Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is looking forward to taking on his former teammates when his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-will-be-weird-to-play-against-andres-iniesta-says-ivan-rakitic-237923">Vissel Kobe meets Barcelona</a> this weekend for a friendly, saying Friday the face-off will be "an honour."

The match Saturday in the Japanese city of Kobe will be a reunion of sorts, with Barcelona's current line-up facing ex-teammates Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper, all now Vissel players.

It will be the first time Iniesta has met his former team on the pitch.

"We all feel that it is such an honour to play Barca," Iniesta told reporters through a Japanese translator.

"The team, Barcelona, is special... It will be a very important match for us," he said.

World Cup-winning Iniesta, who lifted 32 major trophies with Barcelona, signed for Kobe last May in a historic J-League deal worth a reported $30 million a year. The 34-year-old was appointed the team's captain in April.

The friendly is Barca's last match in Japan before they head home, and midfielder Sergio Busquets said the chance to meet Iniesta on the pitch "means a lot" to the players.

"Now he is in Japan and having new experiences. But it does not change the fact that he is a very important friend still," Busquets said.

"Now I am giving him these kind words, but tomorrow on the pitch I won't be able to be like this. We will fight with full strength."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇯🇵 MATCH PREVIEW: Kobe’s searing heat 🔥 and a warm 🔵🔴 reunion with <a href="https://twitter.com/andresiniesta8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andresiniesta8</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Guaje7Villa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@guaje7villa</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SergiSamper?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SergiSamper</a>! 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/Bo644LO4o9">pic.twitter.com/Bo644LO4o9</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1154720862416887808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The match comes after Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in their friendly in Saitama north of Tokyo earlier this week in a game that saw the unofficial debuts of World Cup-winning French striker Antoine Griezmann and former Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

Manager Ernesto Valverde said he wanted to see the new arrivals getting used to playing with the team and hoped for a better result for Saturday's match.

"I'm sure you saw the game the other day, in which they both played. I want them to play better than that with other players," he said.

Defender Gerard Pique will not play on Saturday as a precaution due to discomfort in his left thigh, Valverde said.

Iniesta's signing was viewed as a timely boost to the J-League, which once attracted luminaries such as Brazilian great Zico and former England striker Gary Lineker when it began in 1993 but has struggled to tempt marquee players in recent years.

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is looking forward to taking on his former teammates when his Vissel Kobe meets Barcelona this weekend for a friendly, saying Friday the face-off will be "an honour.

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is looking forward to taking on his former teammates when his Vissel Kobe meets Barcelona this weekend for a friendly, saying Friday the face-off will be "an honour." The match Saturday in the Japanese city of Kobe will be a reunion of sorts, with Barcelona's current line-up facing ex-teammates Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper, all now Vissel players. It will be the first time Iniesta has met his former team on the pitch. "We all feel that it is such an honour to play Barca," Iniesta told reporters through a Japanese translator. "The team, Barcelona, is special... It will be a very important match for us," he said. World Cup-winning Iniesta, who lifted 32 major trophies with Barcelona, signed for Kobe last May in a historic J-League deal worth a reported $30 million a year. The 34-year-old was appointed the team's captain in April. The friendly is Barca's last match in Japan before they head home, and midfielder Sergio Busquets said the chance to meet Iniesta on the pitch "means a lot" to the players. "Now he is in Japan and having new experiences. But it does not change the fact that he is a very important friend still," Busquets said. "Now I am giving him these kind words, but tomorrow on the pitch I won't be able to be like this. We will fight with full strength." 🇯🇵 MATCH PREVIEW: Kobe’s searing heat 🔥 and a warm 🔵🔴 reunion with @andresiniesta8, @guaje7villa and @SergiSamper! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Bo644LO4o9 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 26, 2019 × The match comes after Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in their friendly in Saitama north of Tokyo earlier this week in a game that saw the unofficial debuts of World Cup-winning French striker Antoine Griezmann and former Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong. Manager Ernesto Valverde said he wanted to see the new arrivals getting used to playing with the team and hoped for a better result for Saturday's match. "I'm sure you saw the game the other day, in which they both played. I want them to play better than that with other players," he said. Defender Gerard Pique will not play on Saturday as a precaution due to discomfort in his left thigh, Valverde said. Iniesta's signing was viewed as a timely boost to the J-League, which once attracted luminaries such as Brazilian great Zico and former England striker Gary Lineker when it began in 1993 but has struggled to tempt marquee players in recent years.

Andres Iniesta ready for face-off against ex-team Barcelona

Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley scored as the English Premier League club Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Saitama, Japan on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann made his first start for the Spanish champions while for Chelsea, Mason and Christian Pulisic started for the team.&nbsp;

Abraham&nbsp;capitalised an early Pedro shot by pouncing on a mistake by Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets who attempted to clear the ball and scored the classy opener in the 34th minute. Substitute Barkley stretched the lead to 2-0 by scoring in the 81st minute.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barcelona were offensive in the second half but superb saves by Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga repeatedly denied Barca any attempt to equalise.&nbsp;

Barcelona got a free-kick just outside the box but midfielder Ivan Rakitic's shot went above the bar.

Rakitic however quickly redeemed himself in injury time, picking up a cross and firing a lightning right-footer that went deep into the net for a consolation goal for Barcelona.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Full-time: Chelsea 2-1 Barcelona! 💪 
 
Goals from <a href="https://twitter.com/tammyabraham?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tammyabraham</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RBarkley8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RBarkley8</a> secure the win in our final game in Japan! 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFCinJapan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFCinJapan</a> <a href="https://t.co/BD0JdfmUPs">pic.twitter.com/BD0JdfmUPs</a>
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1153642026245615616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Chelsea had started their tour with 1-0 loss to Kawasaki Frontale and Barcelona will play J League team Vissel Kobe on Saturday.&nbsp;

Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August and Chelsea will start their Premier League season with a mouth-watering clash against Manchester United on August 10.&nbsp;

Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley scored as the English Premier League club Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Saitama, Japan on Tuesday. Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann made his first start for the Spanish champions while for Chelsea, Mason and Christian Pulisic started for the team.

Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley scored as the English Premier League club Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Saitama, Japan on Tuesday. Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann made his first start for the Spanish champions while for Chelsea, Mason and Christian Pulisic started for the team. Abraham capitalised an early Pedro shot by pouncing on a mistake by Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets who attempted to clear the ball and scored the classy opener in the 34th minute. Substitute Barkley stretched the lead to 2-0 by scoring in the 81st minute. Barcelona were offensive in the second half but superb saves by Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga repeatedly denied Barca any attempt to equalise. Barcelona got a free-kick just outside the box but midfielder Ivan Rakitic's shot went above the bar. Rakitic however quickly redeemed himself in injury time, picking up a cross and firing a lightning right-footer that went deep into the net for a consolation goal for Barcelona. Full-time: Chelsea 2-1 Barcelona! 💪 Goals from @tammyabraham and @RBarkley8 secure the win in our final game in Japan! 👏#CFCinJapan pic.twitter.com/BD0JdfmUPs — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 23, 2019 × Chelsea had started their tour with 1-0 loss to Kawasaki Frontale and Barcelona will play J League team Vissel Kobe on Saturday. Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August and Chelsea will start their Premier League season with a mouth-watering clash against Manchester United on August 10.

Chelsea beat Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic accepts his days at the Nou Camp may be numbered, but for now he is concentrating on preparing for next season with the Spanish champions.

After the arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax and 31-year-old Sergio Busquets signing a new five-year deal last year, Barcelona’s midfield is looking a little crowded and the Croat could be the man shipped out this summer.

Speaking ahead of his side’s pre-season match against Chelsea in Japan on Tuesday, Rakitic admitted it was awkward talking about his future but he was used to the rumours.

“Does it bother me? No it doesn’t, I have to understand soccer in general works like that,” Rakitic said at a news conference in Tokyo on Monday when asked about any impending move.

“In some way it also fills me with pride because if other teams ask about me it is because I am doing things really well."

Rakitic said he is simply trying to enjoy his soccer at Barca as they seek to put disappointments of recent seasons behind them.

“I think the club has other things to do right now other than speak about my issues,” the 31-year-old said.

Coach Ernesto Valverde has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to attacking midfielders at his disposal after the arrival of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/antoine-griezmann-says-heart-with-barca-after-ugly-atletico-exit-237708">Antoine Griezmann</a> from La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid this month.

Griezmann joins a loaded attacking group that also includes Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Phillipe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele.

French international Griezmann, who is likely to play his first game in a Barcelona shirt on Tuesday, accepts that Barca play a different brand of football to Atletico but he is confident he can adjust.

“They are two different ways of attacking,” Griezmann said. “At Atletico, it’s very quick and the other way is with lots of patience. I will adapt like I did at Atletico.”

“It’s a style I like. I know I can contribute in many ways and, as you know, it’s not a problem for me to run in front or in the back.”

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic accepts his days at the Nou Camp may be numbered, but for now he is concentrating on preparing for next season with the Spanish champions.

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic accepts his days at the Nou Camp may be numbered, but for now he is concentrating on preparing for next season with the Spanish champions. After the arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax and 31-year-old Sergio Busquets signing a new five-year deal last year, Barcelona’s midfield is looking a little crowded and the Croat could be the man shipped out this summer. Speaking ahead of his side’s pre-season match against Chelsea in Japan on Tuesday, Rakitic admitted it was awkward talking about his future but he was used to the rumours. “Does it bother me? No it doesn’t, I have to understand soccer in general works like that,” Rakitic said at a news conference in Tokyo on Monday when asked about any impending move. “In some way it also fills me with pride because if other teams ask about me it is because I am doing things really well." Rakitic said he is simply trying to enjoy his soccer at Barca as they seek to put disappointments of recent seasons behind them. “I think the club has other things to do right now other than speak about my issues,” the 31-year-old said. Coach Ernesto Valverde has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to attacking midfielders at his disposal after the arrival of Antoine Griezmann from La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid this month. Griezmann joins a loaded attacking group that also includes Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Phillipe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele. French international Griezmann, who is likely to play his first game in a Barcelona shirt on Tuesday, accepts that Barca play a different brand of football to Atletico but he is confident he can adjust. “They are two different ways of attacking,” Griezmann said. “At Atletico, it’s very quick and the other way is with lots of patience. I will adapt like I did at Atletico.” “It’s a style I like. I know I can contribute in many ways and, as you know, it’s not a problem for me to run in front or in the back.”

Transfer rumours 'does not' bother Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic

Antoine Griezmann on Monday said he couldn't wait&nbsp;to make his Barcelona debut and that his heart was with the team as he tries to move on from a sour exit from Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid.

Griezmann's ‎€120 million ($135 million) transfer was contested by Atletico, who insisted Barcelona should have paid a higher price for the World Cup-winning French striker.

But he told media in Tokyo,&nbsp;"I am very happy about the outcome of my transfer. I am very eager to play as soon as possible."

"I wish Atletico players all the best of luck. I am focused on giving my all so that Barca will deliver good results," he said in Spanish through a translator.

Barcelona's offer triggered Griezmann's release clause but Atletico said the Catalan club negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from ‎€200 million at the start of July.

Atletico are reportedly planning to take their case to FIFA.

Griezmann voiced his appreciation for his time at Atletico and his strong relationship with their coach, Diego Simeone.

But the Frenchman said he was now committed to Barca.

"I am focused on fitting in among the Barcelona players. My heart is here with them," he said.

The Spanish giants will play a friendly against Chelsea on Tuesday, and on Saturday they face Japan's Vissel Kobe, who feature ex-Barca players Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper.

Antoine Griezmann on Monday said he couldn't wait to make his Barcelona debut and that his heart was with the team as he tries to move on from a sour exit from Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid.

Antoine Griezmann on Monday said he couldn't wait to make his Barcelona debut and that his heart was with the team as he tries to move on from a sour exit from Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid. Griezmann's ‎€120 million ($135 million) transfer was contested by Atletico, who insisted Barcelona should have paid a higher price for the World Cup-winning French striker. But he told media in Tokyo, "I am very happy about the outcome of my transfer. I am very eager to play as soon as possible." "I wish Atletico players all the best of luck. I am focused on giving my all so that Barca will deliver good results," he said in Spanish through a translator. Barcelona's offer triggered Griezmann's release clause but Atletico said the Catalan club negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from ‎€200 million at the start of July. Atletico are reportedly planning to take their case to FIFA. Griezmann voiced his appreciation for his time at Atletico and his strong relationship with their coach, Diego Simeone. But the Frenchman said he was now committed to Barca. "I am focused on fitting in among the Barcelona players. My heart is here with them," he said. The Spanish giants will play a friendly against Chelsea on Tuesday, and on Saturday they face Japan's Vissel Kobe, who feature ex-Barca players Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper.

