Lionel Messi was away attending the birth of his son but Barcelona still had more than enough to beat 10-man Malaga 2-0 on Saturday and move 11 points clear at the top of La Liga.

Messi was watching the game on a television in the hospital as Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho put his team two up inside half an hour at La Rosaleda Stadium, before Samuel Garcia was sent off in the 30th minute for a dangerous tackle on Jordi Alba.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgJ67QJn9Hi/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Listos !!!</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/leomessi/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Leo Messi</a> (@leomessi) on <time datetime="2018-03-10T19:48:55+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 10, 2018 at 11:48am PST</time>
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Down a man and without a win in 12 matches, Malaga might have feared a rout but Barca settled for a straightforward victory, perhaps with one eye on Wednesday&#39;s Champions League last-16 clash against Chelsea.

Messi is expected back at the Camp Nou, where the score is 1-1 from the first leg, but Ernesto Valverde will have been delighted with how his attackers filled the void, as Suarez, Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele all delivered excellent displays.

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???? Final whistle! 
⚽ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/M%C3%A1lagaBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#M&aacute;lagaBar&ccedil;a</a> 
???? <a href="https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LuisSuarez9</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Coutinho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phil_Coutinho</a> ???? 
 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/UKxbiVmwBM">pic.twitter.com/UKxbiVmwBM</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/972586771933466625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In particular, Dembele&#39;s brilliant turn and the pass was bettered only by Coutinho&#39;s flicked finish for what was a superb second goal.

The win means Barca extend their advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid, who can pull the deficit back to eight points with a win over Celta Vigo on Sunday.

Malaga, meanwhile, remains rooted to the bottom of the table.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Without Messi, Barcelona defeated10-man Malaga 2-0 and move 11 points clear at the top of La Liga

Lionel Messi was away attending the birth of his son but Barcelona still had more than enough to beat 10-man Malaga 2-0 on Saturday and move 11 points clear at the top of La Liga. Messi was watching the game on a television in the hospital as Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho put his team two up inside half an hour at La Rosaleda Stadium, before Samuel Garcia was sent off in the 30th minute for a dangerous tackle on Jordi Alba. Listos !!! A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) on Mar 10, 2018 at 11:48am PST × Down a man and without a win in 12 matches, Malaga might have feared a rout but Barca settled for a straightforward victory, perhaps with one eye on Wednesday's Champions League last-16 clash against Chelsea. Messi is expected back at the Camp Nou, where the score is 1-1 from the first leg, but Ernesto Valverde will have been delighted with how his attackers filled the void, as Suarez, Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele all delivered excellent displays. ???? Final whistle! ⚽ #MálagaBarça ???? @LuisSuarez9, @Phil_Coutinho ???? ???????? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/UKxbiVmwBM — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 10, 2018 × In particular, Dembele's brilliant turn and the pass was bettered only by Coutinho's flicked finish for what was a superb second goal. The win means Barca extend their advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid, who can pull the deficit back to eight points with a win over Celta Vigo on Sunday. Malaga, meanwhile, remains rooted to the bottom of the table.

Suarez, Coutinho inspire Barca to win against Malaga

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte praised the all-round contribution of Willian after the in-form Brazilian helped halt a run of back-to-back league defeats ahead of next week`s showdown with Barcelona in Europe.

Willian`s deflected shot opened the scoring in Saturday`s 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, and it was his clever dummy that created the second, an own goal by Martin Kelly.

He has scored five goals in five games, the best run of his Chelsea career, which is timely ahead of Wednesday`s Champions League last 16, second leg match in Barcelona.&nbsp;

But Conte was also pleased by the forward`s hard work off the ball.

&quot;You can see when a player is in great form, I`m the first to pick him in the starting 11,&quot; the Italian said. &quot;He`s playing in a fantastic way but, I want to underline, not only with the ball - also without the ball. He`s working very hard and he`s helping the team.

&quot;I think that he has shown great maturity at this point of his career. In my heart I hope to see him at this level, continuing these performances. It`s very important to have a balance in the team because when you don`t have that balance anything can happen.&quot;

Willian also had a shot blocked on the line by James Tomkins and a free-kick saved by Wayne Hennessey as Chelsea went for a third goal, eventually leaving themselves open to a late consolation for Palace. Olivier Giroud might have had a hat-trick but is still waiting for his first Chelsea goal in the Premier League.

&quot;We made a lot of chances and it was a pity that they scored the goal and we had three minutes that were a bit nervous,&quot; Conte said. &quot;You hope to finish the game more relaxed. But it wasn`t just Olivier. Many players have had chances to score, not only Olivier.&nbsp;

&quot;We must be pleased with his commitment. He hit the post and in the first half a defender cleared a chance. He was a bit unlucky.

&quot;For sure in this league you must keep your focus the whole game but we tried to score the third goal and made a lot of chances. Sometimes you can think that the situation is easier but we played a good game, with a great desire to win. The commitment was good and we must be happy.&nbsp;

&quot;But the game against Barcelona will be very different. We will have to show great resilience. We will be playing against one of the best teams in the world. We have to find the right plan to face this game.&quot;The introduction of Wilfried Zaha after six games out with a knee injury boosted Crystal Palace in the second half but by the time he set up Patrick van Aanholt for a 90th-minute consolation goal, there was no way back for the Eagles.

&quot;It`s a shame we didn`t play the whole of the game as we played the second half,&quot; Roy Hodgson, the Palace manager, said. &quot;We came in 2-0 down and against a team of Chelsea`s pace and power on the break it could have ended very badly. The introduction of Wilfried asked some questions and in the end we could have drawn the game.&quot;

But Hodgson dismissed suggestions that he could have let Zaha start the game. &quot;If I`d started with Zaha and he`d broken down - after only one and a half training sessions - the question would have been very different. I wanted to keep him on the bench longer.&quot;

 
And Hodgson was encouraged by the display, following the narrow 3-2 defeat by Manchester United. &quot;We`ve had defeats against top teams but haven`t discredited ourselves. It`s very clear what we`ve got to do in the remaining games.&quot;

Willian`s deflected shot opened the scoring in Saturday`s 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte praised the all-round contribution of Willian after the in-form Brazilian helped halt a run of back-to-back league defeats ahead of next week`s showdown with Barcelona in Europe. Willian`s deflected shot opened the scoring in Saturday`s 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, and it was his clever dummy that created the second, an own goal by Martin Kelly. He has scored five goals in five games, the best run of his Chelsea career, which is timely ahead of Wednesday`s Champions League last 16, second leg match in Barcelona. But Conte was also pleased by the forward`s hard work off the ball. "You can see when a player is in great form, I`m the first to pick him in the starting 11," the Italian said. "He`s playing in a fantastic way but, I want to underline, not only with the ball - also without the ball. He`s working very hard and he`s helping the team. "I think that he has shown great maturity at this point of his career. In my heart I hope to see him at this level, continuing these performances. It`s very important to have a balance in the team because when you don`t have that balance anything can happen." Willian also had a shot blocked on the line by James Tomkins and a free-kick saved by Wayne Hennessey as Chelsea went for a third goal, eventually leaving themselves open to a late consolation for Palace. Olivier Giroud might have had a hat-trick but is still waiting for his first Chelsea goal in the Premier League. "We made a lot of chances and it was a pity that they scored the goal and we had three minutes that were a bit nervous," Conte said. "You hope to finish the game more relaxed. But it wasn`t just Olivier. Many players have had chances to score, not only Olivier. "We must be pleased with his commitment. He hit the post and in the first half a defender cleared a chance. He was a bit unlucky. "For sure in this league you must keep your focus the whole game but we tried to score the third goal and made a lot of chances. Sometimes you can think that the situation is easier but we played a good game, with a great desire to win. The commitment was good and we must be happy. "But the game against Barcelona will be very different. We will have to show great resilience. We will be playing against one of the best teams in the world. We have to find the right plan to face this game."The introduction of Wilfried Zaha after six games out with a knee injury boosted Crystal Palace in the second half but by the time he set up Patrick van Aanholt for a 90th-minute consolation goal, there was no way back for the Eagles. "It`s a shame we didn`t play the whole of the game as we played the second half," Roy Hodgson, the Palace manager, said. "We came in 2-0 down and against a team of Chelsea`s pace and power on the break it could have ended very badly. The introduction of Wilfried asked some questions and in the end we could have drawn the game." But Hodgson dismissed suggestions that he could have let Zaha start the game. "If I`d started with Zaha and he`d broken down - after only one and a half training sessions - the question would have been very different. I wanted to keep him on the bench longer." And Hodgson was encouraged by the display, following the narrow 3-2 defeat by Manchester United. "We`ve had defeats against top teams but haven`t discredited ourselves. It`s very clear what we`ve got to do in the remaining games."

Conte lauds Willian as Chelsea set sights on Barcelona

Neymar already regrets moving to Paris Saint-Germain and is seeking a shock return to Barcelona, according to reports in the Spanish media on Friday.&nbsp;

In the same week that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/football-real-on-song-as-psg-falter-again-in-champions-league-34934" target="_blank">PSG crashed out</a> of the Champions League, and only seven months after he joined the club for a world record 222 million euros ($264 million, Neymar&acute;s future has become uncertain.&nbsp;

Spanish sports newspaper Mundo Deportivo claims the Brazilian, recovering from surgery on a broken foot in Brazil, has made contact with Barca to ask how he can engineer a return.&nbsp;

The article adds Neymar has explained he made a mistake in leaving the club, was wrong to want independence from Lionel Messi and has been disappointed by the standard of opposition in Ligue 1.&nbsp;

Barca, however, is not the only club Neymar is reportedly targeting as a potential way out of PSG.&nbsp;

Madrid-based newspaper AS reports Neymar&acute;s father has met with Real Madrid, who are ready to pay 400million euros to sign the striker.&nbsp;

Asked about the speculation on Friday, Real coach Zinedine Zidane said: &quot;Neymar could play in all the clubs because he is very good, like many players.&nbsp;

&quot;I&acute;m not going to talk about a player that is not mine. On the 400 million, they paid 220 million and when they bought me they paid 72.&nbsp;

&quot;It seemed crazy to me and 10 years later they are paying 220 million. It can be that in the next 10 years someone will pay 400m, or sooner, I do not know.&quot;

Mundo Deportivo concedes Neymar&acute;s courting of Barcelona may even be a tactic to justify a move to Real, given the Catalan club are likely to reject any chance to re-sign the 26-year-old.&nbsp;

Barcelona are still embroiled in a financial dispute over a bonus due to Neymar last summer, which the club cancelled when they believe it became clear he was moving to PSG.&nbsp;

Neymar missed PSG&#39;s last 16 loss to Real on Tuesday after undergoing surgery on a broken foot in Brazil last week.

Neymar joined PSG only seven months ago for a world record 222 million euros

Neymar already regrets moving to Paris Saint-Germain and is seeking a shock return to Barcelona, according to reports in the Spanish media on Friday. In the same week that PSG crashed out of the Champions League, and only seven months after he joined the club for a world record 222 million euros ($264 million, Neymar´s future has become uncertain. Spanish sports newspaper Mundo Deportivo claims the Brazilian, recovering from surgery on a broken foot in Brazil, has made contact with Barca to ask how he can engineer a return. The article adds Neymar has explained he made a mistake in leaving the club, was wrong to want independence from Lionel Messi and has been disappointed by the standard of opposition in Ligue 1. Barca, however, is not the only club Neymar is reportedly targeting as a potential way out of PSG. Madrid-based newspaper AS reports Neymar´s father has met with Real Madrid, who are ready to pay 400million euros to sign the striker. Asked about the speculation on Friday, Real coach Zinedine Zidane said: "Neymar could play in all the clubs because he is very good, like many players. "I´m not going to talk about a player that is not mine. On the 400 million, they paid 220 million and when they bought me they paid 72. "It seemed crazy to me and 10 years later they are paying 220 million. It can be that in the next 10 years someone will pay 400m, or sooner, I do not know." Mundo Deportivo concedes Neymar´s courting of Barcelona may even be a tactic to justify a move to Real, given the Catalan club are likely to reject any chance to re-sign the 26-year-old. Barcelona are still embroiled in a financial dispute over a bonus due to Neymar last summer, which the club cancelled when they believe it became clear he was moving to PSG. Neymar missed PSG's last 16 loss to Real on Tuesday after undergoing surgery on a broken foot in Brazil last week.

Neymar wants to return to Barcelona: Spanish reports

Barcelona were held to a 1-1 draw at relegation-fighting Las Palmas on Thursday in an unexpected setback that left them with a five-point lead in La Liga ahead of their top-of-the-table showdown with Atletico Madrid this weekend.

Lionel Messi fired Barca ahead in the 21st minute with a thunderous free-kick into the top corner but third-bottom Las Palmas pulled themselves back into the game with a penalty by Jonathan Calleri three minutes into the second half.

The Argentine forward sidefooted the spot kick into the top corner after stand-in defender Lucas Digne was judged to have handled the ball after it hit the post, the first time Barca have given away a spot kick in the league for over two years.

The Catalans had little fortune with refereeing decisions and their players and coach Ernesto Valverde were furious when Las Palmas goalkeeper Leandro Chichizola was not punished for appearing to handle the ball outside of the area.

Barca have 66 points and lead the table from Atletico, who visit the Nou Camp on Sunday having won their last eight games in all competitions. Barca have drawn four of their last eight. Third-placed Real Madrid have 51 points with Valencia on 50.

