Ferran Torres netted a first-half hat-trick to help Barcelona thrash Real Betis 5-3 and move four points clear at the top of La Liga on Saturday. Lamine Yamal and Roony Bardghji scored the other goals as the champions racked up what was mostly a comfortable victory in Seville, until they conceded two late goals. Real Madrid, second, host Celta Vigo on Sunday aiming to reel Hansi Flick's side back in, while fourth-place Atletico Madrid visit Athletic Bilbao later Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;After some shaky performances Barca beat Atletico Madrid in midweek and then built on it with another triumph at Betis.&nbsp;"We are fighting and (my players) were exhausted, so at the end not everyone was 100 percent, and this is normal," Flick told reporters. "Today is positive. Really positive and compliments for my players."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-mohamed-salah-hints-at-liverpool-exit-with-thrown-under-the-bus-rant-arne-slot-1765076856783">Premier League: Salah hints at Liverpool exit with ‘thrown under the bus’ rant</a>&nbsp;Flick opted to make some rotations, with a key Champions League clash against Eintracht Frankfurt on Tuesday in mind. The German coach started Bardghji on the right wing and Torres up front in place of Robert Lewandowski, as well as moving teenage star Yamal into a central attacking midfield role, where he impressed.&nbsp;Former Manchester United forward Antony opened the scoring for Betis, fifth, at their temporary La Cartuja home, blasting home after Jules Kounde played him onside. The French defender made amends to help Barca get back level five minutes later, with Torres polishing off his cross at the end of a sharp team move.&nbsp;Torres struck again in the 13th minute in similar fashion from Bardghji's cross to put Barca in front, and they never looked back. Bardghji scored the third himself after good work by Pedri to bring the ball forward, the Swedish winger finishing with aplomb.&nbsp;Torres completed his hat-trick before half-time with a stroke of luck, as his shot deflected home past Alvaro Valles. It was his 11th league goal, making him the second top scorer in La Liga behind Madrid's Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;"I already knew I could do this," Torres told Movistar. "That's what you have to do at Barca, and I'm aiming for many more (goals)."&nbsp;Yamal netted Barca's fifth from the penalty spot before the hour mark, after former Blaugrana defender Marc Bartra was harshly penalised for handball.&nbsp;Marcus Rashford's shot was blocked by Bartra but the ball flew up and struck his hand.&nbsp;Yamal should have scored when clean through but shot too close to Valles, and Rashford also fired wide one-on-one.&nbsp;Betis nabbed two late goals, with Diego Llorente turning home at the back post from a corner that Barca defended badly.&nbsp;Kounde clumsily felled another former Barca player in Ez Abde and Cucho Hernandez rolled home from the spot.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Ferran Torres, with 11 league goals, makes him the second top scorer in La Liga behind Madrid's Kylian Mbappe.

Ferran Torres netted a first-half hat-trick to help Barcelona thrash Real Betis 5-3 and move four points clear at the top of La Liga on Saturday. Lamine Yamal and Roony Bardghji scored the other goals as the champions racked up what was mostly a comfortable victory in Seville, until they conceded two late goals. Real Madrid, second, host Celta Vigo on Sunday aiming to reel Hansi Flick's side back in, while fourth-place Atletico Madrid visit Athletic Bilbao later Saturday. After some shaky performances Barca beat Atletico Madrid in midweek and then built on it with another triumph at Betis. "We are fighting and (my players) were exhausted, so at the end not everyone was 100 percent, and this is normal," Flick told reporters. "Today is positive. Really positive and compliments for my players." Also read | Premier League: Salah hints at Liverpool exit with ‘thrown under the bus’ rant Flick opted to make some rotations, with a key Champions League clash against Eintracht Frankfurt on Tuesday in mind. The German coach started Bardghji on the right wing and Torres up front in place of Robert Lewandowski, as well as moving teenage star Yamal into a central attacking midfield role, where he impressed. Former Manchester United forward Antony opened the scoring for Betis, fifth, at their temporary La Cartuja home, blasting home after Jules Kounde played him onside. The French defender made amends to help Barca get back level five minutes later, with Torres polishing off his cross at the end of a sharp team move. Torres struck again in the 13th minute in similar fashion from Bardghji's cross to put Barca in front, and they never looked back. Bardghji scored the third himself after good work by Pedri to bring the ball forward, the Swedish winger finishing with aplomb. Torres completed his hat-trick before half-time with a stroke of luck, as his shot deflected home past Alvaro Valles. It was his 11th league goal, making him the second top scorer in La Liga behind Madrid's Kylian Mbappe. "I already knew I could do this," Torres told Movistar. "That's what you have to do at Barca, and I'm aiming for many more (goals)." Yamal netted Barca's fifth from the penalty spot before the hour mark, after former Blaugrana defender Marc Bartra was harshly penalised for handball. Marcus Rashford's shot was blocked by Bartra but the ball flew up and struck his hand. Yamal should have scored when clean through but shot too close to Valles, and Rashford also fired wide one-on-one. Betis nabbed two late goals, with Diego Llorente turning home at the back post from a corner that Barca defended badly. Kounde clumsily felled another former Barca player in Ez Abde and Cucho Hernandez rolled home from the spot. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Ferran Torres, with 11 league goals, makes him the second top scorer in La Liga behind Madrid's Kylian Mbappe.

Torres’ first-half hat-trick helps Barcelona extend Liga lead in thumping win over Betis

Real Madrid were held to a third consecutive La Liga draw in a 1-1 tie at Girona on Sunday, allowing Barcelona to retain pole position. Azzedine Ounahi fired the hosts into a surprise lead before half-time, with Kylian Mbappe earning Madrid a point from the penalty spot. After Barcelona beat Alaves on Saturday to move top of the table, Madrid needed a victory at Girona to reclaim top spot but now sit second, a point behind the champions.&nbsp;Earlier, Alberto Moleiro helped Villarreal, third, move back ahead of fourth-place Atletico Madrid with a stoppage time winner in a 3-2 victory at Real Sociedad.&nbsp;Real Madrid's draw increases the pressure on Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, after recent rumours suggesting his future is insecure in the Madrid dugout.&nbsp;"We are up there, it's all very even, it's a long season and we have to continue," Alonso told reporters. “I liked the reaction from the players. It was not enough to turn it around but we were close, and we have to continue with the unity we have, being self-critical enough, and wanting to win away from home.”&nbsp;Madrid travel to face Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday for a fourth consecutive league match on the road, a game moved because of the club's participation in the Spanish Super Cup in January.&nbsp;"The table will be hard-fought, there will be lots of movement," added Alonso.&nbsp;Mbappe and Arda Guler fired off target for Madrid early on in a hotly-contested but scrappy clash, in front of a raucous home crowd. French superstar Mbappe had a goal ruled out for handball moments before Morocco international Ounahi fired Girona ahead, rifling home from just inside the area to stun their illustrious visitors.&nbsp;Catalan minnows Girona, 18th, have twice beaten Real Madrid at Montilivi since making their top flight debut in 2017 and for a while it looked like they were going to manage it again.&nbsp;Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a stunning save to tip away Vanat's drive across goal before Los Blancos fought back. After having a goal disallowed for offside Vinicius was clumsily felled in the box by Hugo Rincon.&nbsp;Mbappe smashed the resulting penalty into the bottom left corner past Gazzaniga's dive for his 14th La Liga goal of the campaign.&nbsp;"Absolutely not the result we wanted tonight, but the league is still on and very long," wrote Mbappe on social media network Instagram. "We need to change this dynamic and show who we are as a team."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona lead the La Liga table with 34 points, while Madrid sit in second place with one point shy. 

Real Madrid were held to a third consecutive La Liga draw in a 1-1 tie at Girona on Sunday, allowing Barcelona to retain pole position. Azzedine Ounahi fired the hosts into a surprise lead before half-time, with Kylian Mbappe earning Madrid a point from the penalty spot. After Barcelona beat Alaves on Saturday to move top of the table, Madrid needed a victory at Girona to reclaim top spot but now sit second, a point behind the champions. Earlier, Alberto Moleiro helped Villarreal, third, move back ahead of fourth-place Atletico Madrid with a stoppage time winner in a 3-2 victory at Real Sociedad. Real Madrid's draw increases the pressure on Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, after recent rumours suggesting his future is insecure in the Madrid dugout. "We are up there, it's all very even, it's a long season and we have to continue," Alonso told reporters. “I liked the reaction from the players. It was not enough to turn it around but we were close, and we have to continue with the unity we have, being self-critical enough, and wanting to win away from home.” Madrid travel to face Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday for a fourth consecutive league match on the road, a game moved because of the club's participation in the Spanish Super Cup in January. "The table will be hard-fought, there will be lots of movement," added Alonso. Mbappe and Arda Guler fired off target for Madrid early on in a hotly-contested but scrappy clash, in front of a raucous home crowd. French superstar Mbappe had a goal ruled out for handball moments before Morocco international Ounahi fired Girona ahead, rifling home from just inside the area to stun their illustrious visitors. Catalan minnows Girona, 18th, have twice beaten Real Madrid at Montilivi since making their top flight debut in 2017 and for a while it looked like they were going to manage it again. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a stunning save to tip away Vanat's drive across goal before Los Blancos fought back. After having a goal disallowed for offside Vinicius was clumsily felled in the box by Hugo Rincon. Mbappe smashed the resulting penalty into the bottom left corner past Gazzaniga's dive for his 14th La Liga goal of the campaign. "Absolutely not the result we wanted tonight, but the league is still on and very long," wrote Mbappe on social media network Instagram. "We need to change this dynamic and show who we are as a team." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona lead the La Liga table with 34 points, while Madrid sit in second place with one point shy.&nbsp;

La Liga: Real Madrid’s title hopes dented at Girona in third straight draw

Chelsea romped to a dominant 3-0 win at home to 10-man Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday, while Pep Guardiola's much-changed Manchester City went down to their first defeat of the campaign against Bayer Leverkusen. In a battle between the second-placed sides in the Premier League and La Liga, Chelsea emerged emphatic winners thanks to goals from 18-year-old Estevao and Liam Delap after a Jules Kounde own-goal had given the 2021 Champions League winners a first-half lead.The visitors played just over half the encounter a player down following captain Ronald Araujo's dismissal for two bookable offences on the stroke of half-time.After stalling last time out -- Chelsea being held 2-2 by Qarabag and Barca drawing three-apiece with Club Brugge -- both sides came into the match at Stamford Bridge looking to get their campaigns back on track.Victory propelled Chelsea to fifth in the league phase standings on 10 points."It's a big win, especially because the other team was Barcelona," Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca said.After two Enzo Fernandez strikes were disallowed for offside, the hosts finally took the lead on 27 minutes.A short-corner routine ended with Marc Cucurella firing the ball across the box. Pedro Neto's attempted flick towards goal had the Barcelona defenders tying themselves in knots before France international Kounde inadvertently knocked it into his own net.The game took a decisive turn in the 44th minute when Araujo received a second yellow card for a poor challenge on Cucurella.Much of the pre-match build-up centred on talk around the young starlets on both sides, but it was Chelsea's Estevao who stole the show over Barcelona's Spain winger Lamine Yamal.A moment of magic by the Brazilian teen put the game beyond the Spanish champions as he received the ball on the right before beating two defenders and lashing it into the roof of Joan Garcia's net five minutes before the hour."I don't really have any words to sum up how I'm feeling right now," Estevao told Amazon Prime. "It really was the perfect night."Substitute Delap then put the game to bed in the 73rd minute.A second defeat has the Catalans down in 15th spot, but Barcelona coach Hansi Flick insisted he was "really positive" about their chances of automatic qualification to the last 16."We've got players coming back now and there are three games to play and nine points to win," the German said.<h2>‘Full responsibility’</h2>Guardiola surprisingly rested the majority of his stars at the Etihad, with Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva and Gianluigi Donnarumma all left out of the starting line-up as Man City went down 2-0 to Leverkusen.A first loss of the campaign for Man City, coming hot on the heels of Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle in the Premier League, leaves the 2023 winners on 10 points."I take full responsibility, still I think the players that started were exceptional players but we missed something needed at the highest level," Guardiola said."I think playing every two or three days we need to make changes but seeing the result, maybe it's too much."While defeat shall likely not prove fatal to their hopes of reaching the knockout stages, it was a chastening 100th European match in charge of City for Guardiola.Slack defending allowed Alex Grimaldo the chance to put the away side in front in the 23rd minute, before Patrik Schick glanced in a second half-an-hour later.In the south of France, Marseille roared back from an early Ashley Barnes goal to beat Newcastle 2-1 thanks to a second-half Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang double.Marseille's Mason Greenwood -- who left Manchester United following allegations of attempted rape and sexual assault, the charges for which were dropped by prosecutors in February 2023 -- was kept quiet by Newcastle in what was his first time facing English opposition since the allegations.An injury-time goal by Jonathan David snatched a 3-2 win for Italian giants Juventus in the Arctic Circle against Norway's Bodo/Glimt.Sondre Brunstad Fet's 87th-minute penalty had looked like it had secured a third draw for winless Champions League debutants Bodo until the Canadian bundled home in the 91st minute.Serhou Guirassy netted a brace as Borussia Dortmund moved up to fourth with a 4-0 victory over 10-man Villarreal, despite the Germans missing two penalties at the Westfalenstadion.Serie A champions Napoli beat Qarabag 2-0 at home, while Benfica won by the same scoreline at Ajax.Union Saint-Gilloise of Belgium won 1-0 away to Galatasaray and Athletic Bilbao played out a goalless stalemate at Slavia Prague.