Antoine Griezmann says heart with Barca after ugly Atletico exit

Antoine Griezmann admitted on Sunday that he was moved to tears of happiness when his big-money move to Barcelona finally came through after a controversial exit from former club Atletico Madrid.

The World Cup winner is in Tokyo with Barca ahead of a clash with Chelsea on Tuesday after the La Liga giants shelled out 120 million euros ($135 million) to match his release clause amid a blistering row between the player and the two clubs.

"I called my father and I started crying with joy because the transfer was all done, it all was over," Griezmann said in an interview with sports daily Marca.

"I was with my friends, with my wife, with my children and it was an incredible moment."

The 28-year-old added he was targeting European glory with Barcelona after two humiliating exits for the Catalans from the Champions League in the last two years -- to Roma and Liverpool -- after throwing away commanding first-leg leads.

"If you ask the fans, they will tell you (they want to win) all three titles (La Liga, Champions League and Copa del Rey), and that goes for the players and the leaders too, and me too," he said.

"We have a team to win everything. It's difficult but we will have to work for it."

Shortly after Barca had announced the signing of Griezmann, Atletico complained they and the Frenchman had negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from 200 million euros at the start of July, adding that they had already "begun appropriate procedures" to defend their "rights and legitimate interests".

Spanish media claim that Atletico will go to FIFA to argue that Barca owe them more than the fee they eventually paid earlier this month.

Griezmann almost signed with Barcelona a year ago but instead opted in June 2018 to sign a new five-year deal at the Wanda Metropolitano.

But in May this year he announced he would be leaving at the end of the season, with Atletico claiming he told them of a deal with Barca before a 3-0 defeat to Juventus which dumped them out of the Champions League at the last 16 stage.

Griezmann scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Atletico since he joined them in 2014 from Basque club Real Sociedad, who scouted the attacker when he was just 14.

He helped Atletico lift the Europa League in 2018 and won the World Cup with France last year. He was top scorer at Euro 2016 despite hosts France losing in the final to Portugal.

Antoine Griezmann admitted on Sunday that he was moved to tears of happiness when his big-money move to Barcelona finally came through after a controversial exit from former club Atletico Madrid.

Antoine Griezmann admitted on Sunday that he was moved to tears of happiness when his big-money move to Barcelona finally came through after a controversial exit from former club Atletico Madrid. The World Cup winner is in Tokyo with Barca ahead of a clash with Chelsea on Tuesday after the La Liga giants shelled out 120 million euros ($135 million) to match his release clause amid a blistering row between the player and the two clubs. "I called my father and I started crying with joy because the transfer was all done, it all was over," Griezmann said in an interview with sports daily Marca. "I was with my friends, with my wife, with my children and it was an incredible moment." The 28-year-old added he was targeting European glory with Barcelona after two humiliating exits for the Catalans from the Champions League in the last two years -- to Roma and Liverpool -- after throwing away commanding first-leg leads. "If you ask the fans, they will tell you (they want to win) all three titles (La Liga, Champions League and Copa del Rey), and that goes for the players and the leaders too, and me too," he said. "We have a team to win everything. It's difficult but we will have to work for it." Shortly after Barca had announced the signing of Griezmann, Atletico complained they and the Frenchman had negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from 200 million euros at the start of July, adding that they had already "begun appropriate procedures" to defend their "rights and legitimate interests". Spanish media claim that Atletico will go to FIFA to argue that Barca owe them more than the fee they eventually paid earlier this month. Griezmann almost signed with Barcelona a year ago but instead opted in June 2018 to sign a new five-year deal at the Wanda Metropolitano. But in May this year he announced he would be leaving at the end of the season, with Atletico claiming he told them of a deal with Barca before a 3-0 defeat to Juventus which dumped them out of the Champions League at the last 16 stage. Griezmann scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Atletico since he joined them in 2014 from Basque club Real Sociedad, who scouted the attacker when he was just 14. He helped Atletico lift the Europa League in 2018 and won the World Cup with France last year. He was top scorer at Euro 2016 despite hosts France losing in the final to Portugal.

Antoine Griezmann 'cried with joy' at Barca move

Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-wants-barcelona-return-says-clubs-vice-president-230937&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2mfCXgLzjAhWLsI8KHdz5BLcQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2ZstBOMwPCqUgsc5CiJqKx">Neymar </a>has praised Barcelona's Lionel Messi calling him the 'best player in the world'&nbsp;amid speculation of his returning to Camp Nou.

"For me, he's the best player in the world. The best player that I've ever seen play," Goal.com quoted Neymar as saying.

Neymar also stated that he and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-broke-down-in-dressing-room-after-barcelonas-humiliating-defeat-to-liverpool-217028&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiAqbysgLzjAhXGq48KHVEFCcUQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2u_YrqzDypKKwjRHEKZl9W">Messi </a>made a 'magnificent duo'.

"We made a magnificent duo. It was a pleasure for me, an honour to play with him. And, on top of that, he is my friend," he said.

A few days back, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-raises-new-speculation-about-barca-with-social-media-post-235712&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2mfCXgLzjAhWLsI8KHdz5BLcQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2KPBtbCgt_HhTUIhsW_l6W">Neymar </a>admitted that his victory over PSG during his time with Barcelona was the best feeling for him.

The match took place back in 2017 and in the match, Neymar netted two goals to help his side thrash PSG by 6-1.

"When we won against PSG with Barcelona it was completely... we all went crazy afterwards. I believe it was the best feeling for all of us. The 'Remontada' against Paris, what we felt when we scored the sixth goal... I have never felt anything like this. It was incredible!," he said.

Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Neymar has praised Barcelona's Lionel Messi calling him the 'best player in the world' amid speculation of his returning to Camp Nou.

Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Neymar has praised Barcelona's Lionel Messi calling him the 'best player in the world' amid speculation of his returning to Camp Nou. "For me, he's the best player in the world. The best player that I've ever seen play," Goal.com quoted Neymar as saying. Neymar also stated that he and Messi made a 'magnificent duo'. "We made a magnificent duo. It was a pleasure for me, an honour to play with him. And, on top of that, he is my friend," he said. A few days back, Neymar admitted that his victory over PSG during his time with Barcelona was the best feeling for him. The match took place back in 2017 and in the match, Neymar netted two goals to help his side thrash PSG by 6-1. "When we won against PSG with Barcelona it was completely... we all went crazy afterwards. I believe it was the best feeling for all of us. The 'Remontada' against Paris, what we felt when we scored the sixth goal... I have never felt anything like this. It was incredible!," he said.

Lionel Messi is best player in the world, says Neymar amid Barcelona return speculations

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-wants-barcelona-return-says-clubs-vice-president-230937&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjay9uUu7vjAhUN7XMBHVp6CywQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3R_Ns9ykS2iK6xrDhHNj3Q">Barcelona </a>have re-signed left-back Marc Cucurella from Eibar after the 20-year-old's impressive first season in the Spanish top flight.

A statement from the La Liga champions said they had exercised a buy-back clause in the player's contract for four million euros, less than two months after Eibar had agreed to sign him on a permanent basis for two million euros.

Cucurella, who can play on the left side of the defence and the left-wing, came through Barca's youth ranks but only played seven minutes of first-team football in the Copa del Rey before moving to Eibar on loan last season, playing 31 La Liga games.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-cards="hidden" data-lang="en">
[BREAKING NEWS] 👍 <a href="https://twitter.com/cucurella3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cucurella3</a> <a href="https://t.co/QiMZPqnKPI">https://t.co/QiMZPqnKPI</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1151139049006075904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He made his name with a stunning performance in the Basque team's 3-0 win over Real Madrid and scored against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-get-antoine-griezmann-but-atletico-contest-eu120-million-fee-235831&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjay9uUu7vjAhUN7XMBHVp6CywQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rC7oAsZ0KWuJQtgurDBqV">Barca </a>in a 2-2 draw on the final day of the season.

Barcelona have re-signed left-back Marc Cucurella from Eibar after the 20-year-old's impressive first season in the Spanish top flight. A statement from the La Liga champions said they had exercised a buy-back clause in the player's contract for four million euros, less than two months after Eibar had agreed to sign him on a permanent basis for two million euros.

Barcelona have re-signed left-back Marc Cucurella from Eibar after the 20-year-old's impressive first season in the Spanish top flight. A statement from the La Liga champions said they had exercised a buy-back clause in the player's contract for four million euros, less than two months after Eibar had agreed to sign him on a permanent basis for two million euros. Cucurella, who can play on the left side of the defence and the left-wing, came through Barca's youth ranks but only played seven minutes of first-team football in the Copa del Rey before moving to Eibar on loan last season, playing 31 La Liga games. [BREAKING NEWS] 👍 @cucurella3 https://t.co/QiMZPqnKPI — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 16, 2019 × He made his name with a stunning performance in the Basque team's 3-0 win over Real Madrid and scored against Barca in a 2-2 draw on the final day of the season.

Barcelona re-sign youngster Marc Cucurella from Eibar

French striker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-threaten-legal-action-as-barcelona-announce-antoine-griezmann-signing-235501">Antoine Griezmann</a> trained with his new Barcelona teammates for the first time on Monday following his controversial move from Atletico Madrid last week.&nbsp;

"The first of two sessions scheduled for the day was completed by all available first team players, including the newest incorporations, Frenkie de Jong, Neto, and Antoine Griezmann," the Catalan club reported on its website.

Another French forward, Ousmane Dembele and German goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen were both declared fit after recovering from injuries late last season.&nbsp;

Ter Stegen had been suffering from soreness in his right knee while Dembele had problems with his right hamstring.

There was no sign of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Philippe Coutinho, Arthur and Arturo Vidal who are all still on vacation after taking part in the Copa America.&nbsp;

Griezmann was presented as a Barcelona player on Sunday night, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-get-antoine-griezmann-but-atletico-contest-eu120-million-fee-235831">after the Catalans paid the 28-year-old's €120 million</a>&nbsp;($135 million) release clause.

Atletico described the amount as "insufficient", complaining that Barcelona and Griezmann had negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from €200 million at the start of July.

Spanish sports newspaper AS said on Saturday that Atletico will go to FIFA, the governing body of world football, to argue that Barcelona owe them more than the €120 million deposited by a lawyer for Griezmann on Friday.&nbsp;

Barcelona travel to Japan on Saturday where they will play friendlies against Chelsea on July 23 and Andres Iniesta's Vissel Kobe four days later.

French striker Antoine Griezmann trained with his new Barcelona teammates for the first time on Monday following his controversial move from Atletico Madrid last week.

French striker Antoine Griezmann trained with his new Barcelona teammates for the first time on Monday following his controversial move from Atletico Madrid last week. "The first of two sessions scheduled for the day was completed by all available first team players, including the newest incorporations, Frenkie de Jong, Neto, and Antoine Griezmann," the Catalan club reported on its website. Another French forward, Ousmane Dembele and German goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen were both declared fit after recovering from injuries late last season. Ter Stegen had been suffering from soreness in his right knee while Dembele had problems with his right hamstring. There was no sign of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Philippe Coutinho, Arthur and Arturo Vidal who are all still on vacation after taking part in the Copa America. Griezmann was presented as a Barcelona player on Sunday night, after the Catalans paid the 28-year-old's €120 million ($135 million) release clause. Atletico described the amount as "insufficient", complaining that Barcelona and Griezmann had negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from €200 million at the start of July. Spanish sports newspaper AS said on Saturday that Atletico will go to FIFA, the governing body of world football, to argue that Barcelona owe them more than the €120 million deposited by a lawyer for Griezmann on Friday. Barcelona travel to Japan on Saturday where they will play friendlies against Chelsea on July 23 and Andres Iniesta's Vissel Kobe four days later.