Valverde told reporters he still did not know if the penalty had been given for Digne&#39;s handball or a foul and the usually pragmatic coach could not hide his despair at the decision.

&quot;The penalty came as a shock to us because of how it was awarded. We felt that they equalised with an &#39;invisible&#39; penalty, they grew stronger after that and we played in too much of a hurry,&quot; the agitated Valverde said.

&quot;We really wanted to leave here with three points. In the first half we felt we were always creating danger and their players kept on picking up yellow cards. We went ahead in the first half but it was not a big enough margin.&quot;

Las Palmas coach Paco Jemez snapped a miserable run of eight consecutive defeats to Barca from when he was in charge of Rayo Vallecano and said his team were slowly but surely finding their feet in their fight against the drop.

&quot;Right now we sure are playing like a team, we&#39;re able to help each other out and keep fighting until the last minute,&quot; he said. &quot;We&#39;re still not creating as many chances as we are capable of but I&#39;m seeing signs of progress.

&quot;Taking a point against Barca gives us more belief than if it was any old point,&quot; he added. 
&nbsp;

Lionel Messi fired Barca ahead in the 21st minute with a thunderous free-kick into the top corner but third-bottom Las Palmas pulled themselves back into the game with a penalty by Jonathan Calleri three minutes into the second half.

Barcelona were held to a 1-1 draw at relegation-fighting Las Palmas on Thursday in an unexpected setback that left them with a five-point lead in La Liga ahead of their top-of-the-table showdown with Atletico Madrid this weekend. Lionel Messi fired Barca ahead in the 21st minute with a thunderous free-kick into the top corner but third-bottom Las Palmas pulled themselves back into the game with a penalty by Jonathan Calleri three minutes into the second half. The Argentine forward sidefooted the spot kick into the top corner after stand-in defender Lucas Digne was judged to have handled the ball after it hit the post, the first time Barca have given away a spot kick in the league for over two years. The Catalans had little fortune with refereeing decisions and their players and coach Ernesto Valverde were furious when Las Palmas goalkeeper Leandro Chichizola was not punished for appearing to handle the ball outside of the area. Barca have 66 points and lead the table from Atletico, who visit the Nou Camp on Sunday having won their last eight games in all competitions. Barca have drawn four of their last eight. Third-placed Real Madrid have 51 points with Valencia on 50. Valverde told reporters he still did not know if the penalty had been given for Digne's handball or a foul and the usually pragmatic coach could not hide his despair at the decision. "The penalty came as a shock to us because of how it was awarded. We felt that they equalised with an 'invisible' penalty, they grew stronger after that and we played in too much of a hurry," the agitated Valverde said. "We really wanted to leave here with three points. In the first half we felt we were always creating danger and their players kept on picking up yellow cards. We went ahead in the first half but it was not a big enough margin." Las Palmas coach Paco Jemez snapped a miserable run of eight consecutive defeats to Barca from when he was in charge of Rayo Vallecano and said his team were slowly but surely finding their feet in their fight against the drop. "Right now we sure are playing like a team, we're able to help each other out and keep fighting until the last minute," he said. "We're still not creating as many chances as we are capable of but I'm seeing signs of progress. "Taking a point against Barca gives us more belief than if it was any old point," he added.

La Liga: Barcelona lead by five points after draw at Las Palmas

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone hailed Antoine Griezmann on Wednesday after the Frenchman became the first player in six years to net four times in a match for the Spanish club.

&ldquo;He&rsquo;s a very talented boy and he makes the difference,&rdquo; Simeone told reporters following Atletico&rsquo;s 4-0 victory over Leganes which moved them to within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona, who they face on Sunday. &ldquo;But the side have done some brilliant work to allow him to shine,&quot; Simeone added. &quot;Look at the balls laid on to him by Diego Costa, Koke and Filipe Luis. &ldquo;His level is extraordinary, the assists were all fantastic and with his talent, he was able to finish off some brilliant team moves.&rdquo; Earlier this season there were doubts surrounding Griezmann&rsquo;s commitment to Atletico after he publicly toyed with the idea of leaving for Manchester United.

That coincided with a poor run of form as rumours surfaced that he had agreed to join Barcelona next season. The unease resulted in frustration between fans and the player, culminating in the 26-year-old angrily making a shushing gesture in February&rsquo;s victory over Valencia when he decided against launching a counter-attack in the dying seconds. &ldquo;I might have made mistakes, but not on what I&rsquo;m doing on the pitch,&rdquo; Griezmann said.

&ldquo;I could have behaved better, I shushed the crowd but I was doing what I thought was right and that we should have control of the ball. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m happy with my performance, but the three points are most important.&quot;

Griezmann, who also scored a hat-trick in his last league game on Sunday, was still guarded about his long-term future. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re all enjoying ourselves now,&rdquo; he said.

&quot;We need to continue doing so and also bringing smiles to the fans faces. Hopefully, I&rsquo;ll have this kind of affection until the end.&rdquo;

Griezmann, who also scored a hat-trick in his last league game on Sunday, was still guarded about his long-term future

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone hailed Antoine Griezmann on Wednesday after the Frenchman became the first player in six years to net four times in a match for the Spanish club. “He’s a very talented boy and he makes the difference,” Simeone told reporters following Atletico’s 4-0 victory over Leganes which moved them to within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona, who they face on Sunday. “But the side have done some brilliant work to allow him to shine," Simeone added. "Look at the balls laid on to him by Diego Costa, Koke and Filipe Luis. “His level is extraordinary, the assists were all fantastic and with his talent, he was able to finish off some brilliant team moves.” Earlier this season there were doubts surrounding Griezmann’s commitment to Atletico after he publicly toyed with the idea of leaving for Manchester United. That coincided with a poor run of form as rumours surfaced that he had agreed to join Barcelona next season. The unease resulted in frustration between fans and the player, culminating in the 26-year-old angrily making a shushing gesture in February’s victory over Valencia when he decided against launching a counter-attack in the dying seconds. “I might have made mistakes, but not on what I’m doing on the pitch,” Griezmann said. “I could have behaved better, I shushed the crowd but I was doing what I thought was right and that we should have control of the ball. “I’m happy with my performance, but the three points are most important." Griezmann, who also scored a hat-trick in his last league game on Sunday, was still guarded about his long-term future. “We’re all enjoying ourselves now,” he said. "We need to continue doing so and also bringing smiles to the fans faces. Hopefully, I’ll have this kind of affection until the end.”

Football: 'Extraordinary' Griezmann silences his critics

French striker Antoine Griezmann hit a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-2 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona back to seven points.

&quot;I&#39;m very happy with the team&#39;s work, but a little less happy that we conceded two goals,&quot; said Griezmann.

&quot;It&#39;s good that we have several forwards who score goals, but the most important thing is the three points.&quot;

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HIGHLIGHTS ???? 
Did you miss our &lsquo;partidazo&rsquo; in Seville? ⚽????&nbsp;Check out the best plays and <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoGriezmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AntoGriezmann</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/diegocosta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@diegocosta</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Koke6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Koke6</a>&rsquo;s goals ????⚪???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A%C3%BApaAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A&uacute;paAtleti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevillaFCAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevillaFCAtleti</a>
&mdash; Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/967891901864177664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence.

Goalkeeper Sergio Rico attempted to play a short ball to Ever Banega standing on the edge of the penalty area.

However, his teammate dallied too long and predator Costa nipped in to steal the ball off the toe of the Argentine before confidently burying the opportunity.&nbsp;

Sevilla had plenty of chances with Colombian striker Luis Muriel seeing Atletico keeper Jan Oblak deny him with a smart save.

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⏱ 92&#39; | 2-5 | There&#39;s the final whistle! ➕3⃣Great win from the lads! ????⚪????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevillaFCAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevillaFCAtleti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A%C3%BApaAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A&uacute;paAtleti</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jh3dG3SJR5">pic.twitter.com/Jh3dG3SJR5</a>
&mdash; Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/967875579960856576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Three minutes from the break, Griezmann scored his first of the night when he danced between three defenders to score with a fierce right-footed drive past Rico.

Griezmann made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, converting his team&#39;s first La Liga penalty of the season after Costa was brought down by Rico.

Sevilla imploded with Koke making it 4-0 after more suicidal defending before Griezmann completed his hat-trick on 80 minutes, taking his Liga tally to 11 for the season.&nbsp;

The home side salvaged a degree of pride when Pablo Sarabia and Nolito tucked away goals in the last five minutes.

&nbsp;

Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence

French striker Antoine Griezmann hit a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-2 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona back to seven points. "I'm very happy with the team's work, but a little less happy that we conceded two goals," said Griezmann. "It's good that we have several forwards who score goals, but the most important thing is the three points." HIGHLIGHTS ???? Did you miss our ‘partidazo’ in Seville? ⚽???? Check out the best plays and @AntoGriezmann, @diegocosta and @Koke6’s goals ????⚪???????? #AúpaAtleti #SevillaFCAtleti — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 25, 2018 × Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence. Goalkeeper Sergio Rico attempted to play a short ball to Ever Banega standing on the edge of the penalty area. However, his teammate dallied too long and predator Costa nipped in to steal the ball off the toe of the Argentine before confidently burying the opportunity. Sevilla had plenty of chances with Colombian striker Luis Muriel seeing Atletico keeper Jan Oblak deny him with a smart save. ⏱ 92' | 2-5 | There's the final whistle! ➕3⃣Great win from the lads! ????⚪????#SevillaFCAtleti #AúpaAtleti pic.twitter.com/Jh3dG3SJR5 — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 25, 2018 × Three minutes from the break, Griezmann scored his first of the night when he danced between three defenders to score with a fierce right-footed drive past Rico. Griezmann made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, converting his team's first La Liga penalty of the season after Costa was brought down by Rico. Sevilla imploded with Koke making it 4-0 after more suicidal defending before Griezmann completed his hat-trick on 80 minutes, taking his Liga tally to 11 for the season. The home side salvaged a degree of pride when Pablo Sarabia and Nolito tucked away goals in the last five minutes.

Griezmann's hat-trick helps Atletico to cut gap on Barcelona

Luis Suarez hit a hat-trick and Philippe Coutinho scored a brilliant first league goal for Barcelona as the La Liga leaders thrashed Girona 6-1 on Saturday to open up a 10-point lead at the top of the table.

Lionel Messi continued his return to goalscoring form with a double to reach 30 in all competitions for the season, as Barca extended their advantage over closest title rivals Atletico Madrid, who visit Sevilla on Sunday.

It was the perfect outing for Barcelona after ninth-placed Girona had taken a shock early lead on their first-ever visit to the Camp Nou, as Coutinho, Suarez, Messi and Ousmane Dembele shone on their first start together.

Portu took advantage of hesitation from Barca centre-back Samuel Umtiti to round goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen and slot into an empty net to put Girona ahead in La Liga&#39;s newest Catalan derby.

The hosts took less than two minutes to get back on level terms, though, as Messi collected the ball in midfield before sending Suarez through to score.

Messi&#39;s wizardry put Ernesto Valverde&#39;s side in front on the half-hour mark after Suarez touched down a long pass from Andres Iniesta for the Argentinian.

It looked as though the chance had gone when Messi was forced wide, but the league&#39;s top scorer showed trademark footwork to jink past several defenders before slotting into the bottom corner.

The five-time Ballon d&#39;Or winner was running the show, and he doubled the advantage just seven minutes later with a low free-kick under the wall.

&quot;It always seems that he has done everything and then suddenly, he surprises us again, as with his free kick. It sounds easy but it is not,&quot; said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde.

Having gone five games without a goal before his crucial equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek, Messi has scored three in two games.

Barcelona&#39;s fourth goal came on the stroke of half-time with Girona&#39;s defenders left begging for the interval after Messi&#39;s perfectly-weighted pass found Coutinho to square for Suarez to tap in.

The Catalan giants eased off slightly in the second half, but Coutinho got off the mark in the league in style as he cut inside and curled a long-range strike into the far corner.

French winger Dembele played his part too late on as he crossed from the left for Suarez to complete a hat-trick.

After a slow start to the campaign, the Uruguayan forward has now scored 17 goals in his last 14 league matches.

&nbsp;

Lionel Messi continued his return to goalscoring form with a double to reach 30 in all competitions for the season

Luis Suarez hit a hat-trick and Philippe Coutinho scored a brilliant first league goal for Barcelona as the La Liga leaders thrashed Girona 6-1 on Saturday to open up a 10-point lead at the top of the table. Lionel Messi continued his return to goalscoring form with a double to reach 30 in all competitions for the season, as Barca extended their advantage over closest title rivals Atletico Madrid, who visit Sevilla on Sunday. It was the perfect outing for Barcelona after ninth-placed Girona had taken a shock early lead on their first-ever visit to the Camp Nou, as Coutinho, Suarez, Messi and Ousmane Dembele shone on their first start together. Portu took advantage of hesitation from Barca centre-back Samuel Umtiti to round goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen and slot into an empty net to put Girona ahead in La Liga's newest Catalan derby. The hosts took less than two minutes to get back on level terms, though, as Messi collected the ball in midfield before sending Suarez through to score. Messi's wizardry put Ernesto Valverde's side in front on the half-hour mark after Suarez touched down a long pass from Andres Iniesta for the Argentinian. It looked as though the chance had gone when Messi was forced wide, but the league's top scorer showed trademark footwork to jink past several defenders before slotting into the bottom corner. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was running the show, and he doubled the advantage just seven minutes later with a low free-kick under the wall. "It always seems that he has done everything and then suddenly, he surprises us again, as with his free kick. It sounds easy but it is not," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde. Having gone five games without a goal before his crucial equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek, Messi has scored three in two games. Barcelona's fourth goal came on the stroke of half-time with Girona's defenders left begging for the interval after Messi's perfectly-weighted pass found Coutinho to square for Suarez to tap in. The Catalan giants eased off slightly in the second half, but Coutinho got off the mark in the league in style as he cut inside and curled a long-range strike into the far corner. French winger Dembele played his part too late on as he crossed from the left for Suarez to complete a hat-trick. After a slow start to the campaign, the Uruguayan forward has now scored 17 goals in his last 14 league matches.