In a battle between the second-placed sides in the Premier League and La Liga, Chelsea emerged emphatic winners thanks to goals from 18-year-old Estevao and Liam Delap after a Jules Kounde own-goal had given the 2021 Champions League winners a first-half lead.

Chelsea romped to a dominant 3-0 win at home to 10-man Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday, while Pep Guardiola's much-changed Manchester City went down to their first defeat of the campaign against Bayer Leverkusen. In a battle between the second-placed sides in the Premier League and La Liga, Chelsea emerged emphatic winners thanks to goals from 18-year-old Estevao and Liam Delap after a Jules Kounde own-goal had given the 2021 Champions League winners a first-half lead. The visitors played just over half the encounter a player down following captain Ronald Araujo's dismissal for two bookable offences on the stroke of half-time. After stalling last time out -- Chelsea being held 2-2 by Qarabag and Barca drawing three-apiece with Club Brugge -- both sides came into the match at Stamford Bridge looking to get their campaigns back on track. Victory propelled Chelsea to fifth in the league phase standings on 10 points. "It's a big win, especially because the other team was Barcelona," Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca said. After two Enzo Fernandez strikes were disallowed for offside, the hosts finally took the lead on 27 minutes. A short-corner routine ended with Marc Cucurella firing the ball across the box. Pedro Neto's attempted flick towards goal had the Barcelona defenders tying themselves in knots before France international Kounde inadvertently knocked it into his own net. The game took a decisive turn in the 44th minute when Araujo received a second yellow card for a poor challenge on Cucurella. Much of the pre-match build-up centred on talk around the young starlets on both sides, but it was Chelsea's Estevao who stole the show over Barcelona's Spain winger Lamine Yamal. A moment of magic by the Brazilian teen put the game beyond the Spanish champions as he received the ball on the right before beating two defenders and lashing it into the roof of Joan Garcia's net five minutes before the hour. "I don't really have any words to sum up how I'm feeling right now," Estevao told Amazon Prime. "It really was the perfect night." Substitute Delap then put the game to bed in the 73rd minute. A second defeat has the Catalans down in 15th spot, but Barcelona coach Hansi Flick insisted he was "really positive" about their chances of automatic qualification to the last 16. "We've got players coming back now and there are three games to play and nine points to win," the German said. ‘Full responsibility’ Guardiola surprisingly rested the majority of his stars at the Etihad, with Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva and Gianluigi Donnarumma all left out of the starting line-up as Man City went down 2-0 to Leverkusen. A first loss of the campaign for Man City, coming hot on the heels of Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle in the Premier League, leaves the 2023 winners on 10 points. "I take full responsibility, still I think the players that started were exceptional players but we missed something needed at the highest level," Guardiola said. "I think playing every two or three days we need to make changes but seeing the result, maybe it's too much." While defeat shall likely not prove fatal to their hopes of reaching the knockout stages, it was a chastening 100th European match in charge of City for Guardiola. Slack defending allowed Alex Grimaldo the chance to put the away side in front in the 23rd minute, before Patrik Schick glanced in a second half-an-hour later. In the south of France, Marseille roared back from an early Ashley Barnes goal to beat Newcastle 2-1 thanks to a second-half Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang double. Marseille's Mason Greenwood -- who left Manchester United following allegations of attempted rape and sexual assault, the charges for which were dropped by prosecutors in February 2023 -- was kept quiet by Newcastle in what was his first time facing English opposition since the allegations. An injury-time goal by Jonathan David snatched a 3-2 win for Italian giants Juventus in the Arctic Circle against Norway's Bodo/Glimt. Sondre Brunstad Fet's 87th-minute penalty had looked like it had secured a third draw for winless Champions League debutants Bodo until the Canadian bundled home in the 91st minute. Serhou Guirassy netted a brace as Borussia Dortmund moved up to fourth with a 4-0 victory over 10-man Villarreal, despite the Germans missing two penalties at the Westfalenstadion. Serie A champions Napoli beat Qarabag 2-0 at home, while Benfica won by the same scoreline at Ajax. Union Saint-Gilloise of Belgium won 1-0 away to Galatasaray and Athletic Bilbao played out a goalless stalemate at Slavia Prague.

In a battle between the second-placed sides in the Premier League and La Liga, Chelsea emerged emphatic winners thanks to goals from 18-year-old Estevao and Liam Delap after a Jules Kounde own-goal had given the 2021 Champions League winners a first-half lead.

Champions League: Chelsea romp to win against Barcelona, Manchester City lose to Bayern Leverkusen

Barcelona made a triumphant return to their rebuilt Camp Nou stadium on Saturday following two and a half years in exile with a 4-0 win over Athletic Bilbao to go joint top of La Liga.&nbsp;The Spanish champions had planned to reopen their stadium a year ago but construction delays and other setbacks meant they were forced to wait for their homecoming.&nbsp;Ferran Torres netted a brace after Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring. Fermin Lopez also struck in a comfortable win against Athletic, who had Oihan Sancet sent off in the second half.&nbsp;Hansi Flick's side pulled level with Real Madrid at the top of the table. Los Blancos visit Elche on Sunday.&nbsp;"For everyone, the players, the staff, the coaches, it was a special game, and also for the fans to be back here in this stadium is unbelievable," Flick told reporters.&nbsp;"I'm happy with the clean sheet, the four goals and the three points -- the perfect day for us."&nbsp;Barca set off fireworks before and after the game as a little more than 45,000 fans filled the three stands which had been opened.&nbsp;Despite exorbitant prices, the match was virtually sold out. Barca hope to be able to open up more seats by 2026, and be at the full 105,000 capacity next season.&nbsp;"We have to wait, step by step... we are looking forward (to that)," said Flick, who described coaching Barca at Camp Nou as a "dream come true".&nbsp;The coach was able to name Joan Garcia after the goalkeeper had missed the previous nine games injured. Garcia helped the team keep their first clean sheet since September.&nbsp;Fans had to wait much longer than planned to return to Camp Nou, but were quickly able to celebrate the team's first goal at the new stadium.&nbsp;Veteran striker Lewandowski, wearing the captain's armband, opened the scoring in the fourth minute.&nbsp;Eric Garcia, playing in midfield in place of the suspended Frenkie de Jong, won the ball high up the pitch and Lewandowski beat Unai Simon at his near post with a powerful low strike.&nbsp;The Basque goalkeeper got a hand to the ball and should have kept it out, but Lewandowski was able to chalk up his eighth league goal of his injury-hit, stop-start season.&nbsp;"Today was a special day, not only for me but for everyone," Lewandowski told Barca One."I'm very happy that I could score the first goal, coming back to Camp Nou..." he continued.&nbsp;"I think this first goal for me is something that I'm going to remember forever."&nbsp;All-time Barca great Lionel Messi made an impromptu visit to the renovated stadium a couple of weeks ago and fans sang his name in the 10th minute, not forgetting Barca's glittering past even as they began a new era.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The home fans also made clear they had not forgotten Nico Williams's decision not to sign for them and whistled the Spain forward at every opportunity.&nbsp;Former Barca coach Ernesto Valverde's Athletic made life difficult at times for Barca in the first half but without creating too much danger themselves.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Torres at the double</h2>&nbsp;Athletic forward Unai Gomez fired over and Williams curled wide before Barca doubled their lead on the stroke of half-time.&nbsp;Lamine Yamal played Torres through on goal with the outside of his boot and the striker beat Simon, who again could have kept the shot out.&nbsp;The Catalan giants struck again early in the second half when Garcia again pressed well high in Athletic territory and then fed Lopez, who finished neatly.&nbsp;Athletic's miserable afternoon became even worse when midfielder Sancet hacked down Lopez in frustration and was dismissed after a VAR review.&nbsp;Flick brought on Brazilian winger Raphinha in the second half after a spell out injured. He whipped a shot narrowly wide within seconds of his introduction.&nbsp;Barca wrapped up a perfect afternoon back in their home when Yamal dribbled away from three defenders and played another superb pass to put Torres through for his second.Elsewhere, third-place Villarreal kept the pressure on the top two with a 2-1 win over Mallorca to take them within two points of the leaders.&nbsp;Ander Barrenetxea scored a brilliant goal from near the halfway line for Real Sociedad as they overcame Osasuna 3-1 to move into mid-table.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ferran Torres netted a brace after Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring. Fermin Lopez also struck in a comfortable win against Athletic, who had Oihan Sancet sent off in the second half.

Barcelona made a triumphant return to their rebuilt Camp Nou stadium on Saturday following two and a half years in exile with a 4-0 win over Athletic Bilbao to go joint top of La Liga. The Spanish champions had planned to reopen their stadium a year ago but construction delays and other setbacks meant they were forced to wait for their homecoming. Ferran Torres netted a brace after Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring. Fermin Lopez also struck in a comfortable win against Athletic, who had Oihan Sancet sent off in the second half. Hansi Flick's side pulled level with Real Madrid at the top of the table. Los Blancos visit Elche on Sunday. "For everyone, the players, the staff, the coaches, it was a special game, and also for the fans to be back here in this stadium is unbelievable," Flick told reporters. "I'm happy with the clean sheet, the four goals and the three points -- the perfect day for us." Barca set off fireworks before and after the game as a little more than 45,000 fans filled the three stands which had been opened. Despite exorbitant prices, the match was virtually sold out. Barca hope to be able to open up more seats by 2026, and be at the full 105,000 capacity next season. "We have to wait, step by step... we are looking forward (to that)," said Flick, who described coaching Barca at Camp Nou as a "dream come true". The coach was able to name Joan Garcia after the goalkeeper had missed the previous nine games injured. Garcia helped the team keep their first clean sheet since September. Fans had to wait much longer than planned to return to Camp Nou, but were quickly able to celebrate the team's first goal at the new stadium. Veteran striker Lewandowski, wearing the captain's armband, opened the scoring in the fourth minute. Eric Garcia, playing in midfield in place of the suspended Frenkie de Jong, won the ball high up the pitch and Lewandowski beat Unai Simon at his near post with a powerful low strike. The Basque goalkeeper got a hand to the ball and should have kept it out, but Lewandowski was able to chalk up his eighth league goal of his injury-hit, stop-start season. "Today was a special day, not only for me but for everyone," Lewandowski told Barca One. "I'm very happy that I could score the first goal, coming back to Camp Nou..." he continued. "I think this first goal for me is something that I'm going to remember forever." All-time Barca great Lionel Messi made an impromptu visit to the renovated stadium a couple of weeks ago and fans sang his name in the 10th minute, not forgetting Barca's glittering past even as they began a new era. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The home fans also made clear they had not forgotten Nico Williams's decision not to sign for them and whistled the Spain forward at every opportunity. Former Barca coach Ernesto Valverde's Athletic made life difficult at times for Barca in the first half but without creating too much danger themselves. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Torres at the double Athletic forward Unai Gomez fired over and Williams curled wide before Barca doubled their lead on the stroke of half-time. Lamine Yamal played Torres through on goal with the outside of his boot and the striker beat Simon, who again could have kept the shot out. The Catalan giants struck again early in the second half when Garcia again pressed well high in Athletic territory and then fed Lopez, who finished neatly. Athletic's miserable afternoon became even worse when midfielder Sancet hacked down Lopez in frustration and was dismissed after a VAR review. Flick brought on Brazilian winger Raphinha in the second half after a spell out injured. He whipped a shot narrowly wide within seconds of his introduction. Barca wrapped up a perfect afternoon back in their home when Yamal dribbled away from three defenders and played another superb pass to put Torres through for his second. Elsewhere, third-place Villarreal kept the pressure on the top two with a 2-1 win over Mallorca to take them within two points of the leaders. Ander Barrenetxea scored a brilliant goal from near the halfway line for Real Sociedad as they overcame Osasuna 3-1 to move into mid-table. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ferran Torres netted a brace after Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring. Fermin Lopez also struck in a comfortable win against Athletic, who had Oihan Sancet sent off in the second half.