Antoine Griezmann trains for the first time with Barcelona

Barcelona&nbsp;announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Friday for €120 million ($135 million), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-threaten-legal-action-as-barcelona-announce-antoine-griezmann-signing-235501">sparking a furious reaction from Atletico Madrid</a> over the amount the La Liga champions paid for the World Cup winner.

In a statement, Barca revealed they had paid the €120 million to activate the Frenchman's release clause, adding he would sign a five-year deal that included a "buyout clause of €800 million".

Griezmann almost signed for Barca 12 months ago, but instead opted to remain at Atletico, announcing his choice to stay in a documentary called "The Decision".

"When I was a boy, my dad taught me that trains don't come around just once," Griezmann said in a video posted on the&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;website on Friday.

"Now it's time to take on the challenge of a new destination.

"Finally, our paths cross. I'll defend the Barca colours with all my determination and commitment. It's our time. This is our path."

However, within minutes of&nbsp;Barcelona's announcement, Atletico said they believed "the amount paid is insufficient to meet the release clause as it is obvious that the agreement between the player and&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;had been concluded before the release clause dropped from €200 million&nbsp;to €120 million" at the start of the month.

They said Griezmann had gone to the headquarters of Spanish Football League (LFP) to "unilaterally" break his contract after Barca met the release clause, and added they had already "begun appropriate procedures" to defend their "rights and legitimate interests".

The announcement was the latest episode in a spat between the two clubs and Griezmann after the 28-year-old failed to show up for Atletico's pre-season gathering on Sunday following his announcement in May he would be leaving for an unnamed destination -- long-suspected to be&nbsp;Barcelona.

Last week Atletico accused&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;and Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after&nbsp;Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed the two clubs had held talks about the former Real Sociedad forward.

Replacement already signed

Atletico then claimed Griezmann had told the club he had struck a deal with&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid.

Griezmann joined Atletico in 2014 and has scored 133 goals in 257 appearances, lifting the Europa League in 2018.

He won the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 when France were beaten in the final on home soil by Portugal before helping to guide his country to World Cup glory in Russia last year.

The sale of Griezmann comes after Atletico stumped up a whopping €126 million to sign rising star Joao Felix from Benfica last week, making the 19-year-old one of the five most expensive players in history.

The fee was a record paid by the capital city club and the highest ever received by a Portuguese outfit, and the sale of Griezmann helps finance such a huge transfer for a young player.

Felix burst onto the scene last season, scoring 20 times and making 11 assists in all competitions for Benfica as they won the Primeira Liga and reached the quarter-finals of the Europa League.

On Friday Atletico also unveiled Felix's former Benfica teammate Ivan Saponjic with the 20-year-old Serbian forward having signed a three-year deal with the Spanish club.

Barcelona announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Friday for €120 million ($135 million), sparking a furious reaction from Atletico Madrid over the amount the La Liga champions paid for the World Cup winner.

Barcelona announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Friday for €120 million ($135 million), sparking a furious reaction from Atletico Madrid over the amount the La Liga champions paid for the World Cup winner. In a statement, Barca revealed they had paid the €120 million to activate the Frenchman's release clause, adding he would sign a five-year deal that included a "buyout clause of €800 million". Griezmann almost signed for Barca 12 months ago, but instead opted to remain at Atletico, announcing his choice to stay in a documentary called "The Decision". "When I was a boy, my dad taught me that trains don't come around just once," Griezmann said in a video posted on the Barcelona website on Friday. "Now it's time to take on the challenge of a new destination. "Finally, our paths cross. I'll defend the Barca colours with all my determination and commitment. It's our time. This is our path." However, within minutes of Barcelona's announcement, Atletico said they believed "the amount paid is insufficient to meet the release clause as it is obvious that the agreement between the player and Barcelona had been concluded before the release clause dropped from €200 million to €120 million" at the start of the month. They said Griezmann had gone to the headquarters of Spanish Football League (LFP) to "unilaterally" break his contract after Barca met the release clause, and added they had already "begun appropriate procedures" to defend their "rights and legitimate interests". The announcement was the latest episode in a spat between the two clubs and Griezmann after the 28-year-old failed to show up for Atletico's pre-season gathering on Sunday following his announcement in May he would be leaving for an unnamed destination -- long-suspected to be Barcelona. Last week Atletico accused Barcelona and Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed the two clubs had held talks about the former Real Sociedad forward. Replacement already signed Atletico then claimed Griezmann had told the club he had struck a deal with Barcelona in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid. Griezmann joined Atletico in 2014 and has scored 133 goals in 257 appearances, lifting the Europa League in 2018. He won the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 when France were beaten in the final on home soil by Portugal before helping to guide his country to World Cup glory in Russia last year. The sale of Griezmann comes after Atletico stumped up a whopping €126 million to sign rising star Joao Felix from Benfica last week, making the 19-year-old one of the five most expensive players in history. The fee was a record paid by the capital city club and the highest ever received by a Portuguese outfit, and the sale of Griezmann helps finance such a huge transfer for a young player. Felix burst onto the scene last season, scoring 20 times and making 11 assists in all competitions for Benfica as they won the Primeira Liga and reached the quarter-finals of the Europa League. On Friday Atletico also unveiled Felix's former Benfica teammate Ivan Saponjic with the 20-year-old Serbian forward having signed a three-year deal with the Spanish club.

Barcelona get Antoine Griezmann but Atletico contest €120 million fee

Neymar posted a video featuring himself in a Barcelona shirt on social media on Saturday, raising more speculation that the Paris St Germain forward might return to his former club, but his public relations company said he would show up in Paris on Monday.

The injured Neymar has been in his native Brazil supporting their victory over Peru in the Copa America final, missing pre-season training with PSG.

He joined PSG from Barcelona on a five-year deal for a world-record transfer fee of €222 million ($250.17 million) in 2017, but there has been recent talk of him returning to the Spanish club.

The 27-year-old prompted more speculation with a brief Instagram video, showing a black-and-white image of himself in a shirt with the badge of Barcelona and a quote from the Bible, which was widely reproduced on news websites.

The post led to much speculation about his intended message, with French newspaper L'Equipe saying: "Everyone will see in this ambiguous message a hidden announcement by the PSG striker of his return to his old club."

But his public relations company, in a statement carried on Brazilian websites, said, "After these events he will show up normally on July 15 as PSG had been informed weeks ago."

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu earlier this month confirmed reports that Neymar wanted to leave Parc des Princes, while admitting the Ligue 1 champions did not want to sell him, according to media reports.

PSG responded by saying they would sanction the Brazilian for missing the start of pre-season training last Monday, even though the player's father said Neymar's delayed return had been agreed in advance so he could be present for Brazil's victory in the Copa America.

Neymar's video also contained a Biblical passage in Portuguese, from the Book of Isaiah, that was apparently aimed at his critics.

It began: "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn."

Neymar posted a video featuring himself in a Barcelona shirt on social media on Saturday, raising more speculation that the Paris St Germain forward might return to his former club, but his public relations company said he would show up in Paris on Monday.

Neymar posted a video featuring himself in a Barcelona shirt on social media on Saturday, raising more speculation that the Paris St Germain forward might return to his former club, but his public relations company said he would show up in Paris on Monday. The injured Neymar has been in his native Brazil supporting their victory over Peru in the Copa America final, missing pre-season training with PSG. He joined PSG from Barcelona on a five-year deal for a world-record transfer fee of €222 million ($250.17 million) in 2017, but there has been recent talk of him returning to the Spanish club. The 27-year-old prompted more speculation with a brief Instagram video, showing a black-and-white image of himself in a shirt with the badge of Barcelona and a quote from the Bible, which was widely reproduced on news websites. The post led to much speculation about his intended message, with French newspaper L'Equipe saying: "Everyone will see in this ambiguous message a hidden announcement by the PSG striker of his return to his old club." But his public relations company, in a statement carried on Brazilian websites, said, "After these events he will show up normally on July 15 as PSG had been informed weeks ago." Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu earlier this month confirmed reports that Neymar wanted to leave Parc des Princes, while admitting the Ligue 1 champions did not want to sell him, according to media reports. PSG responded by saying they would sanction the Brazilian for missing the start of pre-season training last Monday, even though the player's father said Neymar's delayed return had been agreed in advance so he could be present for Brazil's victory in the Copa America. Neymar's video also contained a Biblical passage in Portuguese, from the Book of Isaiah, that was apparently aimed at his critics. It began: "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn."

Neymar raises new speculation about Barca with social media post

Spanish champions Barcelona announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-bag-griezmann-after-stumping-up-120-million-euros-235368">signing of striker&nbsp;Antoine&nbsp;Griezmann</a>&nbsp;on Friday for €120 million ($135 million) from a fuming Atletico Madrid, who said the Catalan club had not paid enough to trigger the player's release clause.

France forward&nbsp;Griezmann, 28, rejected a move to Barcelona last year but announced in May that he was leaving Atletico, where he has spent the last five seasons since signing from Real Sociedad in 2014.

Barca have been trying to lure&nbsp;Griezmann&nbsp;to the Nou Camp since November 2017, but the forward signed a new five-year deal with Atletico in June 2018 that had a €200 million buy-out clause, which dropped to €120 million on July 1 this year.

Atletico said that&nbsp;Griezmann's May 14 announcement that he was leaving the club is proof a deal had already been struck between the player and Barcelona before his buy-out clause dropped.

"Atletico Madrid considers that the deposited amount is insufficient to cover (Griezmann's) buyout clause, since it is obvious that the agreement between the player and FC Barcelona was closed before the clause was reduced from 200 million euros to 120 million euros," the club said in a statement.

"It was also prior to the date on which the clause was modified the communication that the player made on May 14 announcing his disassociation from the club.

"Atletico Madrid believes the termination of the contract happened before the end of the last season due to facts, acts and demonstrations made by the player, and therefore has already initiated procedures it has deemed appropriate to protect their rights and lawful interests."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
✌️ Life is all about second chances. <a href="https://t.co/5ArFiaP2ht">pic.twitter.com/5ArFiaP2ht</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1149748037767614465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Welcome, <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoGriezmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AntoGriezmann</a> 🤙 
See you on the other side 😉 <a href="https://t.co/UFYWwCJ2hx">pic.twitter.com/UFYWwCJ2hx</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1149695923070672896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Barca's long-running pursuit of the Frenchman, who scored 133 goals in all competitions for Atletico, has been the worst-kept secret in Spanish football.

The champions announced his signing in a statement earlier on Friday, in which they revealed his new five-season contract included an €800 million buyout clause.

"FC Barcelona has paid the €120 million buyout clause to release&nbsp;Antoine&nbsp;Griezmann&nbsp;from Atletico Madrid," Barcelona said.

The capture of the France striker adds further firepower to a Barca strikeforce already containing Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez and could yet be bolstered further by the return of Neymar Jr.

Spanish media reports say the Brazil forward is keen to return to Barca and regrets leaving the club for Paris St Germain in 2017 for a world record €222 million.

Spanish champions Barcelona announced the signing of striker Antoine Griezmann on Friday for €120 million ($135 million) from a fuming Atletico Madrid, who said the Catalan club had not paid enough to trigger the player's release clause.

Spanish champions Barcelona announced the signing of striker Antoine Griezmann on Friday for €120 million ($135 million) from a fuming Atletico Madrid, who said the Catalan club had not paid enough to trigger the player's release clause. France forward Griezmann, 28, rejected a move to Barcelona last year but announced in May that he was leaving Atletico, where he has spent the last five seasons since signing from Real Sociedad in 2014. Barca have been trying to lure Griezmann to the Nou Camp since November 2017, but the forward signed a new five-year deal with Atletico in June 2018 that had a €200 million buy-out clause, which dropped to €120 million on July 1 this year. Atletico said that Griezmann's May 14 announcement that he was leaving the club is proof a deal had already been struck between the player and Barcelona before his buy-out clause dropped. "Atletico Madrid considers that the deposited amount is insufficient to cover (Griezmann's) buyout clause, since it is obvious that the agreement between the player and FC Barcelona was closed before the clause was reduced from 200 million euros to 120 million euros," the club said in a statement. "It was also prior to the date on which the clause was modified the communication that the player made on May 14 announcing his disassociation from the club. "Atletico Madrid believes the termination of the contract happened before the end of the last season due to facts, acts and demonstrations made by the player, and therefore has already initiated procedures it has deemed appropriate to protect their rights and lawful interests." ✌️ Life is all about second chances. pic.twitter.com/5ArFiaP2ht — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 12, 2019 × Welcome, @AntoGriezmann 🤙 See you on the other side 😉 pic.twitter.com/UFYWwCJ2hx — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 12, 2019 × Barca's long-running pursuit of the Frenchman, who scored 133 goals in all competitions for Atletico, has been the worst-kept secret in Spanish football. The champions announced his signing in a statement earlier on Friday, in which they revealed his new five-season contract included an €800 million buyout clause. "FC Barcelona has paid the €120 million buyout clause to release Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid," Barcelona said. The capture of the France striker adds further firepower to a Barca strikeforce already containing Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez and could yet be bolstered further by the return of Neymar Jr. Spanish media reports say the Brazil forward is keen to return to Barca and regrets leaving the club for Paris St Germain in 2017 for a world record €222 million.