Suarez hat-trick extends six-goal Barca's La Liga lead

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte believes the English champions can do &quot;something incredible&quot; by knocking Barcelona out of the Champions League at the Camp Nou on March 14, despite blowing a lead to draw the first leg of their last-16 tie 1-1.

Willian gave reason to a bold team selection from Conte on Tuesday by putting the English champions ahead just after the hour mark, having also hit the woodwork twice before half-time.

However, Barca pounced on a very rare Chelsea mistake on the night as Andres Iniesta intercepted a slack pass by Andreas Christensen and squared for Lionel Messi to slot home his first goal in nine appearances against Chelsea.

&quot;We must be realistic. We are talking about Barcelona. They show tonight to be a strong, fantastic team,&quot; said Conte.

&quot;We have showed that if we are ready to work very hard together defensively, but continue to have the right feeling when you win the ball when you have the chance to score, we can try to do something incredible at the Nou Camp.&quot;

Conte named a front three without a recognised centre-forward with Willian and Pedro Rodriguez either side of Eden Hazard, while the 21-year-old Christensen started in place of club captain Gary Cahill.

And Conte refused to pin the blame on the inexperienced Dane for conceding.

&quot;I think it was a great performance, an incredible performance,&quot; added Conte.

&quot;We&#39;re talking about a player he&#39;s only 21. It&#39;s great that he can play this game with this maturity. I am very happy. For me he was one of the best players tonight.&quot;

&#39;Like a handball match&#39;

Barcelona enjoyed nearly 70 percent of the possession, but lacked the penetration to open up Chelsea&#39;s well-organised defence.

&quot;At times it seemed like a handball match, because they sat back and waited,&quot; said Barca midfielder Ivan Rakitic.

&quot;It is difficult when they have eight players behind the ball.&quot;

However, Conte defended his tactics, saying it would be &quot;crazy&quot; to approach facing Barcelona any other way.

&quot;When you play against Barcelona you know very well that if you want to face them box-to-box then you are crazy and you go to lose the game, not 1-0, (but) 4, 5, 6-0,&quot; said Conte.

&quot;You must play with intelligence, especially if you know that (Barca) level is up on us. You must play an intelligent game, we are not stupid.&quot;

Chelsea&#39;s former Barca midfielder Cesc Fabregas, though, stressed the importance of going to Catalonia in three weeks&#39; time with attacking intent rather than just trying to keep Barcelona at bay for as long as possible.

&quot;We have to go there to attack and score because 90 minutes defending at the Nou Camp is an eternity,&quot; said Fabregas, who played for Barca between 2011 and 2014. &quot;It is a suicide mission.&quot;

Messi&#39;s goal was the first a Barcelona player has scored in an away Champions League match for six games.

And whilst Barca boss Ernesto Valverde welcomed the slight advantage gained from a sub-standard performance, he warned Chelsea possess the threat on the counter-attack to still land a knockout blow.

&quot;It is very important to have scored here and logically both teams will respect their own style in the second leg. They have the attacking resources to cause us problems.

&quot;It is important to have the advantage, but it is far from decided.&quot;

Chelsea drew Barcelona 1-1 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte believes the English champions can do "something incredible" by knocking Barcelona out of the Champions League at the Camp Nou on March 14, despite blowing a lead to draw the first leg of their last-16 tie 1-1. Willian gave reason to a bold team selection from Conte on Tuesday by putting the English champions ahead just after the hour mark, having also hit the woodwork twice before half-time. However, Barca pounced on a very rare Chelsea mistake on the night as Andres Iniesta intercepted a slack pass by Andreas Christensen and squared for Lionel Messi to slot home his first goal in nine appearances against Chelsea. "We must be realistic. We are talking about Barcelona. They show tonight to be a strong, fantastic team," said Conte. "We have showed that if we are ready to work very hard together defensively, but continue to have the right feeling when you win the ball when you have the chance to score, we can try to do something incredible at the Nou Camp." Conte named a front three without a recognised centre-forward with Willian and Pedro Rodriguez either side of Eden Hazard, while the 21-year-old Christensen started in place of club captain Gary Cahill. And Conte refused to pin the blame on the inexperienced Dane for conceding. "I think it was a great performance, an incredible performance," added Conte. "We're talking about a player he's only 21. It's great that he can play this game with this maturity. I am very happy. For me he was one of the best players tonight." 'Like a handball match' Barcelona enjoyed nearly 70 percent of the possession, but lacked the penetration to open up Chelsea's well-organised defence. "At times it seemed like a handball match, because they sat back and waited," said Barca midfielder Ivan Rakitic. "It is difficult when they have eight players behind the ball." However, Conte defended his tactics, saying it would be "crazy" to approach facing Barcelona any other way. "When you play against Barcelona you know very well that if you want to face them box-to-box then you are crazy and you go to lose the game, not 1-0, (but) 4, 5, 6-0," said Conte. "You must play with intelligence, especially if you know that (Barca) level is up on us. You must play an intelligent game, we are not stupid." Chelsea's former Barca midfielder Cesc Fabregas, though, stressed the importance of going to Catalonia in three weeks' time with attacking intent rather than just trying to keep Barcelona at bay for as long as possible. "We have to go there to attack and score because 90 minutes defending at the Nou Camp is an eternity," said Fabregas, who played for Barca between 2011 and 2014. "It is a suicide mission." Messi's goal was the first a Barcelona player has scored in an away Champions League match for six games. And whilst Barca boss Ernesto Valverde welcomed the slight advantage gained from a sub-standard performance, he warned Chelsea possess the threat on the counter-attack to still land a knockout blow. "It is very important to have scored here and logically both teams will respect their own style in the second leg. They have the attacking resources to cause us problems. "It is important to have the advantage, but it is far from decided."

Chelsea capable of the 'incredible' to spring Barca surprise: Conte

The first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-match-preview-of-barcelona-vs-chelsea-33534">FC Barcelona and Chelsea</a> ended with a 1-1 score.

The third time lucky Willian scored a stunner in the second half to give <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">Chelsea 1-0 lead</a>.

In the first half, Willian proved two-time unlucky as he hit side post twice from both the wings, if not, then Chelsea would have leading the game by 3-0 and Willian scoring a hat-trick.

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GOAL!!! 1-0!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHEBAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHEBAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/UjIUmhdgrI">pic.twitter.com/UjIUmhdgrI</a>
&mdash; Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/966056319827480577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Iniesta&#39;s beautiful assist to Messi equalises the score in the 75the minute to&nbsp;relax&nbsp;the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-why-philippe-coutinho-is-not-playing-against-chelsea-33539">Barcelona fans</a> and followers.

After the match, Iniesta said, &quot;Chelsea are one of the best teams in Europe and in general we played well. The second leg will also be a tough contest.&quot;

It was not only the mesmerising moment of a reverse pass and accurate hit into the bottom corner of the net also a sloppy piece of defence tackle by Andreas Christensen was the reason.

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&quot;Leo Messi has n̶e̶v̶e̶r̶ scored against Chelsea.&quot; 
&hellip; 
✅ Done. <a href="https://t.co/3NlCQIvLha">pic.twitter.com/3NlCQIvLha</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/966060110073114625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Lionel Messi had a jinx of not scoring against English clubs which he broke today by scoring an equalizer and also his first goal against Chelsea in the last nine matches.

However, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-why-philippe-coutinho-is-not-playing-against-chelsea-33539">Barca</a> remains unbeaten in 31 La Liga and Champions League games under Ernesto Valverde thanks to a late rally.

The first warning&nbsp;was given by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">Eden Hazard</a> when he&nbsp;fired just over from 20 yards five minutes in.

The match&nbsp;revolved around Chelsea striker Willian, either he was missing to score or playing exponentially amazing with bleeding nose.

So, a&nbsp;big shout out to Willian&#39;s performance, brilliance and fighting spirit and his ability to score from outside the box off either foot.

The English defending champions must now score when they travel to the Camp Nou on March 14 to have any chance of making the last eight.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-match-preview-of-barcelona-vs-chelsea-33534">Click here</a> to know what was expected of this clash.

&nbsp;

Lionel Messi struck for the first time in nine games against Chelsea to give Barcelona a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Champions League

The first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 between FC Barcelona and Chelsea ended with a 1-1 score. The third time lucky Willian scored a stunner in the second half to give Chelsea 1-0 lead. In the first half, Willian proved two-time unlucky as he hit side post twice from both the wings, if not, then Chelsea would have leading the game by 3-0 and Willian scoring a hat-trick. GOAL!!! 1-0!!! #CHEBAR pic.twitter.com/UjIUmhdgrI — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 20, 2018 × Iniesta's beautiful assist to Messi equalises the score in the 75the minute to relax the Barcelona fans and followers. After the match, Iniesta said, "Chelsea are one of the best teams in Europe and in general we played well. The second leg will also be a tough contest." It was not only the mesmerising moment of a reverse pass and accurate hit into the bottom corner of the net also a sloppy piece of defence tackle by Andreas Christensen was the reason. "Leo Messi has n̶e̶v̶e̶r̶ scored against Chelsea." … ✅ Done. pic.twitter.com/3NlCQIvLha — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 20, 2018 × Lionel Messi had a jinx of not scoring against English clubs which he broke today by scoring an equalizer and also his first goal against Chelsea in the last nine matches. However, Barca remains unbeaten in 31 La Liga and Champions League games under Ernesto Valverde thanks to a late rally. The first warning was given by Eden Hazard when he fired just over from 20 yards five minutes in. The match revolved around Chelsea striker Willian, either he was missing to score or playing exponentially amazing with bleeding nose. So, a big shout out to Willian's performance, brilliance and fighting spirit and his ability to score from outside the box off either foot. The English defending champions must now score when they travel to the Camp Nou on March 14 to have any chance of making the last eight. Click here to know what was expected of this clash.

Champions League: Lionel Messi breaks jinx after scoring against Chelsea

The first leg of Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London.

It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions Leauge and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations for their favourite team.

FC Barcelona and support staff have arrived in London and the training has started.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez meet former English footballer and current sports broadcaster, Gary Lineker ahead of Chelsea clash.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewProfilePic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewProfilePic</a> for <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GaryLineker</a>! ???? <a href="https://t.co/89N6tpQ46B">pic.twitter.com/89N6tpQ46B</a>
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Gary Lineker holds England&#39;s record for goals in FIFA World Cup finals with 10 goals.

Lineker began his football career at Leicester City in 1978. He then moved to League Champions Everton.

His first team honours came at Barcelona, where he won the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners&#39; Cup in 1989.

He returned to England in 1989, joining Tottenham Hotspur, and over three seasons he scored 67 goals in 105 games and won the FA Cup.

&nbsp;

At Barcelona, Gary Lineker won the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1989

The first leg of Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London. It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions Leauge and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations for their favourite team. FC Barcelona and support staff have arrived in London and the training has started. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez meet former English footballer and current sports broadcaster, Gary Lineker ahead of Chelsea clash. #NewProfilePic for @GaryLineker! ???? pic.twitter.com/89N6tpQ46B — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 19, 2018 × Gary Lineker holds England's record for goals in FIFA World Cup finals with 10 goals. Lineker began his football career at Leicester City in 1978. He then moved to League Champions Everton. His first team honours came at Barcelona, where he won the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1989. He returned to England in 1989, joining Tottenham Hotspur, and over three seasons he scored 67 goals in 105 games and won the FA Cup.

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez meet former Barca star Gary Lineker

The first leg of Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London and will kickoff at 1:15 AM.

It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions League and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations from&nbsp;their favourite team.

Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons till now. They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and holds a comfortable lead in the La Liga standings, with many plus points, they will enter the game with a high.

The squad of Barcelona is currently in good form. The strikers,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-luis-suarez-meet-former-barca-star-gary-lineker-33470">Lionel Messi</a> and Luis Suarez have netted some splendid goals.

They had suffered a big transfer past summer in the form of Neymar Jr&#39;s exit&nbsp;but another Brazilian star compensated the loss.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-why-philippe-coutinho-is-not-playing-against-chelsea-33539">Philippe Coutinho</a> was added to the Barca squad&nbsp;but unfortunately <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-why-philippe-coutinho-is-not-playing-against-chelsea-33539">he will&nbsp;not play</a>&nbsp;today&nbsp;after having already appeared in the Champions League this season while playing for Liverpool.

Lots of drama is expected and both the teams are under pressure. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/we-must-be-prepared-to-suffer-says-antonio-conte-33436">Antonio Conte</a>, Chelsea head coach spoke to media on the eve of their UEFA Champions League clash.