La Liga: Barcelona thrash Athletic Bilbao to inaugurate rebuilt Camp Nou in style

Barcelona fans rejoice! The long-awaited return to Camp Nou is finally happening on November 22. Get all the details on the match, celebrations, and what to expect when Barca takes the field at their iconic stadium once again

Camp NOU 2025: Barcelona to Make Long-Awaited Return to Camp NOU on November 22

Barcelona will finally return to their reconstructed Camp Nou stadium against Athletic Bilbao on November 22 in La Liga, the club said Monday, after more than two years in exile.&nbsp;Since the stadium closed at the end of the 2022/23 season, the Catalan giants have been forced to play elsewhere, mainly at the Olympic Stadium on the city's Montjuic hill.&nbsp;A series of delays means Camp Nou is reopening a year after it was originally slated to, following a 1.5 billion euro ($1.75 billion) transformation beset by construction chaos.&nbsp;Barcelona will open the stadium with a temporary capacity of 45,401 spectators, with space for 105,000 when the top tier is completed.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;They opened the stadium up for 23,000 fans to watch a training session earlier in November as a test event in the reopening process.&nbsp;Barcelona are also hoping to receive the green light from UEFA to host Eintracht Frankfurt at the Camp Nou in the Champions League on December 9.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The Spanish champions were forced to play two matches at their 6,000-capacity Johan Cruyff training ground stadium in the first weeks of the season after failing to get the permit they needed for Camp Nou, because of safety reasons.&nbsp;The previous iteration of Camp Nou was built in 1957 and had a capacity of 99,000.Barcelona plan to add a roof to the stadium which will be installed in the summer of 2027, a year later than the project was anticipated to be completed.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona will open the stadium with a temporary capacity of 45,401 spectators, with space for 105,000 when the top tier is completed.

Barcelona will finally return to their reconstructed Camp Nou stadium against Athletic Bilbao on November 22 in La Liga, the club said Monday, after more than two years in exile. Since the stadium closed at the end of the 2022/23 season, the Catalan giants have been forced to play elsewhere, mainly at the Olympic Stadium on the city's Montjuic hill. A series of delays means Camp Nou is reopening a year after it was originally slated to, following a 1.5 billion euro ($1.75 billion) transformation beset by construction chaos. Barcelona will open the stadium with a temporary capacity of 45,401 spectators, with space for 105,000 when the top tier is completed. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes They opened the stadium up for 23,000 fans to watch a training session earlier in November as a test event in the reopening process. Barcelona are also hoping to receive the green light from UEFA to host Eintracht Frankfurt at the Camp Nou in the Champions League on December 9. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The Spanish champions were forced to play two matches at their 6,000-capacity Johan Cruyff training ground stadium in the first weeks of the season after failing to get the permit they needed for Camp Nou, because of safety reasons. The previous iteration of Camp Nou was built in 1957 and had a capacity of 99,000. Barcelona plan to add a roof to the stadium which will be installed in the summer of 2027, a year later than the project was anticipated to be completed. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona will open the stadium with a temporary capacity of 45,401 spectators, with space for 105,000 when the top tier is completed.

Barcelona to make long-awaited Camp Nou return on November 22 against Athletic Bilbao

On a brightly lit stage in barcelona,
The crowd erupts as roya karimi steps forward,.
Once a teenage mother and child bride in afghanistan,
Roya karimi has gone on to become one of europe’s top bodybuilders.

Roya Karimi's Remarkable Journey Roya Karimi

Lionel Messi made a surprise return to the Camp Nou on Sunday (Nov 9) as he posted pictures of himself at the iconic ground, which was his home for more than 16 years. Messi, who broke through the academy of Barcelona, served for the famous Spanish club until 2021 before moving on a free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. Since his 2021 move, Messi has not made any official visit to the stadium, but was spotted at the venue as he strolled in the surroundings.

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font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DQ3zR6-DPGm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)</a></div></blockquote>
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<h2>Messi visits Camp Nou</h2>“Last night, I returned to a place that I miss with all my heart. A place where I was immensely happy, where you made me feel like the happiest person in the world a thousand times over.” He also expressed his desire to return to the club one day, saying, “I hope that one day I can come back, not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got the chance to do.”&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;One of the legends of the game, Messi graced the pitch at Camp Nou for a better part of a decade and a half as he won multiple honours. This included a club record four Champions League titles, 10 La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey trophies and multiple other honours. During this period, he also scored 672 goals in 772 appearances for Barcelona, underlining his legacy at the club.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Messi’s visit to the Camp Nou was his first since the stadium was revamped. Barca reopened the Camp Nou on Friday, 895 days after its closure, unveiling a revamped stadium by staging an open training session attended by 21,795 fans.&nbsp;While Messi is still an active player with Inter Miami, it will be interesting to see whether he makes a return to his beloved club or not. He extended his contract with Inter Miami in October and a return to Barcelona for now looks out of context.

One of the legends of the game, Lionel Messi graced the pitch at Camp Nou for a better part of a decade and a half as he won multiple honours. This included a club record four Champions League titles, 10 La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey trophies and multiple other honours. 

Lionel Messi made a surprise return to the Camp Nou on Sunday (Nov 9) as he posted pictures of himself at the iconic ground, which was his home for more than 16 years. Messi, who broke through the academy of Barcelona, served for the famous Spanish club until 2021 before moving on a free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. Since his 2021 move, Messi has not made any official visit to the stadium, but was spotted at the venue as he strolled in the surroundings.

One of the legends of the game, Lionel Messi graced the pitch at Camp Nou for a better part of a decade and a half as he won multiple honours. This included a club record four Champions League titles, 10 La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey trophies and multiple other honours.&nbsp;

Watch: Lionel Messi secretly visits Camp Nou, says 'I hope one day I can come back...'

Robert Lewandowski hit a hat-trick to help Barcelona beat Celta Vigo 4-2 on Sunday in La Liga and cut Real Madrid's lead down to three points. The veteran Polish striker's treble helped Hansi Flick's side capitalise on Los Blancos' 0-0 draw earlier on at Rayo Vallecano. Teenager Lamine Yamal also scored for Barca in another gripping game produced by the champions' attacking approach, and Marcus Rashford produced two more assists. Frenkie de Jong was sent off late on for Barca for two yellow cards but by then the champions had secured their victory to move second.Lewandowski has had a stop-start beginning of the season because of injury and Flick said his hat-trick would boost his confidence.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-nottingham-forest-boost-survival-bid-aston-villa-thrash-bournemouth-4-0-1762708769952">Premier League: Forest boost survival bid; Aston Villa thrash Bournemouth 4-0</a>"After the injury I can see a different Robert Lewandowski, he's positive, he came back very early," Flick told reporters."For him, for his confidence, it's great to score three goals today."Lewandowski said the game was "one of the craziest" of the season, but was happy with the result."Vigo is always difficult for us but now we have less points (between us) and Real Madrid," Lewandowski told Movistar.Flick insisted Barcelona would not change their style despite some recent struggles, including a 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday, and it led to a wild first half.The champions nosed ahead through a Lewandowski penalty on 10 minutes after a handball but Celta equalised a minute later.Rashford missed a one-on-one chance and Celta broke away to score, with Sergio Carreira scampering behind Barca's high defensive line.Missing several injured stars Flick had called on his team to show more fight in their absence and they were more energised at Balaidos.Looking back to his best, Lewandowski grabbed his second from an inviting Rashford cross to put Barca back in front on 37 minutes.Celta quickly hit back again, this time through Borja Iglesias, who smashed home from the edge of the box.However, Barca went in with the lead when Rashford's deflected cross found teenage star Yamal, who beat Ionut Radu at his near post.Both teams were more stable in the second half, with Barca dominating and Celta forced to sit back.Lewandowski completed his hat-trick with a header from Rashford's corner after 73 minutes to wrap up the win.It was the striker's seventh league goal of the season in just four starts, showing his finishing quality has not diminished at the age of 37."We have two weeks to disconnect now but I hope when we come back we play a lot better, it's the perfect moment to change things that aren't working," said Lewandowski."Flick asked if I needed a rest and I said no... I felt very good physically today and I'm very happy."- Madrid frustrated - Earlier, Real Madrid were left frustrated in their goalless draw at Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, giving champions Barcelona a chance to close in on them.Rayo battled strongly in the derby clash and although Real Madrid had the better chances, the hosts also had opportunities to win a scrappy game.They managed to limit La Liga top scorer Kylian Mbappe's influence, while keeping Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham safely at arm's length as well.Madrid were hoping to bounce back from their Champions League defeat by Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday but Alonso's team dropped points for only the second time this season in the league."I want to keep growing, improving, with positive and constructive self-criticism -- this is Real Madrid, we all know where we are and what we want," coach Xabi Alonso told reporters."We're in November, there's a long way to go, we need to be demanding of ourselves (but) also be measured."Inigo Perez's Rayo threatened first, when Andrei Ratiu fired straight at Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.After that Madrid began to take control but the hosts, in mid-table, held firm.Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla made a fine instinctive save to push away a Vinicius effort and the hosts starved Madrid superstar Mbappe of the ball.De Frutos and Alvaro Garcia came close for Rayo in the second half while Bellingham forced Batalla into another good save.

Flick insisted Barcelona would not change their style despite some recent struggles, including a 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday, and it led to a wild first half.

Robert Lewandowski hit a hat-trick to help Barcelona beat Celta Vigo 4-2 on Sunday in La Liga and cut Real Madrid's lead down to three points. The veteran Polish striker's treble helped Hansi Flick's side capitalise on Los Blancos' 0-0 draw earlier on at Rayo Vallecano. Teenager Lamine Yamal also scored for Barca in another gripping game produced by the champions' attacking approach, and Marcus Rashford produced two more assists. Frenkie de Jong was sent off late on for Barca for two yellow cards but by then the champions had secured their victory to move second. Lewandowski has had a stop-start beginning of the season because of injury and Flick said his hat-trick would boost his confidence. Also Read - Premier League: Forest boost survival bid; Aston Villa thrash Bournemouth 4-0 "After the injury I can see a different Robert Lewandowski, he's positive, he came back very early," Flick told reporters. "For him, for his confidence, it's great to score three goals today." Lewandowski said the game was "one of the craziest" of the season, but was happy with the result. "Vigo is always difficult for us but now we have less points (between us) and Real Madrid," Lewandowski told Movistar. Flick insisted Barcelona would not change their style despite some recent struggles, including a 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday, and it led to a wild first half. The champions nosed ahead through a Lewandowski penalty on 10 minutes after a handball but Celta equalised a minute later. Rashford missed a one-on-one chance and Celta broke away to score, with Sergio Carreira scampering behind Barca's high defensive line. Missing several injured stars Flick had called on his team to show more fight in their absence and they were more energised at Balaidos. Looking back to his best, Lewandowski grabbed his second from an inviting Rashford cross to put Barca back in front on 37 minutes. Celta quickly hit back again, this time through Borja Iglesias, who smashed home from the edge of the box. However, Barca went in with the lead when Rashford's deflected cross found teenage star Yamal, who beat Ionut Radu at his near post. Both teams were more stable in the second half, with Barca dominating and Celta forced to sit back. Lewandowski completed his hat-trick with a header from Rashford's corner after 73 minutes to wrap up the win. It was the striker's seventh league goal of the season in just four starts, showing his finishing quality has not diminished at the age of 37. "We have two weeks to disconnect now but I hope when we come back we play a lot better, it's the perfect moment to change things that aren't working," said Lewandowski. "Flick asked if I needed a rest and I said no... I felt very good physically today and I'm very happy." - Madrid frustrated - Earlier, Real Madrid were left frustrated in their goalless draw at Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, giving champions Barcelona a chance to close in on them. Rayo battled strongly in the derby clash and although Real Madrid had the better chances, the hosts also had opportunities to win a scrappy game. They managed to limit La Liga top scorer Kylian Mbappe's influence, while keeping Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham safely at arm's length as well. Madrid were hoping to bounce back from their Champions League defeat by Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday but Alonso's team dropped points for only the second time this season in the league. "I want to keep growing, improving, with positive and constructive self-criticism -- this is Real Madrid, we all know where we are and what we want," coach Xabi Alonso told reporters. "We're in November, there's a long way to go, we need to be demanding of ourselves (but) also be measured." Inigo Perez's Rayo threatened first, when Andrei Ratiu fired straight at Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. After that Madrid began to take control but the hosts, in mid-table, held firm. Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla made a fine instinctive save to push away a Vinicius effort and the hosts starved Madrid superstar Mbappe of the ball. De Frutos and Alvaro Garcia came close for Rayo in the second half while Bellingham forced Batalla into another good save.

