match and will be playing the second leg fixture.&nbsp;

Barcelona and Napoli will head into the final leg of the Round of 16 with Barca's away goal advantage.&nbsp;

Barca's only concern at this moment is missing out on top players either due to suspension or injuries.&nbsp;

Barcelona will be concerned with Gerard Pique's availability after he limped off with an injury after falling heavily on his ankle.

"We'll see what problem he has, then we can confirm if he'll be available," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien.

Barcelona save their first leg fixture against Napoli after Antoine Griezmann's vital second-half equaliser at San Paolo Stadium on Tuesday. Scores stand 1-1 after the first leg.

Barcelona save their first leg fixture against Napoli after Antoine Griezmann's vital second-half equaliser at San Paolo Stadium on Tuesday. Scores stand 1-1 after the first leg. Also read: Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban A stunning curling strike by Napoli's Dries Mertens put the hosts (Napoli) in front in the 31st minute. The Belgian has drawn level with Marek Hamsik as Napoli's all-time top scorer with 121 goals. Also read: Barcelona use La Liga rule to sign Martin Braithwaite Sergio Busquets and Arturo Vidal will be missing out the second leg in the Round of 16 at Camp Nou. This Messi turn = Skill of the Day 👌 ⁣#UCLSOTD | @Mastercard pic.twitter.com/3zt3cQrAam — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 25, 2020 × Busquests was booked for a foul on Dries Mertens in the 49th minute. This Yellow card means that Busquets will miss out the home fixture in the Round of 16. Arturo Vidal picked up two yellow cards in the final stages of the game and was sent off after a foul on Mario Rui. Nelson Semedo was at the risk of being suspended but saw his way through the match and will be playing the second leg fixture. Barcelona and Napoli will head into the final leg of the Round of 16 with Barca's away goal advantage. Barca's only concern at this moment is missing out on top players either due to suspension or injuries. Barcelona will be concerned with Gerard Pique's availability after he limped off with an injury after falling heavily on his ankle. "We'll see what problem he has, then we can confirm if he'll be available," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien.

Champions League: 10-men Barcelona see their way out against Napoli

Barcelona captain Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;was in a prolific mood as his side crushed Eibar 5-0 at home in La Liga on Saturday, scoring four goals to placate supporters who began the game by showing their discontent with president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

The win took Barca back to the top of La Liga on 55 points, two ahead of Real Madrid who visit Levante later on Saturday, and gave them a boost ahead of their Champions League last-16, first-leg tie at Napoli on Tuesday.

Messi&nbsp;had not scored in his previous four games but put the Spanish champions ahead in the 14th minute by dancing and barging his way past three players to slot home for the opener.

He doubled the lead in the 37th with an equally impressive strike before completing his treble moments later and netted late in the second half for his fourth goal before Arthur Melo completed the drubbing with a tap-in.

The Argentine's goals cheered fans who began the match waving handkerchiefs and calling for Bartomeu to resign after the club was embroiled in a scandal involving a firm hired to monitor coverage of the team on social media.&nbsp;

Messi&nbsp;indicated he was unhappy with those who run Barca in an interview with newspaper Mundo Deportivo on Friday in which he defended his recent outburst against sporting director Eric Abidal and said the team had faced "problem after problem".

He had also questioned the strength of the Barcelona side, who he claimed were not strong enough at the moment to challenge for the Champions League.

Barca looked shaky in the early stages against Eibar and conceded a goal that was quickly ruled offside but they soon found their feet, led by&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;who was at his unplayable best.

After using a combination of strength and skill to score the first goal, he used his pace to dash past the Eibar defence down the left and lash the ball into the far bottom corner.

Messi&nbsp;then looked to tee up Antoine Griezmann but the French forward lost control of the ball and the Argentine cleaned up by tapping in the third goal.

Barca eased off for most of the second half but&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;showed no mercy when he received a pass from Arthur inside the area, toying with Eibar's desperate defenders and goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic before walking the ball into the net for his fourth.

New signing Martin Braithwaite came off the bench to make his Barca debut after an unexpected move from league strugglers Leganes and the Denmark striker quickly made an impact by drilling a shot at Dmitrovic which Arthur buried on the rebound.