Atletico threaten legal action as Barcelona announce Antoine Griezmann signing

Barcelona announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Friday after the Spanish champions paid La Liga&nbsp;rivals Atletico Madrid the 120 million euro ($135 million) release clause required to sign the World Cup winner.

"The player will sign a contract with his new club for the next five seasons, through to 30 June 2024, with a buyout clause of 800 million euros," Barca said in a statement.

Friday's announcement brings to an end a dispute between the two clubs and Griezmann, who had long aimed to move to the Catalan giants.

The 28-year-old failed to show up for his side's pre-season gathering on Sunday after he had announced in May he would be leaving the Wanda Metropolitano, even though he could not reveal his destination until his release clause dropped from 200 million euros to 120 million euros at the start of the month.

last week Atletico accused Barcelona and Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after&nbsp;the Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed the two clubs had held talks about the former Real Sociedad forward.

Atletico also claimed that Griezmann had told the club that he had struck a deal with Barcelona in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid.

Griezmann joined Atletico in 2014 and has scored 133 goals in 257 appearances, lifting the Europa League in 2018.

He finished top scorer at Euro 2016 when France were beaten in the final on home soil by Portugal before helping to guide his team to World Cup triumph in Russia last year. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Friday after the Spanish champions paid La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid the 120 million euro ($135 million) release clause required to sign the World Cup winner.

Barcelona announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Friday after the Spanish champions paid La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid the 120 million euro ($135 million) release clause required to sign the World Cup winner. "The player will sign a contract with his new club for the next five seasons, through to 30 June 2024, with a buyout clause of 800 million euros," Barca said in a statement. Friday's announcement brings to an end a dispute between the two clubs and Griezmann, who had long aimed to move to the Catalan giants. The 28-year-old failed to show up for his side's pre-season gathering on Sunday after he had announced in May he would be leaving the Wanda Metropolitano, even though he could not reveal his destination until his release clause dropped from 200 million euros to 120 million euros at the start of the month. last week Atletico accused Barcelona and Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after the Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed the two clubs had held talks about the former Real Sociedad forward. Atletico also claimed that Griezmann had told the club that he had struck a deal with Barcelona in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid. Griezmann joined Atletico in 2014 and has scored 133 goals in 257 appearances, lifting the Europa League in 2018. He finished top scorer at Euro 2016 when France were beaten in the final on home soil by Portugal before helping to guide his team to World Cup triumph in Russia last year.

Barcelona bag Griezmann after stumping up 120 million euros 

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-wants-barcelona-return-says-clubs-vice-president-230937&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj7-duegq_jAhUIWCsKHWA4AUkQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw15e2GHqJESvRzv616C0QdF">Barcelona </a>have agreed a deal to sign emerging Japanese talent Hiroki Abe from Kashima Antlers, the J-League club said on Friday.

The 20-year-old attacker, named the league's best young player of 2018, was set to undergo a medical with the Spanish side and would join up with their 'B' side.

Financial details were not released but earlier reports said Barca would pay around $2.25 million&nbsp;for Abe, who made his senior international debut at the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-koji-miyoshi-shines-japan-plays-2-2-draw-against-uruguay-229170&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVg4qpgq_jAhXbad4KHelTCxYQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0lMGxWeUqY2tZIy176eb0w">Copa America</a> and appeared in all three of their matches.

"It was a difficult decision to leave (Kashima) mid-season, but I chose to make the move because I absolutely want to take on this new challenge at Barcelona," Kyodo news agency quoted Abe as saying in a statement.

Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign emerging Japanese talent Hiroki Abe from Kashima Antlers, the J-League club said on Friday. The 20-year-old attacker, named the league's best young player of 2018, was set to undergo a medical with the Spanish side and would join up with their 'B' side.

Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign emerging Japanese talent Hiroki Abe from Kashima Antlers, the J-League club said on Friday. The 20-year-old attacker, named the league's best young player of 2018, was set to undergo a medical with the Spanish side and would join up with their 'B' side. Financial details were not released but earlier reports said Barca would pay around $2.25 million for Abe, who made his senior international debut at the Copa America and appeared in all three of their matches. "It was a difficult decision to leave (Kashima) mid-season, but I chose to make the move because I absolutely want to take on this new challenge at Barcelona," Kyodo news agency quoted Abe as saying in a statement.

Barcelona agree deal to sign Japan's Abe

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-haunted-by-ghosts-of-rome-in-nightmare-loss-to-liverpool-gerard-pique-221387&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7NTMqKrjAhWJ7nMBHbHxALYQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2oDybOjO8_ZKjEV_-5o--P">Barcelona's</a> Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday.

According to a May 13 decision the country's National Court rejected Pique's appeal against the 2016 sentence which required the former Spain international to pay ‎€1.5 million in tax arrears and a 600,000 euros fine.

The tribunal concluded <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-speaks-on-facing-former-manchester-united-teammate-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-209171&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7NTMqKrjAhWJ7nMBHbHxALYQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0qJp4Ynfeqr-KtEPU4f7f5">Pique</a> had faked the handover of his rights images to his Kerad Project company to pay less tax for 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Pique, a World Cup and European Championships winner retains the right to appeal to Spain's supreme court.&nbsp;

The verdict comes a month after his wife, Colombian musician Shakira, was questioned by a judge near the Catalan city over alleged evasion of ‎€14.5 million in taxes.

Her press team released a statement in which they said the artist was innocent.

The centre-back's former teammate at the Camp Nou <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-authorities-put-freeze-on-neymar-mansions-amid-tax-dispute-228093&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4nev1qKrjAhVb8XMBHedlAoEQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QC6QZH7keaR4NhXxf_-z7">Neymar </a>is under investigation by Spain's fiscal authorities over a bonus he received at Barca as well as his world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.

Another of Pique's fellow club squad members Lionel Messi paid a two-million-euro fine in 2016 in his own tax wrangle and received a 21-month jail term.

The prison sentence was later reduced to a further fine of ‎€252,000, equivalent to ‎€400&nbsp;per day of the original term.

A Spanish court in January handed Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud when he was at Real Madrid.

The player, who joined Italian side Juventus last year, also agreed to pay ‎€18.8 million in fines and back taxes to settle the case, according to judicial sources.

Newspaper El Mundo reported in April authorities had accused Atletico Madrid attacker <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-costa-banned-for-eight-games-for-insulting-referee-209665&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixw7KLqarjAhXQ73MBHYpFBk0QFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw18LDXzRpJ7yjCSUIpXgG2i">Diego Costa</a> of fraud totalling ‎€1.1 million related to taxes related to his image rights in 2014.&nbsp;

Barcelona's Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday.

Barcelona's Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday. According to a May 13 decision the country's National Court rejected Pique's appeal against the 2016 sentence which required the former Spain international to pay ‎€1.5 million in tax arrears and a 600,000 euros fine. The tribunal concluded Pique had faked the handover of his rights images to his Kerad Project company to pay less tax for 2008, 2009 and 2010. Pique, a World Cup and European Championships winner retains the right to appeal to Spain's supreme court. The verdict comes a month after his wife, Colombian musician Shakira, was questioned by a judge near the Catalan city over alleged evasion of ‎€14.5 million in taxes. Her press team released a statement in which they said the artist was innocent. The centre-back's former teammate at the Camp Nou Neymar is under investigation by Spain's fiscal authorities over a bonus he received at Barca as well as his world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. Another of Pique's fellow club squad members Lionel Messi paid a two-million-euro fine in 2016 in his own tax wrangle and received a 21-month jail term. The prison sentence was later reduced to a further fine of ‎€252,000, equivalent to ‎€400 per day of the original term. A Spanish court in January handed Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud when he was at Real Madrid. The player, who joined Italian side Juventus last year, also agreed to pay ‎€18.8 million in fines and back taxes to settle the case, according to judicial sources. Newspaper El Mundo reported in April authorities had accused Atletico Madrid attacker Diego Costa of fraud totalling ‎€1.1 million related to taxes related to his image rights in 2014.

Barcelona's Gerard Pique handed €2.1 million tax bill

Paris St Germain sporting director Leonardo says Neymar is free to leave the French champions but there have been no offers for him and only "superficial" talks with his former club Barcelona.

The Brazilian forward joined PSG from <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-wants-barcelona-return-says-clubs-vice-president-230937&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGtYie9KfjAhUN3o8KHV94BSwQFjAHegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1zveYfIMl-Pg5DI-sYdX-V">Barcelona </a>on a five-year deal for a world record transfer fee of $249 million&nbsp;in 2017.

"Neymar can leave PSG if there is an offer that suits everyone. But to date, we do not know if anyone wants to buy him or at what price. All this is not done in a day, that's for sure," Leonardo told Le Parisien.

"It's clear to everyone (that he wants to leave), but in football, you say one thing today and tomorrow another ... It's amazing but it's like that. We talked with his entourage too. Everyone knows everything,'' he said.

"The position is clear for all participants. But one thing is concrete today: he still has three years of contract with us and since we have not received an offer, we cannot discuss anything,"&nbsp;Leonardo added.

Barcelona President <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-wants-to-leave-psg-but-they-dont-want-to-sell-him-barca-president-233420&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi2rv269KfjAhVfH48KHcDSA3cQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw387ftZQKP0yaV6W6-ssjA6">Josep Maria Bartomeu</a> said last week that Neymar wanted to return to Spain but that PSG were reluctant to sell him.

"We have not received any offers," Leonardo added. "But we have had, it's true, very superficial contacts (with Barcelona). They said they wanted to buy but we were not sellers.''

"He's (Bartomeu) the one saying it... But we did not see that Barcelona was really in a buyer position." said Leonardo.

Paris St Germain said on Monday they would take action against the Brazilian forward after he failed to report for training.

Paris St Germain sporting director Leonardo says Neymar is free to leave the French champions but there have been no offers for him and only "superficial" talks with his former club Barcelona.

Paris St Germain sporting director Leonardo says Neymar is free to leave the French champions but there have been no offers for him and only "superficial" talks with his former club Barcelona. The Brazilian forward joined PSG from Barcelona on a five-year deal for a world record transfer fee of $249 million in 2017. "Neymar can leave PSG if there is an offer that suits everyone. But to date, we do not know if anyone wants to buy him or at what price. All this is not done in a day, that's for sure," Leonardo told Le Parisien. "It's clear to everyone (that he wants to leave), but in football, you say one thing today and tomorrow another ... It's amazing but it's like that. We talked with his entourage too. Everyone knows everything,'' he said. "The position is clear for all participants. But one thing is concrete today: he still has three years of contract with us and since we have not received an offer, we cannot discuss anything," Leonardo added. Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu said last week that Neymar wanted to return to Spain but that PSG were reluctant to sell him. "We have not received any offers," Leonardo added. "But we have had, it's true, very superficial contacts (with Barcelona). They said they wanted to buy but we were not sellers.'' "He's (Bartomeu) the one saying it... But we did not see that Barcelona was really in a buyer position." said Leonardo. Paris St Germain said on Monday they would take action against the Brazilian forward after he failed to report for training.

Neymar can leave PSG if we get an offer, says club director Leonardo

Atletico Madrid have accused Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday that the two clubs had held talks about the signing of the France international.

In a statement, the La Liga club confirmed Bartomeu's earlier announcement that there had been a meeting, at Barca's behest, on Thursday to discuss a deal to sign World Cup winner Griezmann, who has a release clause of 120 million euros ($134.6 million) in his contract.

Atletico also said they refused a proposal from Barca that they sign the 28-year-old but delay the payment of the buy-out clause.