Flick insisted Barcelona would not change their style despite some recent struggles, including a 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday, and it led to a wild first half.

La Liga: Lewandowski hat-trick helps Barcelona cut Real Madrid lead to three points

The cancellation of La Liga's plan to hold a Barcelona match in Miami in December is a "missed opportunity" for Spanish football, the league's president said Wednesday, while elsewhere its collapse was celebrated. Champions Barca were set to face Villarreal in the United States on December 20, which would have been the first European league fixture to be played abroad. The match will now be held at Villarreal's Estadio de la Ceramica home as normal. La Liga said their promoter for the match decided to cancel the organisation of the event because of "uncertainty generated in Spain in recent weeks".Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-olympic-gold-medallist-neeraj-chopra-is-now-a-lt-colonel-in-territorial-army-1761146679838">WATCH | Neeraj Chopra is now a Lt. Colonel in Territorial Army</a>The league's president Javier Tebas took to X to express regret at not being able to seize "this historic opportunity", adding that Spanish football had missed a chance to "develop, to project itself in the world and reinforce its future".Villarreal were furious about the timing of the announcement to cancel the plans -- the news breaking during their Champions League defeat by Manchester City on Tuesday -- and also blasted La Liga's management of the whole event."(We) wish to express our deep displeasure with La Liga over the poor handling of the match scheduled to be played in Miami," said the club in a statement.Villarreal said there had been "no progress" in terms of organisation and the club would have "withdrawn from the project" themselves later in the week if various issues were not resolved to their satisfaction at a planned meeting with La Liga.The plan to hold the match in the United States had also been criticised by various parties within Spain, contributing towards its cancellation.The Spanish Footballers' Association (AFE) organised protests against it last weekend, with players from every team remaining immobile for 15 seconds at the start of each league match.Spanish giants Real Madrid also railed against it institutionally, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said Tuesday it would adulterate the competition.Madrid captain Dani Carvajal told Tebas the game being held abroad would be "a stain" on the competition.Tebas added: "We are appealing to the 'integrity of the competition' from those who have been questioning this same integrity for years, putting pressure on referees and managers, constructing distorted narratives or using political and media pressure as a sporting tool."The president of Spain's Sports Council (CSD), Jose Manuel Rodriguez Uribes, said La Liga had not gone the right way about trying to arrange the game."The episode we experienced with Miami... shows that this is not the way to do things," he said on Wednesday."Before taking an initiative of this nature -- a decision so significant that it could undoubtedly have affected the integrity of the competition -- it was necessary to have dialogue, an agreement among the participants, all the clubs."Of course, the players should be considered, as well as the fans."<h2>'Seismic victory'</h2>Rodriguez Uribes said "absolute transparency" was necessary, as well as "appropriate regulations" in place for this kind of game, which do not currently exist."At the CSD we will always prefer -- as we have said from the very beginning -- to bring sporting events to Spain rather than take them out," he added.The AFE released a statement highlighting "the lack of transparency, dialogue, and coherence" from La Liga around the game."The players spoke out unanimously on the pitch last week to send a powerful message: without players, there is no football," added the footballers' association.In February, Serie A still plan to hold a match between AC Milan and Como in Perth, Australia, despite a similar backlash from both fans and players.Football Supporters Europe (FSE), a representative body on fan issues, celebrated the cancelation of the Miami match as a "seismic victory", and warned the Italian top flight to abandon their plans."Doubling down on this failed idea would be an act of self-inflicted damage to the league's reputation, to Italian football, and to the game as a whole," said FSE in a statement.

The league's president Javier Tebas took to X to express regret at not being able to seize "this historic opportunity", adding that Spanish football had missed a chance to "develop, to project itself in the world and reinforce its future".

The cancellation of La Liga's plan to hold a Barcelona match in Miami in December is a "missed opportunity" for Spanish football, the league's president said Wednesday, while elsewhere its collapse was celebrated. Champions Barca were set to face Villarreal in the United States on December 20, which would have been the first European league fixture to be played abroad. The match will now be held at Villarreal's Estadio de la Ceramica home as normal. La Liga said their promoter for the match decided to cancel the organisation of the event because of "uncertainty generated in Spain in recent weeks". Also Read - WATCH | Neeraj Chopra is now a Lt. Colonel in Territorial Army The league's president Javier Tebas took to X to express regret at not being able to seize "this historic opportunity", adding that Spanish football had missed a chance to "develop, to project itself in the world and reinforce its future". Villarreal were furious about the timing of the announcement to cancel the plans -- the news breaking during their Champions League defeat by Manchester City on Tuesday -- and also blasted La Liga's management of the whole event. "(We) wish to express our deep displeasure with La Liga over the poor handling of the match scheduled to be played in Miami," said the club in a statement. Villarreal said there had been "no progress" in terms of organisation and the club would have "withdrawn from the project" themselves later in the week if various issues were not resolved to their satisfaction at a planned meeting with La Liga. The plan to hold the match in the United States had also been criticised by various parties within Spain, contributing towards its cancellation. The Spanish Footballers' Association (AFE) organised protests against it last weekend, with players from every team remaining immobile for 15 seconds at the start of each league match. Spanish giants Real Madrid also railed against it institutionally, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said Tuesday it would adulterate the competition. Madrid captain Dani Carvajal told Tebas the game being held abroad would be "a stain" on the competition. Tebas added: "We are appealing to the 'integrity of the competition' from those who have been questioning this same integrity for years, putting pressure on referees and managers, constructing distorted narratives or using political and media pressure as a sporting tool." The president of Spain's Sports Council (CSD), Jose Manuel Rodriguez Uribes, said La Liga had not gone the right way about trying to arrange the game. "The episode we experienced with Miami... shows that this is not the way to do things," he said on Wednesday. "Before taking an initiative of this nature -- a decision so significant that it could undoubtedly have affected the integrity of the competition -- it was necessary to have dialogue, an agreement among the participants, all the clubs. "Of course, the players should be considered, as well as the fans." 'Seismic victory' Rodriguez Uribes said "absolute transparency" was necessary, as well as "appropriate regulations" in place for this kind of game, which do not currently exist. "At the CSD we will always prefer -- as we have said from the very beginning -- to bring sporting events to Spain rather than take them out," he added. The AFE released a statement highlighting "the lack of transparency, dialogue, and coherence" from La Liga around the game. "The players spoke out unanimously on the pitch last week to send a powerful message: without players, there is no football," added the footballers' association. In February, Serie A still plan to hold a match between AC Milan and Como in Perth, Australia, despite a similar backlash from both fans and players. Football Supporters Europe (FSE), a representative body on fan issues, celebrated the cancelation of the Miami match as a "seismic victory", and warned the Italian top flight to abandon their plans. "Doubling down on this failed idea would be an act of self-inflicted damage to the league's reputation, to Italian football, and to the game as a whole," said FSE in a statement.

The league's president Javier Tebas took to X to express regret at not being able to seize "this historic opportunity", adding that Spanish football had missed a chance to "develop, to project itself in the world and reinforce its future".

No Barcelona vs Villarreal match in Miami anymore - La Liga president rues 'missed opportunity'

Spanish La Liga's ambitious plan to host Villarreal's league game against Barcelona in Miami on December 20 has been cancelled. The promoters in charge pulled the plug, citing uncertain signals coming from Spain. It would have been the first-ever European league game played outside the continent.


La Liga Dumps Plan To Host Villarreal vs Barca Game In Miami

Juventus defender Gleison Bremer will undergo surgery for a torn meniscus ligament in his left knee, the Serie A club said on Monday. In a statement Juve said that the centre-back, who missed most of last season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, was diagnosed with the tear in Lyon on Monday morning. "In the next few hours the player will undergo selective arthroscopic meniscectomy," Juve added.Italian media report that the 28-year-old could be out for a month, with Juve facing high-flying Como in Italy's top flight on Sunday.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cas-set-to-rule-on-israel-s-participation-in-artistic-gymnastics-championships-1760366781798">CAS set to rule on Israel's participation in artistic gymnastics championships</a>It is a further blow to coach Igor Tudor as Juve were already missing fellow defender Juan Cabal who suffered a thigh injury during his team's 2-2 draw at Villarreal in the Champions League earlier this month.Juventus are fifth in Serie A on 12 points and have drawn their last five matches in all competitions.<h2>Barca's Olmo a doubt for Clasico after calf injury</h2>Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo is a doubt for the upcoming La Liga Clasico match against Real Madrid after being diagnosed with a calf injury on Monday."Olmo has a muscle injury in his left calf, without connective tissue involvement," said Barcelona in a statement, not specifying his expected recovery time.Spanish media reported Olmo could miss around a fortnight, making him a doubt to face Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on October 26.Olmo was sent home from the Spanish national team camp last week because of the injury.Barca forward Ferran Torres also left the Spain camp on Monday because of muscular discomfort.Torres was "diagnosed with muscle overload without any structural injury" said Spain, and he will miss their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria on Tuesday.

It is a further blow to coach Igor Tudor as Juve were already missing fellow defender Juan Cabal who suffered a thigh injury during his team's 2-2 draw at Villarreal in the Champions League earlier this month.

Juventus defender Gleison Bremer will undergo surgery for a torn meniscus ligament in his left knee, the Serie A club said on Monday. In a statement Juve said that the centre-back, who missed most of last season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, was diagnosed with the tear in Lyon on Monday morning. "In the next few hours the player will undergo selective arthroscopic meniscectomy," Juve added. Italian media report that the 28-year-old could be out for a month, with Juve facing high-flying Como in Italy's top flight on Sunday. Also Read - CAS set to rule on Israel's participation in artistic gymnastics championships It is a further blow to coach Igor Tudor as Juve were already missing fellow defender Juan Cabal who suffered a thigh injury during his team's 2-2 draw at Villarreal in the Champions League earlier this month. Juventus are fifth in Serie A on 12 points and have drawn their last five matches in all competitions. Barca's Olmo a doubt for Clasico after calf injury Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo is a doubt for the upcoming La Liga Clasico match against Real Madrid after being diagnosed with a calf injury on Monday. "Olmo has a muscle injury in his left calf, without connective tissue involvement," said Barcelona in a statement, not specifying his expected recovery time. Spanish media reported Olmo could miss around a fortnight, making him a doubt to face Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on October 26. Olmo was sent home from the Spanish national team camp last week because of the injury. Barca forward Ferran Torres also left the Spain camp on Monday because of muscular discomfort. Torres was "diagnosed with muscle overload without any structural injury" said Spain, and he will miss their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria on Tuesday.

It is a further blow to coach Igor Tudor as Juve were already missing fellow defender Juan Cabal who suffered a thigh injury during his team's 2-2 draw at Villarreal in the Champions League earlier this month.

Juventus defender Gleison Bremer set to get torn meniscus ligament operated; Barca's Olmo doubtful for El-Clasico

Barcelona has rejected a request from an Israeli team to use its training facilities, stirring sports and political discussions. The decision highlights sensitivities around international sports collaborations.