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi was in a prolific mood as his side crushed Eibar 5-0 at home in La Liga on Saturday, scoring four goals to placate supporters who began the game by showing their discontent with president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi was in a prolific mood as his side crushed Eibar 5-0 at home in La Liga on Saturday, scoring four goals to placate supporters who began the game by showing their discontent with president Josep Maria Bartomeu. The win took Barca back to the top of La Liga on 55 points, two ahead of Real Madrid who visit Levante later on Saturday, and gave them a boost ahead of their Champions League last-16, first-leg tie at Napoli on Tuesday. Messi had not scored in his previous four games but put the Spanish champions ahead in the 14th minute by dancing and barging his way past three players to slot home for the opener. He doubled the lead in the 37th with an equally impressive strike before completing his treble moments later and netted late in the second half for his fourth goal before Arthur Melo completed the drubbing with a tap-in. The Argentine's goals cheered fans who began the match waving handkerchiefs and calling for Bartomeu to resign after the club was embroiled in a scandal involving a firm hired to monitor coverage of the team on social media. Messi indicated he was unhappy with those who run Barca in an interview with newspaper Mundo Deportivo on Friday in which he defended his recent outburst against sporting director Eric Abidal and said the team had faced "problem after problem". He had also questioned the strength of the Barcelona side, who he claimed were not strong enough at the moment to challenge for the Champions League. Barca looked shaky in the early stages against Eibar and conceded a goal that was quickly ruled offside but they soon found their feet, led by Messi who was at his unplayable best. After using a combination of strength and skill to score the first goal, he used his pace to dash past the Eibar defence down the left and lash the ball into the far bottom corner. Messi then looked to tee up Antoine Griezmann but the French forward lost control of the ball and the Argentine cleaned up by tapping in the third goal. Barca eased off for most of the second half but Messi showed no mercy when he received a pass from Arthur inside the area, toying with Eibar's desperate defenders and goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic before walking the ball into the net for his fourth. New signing Martin Braithwaite came off the bench to make his Barca debut after an unexpected move from league strugglers Leganes and the Denmark striker quickly made an impact by drilling a shot at Dmitrovic which Arthur buried on the rebound.

Marvellous Messi hits four as Barca hammer Eibar 5-0

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-chinas-coronavirus-rise-south-korea-confirms-more-cases-281895">Death toll in China's coronavirus rise; South Korea confirms more cases</a>

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As the death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 2,233 on Friday,&nbsp;South Korea&nbsp;confirmed 52 more cases of the virus taking the overall figure to 156 in the country.

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Iran elections come at a time when the Islamic Republic is most vulnerable, both from the inside and from the outside. American sanctions have crippled the economy and public anger against the regime has raged on unabated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-use-la-liga-rule-to-sign-martin-braithwaite-281899" hreflang="en">Barcelona use La Liga rule to sign Martin Braithwaite</a>

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Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-tate-donovan-to-star-with-melissa-leo-in-blood-relative-281862" hreflang="en">Tate Donovan to star with Melissa Leo in 'Blood Relative'</a>

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Fox's 'Blood Relative' has a male lead to its project and its Tate Donovan opposite Melissa Leo.&nbsp;'Blood Relative' is a crime drama about&nbsp;genetic genealogist Louise Kelly (Leo) and the cases she helps law enforcement solve.

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Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Death toll in China's coronavirus rise; South Korea confirms more cases As the death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 2,233 on Friday, South Korea confirmed 52 more cases of the virus taking the overall figure to 156 in the country.

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Death toll in China's coronavirus rise; South Korea confirms more cases As the death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 2,233 on Friday, South Korea confirmed 52 more cases of the virus taking the overall figure to 156 in the country. OPINION| US pullout from nuclear deal makes Iran elections even more crucial Iran elections come at a time when the Islamic Republic is most vulnerable, both from the inside and from the outside. American sanctions have crippled the economy and public anger against the regime has raged on unabated. Barcelona use La Liga rule to sign Martin Braithwaite Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront. Tate Donovan to star with Melissa Leo in 'Blood Relative' Fox's 'Blood Relative' has a male lead to its project and its Tate Donovan opposite Melissa Leo. 'Blood Relative' is a crime drama about genetic genealogist Louise Kelly (Leo) and the cases she helps law enforcement solve. WATCH| Gravitas: A wall that Donald Trump didn't ask for ×

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll rises, Iran elections and more!

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776">Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban</a>

Barca has taken advantage of the regulation that enables Spanish clubs in the top two divisions to buy from another La Liga club outside the transfer window if they lose a player to injury for more than five months.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-confesses-he-sees-weird-things-happening-at-barcelona-281747">Lionel Messi confesses he sees 'weird things happening' at Barcelona</a>

"My ambition has always been to play at this level and when you persevere and you are positive, things end up happening," said Braithwaite after signing his contract.&nbsp;

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Welcome to the Club and the city <a href="https://twitter.com/MartinBraith?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MartinBraith</a>. We wish all the best and great success in this new challenge you start today with Barça <a href="https://t.co/fKZuFVpOeh">pic.twitter.com/fKZuFVpOeh</a>
— Josep Maria Bartomeu (@jmbartomeu) <a href="https://twitter.com/jmbartomeu/status/1230573850380902401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I am very happy to be here because, as a footballer, it is one of the greatest things that can happen to you to play for the best club in the world."