"Obviously our response was negative, understanding that both Barcelona and the player have disrespected Atletico Madrid and all its fans," the club said.

The statement also claims that Griezmann had told the club that he had struck a deal with <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-hold-talks-with-atletico-over-antoine-griezmann-signing-233403&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ3_7A0J_jAhXn6nMBHcmnAvAQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1OlpHZWaphOXKLq2OO1kxS">Barcelona </a>in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid.

It added,&nbsp;"Atletico Madrid wants to express it's strongest condemnation of the behaviour of both parties, in particular, Barcelona, for having induced the player to break his contractual relationship with us during the moment in which the club was not only playing the Champions League tie with Juventus, but also challenging Barcelona for the La Liga title."

Griezmann - who announced in May that he would be leaving Atletico but could not reveal his destination until his release clause dropped from 200 million euros on July 1 -&nbsp;signed for the capital club from Real Sociedad in 2014 and has since scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Diego Simeone's men.

He has also netted 29 times in 70 international games for France, winning the 2018 World Cup and claiming the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 as Les Bleus lost in the final on home soil to Portugal.

Barcelona won their second straight La Liga title last season but are looking to reinforce their squad after failing again in their bid for a first Champions League triumph since 2015 -&nbsp;suffering a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/over-reliance-on-messi-or-over-confidence-what-went-wrong-for-barcelona-against-liverpool-217025&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ3_7A0J_jAhXn6nMBHcmnAvAQFjAAegQIBhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Mp1nI6KR6q_GzClr7F5cw">humiliating loss to Liverpool</a> in the semi-finals having won the first leg 3-0.

Atletico Madrid have accused Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday that the two clubs had held talks about the signing of the France international.

Atletico Madrid have accused Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday that the two clubs had held talks about the signing of the France international. In a statement, the La Liga club confirmed Bartomeu's earlier announcement that there had been a meeting, at Barca's behest, on Thursday to discuss a deal to sign World Cup winner Griezmann, who has a release clause of 120 million euros ($134.6 million) in his contract. Atletico also said they refused a proposal from Barca that they sign the 28-year-old but delay the payment of the buy-out clause. "Obviously our response was negative, understanding that both Barcelona and the player have disrespected Atletico Madrid and all its fans," the club said. The statement also claims that Griezmann had told the club that he had struck a deal with Barcelona in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid. It added, "Atletico Madrid wants to express it's strongest condemnation of the behaviour of both parties, in particular, Barcelona, for having induced the player to break his contractual relationship with us during the moment in which the club was not only playing the Champions League tie with Juventus, but also challenging Barcelona for the La Liga title." Griezmann - who announced in May that he would be leaving Atletico but could not reveal his destination until his release clause dropped from 200 million euros on July 1 - signed for the capital club from Real Sociedad in 2014 and has since scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Diego Simeone's men. He has also netted 29 times in 70 international games for France, winning the 2018 World Cup and claiming the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 as Les Bleus lost in the final on home soil to Portugal. Barcelona won their second straight La Liga title last season but are looking to reinforce their squad after failing again in their bid for a first Champions League triumph since 2015 - suffering a humiliating loss to Liverpool in the semi-finals having won the first leg 3-0.

Atletico Madrid accuse Barcelona, Antoine Griezmann for showing 'disrespect'

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said his club are aware that Neymar wants to leave Paris St Germain to return to the La Liga champions but the French club are reluctant to sell the Brazilian forward.

"We know that Neymar wants to leave PSG but we also know that PSG don't want him to go, so there is no case for signing him," Bartomeu told a news conference on Friday.

Bartomeu also revealed a meeting between Barca CEO Oscar Grau and Atletico Madrid chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-hold-talks-with-atletico-over-antoine-griezmann-signing-233403">signing France forward Antoine Griezmann</a>, who announced in May that he was leaving the Madrid side.

Griezmann's buy-out clause has fallen from €200 million ($224.4 million) to 120 million euros, but Bartomeu said his club are trying to reach a deal without paying the clause.

"Yesterday we had a meeting in Madrid, Gil Marin and Oscar Grau saw each other and we asked if it was possible to negotiate for Griezmann," he added.

Griezmann turned down a move to Barca last year, revealing he was staying at Atletico in a televised documentary called "The Decision".

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said his club are aware that Neymar wants to leave Paris St Germain to return to the La Liga champions but the French club are reluctant to sell the Brazilian forward.

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said his club are aware that Neymar wants to leave Paris St Germain to return to the La Liga champions but the French club are reluctant to sell the Brazilian forward. "We know that Neymar wants to leave PSG but we also know that PSG don't want him to go, so there is no case for signing him," Bartomeu told a news conference on Friday. Bartomeu also revealed a meeting between Barca CEO Oscar Grau and Atletico Madrid chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin over the signing France forward Antoine Griezmann, who announced in May that he was leaving the Madrid side. Griezmann's buy-out clause has fallen from €200 million ($224.4 million) to 120 million euros, but Bartomeu said his club are trying to reach a deal without paying the clause. "Yesterday we had a meeting in Madrid, Gil Marin and Oscar Grau saw each other and we asked if it was possible to negotiate for Griezmann," he added. Griezmann turned down a move to Barca last year, revealing he was staying at Atletico in a televised documentary called "The Decision".

Neymar wants to leave PSG but they don't want to sell him: Barca president

Barcelona have held talks with Atletico Madrid over the potential signing of forward Antoine Griezmann, the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday.

French star Griezmann, who has long been linked with a move to Barcelona but last year opted to stay in the Spanish capital, has a release clause of €120 million ($134.6 million) in his contract.

But Barcelona want to sign the 28-year-old World Cup winner without activating the clause.

"Yesterday (Thursday), we had a meeting," said Bartomeu. "Oscar Grau, our general manager, met with Miguel Angel Gil (Atletico's general manager) in Madrid and we began to ask him if it was possible that this (scenario) can happen.

"There is an interest, that's why we got together."

Griezmann signed for Atletico from Real Sociedad in 2014 and has since scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Diego Simeone's men.

He has also netted 29 times in 70 international games for France, winning the 2018 World Cup and claiming the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 as 'Les Bleus' lost in the final on home soil to Portugal.

Barcelona won their second straight La Liga title last season but are looking to reinforce their squad after failing again in their bid for a first Champions League triumph since 2015 -- suffering a humiliating loss to Liverpool in the semi-finals having won the first leg 3-0 at the Camp Nou.

Barcelona have held talks with Atletico Madrid over the potential signing of forward Antoine Griezmann, the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday.

Barcelona have held talks with Atletico Madrid over the potential signing of forward Antoine Griezmann, the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday. French star Griezmann, who has long been linked with a move to Barcelona but last year opted to stay in the Spanish capital, has a release clause of €120 million ($134.6 million) in his contract. But Barcelona want to sign the 28-year-old World Cup winner without activating the clause. "Yesterday (Thursday), we had a meeting," said Bartomeu. "Oscar Grau, our general manager, met with Miguel Angel Gil (Atletico's general manager) in Madrid and we began to ask him if it was possible that this (scenario) can happen. "There is an interest, that's why we got together." Griezmann signed for Atletico from Real Sociedad in 2014 and has since scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Diego Simeone's men. He has also netted 29 times in 70 international games for France, winning the 2018 World Cup and claiming the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 as 'Les Bleus' lost in the final on home soil to Portugal. Barcelona won their second straight La Liga title last season but are looking to reinforce their squad after failing again in their bid for a first Champions League triumph since 2015 -- suffering a humiliating loss to Liverpool in the semi-finals having won the first leg 3-0 at the Camp Nou.

Barcelona hold talks with Atletico over Antoine Griezmann signing

Brazilian superstar Neymar wants to return to Barcelona two years after quitting the club to join Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona's vice-president said Thursday.

"What is correct, at the current time, what I have read, what I have heard, which seems exact, is that Neymar wants to come back to Barcelona," Jordi Cardoner told a press conference at the Camp Nou.

But he stressed that Barcelona had made no contact so far with the world's most expensive footballer who joined the French champions for €222 million.

For the moment the club acknowledged Neymar's interest in returning to Barcelona but said there was no recruitment effort on their part to resign him.

"To say that Barca is working on recruiting Neymar, that is something I cannot agree with," Cardoner said.

"For the moment all that is happening -- and not only with Neymar -- is that a number of players would like to play for a great club like Barcelona. We will see what happens in timely fashion."&nbsp;

"We are currently working on the phase of deciding which players we will not be keeping on next season," said Cardoner.

"We are recruiting no-one at the moment, especially not this player (Neymar) with whom we have had no contact."&nbsp;

However, media reports indicated that intermediaries between PSG and Barca had hammered out the terms of the deal which would free the Brazilian star to return to Barcelona this summer.

According to other Spanish media reports this week, Neymar has offered to take a pay cut of €12 million a year to return to the club and Barca have reached a 'verbal agreement' to take him back.

The 27-year-old spent four years at Camp Nou, winning the Champions League in 2015 and two La Liga titles in a potent attacking trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

Any return for Neymar would likely require Barca to raise funds through sales. Antoine Griezmann is expected to join from Atletico Madrid for €120 million while Frenkie de Jong has already signed for 75 million euros from Ajax.

The pay cut would see Neymar's salary clipped from around €36 million at PSG to the €24 million he received at Barca prior to his departure in 2017, according to the reports.&nbsp;

Brazilian superstar Neymar wants to return to Barcelona two years after quitting the club to join Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona's vice-president said Thursday. "What is correct, at the current time, what I have read, what I have heard, which seems exact, is that Neymar wants to come back to Barcelona," Jordi Cardoner told a press conference at the Camp Nou.

Brazilian superstar Neymar wants to return to Barcelona two years after quitting the club to join Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona's vice-president said Thursday. "What is correct, at the current time, what I have read, what I have heard, which seems exact, is that Neymar wants to come back to Barcelona," Jordi Cardoner told a press conference at the Camp Nou. But he stressed that Barcelona had made no contact so far with the world's most expensive footballer who joined the French champions for €222 million. For the moment the club acknowledged Neymar's interest in returning to Barcelona but said there was no recruitment effort on their part to resign him. "To say that Barca is working on recruiting Neymar, that is something I cannot agree with," Cardoner said. "For the moment all that is happening -- and not only with Neymar -- is that a number of players would like to play for a great club like Barcelona. We will see what happens in timely fashion." "We are currently working on the phase of deciding which players we will not be keeping on next season," said Cardoner. "We are recruiting no-one at the moment, especially not this player (Neymar) with whom we have had no contact." However, media reports indicated that intermediaries between PSG and Barca had hammered out the terms of the deal which would free the Brazilian star to return to Barcelona this summer. According to other Spanish media reports this week, Neymar has offered to take a pay cut of €12 million a year to return to the club and Barca have reached a 'verbal agreement' to take him back. The 27-year-old spent four years at Camp Nou, winning the Champions League in 2015 and two La Liga titles in a potent attacking trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Any return for Neymar would likely require Barca to raise funds through sales. Antoine Griezmann is expected to join from Atletico Madrid for €120 million while Frenkie de Jong has already signed for 75 million euros from Ajax. The pay cut would see Neymar's salary clipped from around €36 million at PSG to the €24 million he received at Barca prior to his departure in 2017, according to the reports.

Neymar wants Barcelona return, says club's vice-president

Everton have signed Andre Gomes from Barcelona, both clubs said on Tuesday, after the Portugal midfielder completed a successful loan spell at the Premier League side last season.

"Barcelona and Everton have come to an agreement for the transfer of the Portuguese footballer Andre Gomes. The amount agreed to for the transfer is 25 million euros plus add-ons," said Barca's statement.

"Barcelona would like to publicly thank Andre Gomes for his dedication and commitment, and wishes him the best of luck and success in the future," the statement read.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/evertons-gomes-hit-with-three-match-ban-after-accepting-fa-charge-210986&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDs-6O24bjAhWTMN4KHcNxDtcQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2iIqpfHfPWOqrobThjJzuJ">Gomes</a>, 25, endured a disappointing two years at Barca following a move from Valencia in 2016 for an initial fee of 35 million euros, making only six La Liga starts in his second campaign.

He later revealed his struggles to deal with criticism for his poor performances with Barca, telling magazine Panenka his time at the club had 'turned into a bit of a hell' and on occasions, he did not want to leave his house.