Barcelona Rejects Israeli Team Training Facility Request 

Barcelona will face Villarreal in Miami in a La Liga match on December 20, the Spanish top flight said Wednesday, making it the first European league fixture to be played abroad. Earlier this week, European football governing body UEFA said they opposed the idea of games being played overseas but would permit it on an exceptional basis, along with a Serie A match in Australia in February between AC Milan and Como."With this match we take a historic step that projects La Liga and Spanish football into a new dimension," said La Liga president Javier Tebas in a statement."We understand and respect the concerns that this decision may generate, but it is important to put it into context -- it is a single match out of the 380 that make up the season."The game was due to be played at Villarreal's home stadium but will now take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in the United States, in Florida.Villarreal will take measures to compensate season ticket holders after the game was moved."Villarreal season ticket holders will be able to travel for free to the match, and those who choose not to travel to Miami will enjoy a 30 percent discount on their season ticket price as part of the measures designed to reward their support and loyalty," said La Liga.In September a total of 18 fan groups from both teams involved expressed their "complete opposition" to the match taking place abroad.La Liga have attempted to play matches overseas dating back to 2017 but the Spanish football federation (RFEF) frequently resisted, despite hosting the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia themselves.Barcelona's rivals Real Madrid have also expressed their disapproval at the decision to take a La Liga game abroad.They said in August hosting the game in Miami would "alter the competitive balance" of the league and set an "unacceptable precedent".

The game was due to be played at Villarreal's home stadium but will now take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in the United States, in Florida. Villarreal will take measures to compensate season ticket holders after the game was moved.

Barcelona will face Villarreal in Miami in a La Liga match on December 20, the Spanish top flight said Wednesday, making it the first European league fixture to be played abroad. Earlier this week, European football governing body UEFA said they opposed the idea of games being played overseas but would permit it on an exceptional basis, along with a Serie A match in Australia in February between AC Milan and Como. "With this match we take a historic step that projects La Liga and Spanish football into a new dimension," said La Liga president Javier Tebas in a statement. "We understand and respect the concerns that this decision may generate, but it is important to put it into context -- it is a single match out of the 380 that make up the season." The game was due to be played at Villarreal's home stadium but will now take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in the United States, in Florida. Villarreal will take measures to compensate season ticket holders after the game was moved. "Villarreal season ticket holders will be able to travel for free to the match, and those who choose not to travel to Miami will enjoy a 30 percent discount on their season ticket price as part of the measures designed to reward their support and loyalty," said La Liga. In September a total of 18 fan groups from both teams involved expressed their "complete opposition" to the match taking place abroad. La Liga have attempted to play matches overseas dating back to 2017 but the Spanish football federation (RFEF) frequently resisted, despite hosting the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia themselves. Barcelona's rivals Real Madrid have also expressed their disapproval at the decision to take a La Liga game abroad. They said in August hosting the game in Miami would "alter the competitive balance" of the league and set an "unacceptable precedent".

The game was due to be played at Villarreal's home stadium but will now take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in the United States, in Florida. Villarreal will take measures to compensate season ticket holders after the game was moved.

La Liga: Barcelona to play Villarreal in Miami in first European league fixture abroad

Spanish champions Barcelona collapsed in a shock 4-1 demolition at Sevilla on Sunday (Oct 5) in La Liga, with Alexis Sanchez scoring against his former side and Robert Lewandowski missing a penalty for the visitors. The Catalans sit second in the table after their first league defeat of the campaign, two points behind bitter rivals Real Madrid following Los Blancos' victory over Villarreal on Saturday, while Sevilla rise to sixth.&nbsp;Real Betis moved fourth with a 2-1 win at Espanyol, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty save by their goalkeeper Pau Lopez, who formerly played for the Catalans.&nbsp;Atletico Madrid stumbled to a 1-1 draw at Celta Vigo after having Clement Lenglet sent off in the first half and sit fifth.&nbsp;Veteran Chilean winger Sanchez put Sevilla ahead from the penalty spot early on against Barca, and Isaac Romero doubled the hosts' lead after having already missed two good chances. Marcus Rashford pulled a goal back before half-time, but Lewandowski fired wide from the spot to spurn his team's best chance of an equaliser. Jose Carmona and Akor Adams wrapped up Sevilla's emphatic win in the final stages, as Hansi Flick's side fell to an unusually heavy defeat.&nbsp;"The team's first 45 minutes were horrendous. I think we've not played a game as bad as that, and we must be self-critical," Barca midfielder Pedri Gonzalez told the club's media channel.&nbsp;Flick defended his team despite their loss, saying that he was pleased with their reaction in the second half.&nbsp;"It's one match and we lost it, and we have to keep going," he said.&nbsp;Barcelona were still licking their wounds after Paris Saint-Germain beat them late on in the Champions League on Wednesday, and were without injured teenage star Lamine Yamal.&nbsp;"In the first half, we didn't know how to defend well or attack well," Pedri told Movistar of his team's sluggish display.&nbsp;The rout began when Ronald Araujo clumsily grappled with Romero in the box and conceded a penalty.&nbsp;Sanchez dispatched it, with the 36-year-old sending Wojciech Szczesny the wrong way to fire Matias Almeyda's side ahead.<h2>Sevilla rampant</h2>&nbsp;Romero swept into the bottom corner from Ruben Vargas's cutback for the second as Barca were opened up easily again.&nbsp;Rashford was the first Barcelona player to awake from their slumber and pulled the champions back into the game deep in first-half stoppage time, volleying home Pedri's cross for his first La Liga goal.&nbsp;Having won just one league game at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan in 2025 before Barcelona's visit, the hosts' nerves began to shake.&nbsp;Sevilla substitute Adnan Januzaj conceded a penalty for felling Balde as he flew into the box, granting Barca a golden chance to level.&nbsp;Veteran Polish striker Lewandowski stuttered twice in his run-up before firing wide of the post.&nbsp;Youngster Roony Bardghji could have equalised but fired straight at the goalkeeper after Lewandowski's flick-on sent him in on goal.&nbsp;Sevilla wrapped up their win late on through full-back Carmona, who drilled a low effort past Szczesny and into the far corner, and Adams.&nbsp;"I'm very happy for the victory, we needed to win at home," said Sevilla coach Almeyda. “We couldn't give them a metre of space... we knew what we had to do and we're on a good path.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The Catalans sit second in the table after their first league defeat of the campaign, two points behind bitter rivals Real Madrid following Los Blancos' victory over Villarreal on Saturday, while Sevilla rise to sixth.

Spanish champions Barcelona collapsed in a shock 4-1 demolition at Sevilla on Sunday (Oct 5) in La Liga, with Alexis Sanchez scoring against his former side and Robert Lewandowski missing a penalty for the visitors. The Catalans sit second in the table after their first league defeat of the campaign, two points behind bitter rivals Real Madrid following Los Blancos' victory over Villarreal on Saturday, while Sevilla rise to sixth. Real Betis moved fourth with a 2-1 win at Espanyol, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty save by their goalkeeper Pau Lopez, who formerly played for the Catalans. Atletico Madrid stumbled to a 1-1 draw at Celta Vigo after having Clement Lenglet sent off in the first half and sit fifth. Veteran Chilean winger Sanchez put Sevilla ahead from the penalty spot early on against Barca, and Isaac Romero doubled the hosts' lead after having already missed two good chances. Marcus Rashford pulled a goal back before half-time, but Lewandowski fired wide from the spot to spurn his team's best chance of an equaliser. Jose Carmona and Akor Adams wrapped up Sevilla's emphatic win in the final stages, as Hansi Flick's side fell to an unusually heavy defeat. "The team's first 45 minutes were horrendous. I think we've not played a game as bad as that, and we must be self-critical," Barca midfielder Pedri Gonzalez told the club's media channel. Flick defended his team despite their loss, saying that he was pleased with their reaction in the second half. "It's one match and we lost it, and we have to keep going," he said. Barcelona were still licking their wounds after Paris Saint-Germain beat them late on in the Champions League on Wednesday, and were without injured teenage star Lamine Yamal. "In the first half, we didn't know how to defend well or attack well," Pedri told Movistar of his team's sluggish display. The rout began when Ronald Araujo clumsily grappled with Romero in the box and conceded a penalty. Sanchez dispatched it, with the 36-year-old sending Wojciech Szczesny the wrong way to fire Matias Almeyda's side ahead. Sevilla rampant Romero swept into the bottom corner from Ruben Vargas's cutback for the second as Barca were opened up easily again. Rashford was the first Barcelona player to awake from their slumber and pulled the champions back into the game deep in first-half stoppage time, volleying home Pedri's cross for his first La Liga goal. Having won just one league game at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan in 2025 before Barcelona's visit, the hosts' nerves began to shake. Sevilla substitute Adnan Januzaj conceded a penalty for felling Balde as he flew into the box, granting Barca a golden chance to level. Veteran Polish striker Lewandowski stuttered twice in his run-up before firing wide of the post. Youngster Roony Bardghji could have equalised but fired straight at the goalkeeper after Lewandowski's flick-on sent him in on goal. Sevilla wrapped up their win late on through full-back Carmona, who drilled a low effort past Szczesny and into the far corner, and Adams. "I'm very happy for the victory, we needed to win at home," said Sevilla coach Almeyda. “We couldn't give them a metre of space... we knew what we had to do and we're on a good path.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The Catalans sit second in the table after their first league defeat of the campaign, two points behind bitter rivals Real Madrid following Los Blancos' victory over Villarreal on Saturday, while Sevilla rise to sixth.

La Liga: Sevilla demolish toothless Barcelona as Atletico drop points

Barcelona midfielder Gavi is to undergo surgery on his injured meniscus after other treatment failed to resolve his problem, the Catalan giants said on Monday. The 21-year-old midfielder has not played since late August due to the problem and the club said he would undergo an arthroscopy on the knee on Tuesday.&nbsp;It is the same knee in which he suffered a torn cruciate ligament and another meniscus injury in 2023.&nbsp;Having first received a "conservation course of treatment" in a bid to fix the problem, Gavi was put through "intense sports stress tests" on Sunday, the La Liga champions said.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;"In order to guarantee the best possible recovery and return to competitive action, this Tuesday Gavi will undergo an arthroscopic examination," Barca said in a statement.&nbsp;His previous surgery on the knee in November 2023 kept Gavi out of action for a year.&nbsp;Barca made no mention of how long it would be before Gavi plays again.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-asia-cup-2025-full-squads-complete-fixtures-date-time-venue-and-live-streaming-details-check-all-details-1755585771834">Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details</a>&nbsp;But the club also confirmed that Fermin Lopez, who played for half an hour in Sunday's 3-0 victory over Getafe, had suffered a muscular injury in his hip.&nbsp;"He will be out of action for around three weeks," Barca said.&nbsp;Gavi and Lopez join the likes of forward Lamine Yamal, full-back Alejandro Balde and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen on the treatment table.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Gavi's previous surgery on the knee in November 2023 kept Gavi out of action for a year. Barca made no mention of how long it would be before Gavi plays again.

Barcelona midfielder Gavi is to undergo surgery on his injured meniscus after other treatment failed to resolve his problem, the Catalan giants said on Monday. The 21-year-old midfielder has not played since late August due to the problem and the club said he would undergo an arthroscopy on the knee on Tuesday. It is the same knee in which he suffered a torn cruciate ligament and another meniscus injury in 2023. Having first received a "conservation course of treatment" in a bid to fix the problem, Gavi was put through "intense sports stress tests" on Sunday, the La Liga champions said. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) "In order to guarantee the best possible recovery and return to competitive action, this Tuesday Gavi will undergo an arthroscopic examination," Barca said in a statement. His previous surgery on the knee in November 2023 kept Gavi out of action for a year. Barca made no mention of how long it would be before Gavi plays again. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details But the club also confirmed that Fermin Lopez, who played for half an hour in Sunday's 3-0 victory over Getafe, had suffered a muscular injury in his hip. "He will be out of action for around three weeks," Barca said. Gavi and Lopez join the likes of forward Lamine Yamal, full-back Alejandro Balde and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen on the treatment table. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Gavi's previous surgery on the knee in November 2023 kept Gavi out of action for a year. Barca made no mention of how long it would be before Gavi plays again.