With Ousmane Dembele expected to be out for the rest of the season with a hamstring tear, the Catalans signed Braithwaite after paying the Dane's 18 million euro buy-out clause.

"The player will sign a contract with the Club for the rest of the season and four more until 30 June 2024 with the buy-out clause set at 300 million euros," Barcelona announced on their website earlier in the day.&nbsp;

After also selling Youssef En-Nesyri to Sevilla last month, Braithwaite's exit is a cruel blow for struggling Leganes, who will not be able to bring in a replacement unless an exception is made by La Liga.&nbsp;

"We believe the settlement is unfair," said Leganes chief executive Martin Ortega.

However, Barca president Josep Bartomeu insisted: "Barcelona's attitude has been correct."&nbsp;

"We paid the clause in accordance with the regulations, but we think it should be revised because it is not fair that Leganes cannot therefore recruit."

Leganes sit 19th in the table and play 17th-placed Celta Vigo on Saturday. Braithwaite was their top scorer this season with six goals.&nbsp;

But the 28-year-old's addition will give cover for Barcelona, who were already without Luis Suarez to a knee injury before Dembele's extended absence was confirmed.&nbsp;

The club applied for permission last week to make an emergency signing and were given the green light by La Liga on Monday.&nbsp;

Braithwaite could make his debut when Barca play Eibar at Camp Nou in the league on Saturday but the rule states he will not be allowed to play in the Champions League.

His arrival comes after the club allowed two forwards to leave last month: Carles Perez to &nbsp;Roma and Abel Ruiz to Braga.&nbsp;

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront.

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront. Also read: Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban Barca has taken advantage of the regulation that enables Spanish clubs in the top two divisions to buy from another La Liga club outside the transfer window if they lose a player to injury for more than five months. Also read: Lionel Messi confesses he sees 'weird things happening' at Barcelona "My ambition has always been to play at this level and when you persevere and you are positive, things end up happening," said Braithwaite after signing his contract. Welcome to the Club and the city @MartinBraith. We wish all the best and great success in this new challenge you start today with Barça pic.twitter.com/fKZuFVpOeh — Josep Maria Bartomeu (@jmbartomeu) February 20, 2020 × "I am very happy to be here because, as a footballer, it is one of the greatest things that can happen to you to play for the best club in the world." With Ousmane Dembele expected to be out for the rest of the season with a hamstring tear, the Catalans signed Braithwaite after paying the Dane's 18 million euro buy-out clause. "The player will sign a contract with the Club for the rest of the season and four more until 30 June 2024 with the buy-out clause set at 300 million euros," Barcelona announced on their website earlier in the day. After also selling Youssef En-Nesyri to Sevilla last month, Braithwaite's exit is a cruel blow for struggling Leganes, who will not be able to bring in a replacement unless an exception is made by La Liga. "We believe the settlement is unfair," said Leganes chief executive Martin Ortega. However, Barca president Josep Bartomeu insisted: "Barcelona's attitude has been correct." "We paid the clause in accordance with the regulations, but we think it should be revised because it is not fair that Leganes cannot therefore recruit." Leganes sit 19th in the table and play 17th-placed Celta Vigo on Saturday. Braithwaite was their top scorer this season with six goals. But the 28-year-old's addition will give cover for Barcelona, who were already without Luis Suarez to a knee injury before Dembele's extended absence was confirmed. The club applied for permission last week to make an emergency signing and were given the green light by La Liga on Monday. Braithwaite could make his debut when Barca play Eibar at Camp Nou in the league on Saturday but the rule states he will not be allowed to play in the Champions League. His arrival comes after the club allowed two forwards to leave last month: Carles Perez to Roma and Abel Ruiz to Braga.

Barcelona use La Liga rule to sign Martin Braithwaite

Pep Guardiola takes a jibe at his former club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu after he praised UEFA for imposing a two-year ban on Manchester City.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-empty-etihad-stadium-witnesses-first-manchester-city-win-after-uefa-ban-281761">Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban</a>

On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million.&nbsp;

After the ban, Bartomeu said: "In this regard, we thank UEFA, who in recent years has been so sure to follow up on Financial Fair Play. At Barca, we have been following it and we have regular investigations or we have meetings at UEFA to explain how we are doing it. From here we want to support UEFA for all the good it does in football."

Pep in a post-match conference after win over West Ham said: “If they're happy that we are suspended I would say to the president of Barca to give us two appeals. I ask right now that the people trust what they (City) have done."&nbsp;

Pep warned Barcelona: "Don't talk too loud, Barcelona, that's my advice, because everybody is involved in situations. We're going to appeal and hopefully, in the future, we can play in the Champions League against Barcelona."