"I'm really happy to sign the contract with Everton – it wasn’t hard to decide, it was an easy decision and I’m very happy to have made it,” Gomes told Everton's official television channel.

“Last year was a really good experience for me. I just wanted to feel part of something special and I found it here,'' Gomes said.

Gomes was the second player to leave Barca on Tuesday after reserve team player Marc Cardona was sold to promoted La Liga side Osasuna for 2.5 million euros.

Everton have signed Andre Gomes from Barcelona, both clubs said on Tuesday, after the Portugal midfielder completed a successful loan spell at the Premier League side last season.

Everton have signed Andre Gomes from Barcelona, both clubs said on Tuesday, after the Portugal midfielder completed a successful loan spell at the Premier League side last season. "Barcelona and Everton have come to an agreement for the transfer of the Portuguese footballer Andre Gomes. The amount agreed to for the transfer is 25 million euros plus add-ons," said Barca's statement. "Barcelona would like to publicly thank Andre Gomes for his dedication and commitment, and wishes him the best of luck and success in the future," the statement read. Gomes, 25, endured a disappointing two years at Barca following a move from Valencia in 2016 for an initial fee of 35 million euros, making only six La Liga starts in his second campaign. He later revealed his struggles to deal with criticism for his poor performances with Barca, telling magazine Panenka his time at the club had 'turned into a bit of a hell' and on occasions, he did not want to leave his house. "I'm really happy to sign the contract with Everton – it wasn’t hard to decide, it was an easy decision and I’m very happy to have made it,” Gomes told Everton's official television channel. “Last year was a really good experience for me. I just wanted to feel part of something special and I found it here,'' Gomes said. Gomes was the second player to leave Barca on Tuesday after reserve team player Marc Cardona was sold to promoted La Liga side Osasuna for 2.5 million euros.

Everton sign Andre Gomes on permanent deal from Barcelona

Neymar is ready to cut his salary by €12 million to leave Paris Saint-Germain as part of a "verbal agreement" reached between the Brazilian and Barcelona, according to reports in the Spanish press.&nbsp;

PSG are yet to sanction the sale of their star striker, who they paid a world record €222 million to sign from Barca only two years ago.&nbsp;

But Neymar is reportedly eager to return to Spain and Barcelona are prepared to take him back, with Spanish sports newspaper Diario Sport claiming a five-year contract has been agreed.&nbsp;

The newspaper says the terms include Neymar reducing his salary from around €36 million at PSG to the €24 million he received at Barca in 2017, while also dropping his €26-million court case against the Catalan club.&nbsp;

Neymar claims he was due the amount before leaving as a loyalty bonus.&nbsp;

Barcelona sports newspaper Mundo Deportivo has reported Neymar will also have to make a public apology to the club's fans for the manner of his departure.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old had spent four years at Camp Nou, winning the Champions League in 2015 and two La Liga titles. He had formed a brilliant attacking trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.&nbsp;

Any return for Neymar would likely require Barca to raise funds through sales.

Antoine Griezmann is expected to join from Atletico Madrid for €120 million while Frenkie de Jong has already signed for €75 million from Ajax.&nbsp;

Neymar is ready to cut his salary by €12 million to leave Paris Saint-Germain as part of a "verbal agreement" reached between the Brazilian and Barcelona, according to reports in the Spanish press.

Neymar is ready to cut his salary by €12 million to leave Paris Saint-Germain as part of a "verbal agreement" reached between the Brazilian and Barcelona, according to reports in the Spanish press. PSG are yet to sanction the sale of their star striker, who they paid a world record €222 million to sign from Barca only two years ago. But Neymar is reportedly eager to return to Spain and Barcelona are prepared to take him back, with Spanish sports newspaper Diario Sport claiming a five-year contract has been agreed. The newspaper says the terms include Neymar reducing his salary from around €36 million at PSG to the €24 million he received at Barca in 2017, while also dropping his €26-million court case against the Catalan club. Neymar claims he was due the amount before leaving as a loyalty bonus. Barcelona sports newspaper Mundo Deportivo has reported Neymar will also have to make a public apology to the club's fans for the manner of his departure. The 27-year-old had spent four years at Camp Nou, winning the Champions League in 2015 and two La Liga titles. He had formed a brilliant attacking trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Any return for Neymar would likely require Barca to raise funds through sales. Antoine Griezmann is expected to join from Atletico Madrid for €120 million while Frenkie de Jong has already signed for €75 million from Ajax.

Neymar accepts pay-cut in 'verbal agreement' with Barcelona: Reports

Barcelona will play a pre-season friendly with Arsenal at their Nou Camp stadium on August&nbsp;4, the La Liga champions said.

The match against the Europa League runners-up is the annual Joan Gamper trophy which is traditionally Barca's final game before the new season but this year the fixture is sandwiched between two overseas tours, to Japan and the United States.

Barca will play Europa League winners Chelsea on July 23 in Tokyo before meeting former captain Andres Iniesta's side Vissel Kobe on July 27.

Ernesto Valverde's side are then due to return to Barcelona and after playing against Arsenal they will fly to the States for two matches against Napoli in the inaugural La Liga-Serie A Cup, in Miami on August&nbsp;7 and in Michigan on August 10.&nbsp;

Barcelona and Arsenal last met in a Champions League last-16 tie in 2016 which the Catalans won 5-1 on aggregate.&nbsp;

Barcelona will play a pre-season friendly with Arsenal at their Nou Camp stadium on August 4, the La Liga champions said. The match against the Europa League runners-up is the annual Joan Gamper trophy which is traditionally Barca's final game before the new season but this year the fixture is sandwiched between two overseas tours, to Japan and the United States.

Barcelona will play a pre-season friendly with Arsenal at their Nou Camp stadium on August 4, the La Liga champions said. The match against the Europa League runners-up is the annual Joan Gamper trophy which is traditionally Barca's final game before the new season but this year the fixture is sandwiched between two overseas tours, to Japan and the United States. Barca will play Europa League winners Chelsea on July 23 in Tokyo before meeting former captain Andres Iniesta's side Vissel Kobe on July 27. Ernesto Valverde's side are then due to return to Barcelona and after playing against Arsenal they will fly to the States for two matches against Napoli in the inaugural La Liga-Serie A Cup, in Miami on August 7 and in Michigan on August 10. Barcelona and Arsenal last met in a Champions League last-16 tie in 2016 which the Catalans won 5-1 on aggregate.

Barcelona to play Arsenal in friendly at Nou Camp

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-new-picasso-meet-ai-da-the-robot-artist-196753">The largest Picasso exhibition</a> ever held in China opens on Saturday, featuring more than 100 works, many of them from the artist's early years.

The "Birth of a Genius" exhibition brings together the best of the Picasso Museum Paris, Laurent Le Bon, the museum's president told AFP.

Featured works include paintings, sculptures and drawings, and are accompanied by photos of the young Pablo in Barcelona and Paris.

The first Picasso exhibition in China was held in 1983, timed to coincide with a Beijing visit by the French president Francois Mitterrand. Just 33 pieces of art were put on display.

This year's exhibition, which runs until September 1 at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, focuses on the artist's first 30 years.

"We have tried to show the great masterpieces like the blue Self Portrait, for example, that hardly ever leave the museum, and display them alongside a more multidisciplinary Picasso," Le Bon said.

The Spanish artist's "blue period" from 1901 to 1904, which focused especially on the poor and marginalised, such as prostitutes and drunks, features prominently in the selected works, added exhibition curator Emilia Philippot.

"These are very political subjects in a way," she said.

Transporting all the works to China brought its own challenges.

The insurers for the works, which are valued at more than 800 million euros ($900 million) insisted that the pieces travel on seven separate planes, the organisers said.&nbsp;

The largest Picasso exhibition ever held in China opens on Saturday, featuring more than 100 works, many of them from the artist's early years. The "Birth of a Genius" exhibition brings together the best of the Picasso Museum Paris, Laurent Le Bon, the museum's president told AFP.

The largest Picasso exhibition ever held in China opens on Saturday, featuring more than 100 works, many of them from the artist's early years. The "Birth of a Genius" exhibition brings together the best of the Picasso Museum Paris, Laurent Le Bon, the museum's president told AFP. Featured works include paintings, sculptures and drawings, and are accompanied by photos of the young Pablo in Barcelona and Paris. The first Picasso exhibition in China was held in 1983, timed to coincide with a Beijing visit by the French president Francois Mitterrand. Just 33 pieces of art were put on display. This year's exhibition, which runs until September 1 at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, focuses on the artist's first 30 years. "We have tried to show the great masterpieces like the blue Self Portrait, for example, that hardly ever leave the museum, and display them alongside a more multidisciplinary Picasso," Le Bon said. The Spanish artist's "blue period" from 1901 to 1904, which focused especially on the poor and marginalised, such as prostitutes and drunks, features prominently in the selected works, added exhibition curator Emilia Philippot. "These are very political subjects in a way," she said. Transporting all the works to China brought its own challenges. The insurers for the works, which are valued at more than 800 million euros ($900 million) insisted that the pieces travel on seven separate planes, the organisers said.

'Birth of a genius': China's largest ever Picasso exhibition opens

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-beat-tottenham-to-win-champions-league-final-223520&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio06iKjdLiAhVKPY8KHWk1B5wQFjAEegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Yo7lJCURncK_-f2z_Q5Af">Champions League</a> turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday.

Johansson, president of European football association UEFA from 1990 to 2007, was a driving force behind the formation of the Champions League, giving the continent's top club competition a new identity, a catchy anthem and worldwide reach.

His reign saw huge revenue streams flow into the continent's big clubs, turning Manchester United, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/valencia-knock-barcelona-off-copa-del-rey-throne-221707&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-08v1jNLiAhVLnI8KHUvkDHQQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1VEPs7YODRHk5DKYn_yByd">Barcelona</a>, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and others into multi-billion dollar enterprises, and their players into global megastars.

"World football will always be grateful to him for all he has achieved for the beautiful game," UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement.

The Swedish FA said Swedish football was in mourning.

Johansson took over the top job in European football at a turbulent time when money from television coverage was flooding into the sport and players gained complete freedom to move between countries and clubs in Europe.

"It was not a given that UEFA would be successful in meeting all these dramatic changes," the Swedish FA said.

"The Champions League became an enormous success, but Lennart Johansson's other major achievement was finding a fragile balance between the big clubs' demands and the needs of the broader football family," SFA added.

Johansson ran against Swiss Sepp Blatter to head football's world governing body FIFA in an acrimonious vote in 1998 but lost.

Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, is now serving a six-year ban from football for unethical conduct.

The men remained rivals. The Swedish FA quoted Johansson as saying,&nbsp;"It is my 20-year fight with Blatter that people like."

Blatter's successor at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-stick-with-32-teams-for-2022-football-world-cup-in-qatar-220740&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj8LSbjdLiAhUKknAKHVeMB0kQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw35byZJ6mfMoeY7klN_IHnK">FIFA</a>, Gianni Infantino, who worked earlier in his career under Johansson at UEFA, called the Swede "a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration".

"Lennart has always been a role model of professionalism and, more importantly, of humanity," he said.

In 2007, Johansson stepped down as UEFA president after being beaten in an election by former France international Michel Platini.

Johansson was given the title honorary president, a role which he took seriously, even attending meetings in his wheelchair.

Johansson was a lifelong supporter and honorary president of Stockholm club AIK.

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new Champions League turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday.

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new Champions League turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday. Johansson, president of European football association UEFA from 1990 to 2007, was a driving force behind the formation of the Champions League, giving the continent's top club competition a new identity, a catchy anthem and worldwide reach. His reign saw huge revenue streams flow into the continent's big clubs, turning Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and others into multi-billion dollar enterprises, and their players into global megastars. "World football will always be grateful to him for all he has achieved for the beautiful game," UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement. The Swedish FA said Swedish football was in mourning. Johansson took over the top job in European football at a turbulent time when money from television coverage was flooding into the sport and players gained complete freedom to move between countries and clubs in Europe. "It was not a given that UEFA would be successful in meeting all these dramatic changes," the Swedish FA said. "The Champions League became an enormous success, but Lennart Johansson's other major achievement was finding a fragile balance between the big clubs' demands and the needs of the broader football family," SFA added. Johansson ran against Swiss Sepp Blatter to head football's world governing body FIFA in an acrimonious vote in 1998 but lost. Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, is now serving a six-year ban from football for unethical conduct. The men remained rivals. The Swedish FA quoted Johansson as saying, "It is my 20-year fight with Blatter that people like." Blatter's successor at FIFA, Gianni Infantino, who worked earlier in his career under Johansson at UEFA, called the Swede "a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration". "Lennart has always been a role model of professionalism and, more importantly, of humanity," he said. In 2007, Johansson stepped down as UEFA president after being beaten in an election by former France international Michel Platini. Johansson was given the title honorary president, a role which he took seriously, even attending meetings in his wheelchair. Johansson was a lifelong supporter and honorary president of Stockholm club AIK.