Gavi to undergo knee operation on meniscus injury: Barcelona

Ferran Torres struck twice for champions Barcelona as they beat Getafe 3-0 on Sunday to stay on Real Madrid's tails at the top of La Liga. Dani Olmo was also on target for the Catalans, who trail leaders Madrid by two points after Xabi Alonso's side beat Espanyol on Saturday to maintain their 100 percent record. Atletico Madrid's stuttering start to the season continued in a 1-1 draw at Mallorca, in which their striker Julian Alvarez missed a penalty.Playing at the 6,000 capacity Johan Cruyff stadium besides their training ground again as the club waits for the necessary licences to reopen their renovated Camp Nou home, Barcelona dominated an unambitious Getafe team.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ballon-d-or-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-football-s-prestigious-honour-contenders-live-streaming-and-more-ousmane-demb-l-lamine-yamal-1758450757122">Ballon d'Or 2025: All you need to know about football's prestigious honour</a>Despite his brace against Newcastle in the Champions League, German coach Hansi Flick left Marcus Rashford on the bench, with Spanish media reporting that it was because the England international was late for a morning meeting.Flick has dropped other players from the line-up for the same offence in the past, including defender Jules Kounde."(Rotation) is normal because every three or four days we have a match, we need fresh legs on the pitch," said Flick, when asked why Rashford did not start.Rashford's replacement as the stand-in for injured teenage superstar Lamine Yamal, Torres, took his chance with both hands."We have a lot of matches so it's really good to have everyone on this (level of) performance," added Flick.The Spaniard opened the scoring with a powerful finish at the end of a slick move, with Olmo backheeling the ball into his path in the box.Torres's second finish was even better, guided into the bottom left corner from outside the box after Raphinha sent him through on goal.The forward crashed a shot off the bar as a first half hat-trick beckoned.Several Barca players lost their temper before the break as Getafe put in several hard and late tackles, with Kounde the victim of many of them.Flick sent on Rashford for Raphinha at half-time, perhaps in order to save the Brazilian from a potential red card."A lot of the time, they don't try to do anything apart from too many fouls, in my opinion, but we managed it well," Torres told DAZN."I said to the team: we have to focus on our match, not on their match," said Flick.Rashford created Barcelona's third, zipping inside from the right flank and unselfishly cutting the ball back for Olmo to finish, and had two efforts of his own saved by Getafe goalkeeper David Soria.The only bad news for Barca was substitute Fermin Lopez appearing to pull up hurt in stoppage time.<h2>Frustrated Atletico</h2>Earlier, Atletico were held by Mallorca despite outplaying the hosts.Diego Simeone's side, reduced to 10 men after Alexander Sorloth's red card, took the lead through Conor Gallagher but Vedat Muriqi levelled in the 85th minute.The draw left Atletico 12th, having won just one of their first five league matches."I think we dominated the game from start to end, until we scored and they, with one more player, turned up the pressure," Atletico captain Koke told DAZN."It's clear that what matters is scoring goals and they don't want to go in."The draw leaves Atletico nine points behind leaders Real Madrid, and seven behind Barcelona.Licking their wounds after a painful late Champions League defeat at Liverpool in midweek, Atletico were left with a similar feeling."We have to improve to hold on in games... (but) we're building a new team, a lot of players have come in. We're on the right path," said Simeone.Mallorca goalkeeper Leo Roman made several saves, including from Alvarez's penalty after captain Antonio Raillo handled David Hancko's shot in the first half.The Rojiblancos' job was made harder when Sorloth was dismissed for a high challenge on Raillo in the 72nd minute, but a few minutes later they took the lead as Gallagher netted a rebound.Simeone's side could not hold on and Muriqi nodded the hosts level with five minutes remaining.

Despite his brace against Newcastle in the Champions League, German coach Hansi Flick left Marcus Rashford on the bench, with Spanish media reporting that it was because the England international was late for a morning meeting.

Ferran Torres struck twice for champions Barcelona as they beat Getafe 3-0 on Sunday to stay on Real Madrid's tails at the top of La Liga. Dani Olmo was also on target for the Catalans, who trail leaders Madrid by two points after Xabi Alonso's side beat Espanyol on Saturday to maintain their 100 percent record. Atletico Madrid's stuttering start to the season continued in a 1-1 draw at Mallorca, in which their striker Julian Alvarez missed a penalty. Playing at the 6,000 capacity Johan Cruyff stadium besides their training ground again as the club waits for the necessary licences to reopen their renovated Camp Nou home, Barcelona dominated an unambitious Getafe team. Also Read - Ballon d'Or 2025: All you need to know about football's prestigious honour Despite his brace against Newcastle in the Champions League, German coach Hansi Flick left Marcus Rashford on the bench, with Spanish media reporting that it was because the England international was late for a morning meeting. Flick has dropped other players from the line-up for the same offence in the past, including defender Jules Kounde. "(Rotation) is normal because every three or four days we have a match, we need fresh legs on the pitch," said Flick, when asked why Rashford did not start. Rashford's replacement as the stand-in for injured teenage superstar Lamine Yamal, Torres, took his chance with both hands. "We have a lot of matches so it's really good to have everyone on this (level of) performance," added Flick. The Spaniard opened the scoring with a powerful finish at the end of a slick move, with Olmo backheeling the ball into his path in the box. Torres's second finish was even better, guided into the bottom left corner from outside the box after Raphinha sent him through on goal. The forward crashed a shot off the bar as a first half hat-trick beckoned. Several Barca players lost their temper before the break as Getafe put in several hard and late tackles, with Kounde the victim of many of them. Flick sent on Rashford for Raphinha at half-time, perhaps in order to save the Brazilian from a potential red card. "A lot of the time, they don't try to do anything apart from too many fouls, in my opinion, but we managed it well," Torres told DAZN. "I said to the team: we have to focus on our match, not on their match," said Flick. Rashford created Barcelona's third, zipping inside from the right flank and unselfishly cutting the ball back for Olmo to finish, and had two efforts of his own saved by Getafe goalkeeper David Soria. The only bad news for Barca was substitute Fermin Lopez appearing to pull up hurt in stoppage time. Frustrated Atletico Earlier, Atletico were held by Mallorca despite outplaying the hosts. Diego Simeone's side, reduced to 10 men after Alexander Sorloth's red card, took the lead through Conor Gallagher but Vedat Muriqi levelled in the 85th minute. The draw left Atletico 12th, having won just one of their first five league matches. "I think we dominated the game from start to end, until we scored and they, with one more player, turned up the pressure," Atletico captain Koke told DAZN. "It's clear that what matters is scoring goals and they don't want to go in." The draw leaves Atletico nine points behind leaders Real Madrid, and seven behind Barcelona. Licking their wounds after a painful late Champions League defeat at Liverpool in midweek, Atletico were left with a similar feeling. "We have to improve to hold on in games... (but) we're building a new team, a lot of players have come in. We're on the right path," said Simeone. Mallorca goalkeeper Leo Roman made several saves, including from Alvarez's penalty after captain Antonio Raillo handled David Hancko's shot in the first half. The Rojiblancos' job was made harder when Sorloth was dismissed for a high challenge on Raillo in the 72nd minute, but a few minutes later they took the lead as Gallagher netted a rebound. Simeone's side could not hold on and Muriqi nodded the hosts level with five minutes remaining.

Despite his brace against Newcastle in the Champions League, German coach Hansi Flick left Marcus Rashford on the bench, with Spanish media reporting that it was because the England international was late for a morning meeting.

La Liga: Torres brace helps Barcelona stay on Real Madrid's tail, Mallorca hold Atletico

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Barcelona kicked off their Champions League bid with a 2-1 victory away to Newcastle United on Thursday, while Erling Haaland notched his 50th goal in the competition in Manchester City's win over Napoli. The third consecutive evening of action in the first round of games in this season's league phase also saw Eintracht Frankfurt, Sporting Lisbon and Club Brugge record big wins while FC Copenhagen held Bayer Leverkusen. Rashford was still looking for his first Barcelona goals following his July loan move from Manchester United, and he got off the mark by heading in Jules Kounde's cross just before the hour at St James' Park.The England international then doubled the Spanish champions' lead with a ferocious right-foot shot from outside the area high into the top corner midway through the second half.Anthony Gordon pulled one back for Newcastle, but Barcelona -- beaten in the semi-finals last season -- held on to claim their first three points of the campaign."It's an amazing experience playing for Barcelona. I've always been a huge admirer of the club. We just want to win as much as possible," Rashford said.&nbsp;<h2>Haaland's half century</h2>Pep Guardiola's City, the 2023 Champions League winners, got off to an ideal start too as they saw off Serie A champions Napoli, claiming a 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium.The game was conditioned by the sending-off midway through the first half of Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo, dismissed for wiping out Haaland as the Norwegian headed towards goal.That led to Napoli coach Antonio Conte taking off Kevin De Bruyne just 26 minutes into the Belgian playmaker's return to the stadium where he starred for a decade before departing at the end of last season.Haaland then gave City the lead as he nodded in from a delightful Phil Foden assist early in the second half. That took him to 50 career Champions League goals from just 49 appearances.Jeremy Doku then made it 2-0, leaving Napoli without a win in 13 visits to face English opposition in European competition."The numbers speak for themselves and how fortunate we are to have him," Guardiola said of Haaland, who is 12th in the all-time Champions League scoring charts -- barely over a third of the way to Cristiano Ronaldo's record 141 goals."Along with the two monsters of the past 15 to 20 years Ronaldo and (Lionel) Messi, Erling is there. In terms of goals he is unbelievable," insisted Guardiola.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-returns-to-portugal-as-benfica-manager-after-fenerbahce-sacking-1758211017558">Jose Mourinho returns to Portugal as Benfica manager after Fenerbahce sacking</a><h2>Frankfurt hit five</h2>Frankfurt were the night's biggest winners as they beat Galatasaray 5-1, despite the Turkish visitors taking an early lead through Yunus Akgun.A Davinson Sanchez own goal brought Frankfurt level on 37 minutes, before Can Uzun and Jonathan Burkardt both netted in first-half stoppage time.Burkardt struck again after the break, and Ansgar Knauff wrapped up a fine victory for the German club, who are top of the fledgling league standings.Fellow Bundesliga side Leverkusen had to come from behind twice to snatch a point in a 2-2 draw away to Copenhagen in the Danish capital.Jordan Larsson's early opener for the hosts was cancelled out by a brilliant Alejandro Grimaldo free-kick.Young Brazilian forward Robert restored the hosts' advantage on 87 minutes only for a Pantelis Hatzidiakos own goal in stoppage time to give Leverkusen a share of the spoils.Club Brugge, who reached the last 16 last season, claimed a stunning 4-1 win at home to Monaco in Belgium, with an early penalty miss by Maghnes Akliouche for the visitors proving crucial.Nicolo Tresoldi, Raphael Onyedika and Hans Vanaken all scored in the first half for Brugge, and Mamadou Diakhon got their fourth before Ansu Fati grabbed a late consolation for Monaco.Kazakhstan's Kairat Almaty travelled almost 7,000 kilometres to face Portuguese champions Sporting, and came away with a 4-1 defeat.Morten Hjulmand missed an early penalty for Sporting, but Francisco Trincao bagged a brace before Alisson Santos and Geovany Quenda netted quickfire goals in the second half.Edmilson pulled one back for Kairat, who host Real Madrid next in a fortnight.

Pep Guardiola's City, the 2023 Champions League winners, got off to an ideal start too as they saw off Serie A champions Napoli, claiming a 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium. Frankfurt were the night's biggest winners as they beat Galatasaray 5-1.