He said his team has to pay &quot;great attention&quot; to not only <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-luis-suarez-meet-former-barca-star-gary-lineker-33470">Messi</a>&nbsp;but the whole team. He mentioned that the current squad&nbsp;is very dangerous.

He <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/we-must-be-prepared-to-suffer-says-antonio-conte-33436">further added</a>, &quot;Barcelona is having a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">fantastic season</a>. They are top of the league and are in the final in the Cup in Spain and they have the potential to win this Cup.

On the other hand, Eden Hazard is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the 4-0 win over Hull City in the English FA Cup fifth round.

Nelson Semedo is serving a one-game suspension for yellow card accumulation during the group stage.

David Luiz and Tiemoue Bakayoko are injury doubts for Chelsea but Marcos Alonso is set to return. Also, Alvaro Morata and Thibaut Courtois are one of the key players along with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">Eden Hazard</a>.

Here are some quick facts about the match:

Barcelona are attempting to reach the quarter-finals for a record-extending 11th straight year.

Chelsea have only advanced beyond the last 16 once in the past five seasons, losing at this stage to Paris Saint-Germain in their two most recent knockout ties.

This is one of only two last-16 ties featuring a pair of former European champions.

&nbsp;

Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London and will kickoff is at 1:15 AM IST, February 21

The first leg of Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London and will kickoff at 1:15 AM. It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions League and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations from their favourite team. Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons till now. They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and holds a comfortable lead in the La Liga standings, with many plus points, they will enter the game with a high. The squad of Barcelona is currently in good form. The strikers, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have netted some splendid goals. They had suffered a big transfer past summer in the form of Neymar Jr's exit but another Brazilian star compensated the loss. Philippe Coutinho was added to the Barca squad but unfortunately he will not play today after having already appeared in the Champions League this season while playing for Liverpool. Lots of drama is expected and both the teams are under pressure. Antonio Conte, Chelsea head coach spoke to media on the eve of their UEFA Champions League clash. He said his team has to pay "great attention" to not only Messi but the whole team. He mentioned that the current squad is very dangerous. He further added, "Barcelona is having a fantastic season. They are top of the league and are in the final in the Cup in Spain and they have the potential to win this Cup. On the other hand, Eden Hazard is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the 4-0 win over Hull City in the English FA Cup fifth round. Nelson Semedo is serving a one-game suspension for yellow card accumulation during the group stage. David Luiz and Tiemoue Bakayoko are injury doubts for Chelsea but Marcos Alonso is set to return. Also, Alvaro Morata and Thibaut Courtois are one of the key players along with Eden Hazard. Here are some quick facts about the match: Barcelona are attempting to reach the quarter-finals for a record-extending 11th straight year. Chelsea have only advanced beyond the last 16 once in the past five seasons, losing at this stage to Paris Saint-Germain in their two most recent knockout ties. This is one of only two last-16 ties featuring a pair of former European champions.

Champions League: Match preview of Barcelona vs Chelsea

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-match-preview-of-barcelona-vs-chelsea-33534">Barcelona and Chelsea</a> is set ready to face each other in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday night at Stamford Bridge.

Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons till now and will enter the game with a high.

They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and stands at top of the La Liga table.

Although, both the teams are under pressure but Chelsea is a bit more hustled as the ongoing season is not that good as they had an outstanding run last season.

But here is some good news for Chelsea fans as one of the key&nbsp;players of Barca will not play today.

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⚽️ Starting XI 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChelseaBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChelseaBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/XaBBne5N3s">pic.twitter.com/XaBBne5N3s</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/966017351312429066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Who&nbsp;is missing in the squad list?

Yes, it&#39;s Philippe Coutinho. The reason is Phil being&nbsp;ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer.

<div style="background:#eee;border:1px solid #ccc;padding:5px 10px;">What does the rule say? 
As a rule, a player may not play in a UEFA club competition (UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, excluding UEFA Super Cup) for more than one club in the course of the same season.</div>

&nbsp;

He played an important role in inspiring the Reds to seal a place in the Champions League last 16.

Coutinho will have to watch on from the sidelines as UEFA rules stipulate that a player cannot represent more than one club in the same season in the competition.

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The reason is Coutinho being ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer

Barcelona and Chelsea is set ready to face each other in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday night at Stamford Bridge. Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons till now and will enter the game with a high. They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and stands at top of the La Liga table. Although, both the teams are under pressure but Chelsea is a bit more hustled as the ongoing season is not that good as they had an outstanding run last season. But here is some good news for Chelsea fans as one of the key players of Barca will not play today. ⚽️ Starting XI ???????? #ChelseaBarça pic.twitter.com/XaBBne5N3s — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 20, 2018 × Who is missing in the squad list? Yes, it's Philippe Coutinho. The reason is Phil being ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer. What does the rule say? As a rule, a player may not play in a UEFA club competition (UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, excluding UEFA Super Cup) for more than one club in the course of the same season. He played an important role in inspiring the Reds to seal a place in the Champions League last 16. Coutinho will have to watch on from the sidelines as UEFA rules stipulate that a player cannot represent more than one club in the same season in the competition.

Here is why Philippe Coutinho is not playing against Chelsea

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/prankster-hands-conte-signed-mourinho-shirt-33007">Antonio Conte</a>,&nbsp;Chelsea head coach&nbsp;spoke to media on the eve of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg tie against Barcelona.

Chelsea is standing at number four of English Premier League behind Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">Eden Hazard</a> is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-stroll-past-hull-into-fa-cup-quarter-finals-33137">4-0 win over Hull City</a> in the English FA Cup fifth round.

In the interview he was asked about team&#39;s preparation, &quot;I think we start this game as underdog for sure because Barcelona on the paper is favourite to go to the next round.&quot;

&quot;But, for this reason, I think we should be excited to have this challenge. These two games will be very important to understand what is our level in this competition, he added.&quot;

When asked about Barcelona&nbsp;he said, &quot;Barcelona is having a fantastic season. They are top of the league and are in the final in the Cup in Spain and they have the potential to win this Cup, said Chelsea&#39;s head coach.&quot;

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Antonio Conte knows Chelsea have to &quot;suffer&quot; if they want to get past Barcelona <a href="https://t.co/4ut0yqdemo">pic.twitter.com/4ut0yqdemo</a>
&mdash; Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/965719299825352704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;We know Barcelona&#39;s characteristic. They like to have ball possession. They like to dominate the game,&quot; he talked about Barcelona&#39;s playing tactics.

&quot;In every game, they are able to create many chances to score and for this reason, we must be prepared to suffer,&quot; former Italian midfielder&nbsp;added.

The Italian coach said in his improper English speaking skills, &quot;To suffer without the ball. To be compact. Not to lose our heads during the game and then to try with the ball what we know. What we try during training.&quot;

&quot;For sure we have to pay great attention (to him) but not only Messi. (Luis) Suarez is a fantastic striker. The whole team is very dangerous, he added.&quot;

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'We have to pay great attention but not only Messi. Suarez is a fantastic striker. The whole team is very dangerous,' says Chelsea head coach on the eve of Barce vs Chelsea

Antonio Conte, Chelsea head coach spoke to media on the eve of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg tie against Barcelona. Chelsea is standing at number four of English Premier League behind Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool. Eden Hazard is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the 4-0 win over Hull City in the English FA Cup fifth round. In the interview he was asked about team's preparation, "I think we start this game as underdog for sure because Barcelona on the paper is favourite to go to the next round." "But, for this reason, I think we should be excited to have this challenge. These two games will be very important to understand what is our level in this competition, he added." When asked about Barcelona he said, "Barcelona is having a fantastic season. They are top of the league and are in the final in the Cup in Spain and they have the potential to win this Cup, said Chelsea's head coach." Antonio Conte knows Chelsea have to "suffer" if they want to get past Barcelona pic.twitter.com/4ut0yqdemo — Goal (@goal) February 19, 2018 × "We know Barcelona's characteristic. They like to have ball possession. They like to dominate the game," he talked about Barcelona's playing tactics. "In every game, they are able to create many chances to score and for this reason, we must be prepared to suffer," former Italian midfielder added. The Italian coach said in his improper English speaking skills, "To suffer without the ball. To be compact. Not to lose our heads during the game and then to try with the ball what we know. What we try during training." "For sure we have to pay great attention (to him) but not only Messi. (Luis) Suarez is a fantastic striker. The whole team is very dangerous, he added."

'We must be prepared to suffer,' says Antonio Conte

The first leg of Chelsea&nbsp;vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at&nbsp;Stamford Bridge, London.

It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions Leauge and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations for their favourite team.

In a pre-match interview, Eden Hazard said, &quot; We know that it is tough to beat Chelsea. We are in a good position. We play the first game here. So we will give everything here.&quot;

&quot;Of course, Barcelona is one of the best teams in the world but in the past, they were a little bit in trouble against Chelsea and I hope tomorrow is going to be the same because we want to win,&quot; he further added.

On asking him about being compared with Messi and Ronaldo he said, &quot;First it is good to be compared with the greatest ever (like Lionel) Messi, (Cristiano) Ronaldo, but I am different. I am completely different.&quot;

&quot;We play in a different league. I try to do my job. I try to reach that level. You need to play well in big games and tomorrow is a big game. So, let&#39;s go for it and try to give everything,&quot; he added.

Eden Hazard is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the 4-0 win over Hull City in the English FA Cup fifth round.

Summer signing Alvaro Morata will be battling it out with Olivier Giroud for the central striker berth. French international Giroud, who arrived in January from Premier League rivals Arsenal, gave his chances a boost with his first goal for the club in the Hull City victory.

&nbsp;

Eden Hazard is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested against Hull City

The first leg of Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London. It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions Leauge and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations for their favourite team. In a pre-match interview, Eden Hazard said, " We know that it is tough to beat Chelsea. We are in a good position. We play the first game here. So we will give everything here." "Of course, Barcelona is one of the best teams in the world but in the past, they were a little bit in trouble against Chelsea and I hope tomorrow is going to be the same because we want to win," he further added. On asking him about being compared with Messi and Ronaldo he said, "First it is good to be compared with the greatest ever (like Lionel) Messi, (Cristiano) Ronaldo, but I am different. I am completely different." "We play in a different league. I try to do my job. I try to reach that level. You need to play well in big games and tomorrow is a big game. So, let's go for it and try to give everything," he added. Eden Hazard is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the 4-0 win over Hull City in the English FA Cup fifth round. Summer signing Alvaro Morata will be battling it out with Olivier Giroud for the central striker berth. French international Giroud, who arrived in January from Premier League rivals Arsenal, gave his chances a boost with his first goal for the club in the Hull City victory.

Good to be compared with Messi: Eden Hazard

Three people were arrested in France on Tuesday for alleged links to a suspect in last year&#39;s deadly jihadist attacks in Barcelona and a nearby seaside resort, the Spanish interior ministry said Tuesday.

The arrests were made during a joint operation with French and Spanish police in the south and southwest of France, the ministry said in a statement.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/timeline-of-major-attacks-in-france-since-2015-14762" target="_blank">Timeline of major attacks in France since 2015</a>

A total of 16 people were killed when a van drove into crowds on the popular Las Ramblas boulevard in the heart of Barcelona and in a knife attack in the nearby resort of Cambrils in August 2017.

The three arrested were suspected to have links with Moroccan national Driss Oukabir, who was alleged to have rented the van used in the Barcelona rampage.

Oukabir was arrested shortly after the attacks -- which were claimed by the Islamic State group -- and remanded in custody on terror-related offences.

&nbsp;

A total of 16 people were killed when a van drove into crowds on the popular Las Ramblas boulevard in the heart of Barcelona and in a knife attack in the nearby resort of Cambrils in August 2017

Three people were arrested in France on Tuesday for alleged links to a suspect in last year's deadly jihadist attacks in Barcelona and a nearby seaside resort, the Spanish interior ministry said Tuesday. The arrests were made during a joint operation with French and Spanish police in the south and southwest of France, the ministry said in a statement. Also read: Timeline of major attacks in France since 2015 A total of 16 people were killed when a van drove into crowds on the popular Las Ramblas boulevard in the heart of Barcelona and in a knife attack in the nearby resort of Cambrils in August 2017. The three arrested were suspected to have links with Moroccan national Driss Oukabir, who was alleged to have rented the van used in the Barcelona rampage. Oukabir was arrested shortly after the attacks -- which were claimed by the Islamic State group -- and remanded in custody on terror-related offences.

France arrests three linked to Barcelona attacks: Spain

Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba were on target as Barcelona saw off Eibar 2-0 on Saturday to continue their unbeaten record in La Liga and extend their lead at the top of the table.

Lionel Messi had a hand in both goals against an Eibar side who finished the match at tiny Ipurua with 10 men after the second-half sending-off of Fabian Orellana.

It was not a comfortable afternoon for Ernesto Valverde&#39;s men in the rain in the Basque Country, but Barca is still unbeaten 24 games into the league campaign, and have now gone 31 La Liga matches undefeated in total to match their record run under Pep Guardiola in 2010/11.

They are 10 points clear at the top, although Atletico Madrid can trim that lead when they host Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

Barcelona will now turn their thoughts to the Champions League last 16, first leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, and Valverde said Eibar were ideal opponents ahead of that match.

&quot;Eibar always put you under a lot of pressure, so it was a good test. We really suffered, because they are in great form,&quot; said Valverde.

&quot;It was a very difficult match just as we expected, and we will try and make sure it helps us, although the Champions League is another competition altogether.&quot;

Valverde sent out a strong team, choosing to start Andres Iniesta and leave Philippe Coutinho on the bench, despite the Brazilian being ineligible for the Champions League. Coutinho replaced Iniesta for the final half-hour.