Former UEFA boss Lennart Johansson, father of the Champions League, dies aged 89

Seville said Tuesday they had signed Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked as Spain coach on the eve of the 2018 World Cup, as the manager for the next three seasons.

The 53-year-old, who had been out of work since <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/julen-lopetegui-sacked-as-real-madrid-coach-solari-in-as-interim-manager-174379&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip5tyizs_iAhXb6XMBHSItD1sQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0s8z2_VPkYx_P4qRau-KC1">Real Madrid fired him at the end of October</a> after a poor start to the season, will take over from Joaquin Caparros.

He will be officially unveiled as Seville's new coach on Wednesday, the club said in a statement.

Caparros, who has been diagnosed with chronic leukaemia, announced at the end of the season that he would be stepping down.

Real Madrid fired Lopetegui after the club lost 5-1 against arch-rivals <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-backs-valverde-but-admits-barca-are-still-hurting-221539&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiV2qHuzs_iAhXCqo8KHQYEDSk4ChAWMAJ6BAgPEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0MtUUlQIDFXAhZr0R8vXdK">Barcelona</a>.

His time as Real coach lasted just 139 days, with his decision to join the club also costing him his job as Spain boss at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.&nbsp;

The Spanish football federation sacked Lopetegui in June 2018 just two days before Spain's opening game with Portugal after it emerged that he had signed with Real without their knowledge.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LopeteguIN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LopeteguIN</a><a href="https://t.co/qUz2sf9v1e">https://t.co/qUz2sf9v1e</a>
— Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) <a href="https://twitter.com/SevillaFC_ENG/status/1135844194663227392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The former Real Madrid goalkeeper has also coached Rayo Vallecano and Porto at the club level.

Seville said Tuesday they had signed Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked as Spain coach on the eve of the 2018 World Cup, as the manager for the next three seasons. The 53-year-old, who had been out of work since Real Madrid fired him at the end of October after a poor start to the season, will take over from Joaquin Caparros.

Seville said Tuesday they had signed Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked as Spain coach on the eve of the 2018 World Cup, as the manager for the next three seasons. The 53-year-old, who had been out of work since Real Madrid fired him at the end of October after a poor start to the season, will take over from Joaquin Caparros. He will be officially unveiled as Seville's new coach on Wednesday, the club said in a statement. Caparros, who has been diagnosed with chronic leukaemia, announced at the end of the season that he would be stepping down. Real Madrid fired Lopetegui after the club lost 5-1 against arch-rivals Barcelona. His time as Real coach lasted just 139 days, with his decision to join the club also costing him his job as Spain boss at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The Spanish football federation sacked Lopetegui in June 2018 just two days before Spain's opening game with Portugal after it emerged that he had signed with Real without their knowledge. #LopeteguINhttps://t.co/qUz2sf9v1e — Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) June 4, 2019 × The former Real Madrid goalkeeper has also coached Rayo Vallecano and Porto at the club level.

Former Spain coach Julen Lopetegui takes over at Seville for next three seasons

Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez has been named as the new manager of Al Sadd on a two-year deal, the Qatar Stars League champions announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Xavi, 39, made a record 767 appearances for Barca and 133 for Spain in his illustrious playing career before moving to the Qatari club in 2015 ahead of his transition into coaching.&nbsp;

He replaces Portuguese coach Jesualdo Ferreira, who left Al Sadd after leading them to a 14th league title.&nbsp;

Coming through Barcelona's academy in 1998, Xavi soon became the heartbeat of the team's midfield, winning eight La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns before joining Al Sadd.&nbsp;

Al Sadd confirmed Xavi will take charge of the pre-season training camp in Girona from July 14-29.&nbsp;

Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez has been named as the new manager of Al Sadd on a two-year deal, the Qatar Stars League champions announced on Tuesday.

Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez has been named as the new manager of Al Sadd on a two-year deal, the Qatar Stars League champions announced on Tuesday. Xavi, 39, made a record 767 appearances for Barca and 133 for Spain in his illustrious playing career before moving to the Qatari club in 2015 ahead of his transition into coaching. He replaces Portuguese coach Jesualdo Ferreira, who left Al Sadd after leading them to a 14th league title. Coming through Barcelona's academy in 1998, Xavi soon became the heartbeat of the team's midfield, winning eight La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns before joining Al Sadd. Al Sadd confirmed Xavi will take charge of the pre-season training camp in Girona from July 14-29.

Xavi Hernandez begins managerial career with Al Sadd

Valencia beat<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-goalkeeper-marc-andre-ter-stegen-to-miss-copa-del-rey-final-220904"> Barcelona</a> 2-1 to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, ending the Spanish champions` four-year winning streak in the competition and denying them a domestic double.

Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo Moreno struck first-half goals to give Marcelino`s dominant Valencia control of the final in Seville`s sweltering Benito Villamarin stadium.

Record 30-times Cup winners Barcelona struggled without injured forwards Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele but Lionel Messi pulled the Catalans back into the game with a close-range finish.

Goncalo Guedes missed a gilt-edged chance in stoppage-time for Valencia but they held on to win their first major trophy since last lifting the Cup in 2008.

"I`m so happy because for me, my family, it`s incredible," said Valencia captain Dani Parejo. "A club like Valencia deserves a lot more joy like this. I don`t have the words, it`s incredible.

"We`ve made history in a really significant year, our centenary year."

Valencia finished fourth in La Liga after a strong second half of the season, reaching the Europa League semi-finals and ending an impressive campaign with this victory.

By contrast, Barcelona`s campaign collapsed in the last fortnight as they threw away a three-goal Champions League semi-final lead to be eliminated by Liverpool before letting the Cup slip out of their hands.

Barcelona was bidding to lift themselves from their humiliation on Merseyside by securing the ninth domestic double in their history, but despite Messi`s efforts, they were over-run by a determined and well-drilled Valencia side.

Gerard Pique was forced to clear Rodrigo's effort off the line before Gameiro blasted Marcelino`s side ahead in the 22nd minute after good work from Jose Luis Gaya.

The Catalans failed to create openings and Rodrigo nodded home the second after Carlos Soler whipped a ball across the face of goal.

Messi struck the post with a delightful outside-of-the-boot effort before slotting home the rebound when Jaume Domenech saved Clement Lenglet`s header for his 51st goal of the season, but it was not enough.

"Valencia are worthy champions and it`s also been a good year for us," said Pique.&nbsp;

"It`s always a good year when you win La Liga but the expectation was to have an even better year and that`s not been the case. The season ends with a bittersweet feeling because it could have been better.

"We aren`t worried about the manager's future, we must analyse ourselves and try to improve. The other decisions aren`t in our hands, but we`ve said more than once that we would like him to stay on."

Valencia beat Barcelona 2-1 to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, ending the Spanish champions` four-year winning streak in the competition and denying them a domestic double.

Valencia beat Barcelona 2-1 to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, ending the Spanish champions` four-year winning streak in the competition and denying them a domestic double. Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo Moreno struck first-half goals to give Marcelino`s dominant Valencia control of the final in Seville`s sweltering Benito Villamarin stadium. Record 30-times Cup winners Barcelona struggled without injured forwards Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele but Lionel Messi pulled the Catalans back into the game with a close-range finish. Goncalo Guedes missed a gilt-edged chance in stoppage-time for Valencia but they held on to win their first major trophy since last lifting the Cup in 2008. "I`m so happy because for me, my family, it`s incredible," said Valencia captain Dani Parejo. "A club like Valencia deserves a lot more joy like this. I don`t have the words, it`s incredible. "We`ve made history in a really significant year, our centenary year." Valencia finished fourth in La Liga after a strong second half of the season, reaching the Europa League semi-finals and ending an impressive campaign with this victory. By contrast, Barcelona`s campaign collapsed in the last fortnight as they threw away a three-goal Champions League semi-final lead to be eliminated by Liverpool before letting the Cup slip out of their hands. Barcelona was bidding to lift themselves from their humiliation on Merseyside by securing the ninth domestic double in their history, but despite Messi`s efforts, they were over-run by a determined and well-drilled Valencia side. Gerard Pique was forced to clear Rodrigo's effort off the line before Gameiro blasted Marcelino`s side ahead in the 22nd minute after good work from Jose Luis Gaya. The Catalans failed to create openings and Rodrigo nodded home the second after Carlos Soler whipped a ball across the face of goal. Messi struck the post with a delightful outside-of-the-boot effort before slotting home the rebound when Jaume Domenech saved Clement Lenglet`s header for his 51st goal of the season, but it was not enough. "Valencia are worthy champions and it`s also been a good year for us," said Pique. "It`s always a good year when you win La Liga but the expectation was to have an even better year and that`s not been the case. The season ends with a bittersweet feeling because it could have been better. "We aren`t worried about the manager's future, we must analyse ourselves and try to improve. The other decisions aren`t in our hands, but we`ve said more than once that we would like him to stay on."

Valencia knock Barcelona off Copa del Rey throne

Lionel Messi has become the first player to win Europe's Golden Shoe award for three straight years after his nearest challenger Kylian Mbappe failed to score the four goals he needed in Paris St Germain's final league match of the season on Friday.

Messi earned the honour, which goes to the leading scorer in league matches in Europe's top divisions, for a record-extending sixth time after finding the net 36 times for Barcelona, while Mbappe ended the campaign on 33 goals after scoring PSG's only goal in a 3-1 loss at Stade de Reims.

While Messi's goal haul helped his side clinch the La Liga title last month the 31-year-old Argentine said earlier on Friday that he was not giving the Golden Shoe race much thought with the side still coming to terms with their Champions League semi-final elimination to Liverpool.

"I haven't been thinking about that prize at all, we are still coping with what happened against Liverpool and I'm not thinking about personal awards," Messi told a news conference ahead of Saturday's Copa del Rey final against Valencia.

Lionel Messi has become the first player to win Europe's Golden Shoe award for three straight years after his nearest challenger Kylian Mbappe failed to score the four goals he needed in Paris St Germain's final league match of the season on Friday.

Lionel Messi has become the first player to win Europe's Golden Shoe award for three straight years after his nearest challenger Kylian Mbappe failed to score the four goals he needed in Paris St Germain's final league match of the season on Friday. Messi earned the honour, which goes to the leading scorer in league matches in Europe's top divisions, for a record-extending sixth time after finding the net 36 times for Barcelona, while Mbappe ended the campaign on 33 goals after scoring PSG's only goal in a 3-1 loss at Stade de Reims. While Messi's goal haul helped his side clinch the La Liga title last month the 31-year-old Argentine said earlier on Friday that he was not giving the Golden Shoe race much thought with the side still coming to terms with their Champions League semi-final elimination to Liverpool. "I haven't been thinking about that prize at all, we are still coping with what happened against Liverpool and I'm not thinking about personal awards," Messi told a news conference ahead of Saturday's Copa del Rey final against Valencia.

Lionel Messi finishes Europe's top scorer for third straight year

Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;wants Ernesto Valverde to continue as Barcelona coach but admits the team have not recovered from their Champions League loss to Liverpool as they face Valencia in the Copa del Rey final&nbsp;on Saturday.&nbsp;

After winning La Liga by 11 points, Barca can complete a domestic double by beating Valencia in Seville, but even that will not erase the disappointment of throwing away a three-goal lead at Anfield.&nbsp;

Valverde conceded his future was uncertain after the loss but the club's president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, has since said the coach will remain in charge.

"I honestly believe the boss has done an impressive job during his time in charge,"&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;said at a press conference on Friday.&nbsp;

"I think that in the defeat to Liverpool, he is practically blameless, we are the only ones to blame for that match.