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Barcelona kicked off their Champions League bid with a 2-1 victory away to Newcastle United on Thursday, while Erling Haaland notched his 50th goal in the competition in Manchester City's win over Napoli. The third consecutive evening of action in the first round of games in this season's league phase also saw Eintracht Frankfurt, Sporting Lisbon and Club Brugge record big wins while FC Copenhagen held Bayer Leverkusen. Rashford was still looking for his first Barcelona goals following his July loan move from Manchester United, and he got off the mark by heading in Jules Kounde's cross just before the hour at St James' Park. The England international then doubled the Spanish champions' lead with a ferocious right-foot shot from outside the area high into the top corner midway through the second half. Anthony Gordon pulled one back for Newcastle, but Barcelona -- beaten in the semi-finals last season -- held on to claim their first three points of the campaign. "It's an amazing experience playing for Barcelona. I've always been a huge admirer of the club. We just want to win as much as possible," Rashford said. Haaland's half century Pep Guardiola's City, the 2023 Champions League winners, got off to an ideal start too as they saw off Serie A champions Napoli, claiming a 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium. The game was conditioned by the sending-off midway through the first half of Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo, dismissed for wiping out Haaland as the Norwegian headed towards goal. That led to Napoli coach Antonio Conte taking off Kevin De Bruyne just 26 minutes into the Belgian playmaker's return to the stadium where he starred for a decade before departing at the end of last season. Haaland then gave City the lead as he nodded in from a delightful Phil Foden assist early in the second half. That took him to 50 career Champions League goals from just 49 appearances. Jeremy Doku then made it 2-0, leaving Napoli without a win in 13 visits to face English opposition in European competition. "The numbers speak for themselves and how fortunate we are to have him," Guardiola said of Haaland, who is 12th in the all-time Champions League scoring charts -- barely over a third of the way to Cristiano Ronaldo's record 141 goals. "Along with the two monsters of the past 15 to 20 years Ronaldo and (Lionel) Messi, Erling is there. In terms of goals he is unbelievable," insisted Guardiola. Also Read - Jose Mourinho returns to Portugal as Benfica manager after Fenerbahce sacking Frankfurt hit five Frankfurt were the night's biggest winners as they beat Galatasaray 5-1, despite the Turkish visitors taking an early lead through Yunus Akgun. A Davinson Sanchez own goal brought Frankfurt level on 37 minutes, before Can Uzun and Jonathan Burkardt both netted in first-half stoppage time. Burkardt struck again after the break, and Ansgar Knauff wrapped up a fine victory for the German club, who are top of the fledgling league standings. Fellow Bundesliga side Leverkusen had to come from behind twice to snatch a point in a 2-2 draw away to Copenhagen in the Danish capital. Jordan Larsson's early opener for the hosts was cancelled out by a brilliant Alejandro Grimaldo free-kick. Young Brazilian forward Robert restored the hosts' advantage on 87 minutes only for a Pantelis Hatzidiakos own goal in stoppage time to give Leverkusen a share of the spoils. Club Brugge, who reached the last 16 last season, claimed a stunning 4-1 win at home to Monaco in Belgium, with an early penalty miss by Maghnes Akliouche for the visitors proving crucial. Nicolo Tresoldi, Raphael Onyedika and Hans Vanaken all scored in the first half for Brugge, and Mamadou Diakhon got their fourth before Ansu Fati grabbed a late consolation for Monaco. Kazakhstan's Kairat Almaty travelled almost 7,000 kilometres to face Portuguese champions Sporting, and came away with a 4-1 defeat. Morten Hjulmand missed an early penalty for Sporting, but Francisco Trincao bagged a brace before Alisson Santos and Geovany Quenda netted quickfire goals in the second half. Edmilson pulled one back for Kairat, who host Real Madrid next in a fortnight.

Pep Guardiola's City, the 2023 Champions League winners, got off to an ideal start too as they saw off Serie A champions Napoli, claiming a 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium. Frankfurt were the night's biggest winners as they beat Galatasaray 5-1.

Champions League round-up: Rashford scores for Barcelona in win, Haaland hits 50-goal mark and Frankfurt thrash Galatasaray

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick lashed out at the Spanish national team on Saturday after Lamine Yamal was ruled out of his team's La Liga clash against Valencia. The 18-year-old winger did not train with the Spanish champions because of a groin issue ahead of the game on Sunday, and is also a doubt to face Newcastle in the Champions League on Thursday. Yamal played twice for Spain in the 2026 World Cup qualifying wins against Bulgaria and Turkey last week.&nbsp;"He will not be available -- for me, it's a pity. He went to the national team with pain, he did not train, he got painkillers for playing," Flick told a news conference Saturday. "In every match they were three goals (or more) ahead, he played 79 and 73 minutes. Between the matches, he didn't train. This is not taking care about players.&nbsp;"Spain have best team in the world best players in the world. In every position, they are unbelievably good. Maybe also when we want to take care of players, young players, it's like that, doing this... I'm really sad about this."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-gloveman-andre-onana-joins-trabzonspor-on-loan-1757673237012">Manchester United gloveman Andre Onana joins Trabzonspor on loan</a>&nbsp;Flick said he had spoken briefly to Spain coach Luis de la Fuente via text message, but their communication could be improved.&nbsp;"Maybe it's all about my Spanish not (being) good, his English not good. Communication... there could be better," continued former Germany coach Flick. “I was also on this side, (coaching a) national team, and I know how hard this job can be, but the communication with the clubs was always good.”&nbsp;Flick confirmed Frenkie de Jong would also miss the Valencia game, but midfielder Marc Bernal is fit to return to the squad for the first time since suffering a long-term knee injury nine months ago.&nbsp;Barcelona will play the game at their 6,000-capacity Johan Cruyff training ground because the Spotify Camp Nou is not yet ready to be reopened.&nbsp;"I spoke with the players, the captains, and they said it will not affect us," said Flick. "When we play at the new Camp Nou, 105,000 (capacity), maybe it's a little bit different to playing at the Johan.&nbsp;“As I said before, it's not an excuse; I will not use it. Valencia also has to play in this stadium.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Yamal played twice for Spain in the 2026 World Cup qualifying wins against Bulgaria and Turkey last week.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick lashed out at the Spanish national team on Saturday after Lamine Yamal was ruled out of his team's La Liga clash against Valencia. The 18-year-old winger did not train with the Spanish champions because of a groin issue ahead of the game on Sunday, and is also a doubt to face Newcastle in the Champions League on Thursday. Yamal played twice for Spain in the 2026 World Cup qualifying wins against Bulgaria and Turkey last week. "He will not be available -- for me, it's a pity. He went to the national team with pain, he did not train, he got painkillers for playing," Flick told a news conference Saturday. "In every match they were three goals (or more) ahead, he played 79 and 73 minutes. Between the matches, he didn't train. This is not taking care about players. "Spain have best team in the world best players in the world. In every position, they are unbelievably good. Maybe also when we want to take care of players, young players, it's like that, doing this... I'm really sad about this." Also read | Manchester United gloveman Andre Onana joins Trabzonspor on loan Flick said he had spoken briefly to Spain coach Luis de la Fuente via text message, but their communication could be improved. "Maybe it's all about my Spanish not (being) good, his English not good. Communication... there could be better," continued former Germany coach Flick. “I was also on this side, (coaching a) national team, and I know how hard this job can be, but the communication with the clubs was always good.” Flick confirmed Frenkie de Jong would also miss the Valencia game, but midfielder Marc Bernal is fit to return to the squad for the first time since suffering a long-term knee injury nine months ago. Barcelona will play the game at their 6,000-capacity Johan Cruyff training ground because the Spotify Camp Nou is not yet ready to be reopened. "I spoke with the players, the captains, and they said it will not affect us," said Flick. "When we play at the new Camp Nou, 105,000 (capacity), maybe it's a little bit different to playing at the Johan. “As I said before, it's not an excuse; I will not use it. Valencia also has to play in this stadium.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Yamal played twice for Spain in the 2026 World Cup qualifying wins against Bulgaria and Turkey last week.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick blasts Spain over Lamine Yamal’s injury

Spanish champions Barcelona opened their Liga campaign on Saturday with an island cruise as they played almost an hour against nine men on their way to a 3-0 victory in Mallorca. Barcelona's second-half stroll did not please coach Hansi Flick.&nbsp;"They're three important points, but I didn't like the match," he told broadcaster Movistar. "After going two goals up and following Mallorca's two red cards, I think the team only gave 50 percent and I didn't like that."&nbsp;"Playing at 50 or 60 per cent is not possible against nine players."&nbsp;Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in.&nbsp;Yamal played a key role in the second goal after 23 minutes. Mallorca defender Antonio Raillo headed away the teenager's shot and then fell to the ground.&nbsp;As the referee waved play on and Mallorca failed to clear, the ball fell to Ferran Torres. He fired home from the edge of the box.&nbsp;"If I would be on the other side of the decision I also would be not happy but I always say to my team until the referee stops the match we have to continue," said Flick speaking in English at the post-match press conference.&nbsp;"The referee didn't stop the match so there you go. That they are unhappy with that decision I can also imagine."&nbsp;Manu Morlanes was one of two Mallorca players booked for dissent as they told the referee he should have stopped the game.&nbsp;Ten minutes later, Morlanes received a second yellow for a challenge on the rampant Yamal and was sent off.&nbsp;In the 39th minute, as Barcelona's debutant goalkeeper Joan Garcia jumped to head a ball clear, Mallorca striker Vedat Muriqi challenged with his boot so high he planted his studs on Garcia's cheek. Muriqi also saw red.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;Barcelona strolled through the second half. Flick brought on summer loan signing Marcus Rashford, whose league registration only cleared on Saturday morning, for his Liga debut.&nbsp;Deep into injury time Yamal picked up the ball on the right, left three defenders trailing as he cut across the top of the penalty area and curled a left-foot shot into the top corner with the final kick of the game.&nbsp;"He surprises you every day. He's a spectacular player," said Flick.&nbsp;In the evening's late games Valencia drew 1-1 at home to Real Sociedad. Diego Lopez gave the hosts a 57th-minute lead, Takefusa Kubo replied three minutes later.&nbsp;In Vitoria, Argentine centre back Facundo Tenaglia fired home from close range after a free kick in added time to give hosts Alaves a 2-1 victory over promoted Levante.&nbsp;Atletico Madrid start their campaign on Sunday at home to Sevilla. Real Madrid close the opening round on Tuesday against Osasuna.&nbsp;On Friday, Jorge de Frutos scored the first goal of the new La Liga season to set Rayo Vallecano on their way to a 3-1 win over 10-man Girona.&nbsp;Real Oviedo's return to the top flight after a 24-year absence began on a flat note with a 2-0 defeat at Villarreal.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in.

Spanish champions Barcelona opened their Liga campaign on Saturday with an island cruise as they played almost an hour against nine men on their way to a 3-0 victory in Mallorca. Barcelona's second-half stroll did not please coach Hansi Flick. "They're three important points, but I didn't like the match," he told broadcaster Movistar. "After going two goals up and following Mallorca's two red cards, I think the team only gave 50 percent and I didn't like that." "Playing at 50 or 60 per cent is not possible against nine players." Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in. Yamal played a key role in the second goal after 23 minutes. Mallorca defender Antonio Raillo headed away the teenager's shot and then fell to the ground. As the referee waved play on and Mallorca failed to clear, the ball fell to Ferran Torres. He fired home from the edge of the box. "If I would be on the other side of the decision I also would be not happy but I always say to my team until the referee stops the match we have to continue," said Flick speaking in English at the post-match press conference. "The referee didn't stop the match so there you go. That they are unhappy with that decision I can also imagine." Manu Morlanes was one of two Mallorca players booked for dissent as they told the referee he should have stopped the game. Ten minutes later, Morlanes received a second yellow for a challenge on the rampant Yamal and was sent off. In the 39th minute, as Barcelona's debutant goalkeeper Joan Garcia jumped to head a ball clear, Mallorca striker Vedat Muriqi challenged with his boot so high he planted his studs on Garcia's cheek. Muriqi also saw red. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Barcelona strolled through the second half. Flick brought on summer loan signing Marcus Rashford, whose league registration only cleared on Saturday morning, for his Liga debut. Deep into injury time Yamal picked up the ball on the right, left three defenders trailing as he cut across the top of the penalty area and curled a left-foot shot into the top corner with the final kick of the game. "He surprises you every day. He's a spectacular player," said Flick. In the evening's late games Valencia drew 1-1 at home to Real Sociedad. Diego Lopez gave the hosts a 57th-minute lead, Takefusa Kubo replied three minutes later. In Vitoria, Argentine centre back Facundo Tenaglia fired home from close range after a free kick in added time to give hosts Alaves a 2-1 victory over promoted Levante. Atletico Madrid start their campaign on Sunday at home to Sevilla. Real Madrid close the opening round on Tuesday against Osasuna. On Friday, Jorge de Frutos scored the first goal of the new La Liga season to set Rayo Vallecano on their way to a 3-1 win over 10-man Girona. Real Oviedo's return to the top flight after a 24-year absence began on a flat note with a 2-0 defeat at Villarreal. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in.