&quot;Last week Coutinho started, and this week it was Iniesta,&quot; Valverde added. &quot;It is true that we have another match on Tuesday, but for me the important thing was today (Saturday).&quot;

Barca went ahead in the 16th minute, Messi&#39;s superb pass releasing Suarez, who rounded goalkeeper Marco Dmitrovic to score.

The visitors had a couple of let-offs in the first half, with Sergio Busquets lucky not to concede a penalty as he pulled back Kike Garcia in the box. Orellana then hit the bar with a fine strike.

However, the Chilean was sent off midway through the second half and Barca took advantage of the extra man in the 88th minute. Messi, who hit the post in the first half, was denied by Dmitrovic, but the ball fell for Alba to score.

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???? FINAL WHISTLE IN IPURUA! 
⚽ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EibarBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EibarBar&ccedil;a</a> 
???? <a href="https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LuisSuarez9</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/JordiAlba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JordiAlba</a> 
 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/PEx37uc1Jv">pic.twitter.com/PEx37uc1Jv</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/964908491818393601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Barcelona is 10 points clear at the top in LaLiga and will face Chelsea in the first leg of Champions League

Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba were on target as Barcelona saw off Eibar 2-0 on Saturday to continue their unbeaten record in La Liga and extend their lead at the top of the table. Lionel Messi had a hand in both goals against an Eibar side who finished the match at tiny Ipurua with 10 men after the second-half sending-off of Fabian Orellana. It was not a comfortable afternoon for Ernesto Valverde's men in the rain in the Basque Country, but Barca is still unbeaten 24 games into the league campaign, and have now gone 31 La Liga matches undefeated in total to match their record run under Pep Guardiola in 2010/11. They are 10 points clear at the top, although Atletico Madrid can trim that lead when they host Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Barcelona will now turn their thoughts to the Champions League last 16, first leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, and Valverde said Eibar were ideal opponents ahead of that match. "Eibar always put you under a lot of pressure, so it was a good test. We really suffered, because they are in great form," said Valverde. "It was a very difficult match just as we expected, and we will try and make sure it helps us, although the Champions League is another competition altogether." Valverde sent out a strong team, choosing to start Andres Iniesta and leave Philippe Coutinho on the bench, despite the Brazilian being ineligible for the Champions League. Coutinho replaced Iniesta for the final half-hour. "Last week Coutinho started, and this week it was Iniesta," Valverde added. "It is true that we have another match on Tuesday, but for me the important thing was today (Saturday)." Barca went ahead in the 16th minute, Messi's superb pass releasing Suarez, who rounded goalkeeper Marco Dmitrovic to score. The visitors had a couple of let-offs in the first half, with Sergio Busquets lucky not to concede a penalty as he pulled back Kike Garcia in the box. Orellana then hit the bar with a fine strike. However, the Chilean was sent off midway through the second half and Barca took advantage of the extra man in the 88th minute. Messi, who hit the post in the first half, was denied by Dmitrovic, but the ball fell for Alba to score. ???? FINAL WHISTLE IN IPURUA! ⚽ #EibarBarça ???? @LuisSuarez9, @JordiAlba ???????? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/PEx37uc1Jv — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 17, 2018 ×

Suarez and Alba help Barcelona to continue unbeaten run

Lionel Messi, five-time Ballon d&rsquo;Or winner was awarded the Barca Players Association&rsquo;s Fair Play Award on Monday for the season 2015-2016 for his splendid performance during that season.

Messi was handed the award by Barca Players Association President Ramon Alfonseda at a ceremony attended by FC Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu as well.

This award is given annually to the Barca first team after observing both on and off-field conduct. More than 3,300 people voted for the award on social media. Among the six finalists, Messi was chosen for the award by a 15-person jury.

In the ongoing season with 20 goals, Messi is leading La Liga in scoring.

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Well done, Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>! ????<a href="https://t.co/VouIrVIgh0">https://t.co/VouIrVIgh0</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/963169623960059905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The award is given annually by Barca Players Association, Messi received the award for the season 2015-2016 for his splendid performance and his conduct on and off field

Lionel Messi, five-time Ballon d’Or winner was awarded the Barca Players Association’s Fair Play Award on Monday for the season 2015-2016 for his splendid performance during that season. Messi was handed the award by Barca Players Association President Ramon Alfonseda at a ceremony attended by FC Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu as well. This award is given annually to the Barca first team after observing both on and off-field conduct. More than 3,300 people voted for the award on social media. Among the six finalists, Messi was chosen for the award by a 15-person jury. In the ongoing season with 20 goals, Messi is leading La Liga in scoring. Well done, Leo #Messi! ????https://t.co/VouIrVIgh0 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 12, 2018 ×

Lionel Messi receives Fair Play Award

Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday that defender Javier Mascherano will leave the club this month, with Spanish media reporting the Argentinian is heading to Hebei China Fortune.

The Catalan giants said the 33-year-old would be given an official farewell on Wednesday and say goodbye to fans at Thursday&#39;s Copa del Rey quarter-final, second leg against Espanyol.

He made 334 appearances for the club under five different coaches: Pep Guardiola, Tito Vilanova, Tata Martino, Luis Enrique and Ernesto Valverde.

&quot;Javier Mascherano&nbsp;is leaving FC Barcelona after seven and a half seasons,&quot; the club said on their website.

The five-time European champions did not specify where Mascherano was going, but Barcelona sports paper El Mundo Deportivo reported that he will &quot;this Friday become part of the squad of his new club Hebei China Fortune&nbsp;who are doing their pre-season in Marbella (in southern Spain)&quot;.

In December, Sport, another Catalan daily, said that Hebei had reached a deal to sign the Argentina international from Barca for 10 million euros ($12.2 million), conditional on the Spanish club plugging the gap, which they did by signing Colombian centre-back Yerry Mina.

Mascherano arrived from&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;in August 2010 and won four La Liga titles, four Copas del Rey, two Champions Leagues and two Club World Cups and only scored a single goal from 334 appearances, when his team-mates pushed him to take a penalty during a 7-1 rout of Osasuna in April 2017.

Only two non-Spaniards, Lionel Messi and Dani Alves, have played more games for Barcelona.

&nbsp;

Barcelona confirmed that Javier Mascherano would be given an official farewell on Wednesday

Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday that defender Javier Mascherano will leave the club this month, with Spanish media reporting the Argentinian is heading to Hebei China Fortune. The Catalan giants said the 33-year-old would be given an official farewell on Wednesday and say goodbye to fans at Thursday's Copa del Rey quarter-final, second leg against Espanyol. He made 334 appearances for the club under five different coaches: Pep Guardiola, Tito Vilanova, Tata Martino, Luis Enrique and Ernesto Valverde. "Javier Mascherano is leaving FC Barcelona after seven and a half seasons," the club said on their website. The five-time European champions did not specify where Mascherano was going, but Barcelona sports paper El Mundo Deportivo reported that he will "this Friday become part of the squad of his new club Hebei China Fortune who are doing their pre-season in Marbella (in southern Spain)". In December, Sport, another Catalan daily, said that Hebei had reached a deal to sign the Argentina international from Barca for 10 million euros ($12.2 million), conditional on the Spanish club plugging the gap, which they did by signing Colombian centre-back Yerry Mina. Mascherano arrived from Liverpool in August 2010 and won four La Liga titles, four Copas del Rey, two Champions Leagues and two Club World Cups and only scored a single goal from 334 appearances, when his team-mates pushed him to take a penalty during a 7-1 rout of Osasuna in April 2017. Only two non-Spaniards, Lionel Messi and Dani Alves, have played more games for Barcelona.

Transfer window: Mascherano to leave Barcelona after eight years

Barcelona&nbsp;has &quot;strongly&quot; denied claims made by Spanish daily Sport on Saturday that they have reached an agreement to sign Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid at the end of the season.

&quot;The Atletico Madrid forward has agreed to join&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;and will be under (coach) Ernesto Valverde&#39;s orders next season,&quot; Sport said, adding that Griezmann&#39;s current buy-out clause of 200 million euros ($240 million) drops by half on July 1.

However,&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;later took the unusual step of releasing a statement to deny the reports from the Catalan newspaper.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/antoine-griezmann-might-join-fc-barcelona-after-world-cup-30175">Antoine Griezmann might join FC Barcelona after World Cup</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-report-barcelona-have-made-illegal-approach-for-antoine-griezmann-27245">Barcelona made &#39;illegal&#39; approach for Antoine Griezmann: Atletico Madrid to FIFA</a>

&quot;FC&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;strongly denies the information that has appeared over the course of the last few hours in different media regarding Atletico Madrid player, Antoine Griezmann, and an alleged deal with our club,&quot; said the statement on the Catalan club&#39;s website.

Such a reaction can be explained by the fact that Atletico has complained to FIFA about &quot;repeated contacts&quot; between Barca and the France striker.

&quot;FC&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;expresses its objections in the face of these events and reiterates its full respect for the institution of Atletico Madrid,&quot; added the statement.

Not wanting to add fuel to the fire, Griezmann played down the transfer talk at his press conference ahead of Sunday&#39;s trip to Betis in La Liga.

&quot;Griezmann is a great player who plays for another club whom we respect,&quot; he said.

&quot;When the transfer window is open, we are in a world where there is speculation on a daily basis and we have to live with that.&quot;

&nbsp;

Barcelona has released a statement to deny the reports of a Catalan newspaper that FCB has reached an agreement to sign Antoine Griezmann

Barcelona has "strongly" denied claims made by Spanish daily Sport on Saturday that they have reached an agreement to sign Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid at the end of the season. "The Atletico Madrid forward has agreed to join Barcelona and will be under (coach) Ernesto Valverde's orders next season," Sport said, adding that Griezmann's current buy-out clause of 200 million euros ($240 million) drops by half on July 1. However, Barcelona later took the unusual step of releasing a statement to deny the reports from the Catalan newspaper. Antoine Griezmann might join FC Barcelona after World Cup Barcelona made 'illegal' approach for Antoine Griezmann: Atletico Madrid to FIFA "FC Barcelona strongly denies the information that has appeared over the course of the last few hours in different media regarding Atletico Madrid player, Antoine Griezmann, and an alleged deal with our club," said the statement on the Catalan club's website. Such a reaction can be explained by the fact that Atletico has complained to FIFA about "repeated contacts" between Barca and the France striker. "FC Barcelona expresses its objections in the face of these events and reiterates its full respect for the institution of Atletico Madrid," added the statement. Not wanting to add fuel to the fire, Griezmann played down the transfer talk at his press conference ahead of Sunday's trip to Betis in La Liga. "Griezmann is a great player who plays for another club whom we respect," he said. "When the transfer window is open, we are in a world where there is speculation on a daily basis and we have to live with that."

Barcelona deny reports of Griezmann agreement

La Liga leaders Barcelona failed to break down Getafe in a dull 0-0 league draw on Sunday (February 11), leaving the Catalans seven points clear at the top of the table.

Philippe Coutinho came close with a long-range effort which was tipped wide by Vicente Guaita, with the Getafe goalkeeper also blocking a Yerry Mina header and a late effort from Luis Suarez.

Barca talisman Lionel Messi was below his best and off-target with various set-pieces, while Ousmane Dembele returned from injury but could not help from the Nou Camp bench.

After second-placed Atletico Madrid won at Malaga on Saturday, Barca&#39;s draw means Diego Simeone&#39;s side have eaten into their lead by two points.

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???? Le Bar&ccedil;a, leader invaincu de <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLiga?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaLiga</a> apr&egrave;s 23 journ&eacute;es, poss&egrave;de d&eacute;sormais 7 points d&#39;avance sur l&#39;Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid, 16 sur Valence et 17 sur le Real Madrid <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> ???????? <a href="https://t.co/3TjxGc31MI">pic.twitter.com/3TjxGc31MI</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) <a href="https://twitter.com/fcbarcelona_fra/status/962806065317531648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">11 February 2018</a></blockquote>
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Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde was forced to play fullback Lucas Digne in the center of defense, alongside January signing Mina, making his full debut, due to injuries to Gerard Pique and Thomas Vermaelen, and Samuel Umtiti&#39;s suspension.

However, the makeshift pairing was relatively solid, with Getafe creating few chances, the best of which saw Mina block Angel Rodriguez&#39;s shot after the forward broke through.

Barcelona failed to record a shot on target in the first half, something which has not happened since 2012, as they showed signs of tiredness after Thursday&#39;s King&#39;s Cup semi-final win at Valencia.

Suarez volleyed in just before halftime but was correctly ruled offside, with the Uruguayan ranting furiously at the assistant referee in frustration.

Towering defender Mina came close with two headers, one stopped by Guaita and another which flew inches past the post, as Barcelona failed to break down the visitors.