"That can happen one year. but two years in a row is unforgivable. The boss will obviously be partly to blame but it is the players even more.&nbsp;

"I would like him to continue. Last year, we did the double and even though it was stained by getting knocked out of the Champions League, this year we can win the double again.&nbsp;

"If you look at his two years, there have been two bad games, but beyond those the rest has been good."&nbsp;

Valverde was also asked again about his future.&nbsp;

"I have no complaints from the president or the board," said Valverde, who added: "You seem very worried, don't worry so much."&nbsp;

Barcelona were desperate to win the Champions League, after failing to reach the final in four consecutive years while also watching Real Madrid lift the trophy three times in a row.&nbsp;

Since losing to Liverpool, Valverde's team have beaten Getafe 2-0 at Camp Nou before ending the league season with a 2-2 draw away at Eibar on Sunday.&nbsp;

"We are still recovering from the game against Liverpool, at least I am, I just want to win this final and finish the year with another title,"&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

'Hard blow'

"It was a very hard blow and both I and the whole club have had a hard time lifting ourselves, which I think has been shown in the matches we have played since.&nbsp;

"It was hard but that's it, this is a final, it is a title and we have the chance to do a double.

"We need to think that we have to win, like in any other final that we play. Obviously not winning this final would be make things even worse."&nbsp;

Barcelona are chasing a record fifth consecutive Copa del Rey triumph to go with their eight La Liga titles in the last 11 years.&nbsp;

"After a bump so big we have to face things with integrity," said Valverde.&nbsp;

"You cannot hide your head in a hole and disappear off the map. We responded after Anfield in La Liga and now we cannot wriggle out in the cup.&nbsp;

"We have to go all out for a title we have been pursuing since January."&nbsp;

Valverde said Nelson Semedo has recovered from his head injury and is likely to be available while late decisions will be made on Arthur Melo and Philippe Coutinho, who are close to shaking off hamstring and thigh injuries respectively.&nbsp;

But Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele are all out, with Jasper Cillessen expected to start in goal.&nbsp;

Unlike Barcelona, Valencia are flying high after completing a late-season surge by finishing fourth in La Liga last weekend.&nbsp;

The club has not lifted &nbsp;trophy since they won the Copa del Rey in 2008.&nbsp;

"We have the experience that we have," coach Marcelino said on Friday. "There may be something missing in that regard but for sure, we have plenty of heart."&nbsp;

Lionel Messi wants Ernesto Valverde to continue as Barcelona coach but admits the team have not recovered from their Champions League loss to Liverpool as they face Valencia in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday.

Lionel Messi wants Ernesto Valverde to continue as Barcelona coach but admits the team have not recovered from their Champions League loss to Liverpool as they face Valencia in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. After winning La Liga by 11 points, Barca can complete a domestic double by beating Valencia in Seville, but even that will not erase the disappointment of throwing away a three-goal lead at Anfield. Valverde conceded his future was uncertain after the loss but the club's president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, has since said the coach will remain in charge. "I honestly believe the boss has done an impressive job during his time in charge," Messi said at a press conference on Friday. "I think that in the defeat to Liverpool, he is practically blameless, we are the only ones to blame for that match. "That can happen one year. but two years in a row is unforgivable. The boss will obviously be partly to blame but it is the players even more. "I would like him to continue. Last year, we did the double and even though it was stained by getting knocked out of the Champions League, this year we can win the double again. "If you look at his two years, there have been two bad games, but beyond those the rest has been good." Valverde was also asked again about his future. "I have no complaints from the president or the board," said Valverde, who added: "You seem very worried, don't worry so much." Barcelona were desperate to win the Champions League, after failing to reach the final in four consecutive years while also watching Real Madrid lift the trophy three times in a row. Since losing to Liverpool, Valverde's team have beaten Getafe 2-0 at Camp Nou before ending the league season with a 2-2 draw away at Eibar on Sunday. "We are still recovering from the game against Liverpool, at least I am, I just want to win this final and finish the year with another title," Messi said. 'Hard blow' "It was a very hard blow and both I and the whole club have had a hard time lifting ourselves, which I think has been shown in the matches we have played since. "It was hard but that's it, this is a final, it is a title and we have the chance to do a double. "We need to think that we have to win, like in any other final that we play. Obviously not winning this final would be make things even worse." Barcelona are chasing a record fifth consecutive Copa del Rey triumph to go with their eight La Liga titles in the last 11 years. "After a bump so big we have to face things with integrity," said Valverde. "You cannot hide your head in a hole and disappear off the map. We responded after Anfield in La Liga and now we cannot wriggle out in the cup. "We have to go all out for a title we have been pursuing since January." Valverde said Nelson Semedo has recovered from his head injury and is likely to be available while late decisions will be made on Arthur Melo and Philippe Coutinho, who are close to shaking off hamstring and thigh injuries respectively. But Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele are all out, with Jasper Cillessen expected to start in goal. Unlike Barcelona, Valencia are flying high after completing a late-season surge by finishing fourth in La Liga last weekend. The club has not lifted trophy since they won the Copa del Rey in 2008. "We have the experience that we have," coach Marcelino said on Friday. "There may be something missing in that regard but for sure, we have plenty of heart."

Lionel Messi backs Valverde but admits Barca are still hurting

Barcelona suffered from a mental block during the 4-0 defeat to Liverpool which knocked them out of the Champions League, having been scarred by the memory of a similar collapse to AS Roma last year, defender Gerard Pique has said.

Pique, who has won Europe's elite competition with Barca three times but not since 2015, described the semi-final second leg defeat which wiped out his side's 3-0 first-leg win as "a nightmare", saying it would take years to get over.

"You could see that the team just wasn't functioning, they were putting us under pressure and what had happened last year(against Roma) was very present in our minds," Pique said in an interview with Spanish newspaper El Pais published on Friday.

"I'm sure it was a mental block, but we also didn't play good football. We lacked everything. They pressed us very high, they were very intense, and Anfield also played its role. We just couldn't cope, sometimes it happens."

Barca have romped to a second La Liga title in a row and could complete another successive double when they play Valencia in Saturday's Copa del Rey final.

But just as last season's 3-0 defeat at Roma after a 4-1 home win threatened to overshadow their campaign, Barca's failure to win what Lionel Messi called "that beautiful and desired trophy" has also had a terrible impact on the team.

Pique said his teammates had a sense of deja vu during the game at Anfield, which unfolded in a remarkably similar way to events at the Stadio Olimpico last year.

"I think on a mental level some of us were affected by what had happened in Rome, it was so recent. The first goal came very quickly, and suddenly the image of Rome appeared," Pique said, recalling Sadio Mane's goal in the 15th minute at Anfield.

"Then they scored two more goals in quick succession and it starts to look too similar to what happened a year ago. It was very tough, it has been very difficult to pull ourselves back up because the days go by and you can't forget this defeat.

"It's a slip up which is going to last a long time, but we need to take a step forward," Pique added.

"We cannot keep torturing ourselves. It was a nightmare and we have to deal with it because it could happen again.

"But we have to understand why it happened and let it help us in the future because we want to lift the Champions League again."

Barcelona suffered from a mental block during the 4-0 defeat to Liverpool which knocked them out of the Champions League, having been scarred by the memory of a similar collapse to AS Roma last year, defender Gerard Pique has said.

Barcelona suffered from a mental block during the 4-0 defeat to Liverpool which knocked them out of the Champions League, having been scarred by the memory of a similar collapse to AS Roma last year, defender Gerard Pique has said. Pique, who has won Europe's elite competition with Barca three times but not since 2015, described the semi-final second leg defeat which wiped out his side's 3-0 first-leg win as "a nightmare", saying it would take years to get over. "You could see that the team just wasn't functioning, they were putting us under pressure and what had happened last year(against Roma) was very present in our minds," Pique said in an interview with Spanish newspaper El Pais published on Friday. "I'm sure it was a mental block, but we also didn't play good football. We lacked everything. They pressed us very high, they were very intense, and Anfield also played its role. We just couldn't cope, sometimes it happens." Barca have romped to a second La Liga title in a row and could complete another successive double when they play Valencia in Saturday's Copa del Rey final. But just as last season's 3-0 defeat at Roma after a 4-1 home win threatened to overshadow their campaign, Barca's failure to win what Lionel Messi called "that beautiful and desired trophy" has also had a terrible impact on the team. Pique said his teammates had a sense of deja vu during the game at Anfield, which unfolded in a remarkably similar way to events at the Stadio Olimpico last year. "I think on a mental level some of us were affected by what had happened in Rome, it was so recent. The first goal came very quickly, and suddenly the image of Rome appeared," Pique said, recalling Sadio Mane's goal in the 15th minute at Anfield. "Then they scored two more goals in quick succession and it starts to look too similar to what happened a year ago. It was very tough, it has been very difficult to pull ourselves back up because the days go by and you can't forget this defeat. "It's a slip up which is going to last a long time, but we need to take a step forward," Pique added. "We cannot keep torturing ourselves. It was a nightmare and we have to deal with it because it could happen again. "But we have to understand why it happened and let it help us in the future because we want to lift the Champions League again."

Barca haunted by ghosts of Rome in 'nightmare' loss to Liverpool: Gerard Pique

Paris Saint Germain's Kylian Mbappe said that Lionel Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year despite Barcelona's exit from the UEFA Champions League semi-final.&nbsp;

On being asked about who will win the Ballon d'Or this year, Kylian Mbappe said, "(Lionel) Messi, despite the elimination, it does not change anything. He is the number one. He has shown he was the best player this year.

"The year will take us up to December but I'm not worried about him, he is going to play until December," he added.&nbsp;

Mbappe made history on Sunday by becoming the first player to named both player of the year and young player of the year at the prestigious Trophees UNFP (French Professional Footballers Association) awards ceremony in Paris.&nbsp;

The French striker has also cast doubts on his intentions for next season as he said he wanted "more responsibility" in the future either at PSG or "somewhere else".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
🤙🏽🏆❤️... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Troph%C3%A9esUNFP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrophéesUNFP</a> <a href="https://t.co/tsjW9YP6pF">pic.twitter.com/tsjW9YP6pF</a>
— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) <a href="https://twitter.com/KMbappe/status/1130461533404844033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
😄🔝 
 
🏆 Joueur de l’année 
🏆 Meilleur Espoir 
🏆Équipe Type de la saison 
 
Un grand merci pour l’ensemble des votes et du soutien. 
Je tiens à remercier mes coéquipiers, le staff, le club et ma famille 😍 <a href="https://t.co/okKHSndENA">pic.twitter.com/okKHSndENA</a>
— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) <a href="https://twitter.com/KMbappe/status/1130229242267086848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Mbappe has scored 32 goals in Ligue 1 this season.&nbsp;

Paris Saint Germain's Kylian Mbappe said that Lionel Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year despite Barcelona's exit from the UEFA Champions League semi-final.

Paris Saint Germain's Kylian Mbappe said that Lionel Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year despite Barcelona's exit from the UEFA Champions League semi-final. On being asked about who will win the Ballon d'Or this year, Kylian Mbappe said, "(Lionel) Messi, despite the elimination, it does not change anything. He is the number one. He has shown he was the best player this year. "The year will take us up to December but I'm not worried about him, he is going to play until December," he added. Mbappe made history on Sunday by becoming the first player to named both player of the year and young player of the year at the prestigious Trophees UNFP (French Professional Footballers Association) awards ceremony in Paris. The French striker has also cast doubts on his intentions for next season as he said he wanted "more responsibility" in the future either at PSG or "somewhere else". 🤙🏽🏆❤️... #TrophéesUNFP pic.twitter.com/tsjW9YP6pF — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) May 20, 2019 × 😄🔝 🏆 Joueur de l’année 🏆 Meilleur Espoir 🏆Équipe Type de la saison Un grand merci pour l’ensemble des votes et du soutien. Je tiens à remercier mes coéquipiers, le staff, le club et ma famille 😍 pic.twitter.com/okKHSndENA — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) May 19, 2019 × Mbappe has scored 32 goals in Ligue 1 this season.

Lionel Messi 'favourite to win Ballon d'Or', says Kylian Mbappe

barcelona

Barcelona, News on Barcelona, stories on Barcelona, articles on Barcelona, Barcelona stories at Wion, Barcelona news, Barcelona latest news