Guardiola even ensured his fans that he will stay in Manchester City despite UEFA Ban as some speculations of him wanting to "quit" after UEFA ban was making rounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Manchester City will face Real Madrid for UEFA Champions League in the first leg of the round of 16 on March 17.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola takes a jibe at his former club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu after he praised UEFA for imposing a two-year ban on Manchester City. Also read: Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016.

Pep Guardiola takes a jibe at his former club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu after he praised UEFA for imposing a two-year ban on Manchester City. Also read: Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million. After the ban, Bartomeu said: "In this regard, we thank UEFA, who in recent years has been so sure to follow up on Financial Fair Play. At Barca, we have been following it and we have regular investigations or we have meetings at UEFA to explain how we are doing it. From here we want to support UEFA for all the good it does in football." Pep in a post-match conference after win over West Ham said: “If they're happy that we are suspended I would say to the president of Barca to give us two appeals. I ask right now that the people trust what they (City) have done." Pep warned Barcelona: "Don't talk too loud, Barcelona, that's my advice, because everybody is involved in situations. We're going to appeal and hopefully, in the future, we can play in the Champions League against Barcelona." Guardiola even ensured his fans that he will stay in Manchester City despite UEFA Ban as some speculations of him wanting to "quit" after UEFA ban was making rounds. Manchester City will face Real Madrid for UEFA Champions League in the first leg of the round of 16 on March 17.

Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi gave an exclusive interview to Spanish football news agency 'Mundo Deportivo' where he said that things are "strange" in the Catalonian club after the Barcelona's social media scandal.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">Lionel Messi targets Abidal fueling Barcelona exit rumours</a>

The social media scandal revolves around reports which were published in Spain this week that claimed that the Catalan side hired a PR company (I3 Ventures) &nbsp;to create social media accounts that would help boost the reputation of club president Josep Maria Bartomeu while at the same time tarnishing those of a host of figures linked to Barca, including Messi, Gerard Pique, Xavi and former manager Pep Guardiola.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lewis-hamilton-lionel-messi-simon-biles-score-big-at-laureus-awards-checkout-the-list-of-winners-281277">Lewis Hamilton, Lionel Messi, Simon Biles score big at Laureus Awards, here's the list of winners!</a>

Barcelona issued a statement denying these allegations, they admitted hiring I3 Ventures but denied allegations about tarnishing players' image.&nbsp;

Josep Maria Bartomeu called in a meeting with all captains and coach Quique Setien. Messi told the news agency on what happened in the meeting, he said: “The president told us the same thing he said in public - the same thing he said at the press conference. What was the situation, what had happened and I can't say much more.&nbsp;Just as you know everything he said, he told the captains the same in private.

He added that such events are strange, "It's weird that something like this happens, but they also said that there would be evidence. We will have to wait to see if it is true or not. We cannot say much and we will wait to see what happens with all of this. I really thought it was a strange subject."

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner said that he loves Barcelona and would love to stay there for a long time.

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi gave an exclusive interview to Spanish football news agency 'Mundo Deportivo' where he said that things are "strange" in the Catalonian club after the Barcelona's social media scandal.

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi gave an exclusive interview to Spanish football news agency 'Mundo Deportivo' where he said that things are "strange" in the Catalonian club after the Barcelona's social media scandal. Also read: Lionel Messi targets Abidal fueling Barcelona exit rumours The social media scandal revolves around reports which were published in Spain this week that claimed that the Catalan side hired a PR company (I3 Ventures) to create social media accounts that would help boost the reputation of club president Josep Maria Bartomeu while at the same time tarnishing those of a host of figures linked to Barca, including Messi, Gerard Pique, Xavi and former manager Pep Guardiola. Also see: Lewis Hamilton, Lionel Messi, Simon Biles score big at Laureus Awards, here's the list of winners! Barcelona issued a statement denying these allegations, they admitted hiring I3 Ventures but denied allegations about tarnishing players' image. Josep Maria Bartomeu called in a meeting with all captains and coach Quique Setien. Messi told the news agency on what happened in the meeting, he said: “The president told us the same thing he said in public - the same thing he said at the press conference. What was the situation, what had happened and I can't say much more. Just as you know everything he said, he told the captains the same in private. He added that such events are strange, "It's weird that something like this happens, but they also said that there would be evidence. We will have to wait to see if it is true or not. We cannot say much and we will wait to see what happens with all of this. I really thought it was a strange subject." The six-time Ballon d'Or winner said that he loves Barcelona and would love to stay there for a long time.

Lionel Messi confesses he sees 'weird things happening' at Barcelona

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