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???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aGetafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aGetafe</a>, en images. Plus de photos ???? <a href="https://t.co/BWonYADbxg">https://t.co/BWonYADbxg</a> ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/LNPwkTkEyq">pic.twitter.com/LNPwkTkEyq</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) <a href="https://twitter.com/fcbarcelona_fra/status/962778015737499649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">11 February 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

With this draw, the Catalans are seven points clear at the top of the table

La Liga leaders Barcelona failed to break down Getafe in a dull 0-0 league draw on Sunday (February 11), leaving the Catalans seven points clear at the top of the table. Philippe Coutinho came close with a long-range effort which was tipped wide by Vicente Guaita, with the Getafe goalkeeper also blocking a Yerry Mina header and a late effort from Luis Suarez. Barca talisman Lionel Messi was below his best and off-target with various set-pieces, while Ousmane Dembele returned from injury but could not help from the Nou Camp bench. After second-placed Atletico Madrid won at Malaga on Saturday, Barca's draw means Diego Simeone's side have eaten into their lead by two points. ???? Le Barça, leader invaincu de @LaLiga après 23 journées, possède désormais 7 points d'avance sur l'Atlético de Madrid, 16 sur Valence et 17 sur le Real Madrid #ForçaBarça ???????? pic.twitter.com/3TjxGc31MI — FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) 11 February 2018 × Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde was forced to play fullback Lucas Digne in the center of defense, alongside January signing Mina, making his full debut, due to injuries to Gerard Pique and Thomas Vermaelen, and Samuel Umtiti's suspension. However, the makeshift pairing was relatively solid, with Getafe creating few chances, the best of which saw Mina block Angel Rodriguez's shot after the forward broke through. Barcelona failed to record a shot on target in the first half, something which has not happened since 2012, as they showed signs of tiredness after Thursday's King's Cup semi-final win at Valencia. Suarez volleyed in just before halftime but was correctly ruled offside, with the Uruguayan ranting furiously at the assistant referee in frustration. Towering defender Mina came close with two headers, one stopped by Guaita and another which flew inches past the post, as Barcelona failed to break down the visitors. ???? #BarçaGetafe, en images. Plus de photos ???? https://t.co/BWonYADbxg ???????? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/LNPwkTkEyq — FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) 11 February 2018 ×

Goalless draw with Getafe FC frustrates Catalans

FC Barcelona is pursuing their dream run as they have revived from a terrible season to sit on top of the Spanish league table and currently they appear to be on of the strongest squads.

They have entered the finals of Copa Del Rey and will play against Sevilla FC.

Recently, the club signed 25-year-old Philippe Coutinho one of the costliest winter transfer to build up their squad.

Phill marked his opener in the second leg of the semi-final of Copa Del Rey to give his team an unescapable lead against Valencia.

With Coutinho&#39;s arrival, Messi and team overcame a bitter experience of losing his Brazil teammate Neymar last summer to Qatar-backed Paris Saint-Germain for a world record 222 million euros to some extent.

But now another blow is likely to happen as Catalan striker Luis Suarez has made up his mind to move to Chelsea, this move will double his salary.

If reports were to believed Luis Suarez said to Messi, &quot;They double my salary.&quot;

Saurez and Messi are very close and they share an unbreakable bond on and off the field. If there is a player that Leo Messi does not want to lose sight is Luis Suarez.

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Who&#39;s getting ready for tonight&#39;s clash? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/barcavalencia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#barcavalencia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/suarez?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#suarez</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/goal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#goal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CopaDelRey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CopaDelRey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FORCABARCA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FORCABARCA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaLigaSantander?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaLigaSantander</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SemiFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SemiFinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/4MLqHFNbw7">pic.twitter.com/4MLqHFNbw7</a>
&mdash; MySoccerHub (@MySoccerHub) <a href="https://twitter.com/MySoccerHub/status/961640816476377089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez look on during the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg match between FC Barcelona and Valencia CF at Camp Nou. <a href="https://t.co/mnwt9Pm6RC">pic.twitter.com/mnwt9Pm6RC</a>
&mdash; Leo Messi ???? (@WeAreMessi) <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreMessi/status/959286770905972738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Messi and Suarez <a href="https://t.co/g8WiPLoQJS">pic.twitter.com/g8WiPLoQJS</a>
&mdash; ????????&zwj;♀️????&hearts;️ (@forca_fcb) <a href="https://twitter.com/forca_fcb/status/959823590203052032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Currently, the Stamford Bridge club is having a bad season under Antonio Conte. Although, they won Premier League last year but this season they have not been able to collect as a team.

As reported by diarioGOL a Spanish sports related website, Conte&#39;s future is not certain at the club and there are rumours that Former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique might take over his place and if so happens then Enrique will raise his bid for Suarez to sign him this summer.

Camp Nou is concentrating on new signings and recently Coutinho and Yerry Mina were included in the squad but Suarez&#39;s departure will definitely impact the club negatively.

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???? | Luis Suarez&#39;s goal against Alaves made him only the fifth player in La Liga history to score in 8 consecutive La Liga games! 
 
Messi was the last player in La Liga to achieve this feat, back in 2012. 
 
El Pistolero! <a href="https://t.co/bISkmvM7ad">pic.twitter.com/bISkmvM7ad</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@BarcaUniversal) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarcaUniversal/status/958610804139483136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Luis Suarez has made up his mind to move to Chelsea, this move will double his salary though but will impact Camp Nou negatively

FC Barcelona is pursuing their dream run as they have revived from a terrible season to sit on top of the Spanish league table and currently they appear to be on of the strongest squads. They have entered the finals of Copa Del Rey and will play against Sevilla FC. Recently, the club signed 25-year-old Philippe Coutinho one of the costliest winter transfer to build up their squad. Phill marked his opener in the second leg of the semi-final of Copa Del Rey to give his team an unescapable lead against Valencia. With Coutinho's arrival, Messi and team overcame a bitter experience of losing his Brazil teammate Neymar last summer to Qatar-backed Paris Saint-Germain for a world record 222 million euros to some extent. But now another blow is likely to happen as Catalan striker Luis Suarez has made up his mind to move to Chelsea, this move will double his salary. If reports were to believed Luis Suarez said to Messi, "They double my salary." Saurez and Messi are very close and they share an unbreakable bond on and off the field. If there is a player that Leo Messi does not want to lose sight is Luis Suarez. Who's getting ready for tonight's clash? #barcavalencia #messi #suarez #goal #CopaDelRey #FORCABARCA #LaLigaSantander #kings #SemiFinal pic.twitter.com/4MLqHFNbw7 — MySoccerHub (@MySoccerHub) February 8, 2018 × Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez look on during the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg match between FC Barcelona and Valencia CF at Camp Nou. pic.twitter.com/mnwt9Pm6RC — Leo Messi ???? (@WeAreMessi) February 2, 2018 × Messi and Suarez pic.twitter.com/g8WiPLoQJS — ????????‍♀️????♥️ (@forca_fcb) February 3, 2018 × Currently, the Stamford Bridge club is having a bad season under Antonio Conte. Although, they won Premier League last year but this season they have not been able to collect as a team. As reported by diarioGOL a Spanish sports related website, Conte's future is not certain at the club and there are rumours that Former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique might take over his place and if so happens then Enrique will raise his bid for Suarez to sign him this summer. Camp Nou is concentrating on new signings and recently Coutinho and Yerry Mina were included in the squad but Suarez's departure will definitely impact the club negatively. ???? | Luis Suarez's goal against Alaves made him only the fifth player in La Liga history to score in 8 consecutive La Liga games! Messi was the last player in La Liga to achieve this feat, back in 2012. El Pistolero! pic.twitter.com/bISkmvM7ad — FC Barcelona (@BarcaUniversal) January 31, 2018 ×

Messi's best buddy might leave Barca in summers

Barcelona entered the finals of Copa Del Rey&nbsp;after defeating Valencia in the second leg of semi-finals on Thursday at Mestalla.

Philippe Coutinho scored his first goal for the team and&nbsp;opened his account for Barcelona.

The Brazilian super start made an impact by netting the ball in the 47th minute of the game, just within 4 minutes after his introduction to the game.

Phil teamed up with his former Liverpool buddy Luis Suarez and converted a excellent cross to put the holders 1-0 up and after that Ivan Rakitic scored in the 87th minute to take an unescapable lead to enter the finals of Copa Del Rey with a high.

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????⚽ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CopaBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CopaBar&ccedil;a</a> 
???? [Valencia v Bar&ccedil;a] 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/8zebzrThhI">pic.twitter.com/8zebzrThhI</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/961747765977075713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;For me it is my first final, so it is a very special moment,&quot; Coutinho told Spanish TV station Gol.

&quot;I am very happy. I had been searching for this goal in my first few matches. Today I got it and it helped the team get through to the final,&quot; he added.

Earlier, Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde had opted for Andre Gomes instead of Coutinho but amid the game the coach&nbsp;replaced ineffective Gomes in the second half with the 160 million-euro worth Coutinho.

Winners of the trophy in each of the last three campaigns, the Catalans will face Sevilla in the final set for the weekend of April 21 and 22 as Sevilla beat Leganes 2-0 on Wednesday to go through 3-1 on aggregate.

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???? Coutinho: &quot;I feel happy to have scored my first goal for Bar&ccedil;a and have helped the team get to the final. It&#39;s a special moment&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CopaBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CopaBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/5Ua0ZvDxGb">pic.twitter.com/5Ua0ZvDxGb</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/961737158347427840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"For me it is my first final, so it is a very special moment," said Coutinho after the match

Barcelona entered the finals of Copa Del Rey after defeating Valencia in the second leg of semi-finals on Thursday at Mestalla. Philippe Coutinho scored his first goal for the team and opened his account for Barcelona. The Brazilian super start made an impact by netting the ball in the 47th minute of the game, just within 4 minutes after his introduction to the game. Phil teamed up with his former Liverpool buddy Luis Suarez and converted a excellent cross to put the holders 1-0 up and after that Ivan Rakitic scored in the 87th minute to take an unescapable lead to enter the finals of Copa Del Rey with a high. ????⚽ #CopaBarça ???? [Valencia v Barça] ???????? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/8zebzrThhI — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 8, 2018 × "For me it is my first final, so it is a very special moment," Coutinho told Spanish TV station Gol. "I am very happy. I had been searching for this goal in my first few matches. Today I got it and it helped the team get through to the final," he added. Earlier, Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde had opted for Andre Gomes instead of Coutinho but amid the game the coach replaced ineffective Gomes in the second half with the 160 million-euro worth Coutinho. Winners of the trophy in each of the last three campaigns, the Catalans will face Sevilla in the final set for the weekend of April 21 and 22 as Sevilla beat Leganes 2-0 on Wednesday to go through 3-1 on aggregate. ???? Coutinho: "I feel happy to have scored my first goal for Barça and have helped the team get to the final. It's a special moment" #CopaBarça pic.twitter.com/5Ua0ZvDxGb — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 8, 2018 ×

Barcelona enters Copa del Rey final, Coutinho scores opener

Manchester United forward Alexis Sanchez pleaded guilty to two counts of tax fraud dating from when he played for Spanish team Barcelona and accepted a 16-month suspended jail sentence, his agent Fernando Felicevich said on Wednesday.

In a statement issued by the Barcelona prosecutor and seen by Reuters, Sanchez was accused of defrauding the Spanish state of a combined 983,000 euros ($1.2 million) in image rights in 2012 and 2013 by using a shell company in Malta and omitting the earnings from tax returns.

The Chilean was given a suspended sentence of eight months for each of those years and fines of 353,000 euros and 237,000 euros respectively.

Spanish law is such that any sentence under two years for a non-violent crime rarely requires a defendant without previous convictions to serve jail time.

Sanchez posted on social media a statement from Felicevich which criticised Spain&#39;s authorities for changing their criteria on tax returns and using the media to publicly shame players.

&quot;Despite proving Alexis did not commit any crime, we felt obliged, on the recommendation of our advisers, to accept the unfair pact offered to us to alleviate the emotional, personal and financial stress that comes from dealing with long and tedious court cases...&quot; the statement said.

&quot;Seeing the huge ordeals that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi etc have been put through, we came to the conclusion that it was best to accept this unfair deal so that we can move on and stop being the object of media and political pressure.&quot;

A spokesperson for Spain&#39;s tax agency said it could not comment on individual cases but that it uses the same criteria and measures for each taxpayer.

Sanchez, who joined United last month from Arsenal, is the latest in a long line of La Liga players past and present, including Ronaldo, Messi, Marcelo, Pepe and Javier Mascherano to face judicial process for allegedly defrauding the Spanish state.

Sanchez moved to Barcelona from Italian side Udinese in 2011 and joined Arsenal three years later.

Sanchez posted on social media a statement from Felicevich which criticised Spain's authorities for changing their criteria on tax returns and using the media to publicly shame players.

Manchester United forward Alexis Sanchez pleaded guilty to two counts of tax fraud dating from when he played for Spanish team Barcelona and accepted a 16-month suspended jail sentence, his agent Fernando Felicevich said on Wednesday. In a statement issued by the Barcelona prosecutor and seen by Reuters, Sanchez was accused of defrauding the Spanish state of a combined 983,000 euros ($1.2 million) in image rights in 2012 and 2013 by using a shell company in Malta and omitting the earnings from tax returns. The Chilean was given a suspended sentence of eight months for each of those years and fines of 353,000 euros and 237,000 euros respectively. Spanish law is such that any sentence under two years for a non-violent crime rarely requires a defendant without previous convictions to serve jail time. Sanchez posted on social media a statement from Felicevich which criticised Spain's authorities for changing their criteria on tax returns and using the media to publicly shame players. "Despite proving Alexis did not commit any crime, we felt obliged, on the recommendation of our advisers, to accept the unfair pact offered to us to alleviate the emotional, personal and financial stress that comes from dealing with long and tedious court cases..." the statement said. "Seeing the huge ordeals that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi etc have been put through, we came to the conclusion that it was best to accept this unfair deal so that we can move on and stop being the object of media and political pressure." A spokesperson for Spain's tax agency said it could not comment on individual cases but that it uses the same criteria and measures for each taxpayer. Sanchez, who joined United last month from Arsenal, is the latest in a long line of La Liga players past and present, including Ronaldo, Messi, Marcelo, Pepe and Javier Mascherano to face judicial process for allegedly defrauding the Spanish state. Sanchez moved to Barcelona from Italian side Udinese in 2011 and joined Arsenal three years later.