Barcelona open La Liga title defence strolling past nine-man Mallorca

The La Liga match between Villarreal and Barcelona in December was moved to Miami by the Spanish football federation (RFEF) on Monday, pending approval from UEFA and FIFA.&nbsp;While the Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;The RFEF said in a statement that it would forward the request to the governing bodies of European and world football to stage the game at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, December 20, in the last round before La Liga's winter break.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

The Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues.

The La Liga match between Villarreal and Barcelona in December was moved to Miami by the Spanish football federation (RFEF) on Monday, pending approval from UEFA and FIFA. While the Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) The RFEF said in a statement that it would forward the request to the governing bodies of European and world football to stage the game at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, December 20, in the last round before La Liga's winter break. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues.

Spanish football federation shifts Barcelona-Villarreal La Liga game to Miami

Barcelona on Friday reinstated goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen as captain after resolving a dispute over the German's fitness. The club had started disciplinary action on Tuesday and stripped Ter Stegen of the club captaincy on Thursday over a row concerning his fitness after he underwent back surgery at the end of July.&nbsp;Local media reported that the 33-year-old had refused to cooperate and release his medical details so the club tried to have him classified by La Liga as a long-term injury, which would allow Barcelona to deduct part of his pay from their official wage bill.&nbsp;But in a late night statement Barcelona reported the player had signed the necessary paperwork.&nbsp;"The disciplinary file is considered closed and the player regains the first team captaincy with immediate effect" Barca added.&nbsp;Earlier Friday Ter Stegen had taken to social media to defend himself.&nbsp;"In recent weeks, many things have been said about me - some of them entirely unfounded," he wrote on Instagram. "Therefore, I feel it is necessary to express my version of events respectfully, yet clearly."&nbsp;"I am fully willing to collaborate with the club's management to resolve this matter and to provide the requested authorisation," Ter Stegen wrote.&nbsp;With the new Liga season approaching, Barcelona are again struggling to satisfy Spanish financial fair play rules. If they cannot, they may not be able to register new players.Ter Stegen said if the club was in a financial bind, it should not blame his back problems."I would also like to clarify that all of the club's signings and contract renewals were completed prior to my surgery," he wrote.&nbsp;"The decision to undergo surgery was fully approved by the club, and always with the intention of prioritising my health and long-term sporting career which of course are fully aligned with those of FCB to have myself available on the pitch as soon as possible to keep winning trophies."&nbsp;He added that his new surgery should not interfere with the "registration of other colleagues whom I greatly respect and look forward to share locker room with for many seasons".&nbsp;"My commitment to these colors remains absolute."&nbsp;Ter Stegen's place is under threat from one of the summer signings, 24-year-old Joan Garcia, and 35-year-old Wojciech Szczesny, the Polish veteran who has been rewarded with a contract extension for taking over during last season's Liga title-winning campaign.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona started disciplinary action on Tuesday and stripped Marc-Andre ter Stegen of the club captaincy on Thursday over a row concerning his fitness after he underwent back surgery at the end of July. 

Barcelona on Friday reinstated goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen as captain after resolving a dispute over the German's fitness. The club had started disciplinary action on Tuesday and stripped Ter Stegen of the club captaincy on Thursday over a row concerning his fitness after he underwent back surgery at the end of July. Local media reported that the 33-year-old had refused to cooperate and release his medical details so the club tried to have him classified by La Liga as a long-term injury, which would allow Barcelona to deduct part of his pay from their official wage bill. But in a late night statement Barcelona reported the player had signed the necessary paperwork. "The disciplinary file is considered closed and the player regains the first team captaincy with immediate effect" Barca added. Earlier Friday Ter Stegen had taken to social media to defend himself. "In recent weeks, many things have been said about me - some of them entirely unfounded," he wrote on Instagram. "Therefore, I feel it is necessary to express my version of events respectfully, yet clearly." "I am fully willing to collaborate with the club's management to resolve this matter and to provide the requested authorisation," Ter Stegen wrote. With the new Liga season approaching, Barcelona are again struggling to satisfy Spanish financial fair play rules. If they cannot, they may not be able to register new players. Ter Stegen said if the club was in a financial bind, it should not blame his back problems. "I would also like to clarify that all of the club's signings and contract renewals were completed prior to my surgery," he wrote. "The decision to undergo surgery was fully approved by the club, and always with the intention of prioritising my health and long-term sporting career which of course are fully aligned with those of FCB to have myself available on the pitch as soon as possible to keep winning trophies." He added that his new surgery should not interfere with the "registration of other colleagues whom I greatly respect and look forward to share locker room with for many seasons". "My commitment to these colors remains absolute." Ter Stegen's place is under threat from one of the summer signings, 24-year-old Joan Garcia, and 35-year-old Wojciech Szczesny, the Polish veteran who has been rewarded with a contract extension for taking over during last season's Liga title-winning campaign. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona started disciplinary action on Tuesday and stripped Marc-Andre ter Stegen of the club captaincy on Thursday over a row concerning his fitness after he underwent back surgery at the end of July.&nbsp;

Barcelona reinstate Marc-Andre ter Stegen as captain after resolving dispute

The relationship between FC Barcelona and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen continues to worsen, with the club opening disciplinary proceedings against the goalkeeper. Barca have started the move after Ter Stegen reportedly refused to sign a medical report that the club was going to send to La Liga's Medical Commission over the 33-year-old's back injury.&nbsp;Ter Stegen had an operation on his back last week, with the goalkeeper posting on social media that he expected to be out of action for around three months. However, Barcelona's medical report estimates he will be sidelined for five months. The difference is vital to Barcelona, because if La Liga accepts, Ter Stegen will be out of action for over four months, the club would be able to drop him from its first-team squad and use 80 percent of his salary to register new players under La Liga's financial fair play rules.&nbsp;Currently, Barcelona are unable to register new signings Joan Garcia, Roony Bardghji, and Marcus Rashford in their squad. Wojciech Szczesny and Gerard Martin are also unregistered following new contracts, with Martin promoted from the B-team.&nbsp;With other avenues of income still to supply the necessary funds, Barcelona need the money from Ter Stegen's salary to register at least some of the five before their La Liga opener against Mallorca on August 16. However, for the moment, Ter Stegen is unwilling to back down, knowing that if he does so, he has no chance of playing until January, even if he is fit at the end of October.&nbsp;The problem for Barcelona is even worse, given that Ter Stegen and Inaki Pena are currently Barca's only two registered goalkeepers, with Pena not part of coach Hansi Flick's plans. That makes it more vital than ever that the club finds some way of registering Garcia and Szczesny, but the pressure on a goalkeeper who has played 422 times for the club is creating a conflict that shows no signs of ending.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona Ter Stegen rift deepens amid medical report controversy

The relationship between FC Barcelona and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen continues to worsen, with the club opening disciplinary proceedings against the goalkeeper. Barca have started the move after Ter Stegen reportedly refused to sign a medical report that the club was going to send to La Liga's Medical Commission over the 33-year-old's back injury. Ter Stegen had an operation on his back last week, with the goalkeeper posting on social media that he expected to be out of action for around three months. However, Barcelona's medical report estimates he will be sidelined for five months. The difference is vital to Barcelona, because if La Liga accepts, Ter Stegen will be out of action for over four months, the club would be able to drop him from its first-team squad and use 80 percent of his salary to register new players under La Liga's financial fair play rules. Currently, Barcelona are unable to register new signings Joan Garcia, Roony Bardghji, and Marcus Rashford in their squad. Wojciech Szczesny and Gerard Martin are also unregistered following new contracts, with Martin promoted from the B-team. With other avenues of income still to supply the necessary funds, Barcelona need the money from Ter Stegen's salary to register at least some of the five before their La Liga opener against Mallorca on August 16. However, for the moment, Ter Stegen is unwilling to back down, knowing that if he does so, he has no chance of playing until January, even if he is fit at the end of October. The problem for Barcelona is even worse, given that Ter Stegen and Inaki Pena are currently Barca's only two registered goalkeepers, with Pena not part of coach Hansi Flick's plans. That makes it more vital than ever that the club finds some way of registering Garcia and Szczesny, but the pressure on a goalkeeper who has played 422 times for the club is creating a conflict that shows no signs of ending. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ter Stegen had an operation on his back last week, with the goalkeeper posting on social media that he expected to be out of action for around three months. However, Barcelona's medical report estimates he will be sidelined for five months

Barcelona-Ter Stegen rift deepens amid medical report controversy

Barcelona are closing in on a sensational move for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford as the England star is all set for yet another new chapter in his career. Rashford, who is out of favour at United under manager Ruben Amorim, will spend a season on loan at Barcelona after a deal was struck between the two clubs. Ahead of the switch, let us analyse why it is a win-win situation for all parties, including both clubs and the player.<h2>New chapter for Rashford</h2>Having started his career at United, Rashford has scored over 100 goals for the Red Devils, earning a reputation as the fans' favourite among the faithful. However, his disciplinary issues were brought to light once Amorim took over as United manager in November 2024. As a result, Rashford was first frozen out of the squad and later sent on loan to Aston Villa for the second half of the 2024-25 season.&nbsp;Rashford’s latest move to Barcelona means he will stay away from the club temporarily, meaning a return to United is still a possibility if Amorim gets sacked in the future. The forward will also play Champions League football at Barcelona, improving his chances of an international return with the FIFA World Cup less than a year away.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-antony-jadon-sancho-is-bryan-mbeumo-another-recipe-for-disaster-at-manchester-united-1752911099993">After Antony, Jadon Sancho is Bryan Mbeumo another recipe for disaster at Manchester United?</a><h2>Why United are in win-win situation?</h2>As things stand, the 27-year-old has three years still remaining on his United contract, meaning the Red Devils can negotiate for a heavy price if they intend to sell him in the next year. If that is the case, it will help United balance the bank sheets while Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations get tightened. In case the England forward returns after a loan spell and Amorim is sacked, United could still do with his services for at least the remaining two years of his contract.<h2>Barcelona’s temporary solution</h2>Like United, Barcelona are also troubled with the FFP regulations in Spain, which has seen them in danger of registering players. Barcelona had to win a court battle to register Dani Olmo for the second half of last season, hinting at their desperation for a temporary deal. Had they signed Nico Williams, they would have needed to sell at least one of their star names to get the player registered. However, in Rashford’s situation, they can register him as one of the loanees, keeping sports free for permanent transfers.

Marcus Rashford, who is out of favour at United under manager Ruben Amorim, will spend a season on loan at Barcelona after a deal was struck between the two clubs.

Barcelona are closing in on a sensational move for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford as the England star is all set for yet another new chapter in his career. Rashford, who is out of favour at United under manager Ruben Amorim, will spend a season on loan at Barcelona after a deal was struck between the two clubs. Ahead of the switch, let us analyse why it is a win-win situation for all parties, including both clubs and the player. New chapter for Rashford Having started his career at United, Rashford has scored over 100 goals for the Red Devils, earning a reputation as the fans' favourite among the faithful. However, his disciplinary issues were brought to light once Amorim took over as United manager in November 2024. As a result, Rashford was first frozen out of the squad and later sent on loan to Aston Villa for the second half of the 2024-25 season. Rashford’s latest move to Barcelona means he will stay away from the club temporarily, meaning a return to United is still a possibility if Amorim gets sacked in the future. The forward will also play Champions League football at Barcelona, improving his chances of an international return with the FIFA World Cup less than a year away. ALSO READ | After Antony, Jadon Sancho is Bryan Mbeumo another recipe for disaster at Manchester United? Why United are in win-win situation? As things stand, the 27-year-old has three years still remaining on his United contract, meaning the Red Devils can negotiate for a heavy price if they intend to sell him in the next year. If that is the case, it will help United balance the bank sheets while Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations get tightened. In case the England forward returns after a loan spell and Amorim is sacked, United could still do with his services for at least the remaining two years of his contract. Barcelona’s temporary solution Like United, Barcelona are also troubled with the FFP regulations in Spain, which has seen them in danger of registering players. Barcelona had to win a court battle to register Dani Olmo for the second half of last season, hinting at their desperation for a temporary deal. Had they signed Nico Williams, they would have needed to sell at least one of their star names to get the player registered. However, in Rashford’s situation, they can register him as one of the loanees, keeping sports free for permanent transfers.

Marcus Rashford, who is out of favour at United under manager Ruben Amorim, will spend a season on loan at Barcelona after a deal was struck between the two clubs.

Explained: Marcus Rashford to Barcelona, why it is a win-win situation for all parties

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