Football: Sanchez accepts deal to avoid prison over tax fraud

Gerard Pique headed home a late equaliser for Barcelona against Catalan rivals Espanyol to earn his side a 1-1 draw in Cornella and maintain their unbeaten La Liga record on Sunday.

The defender whistled throughout after making provocative comments which upset Espanyol fans after Barcelona knocked their rivals out of the King&#39;s Cup in January, buried Lionel Messi&#39;s free kick.

Ernesto Valverde had started the Argentine on the bench as he rotated his side but threw Messi on in the second half as Barcelona struggled to break down a stubborn Espanyol on a waterlogged pitch in driving rain.

Gerard Moreno headed home Sergio Garcia&#39;s inch-perfect cross in the 66th minute to give Espanyol hope of repeating their King&#39;s Cup first-leg win over Barcelona but Pique had the final say to move his side provisionally 12 points clear at the top of the table.

Barcelona has now gone a club record 22 league games unbeaten, surpassing the total of 21 they managed under Pep Guardiola in the 2009-10 season.

&quot;We were not able to take the three points but the conditions weren&#39;t the best,&quot; Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta told beIN Sports.

&quot;It was an entertaining derby. I wouldn&#39;t say the pitch affected us too much, we adapted well.

&quot;There were waterlogged zones but we made a great effort and came back from 1-0 down.&quot;

Espanyol saw off their arch-rivals by one goal in the first leg of the King&#39;s Cup quarter-final but could not repeat the trick here, with the visitors fighting back as they did in the second part of the cup tie.

After eliminating Espanyol Pique mocked them, saying that following their move to a new stadium in 2009 they were now a team from Cornella, on the outskirts of Barcelona, rather than from the city itself. Espanyol later reported his comments to Spanish football&#39;s anti-violence committee.

However, Pique was the winner this time, with his late goal frustrating the hosts in their bid to climb the table and move out of danger.

&nbsp;

Gerard Pique salvaged a 1-1 draw for La Liga leaders Barcelona at city rivals Espanyol, keeping their bid for an unbeaten campaign on track

Gerard Pique headed home a late equaliser for Barcelona against Catalan rivals Espanyol to earn his side a 1-1 draw in Cornella and maintain their unbeaten La Liga record on Sunday. The defender whistled throughout after making provocative comments which upset Espanyol fans after Barcelona knocked their rivals out of the King's Cup in January, buried Lionel Messi's free kick. Ernesto Valverde had started the Argentine on the bench as he rotated his side but threw Messi on in the second half as Barcelona struggled to break down a stubborn Espanyol on a waterlogged pitch in driving rain. Gerard Moreno headed home Sergio Garcia's inch-perfect cross in the 66th minute to give Espanyol hope of repeating their King's Cup first-leg win over Barcelona but Pique had the final say to move his side provisionally 12 points clear at the top of the table. Barcelona has now gone a club record 22 league games unbeaten, surpassing the total of 21 they managed under Pep Guardiola in the 2009-10 season. "We were not able to take the three points but the conditions weren't the best," Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta told beIN Sports. "It was an entertaining derby. I wouldn't say the pitch affected us too much, we adapted well. "There were waterlogged zones but we made a great effort and came back from 1-0 down." Espanyol saw off their arch-rivals by one goal in the first leg of the King's Cup quarter-final but could not repeat the trick here, with the visitors fighting back as they did in the second part of the cup tie. After eliminating Espanyol Pique mocked them, saying that following their move to a new stadium in 2009 they were now a team from Cornella, on the outskirts of Barcelona, rather than from the city itself. Espanyol later reported his comments to Spanish football's anti-violence committee. However, Pique was the winner this time, with his late goal frustrating the hosts in their bid to climb the table and move out of danger.

LaLiga: Barcelona continues unbeaten run

Neymar played &quot;cat-and-mouse&quot; with Barcelona during the close-season before his move to Paris St Germain, Barcelona vice-president Jordi Mestre has said.

PSG paid 222 million euros ($277 million) to trigger the buyout clause in the Brazil forward&#39;s Barcelona contract last August, making him the most expensive signing in soccer history.

Barcelona had believed Neymar was going to stay at the club, with Mestre stating he was 200 percent sure the Brazilian would be at the Nou Camp this season.

&quot;What hurt me the most was the way it happened,&quot; Mestre told newspaper Diario Sport in an interview.

&quot;We were all on tour talking with him and his father, and they were not transparent.

&quot;If he came to us and said, I want to go, like Cesc (Fabregas), Pedro, Alexis (Sanchez), and (Javier) Mascherano did, we would have reached an agreement. What you can&#39;t do is rock the boat.

&quot;He played cat-and-mouse with us. It arrived at a point where we saw where things were going so we told him we would not pay his contract renewal loyalty fee.&quot;

Neymar and his representatives did not respond to a request for comment.

Neymar renewed his deal with Barcelona in July 2016, which meant he was owed a 26-million-euros renewal bonus.

Barcelona did not pay it and deposited the money with a notary. FIFA, world soccer&#39;s governing body, is investigating an official complaint from the forward regarding the matter.

Mestre said Neymar&#39;s behaviour caused inflation in the transfer market.

&quot;He told us nothing. If he had done PSG would have been able to buy him for less money and it would have cost us less to sign players too,&quot; added the Barcelona executive.

&quot;What Neymar&#39;s behaviour created was the market inflation. We would have saved a lot of money and a lot of media noise.&quot;

Neymar renewed his deal with Barcelona in July 2016, which meant he was owed a 26-million-euros renewal bonus.

Neymar played "cat-and-mouse" with Barcelona during the close-season before his move to Paris St Germain, Barcelona vice-president Jordi Mestre has said. PSG paid 222 million euros ($277 million) to trigger the buyout clause in the Brazil forward's Barcelona contract last August, making him the most expensive signing in soccer history. Barcelona had believed Neymar was going to stay at the club, with Mestre stating he was 200 percent sure the Brazilian would be at the Nou Camp this season. "What hurt me the most was the way it happened," Mestre told newspaper Diario Sport in an interview. "We were all on tour talking with him and his father, and they were not transparent. "If he came to us and said, I want to go, like Cesc (Fabregas), Pedro, Alexis (Sanchez), and (Javier) Mascherano did, we would have reached an agreement. What you can't do is rock the boat. "He played cat-and-mouse with us. It arrived at a point where we saw where things were going so we told him we would not pay his contract renewal loyalty fee." Neymar and his representatives did not respond to a request for comment. Neymar renewed his deal with Barcelona in July 2016, which meant he was owed a 26-million-euros renewal bonus. Barcelona did not pay it and deposited the money with a notary. FIFA, world soccer's governing body, is investigating an official complaint from the forward regarding the matter. Mestre said Neymar's behaviour caused inflation in the transfer market. "He told us nothing. If he had done PSG would have been able to buy him for less money and it would have cost us less to sign players too," added the Barcelona executive. "What Neymar's behaviour created was the market inflation. We would have saved a lot of money and a lot of media noise."

Football: Neymar played 'cat-and-mouse' with Barca, says club vice-president

Gerard Pique has signed a new contract&nbsp;with FC Barcelona on Monday.

The defender and the club agreed to extend Pique&#39;s contract until 2022 when he will turn 35-year-old.

&quot;Since I have arrived here, I can say every year I have won a title, and that we have always competed until the end, and that&#39;s the most important thing,&quot; said the Spaniard.

&quot;In the future, I hope we remain competitive until I retire,&quot; he added.

&quot;I just don&rsquo;t have the motivation to pull on another jersey.

&quot;I&rsquo;m still playing football because I play for Barca. If I was playing for another club the likelihood is that I would quit.&quot;

He has an emotional&nbsp;connect with the region and has taken active participation in Catalonia&#39;s independence movement.

Pique joined La Masia in 1997 at the age of 10-year-old but moved to Old Trafford in 2004.

He rejoined his boyhood club in 2008.

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???????????? The best of <a href="https://twitter.com/3gerardpique?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@3gerardpique</a>&#39;s contract renewal... 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/M9nCUW6We9">https://t.co/M9nCUW6We9</a> ⬅️ 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Piqu%C3%A92022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Piqu&eacute;2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/sQub2tzwGZ">pic.twitter.com/sQub2tzwGZ</a>
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Since then, he has won three Champion Leagues titles, six La Liga, five Copa del Rey, five Spanish Supercopas, two European Supercups, and three Club World Cups in Barcelona.

The defender, who will turn 31-year-old on Friday (2nd February), also won 2010 World Cup, and 2012 European Championship with Spain.

&nbsp;

The defender and the club agreed to extend Pique's contract until 2022

Gerard Pique has signed a new contract with FC Barcelona on Monday. The defender and the club agreed to extend Pique's contract until 2022 when he will turn 35-year-old. "Since I have arrived here, I can say every year I have won a title, and that we have always competed until the end, and that's the most important thing," said the Spaniard. "In the future, I hope we remain competitive until I retire," he added. "I just don’t have the motivation to pull on another jersey. "I’m still playing football because I play for Barca. If I was playing for another club the likelihood is that I would quit." He has an emotional connect with the region and has taken active participation in Catalonia's independence movement. Pique joined La Masia in 1997 at the age of 10-year-old but moved to Old Trafford in 2004. He rejoined his boyhood club in 2008. ???????????? The best of @3gerardpique's contract renewal... ➡️ https://t.co/M9nCUW6We9 ⬅️ ???????? #Piqué2022 pic.twitter.com/sQub2tzwGZ — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 30, 2018 × Since then, he has won three Champion Leagues titles, six La Liga, five Copa del Rey, five Spanish Supercopas, two European Supercups, and three Club World Cups in Barcelona. The defender, who will turn 31-year-old on Friday (2nd February), also won 2010 World Cup, and 2012 European Championship with Spain.

Gerard Pique extends contract until 2022

Barcelona escaped a scare on Philippe Coutinho&#39;s first start as Lionel Messi struck with a trademark free-kick to drag the La Liga leaders back from a goal down to beat Alaves 2-1 and restore their 11-point lead at the top.

Messi whipped home a beautiful free-kick six minutes from the end to down resilient Alaves, who are just two points from the drop zone in 17th despite John Guidetti silencing the Camp Nou with a shock breakaway opener in the 23rd minute.

Luis Suarez had broken the away side&#39;s tough resistance with a sweet volley from Andres Iniesta&#39;s cross 18 minutes from the end, setting the stage for Messi&#39;s dramatic and stylish winner.

The Argentine&#39;s strike ensures that Barca stays unbeaten in the league, and keeps Atletico Madrid 11 points back despite their 3-0 hammering of Las Palmas earlier.

With Diego Costa out injured, Atletico took a while to get going and had to wait until the 61st minute to open the scoring, Antoine Griezmann latching on to Juanfran&#39;s fine ball down the right flank before dinking neatly over Las Palmas stopper Leandro Chichizola.

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&quot;The first half was not very good but the coach gave us a good talking to at half-time, and we responded well,&quot; said Griezmann, whose goal was just his seventh in the league this season but his fourth in league and cup since the turn of the year.

&quot;I feel good, I&#39;ve started the year well and I hope to continue the goals and assists.&quot;

Frenchman Griezmann started the move that led to Atletico&#39;s second, intercepting a loose pass and setting Angel Correa free to scamper down the pitch and feed Fernando Torres, who shifted the ball onto his right foot and lashed home just his second goal of the season, the 600th scored by Atletico in all competitions during Diego Simeone&#39;s seven-year reign as coach.

An easy tap-in from Thomas Partey after great work from Yannick Carrasco two minutes from time completed the second-half rout of a desperate Las Palmas, who remain second from bottom and five points from safety.

Sevilla was denied the chance to close within three points of Real Madrid and the Champions League places after Angel Rodriguez scored a controversial equaliser deep in stoppage time to snatch a 1-1 draw for Getafe at the Roman Sanchez Pizjaun stadium.

Luis Muriel had slid in a 72nd-minute for hosts but with seconds to spare Juan Cala challenged Sevilla keeper Sergio Rico for a hopeful high ball, and with the Sevilla fans and players clamouring for a free-kick, Angel lashed home the leveller and celebrated under a hail of whistles and boos.

&nbsp;

The Argentine's strike ensures that Barca stays unbeaten in the league, and keeps Atletico Madrid 11 points back despite

Barcelona escaped a scare on Philippe Coutinho's first start as Lionel Messi struck with a trademark free-kick to drag the La Liga leaders back from a goal down to beat Alaves 2-1 and restore their 11-point lead at the top. Messi whipped home a beautiful free-kick six minutes from the end to down resilient Alaves, who are just two points from the drop zone in 17th despite John Guidetti silencing the Camp Nou with a shock breakaway opener in the 23rd minute. Luis Suarez had broken the away side's tough resistance with a sweet volley from Andres Iniesta's cross 18 minutes from the end, setting the stage for Messi's dramatic and stylish winner. The Argentine's strike ensures that Barca stays unbeaten in the league, and keeps Atletico Madrid 11 points back despite their 3-0 hammering of Las Palmas earlier. With Diego Costa out injured, Atletico took a while to get going and had to wait until the 61st minute to open the scoring, Antoine Griezmann latching on to Juanfran's fine ball down the right flank before dinking neatly over Las Palmas stopper Leandro Chichizola. ???? FORÇA BARÇA! ????❤️ pic.twitter.com/BUvCswTmzM — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 28, 2018 × "The first half was not very good but the coach gave us a good talking to at half-time, and we responded well," said Griezmann, whose goal was just his seventh in the league this season but his fourth in league and cup since the turn of the year. "I feel good, I've started the year well and I hope to continue the goals and assists." Frenchman Griezmann started the move that led to Atletico's second, intercepting a loose pass and setting Angel Correa free to scamper down the pitch and feed Fernando Torres, who shifted the ball onto his right foot and lashed home just his second goal of the season, the 600th scored by Atletico in all competitions during Diego Simeone's seven-year reign as coach. An easy tap-in from Thomas Partey after great work from Yannick Carrasco two minutes from time completed the second-half rout of a desperate Las Palmas, who remain second from bottom and five points from safety. Sevilla was denied the chance to close within three points of Real Madrid and the Champions League places after Angel Rodriguez scored a controversial equaliser deep in stoppage time to snatch a 1-1 draw for Getafe at the Roman Sanchez Pizjaun stadium. Luis Muriel had slid in a 72nd-minute for hosts but with seconds to spare Juan Cala challenged Sevilla keeper Sergio Rico for a hopeful high ball, and with the Sevilla fans and players clamouring for a free-kick, Angel lashed home the leveller and celebrated under a hail of whistles and boos.

LaLiga: Messi strikes late to defeat Alaves

Brazilian forward Ronaldinho has retired from professional football at the age of 37, according to his&nbsp;agent&nbsp;and&nbsp;brother&nbsp;Roberto Assis on Tuesday (16th January).

His brother Roberto Assis said in a column for Brazil media outlet O Globo and revealed plans for farewell tribute events following the 2018 World Cup.

&ldquo;He has stopped, it is ended,&rdquo; Assis said. &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s do something pretty big and nice after the Russia World Cup, probably in August.&quot;

&quot;We will do various events in Brazil, Europe and Asia and, of course, we are arranging something with the Brazilian team as well,&rdquo; he added.

Ronaldinho&#39;s career began with Gremio in Porto Alegre, his hometown, before he emerged as a star with French giants PSG.

He along with Ronaldo and Rivaldo led the Brazilian team to victory in 2002 World Cup.

His performance during the World Cup drew interest from Spanish giant, Barcelona and he finally joined the club in 2003.

He spent 5 years at Camp Nou and won&nbsp;the 2006 Champions League and was awarded the 2005 Ballon d&rsquo;Or.

After a period of huge success, he faced disappointment. Poor 2006 World Cup and missing out on selection in 2010.

He&nbsp;reportedly lost focus at Barcelona and was sold to Milan but he proved his abilities there and won the Serie A title in 2010/11.

He played his last match in 2015 during a brief stint with Fluminense.

Brazilian forward Ronaldinho has retired from professional football his brother Roberto Assis confirmed on Tuesday.

Brazilian forward Ronaldinho has retired from professional football at the age of 37, according to his agent and brother Roberto Assis on Tuesday (16th January). His brother Roberto Assis said in a column for Brazil media outlet O Globo and revealed plans for farewell tribute events following the 2018 World Cup. “He has stopped, it is ended,” Assis said. “Let’s do something pretty big and nice after the Russia World Cup, probably in August." "We will do various events in Brazil, Europe and Asia and, of course, we are arranging something with the Brazilian team as well,” he added. Ronaldinho's career began with Gremio in Porto Alegre, his hometown, before he emerged as a star with French giants PSG. He along with Ronaldo and Rivaldo led the Brazilian team to victory in 2002 World Cup. His performance during the World Cup drew interest from Spanish giant, Barcelona and he finally joined the club in 2003. He spent 5 years at Camp Nou and won the 2006 Champions League and was awarded the 2005 Ballon d’Or. After a period of huge success, he faced disappointment. Poor 2006 World Cup and missing out on selection in 2010. He reportedly lost focus at Barcelona and was sold to Milan but he proved his abilities there and won the Serie A title in 2010/11. He played his last match in 2015 during a brief stint with Fluminense.

Brazilian star Ronaldinho retires from professional football at 37

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Wednesday confirmed that he has signed a contract extension which will keep him at the European champions until 2020.

&quot;It&#39;s signed,&quot; said the French star after his side drew 2-2 with Numancia to progress to the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey 5-2 on aggregate.

After a dream start at Real, with eight trophies out of a possible 10, Zidane has endured a tough season with his side 16 points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race.

And the 45-year-old cautioned: &quot;I&#39;m enjoying what I do every day, because that&#39;s the way it is. I can&#39;t imagine myself as a coach in two, three years, because things are not like that. I know how it goes, nothing more, even with this contract it does not change anything.&quot;

On Wednesday, Real fielded an almost unrecognisable team and struggled into the Copa del Rey last-eight.

Zidane could afford to rest his superstars with one eye on La Liga and the Champions League last 16 with a clash against Paris Saint-Germain next month.

However, they were far from convincing at the Bernabeu. Lucas Vazquez scored both of Real&#39;s goals after the 11th and 59th minutes.

But on both occasions, their modest visitors fought back thanks to a brace from Guillermo on the stroke of half-time and then after 82 minutes.

Numancia ended the game with 10 men after captain Dani Calvo was red-carded in the dying moments.

Leganes, a modest club from the Madrid suburbs, reached the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey for the first time in their 89-year existence.

Despite losing 2-1 at Villarreal, who are currently sixth in La Liga, Leganes progressed on away goals having won the first leg 1-0. Moroccan international Nabil El Zhar scored the crucial away goal for mid-table Leganes on the half-hour mark.

In the night&#39;s other early second leg tie, last season&#39;s runners-up Alaves downed third division Formentera 2-0 for a 5-1 aggregate win.

On Thursday, three-time defending champions Barcelona host Celta Vigo with the two sides locked at 1-1.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde insisted that despite the high-profile capture of Philippe Coutinho, who can&#39;t play for around three weeks due to a thigh injury, his team&#39;s character will not change with the Brazilian&#39;s arrival.

&quot;The Barca model will stay the same,&quot; he said Wednesday.

&quot;The club always has the chance to go into the market to buy the great players. But at the same time, Barca will continue to nurture young players at the training centre to maintain the style and identity.

&quot;That&#39;s still the case today.&quot;

After a dream start at Real, with eight trophies out of a possible 10, Zidane has endured a tough season with his side 16 points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Wednesday confirmed that he has signed a contract extension which will keep him at the European champions until 2020. "It's signed," said the French star after his side drew 2-2 with Numancia to progress to the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey 5-2 on aggregate. After a dream start at Real, with eight trophies out of a possible 10, Zidane has endured a tough season with his side 16 points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race. And the 45-year-old cautioned: "I'm enjoying what I do every day, because that's the way it is. I can't imagine myself as a coach in two, three years, because things are not like that. I know how it goes, nothing more, even with this contract it does not change anything." On Wednesday, Real fielded an almost unrecognisable team and struggled into the Copa del Rey last-eight. Zidane could afford to rest his superstars with one eye on La Liga and the Champions League last 16 with a clash against Paris Saint-Germain next month. However, they were far from convincing at the Bernabeu. Lucas Vazquez scored both of Real's goals after the 11th and 59th minutes. But on both occasions, their modest visitors fought back thanks to a brace from Guillermo on the stroke of half-time and then after 82 minutes. Numancia ended the game with 10 men after captain Dani Calvo was red-carded in the dying moments. Leganes, a modest club from the Madrid suburbs, reached the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey for the first time in their 89-year existence. Despite losing 2-1 at Villarreal, who are currently sixth in La Liga, Leganes progressed on away goals having won the first leg 1-0. Moroccan international Nabil El Zhar scored the crucial away goal for mid-table Leganes on the half-hour mark. In the night's other early second leg tie, last season's runners-up Alaves downed third division Formentera 2-0 for a 5-1 aggregate win. On Thursday, three-time defending champions Barcelona host Celta Vigo with the two sides locked at 1-1. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde insisted that despite the high-profile capture of Philippe Coutinho, who can't play for around three weeks due to a thigh injury, his team's character will not change with the Brazilian's arrival. "The Barca model will stay the same," he said Wednesday. "The club always has the chance to go into the market to buy the great players. But at the same time, Barca will continue to nurture young players at the training centre to maintain the style and identity. "That's still the case today."

Zinedine Zidane pens new Real Madrid deal until 2020

Barcelona and Liverpool have agreed on a 5-year deal to allow Philippe Coutinho to move to FC Barcelona.

&quot;It&#39;s an honour for me, a great honour, but also a dream to be here,&quot; said Coutinho after he was officially unveiled as a Barca player.

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???? <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Coutinho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phil_Coutinho</a> meets some of his new Bar&ccedil;a team-mates! 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/DV5fL85ihu">pic.twitter.com/DV5fL85ihu</a>
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Coutinho has already had connections with the Barcelona line-up. The 25 year old has another Brazilian buddy in Barca, Paulinho, and&nbsp;has played with Luis Suarez for 18 months at Liverpool, about which Coutinho said, &quot;It&#39;s an honour to be able to play with him (Suarez) again.&quot;

&quot;He&#39;s helped me a lot, wrote to me a lot and explained to me about the club and city... He even visited a few houses for me! He&#39;s a very close friend&quot; said Coutinho.

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde had been eyeing Coutinho for some time, since Barca&#39;s the current legends -- Messi, Saurez and Iniesta -- are already in their 30&#39;s.

Valverde also predicted that Coutinho will fit comfortably into his star-studded team.

&quot;He has a very different role to play for the betterment of the team, he is not here to replace Neymar or Iniesta,&quot; Valverde&nbsp;said in a statement.

Valverde however&nbsp;added&nbsp;that it would be a challenge to find a position for Coutinho.

&quot;I have seen him play in various positions -- on the right, the left, in the middle, on the wings,&quot; said Valverde

Coutinho is likely to be used to give Iniesta some rest so that the captain can prepare for the Champions League as Barcelona seek to wrest the trophy back from bitter rivals Real Madrid.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/camp-nou-and-fans-welcome-coutinho-28899">Camp Nou, fans welcome Coutinho</a>

Barcelona made three bids for Coutinho last year, but Liverpool stood firm but finally, the deal has been cracked with an amount of 120 million euros.

Rio-born Coutinho scored 54 goals for Liverpool in all competitions, although he won no silverware during his five-year stay at Anfield.

Coutinho&nbsp;is likely to make his debut at home to Alaves on January 28.

&nbsp;

Coutinho is likely to be used to give captain Andre Iniesta a rest, keeping the veteran midfielder fresh for the Champions League

Barcelona and Liverpool have agreed on a 5-year deal to allow Philippe Coutinho to move to FC Barcelona. "It's an honour for me, a great honour, but also a dream to be here," said Coutinho after he was officially unveiled as a Barca player. ???? @Phil_Coutinho meets some of his new Barça team-mates! ???????? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/DV5fL85ihu — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 9, 2018 × Coutinho has already had connections with the Barcelona line-up. The 25 year old has another Brazilian buddy in Barca, Paulinho, and has played with Luis Suarez for 18 months at Liverpool, about which Coutinho said, "It's an honour to be able to play with him (Suarez) again." "He's helped me a lot, wrote to me a lot and explained to me about the club and city... He even visited a few houses for me! He's a very close friend" said Coutinho. Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde had been eyeing Coutinho for some time, since Barca's the current legends -- Messi, Saurez and Iniesta -- are already in their 30's. Valverde also predicted that Coutinho will fit comfortably into his star-studded team. "He has a very different role to play for the betterment of the team, he is not here to replace Neymar or Iniesta," Valverde said in a statement. Valverde however added that it would be a challenge to find a position for Coutinho. "I have seen him play in various positions -- on the right, the left, in the middle, on the wings," said Valverde Coutinho is likely to be used to give Iniesta some rest so that the captain can prepare for the Champions League as Barcelona seek to wrest the trophy back from bitter rivals Real Madrid. Also read: Camp Nou, fans welcome Coutinho Barcelona made three bids for Coutinho last year, but Liverpool stood firm but finally, the deal has been cracked with an amount of 120 million euros. Rio-born Coutinho scored 54 goals for Liverpool in all competitions, although he won no silverware during his five-year stay at Anfield. Coutinho is likely to make his debut at home to Alaves on January 28.

Barcelona coach: Coutinho good fit for team but will be challenge to find position for him

Philippe Coutinho is to be officially unveiled as a Barcelona player on Monday as he completes a 160-million-euro ($192 million) move the third richest in history that he described as &quot;a dream come true&quot;.

The 25-year-old former Liverpool playmaker will be officially presented to the world&#39;s media after Barca coach Ernesto Valverde predicted the Brazilian would comfortably fit into a team already containing global superstar Lionel Messi.

In a video message on Sunday showing Coutinho posing for photographers at the Camp Nou wearing a Barcelona jacket, he said: &quot;I want to play, win trophies and make the supporters happy. Those are my objectives.

&quot;Barca fans, I&#39;m here now. It&#39;s a dream come true!&quot;

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???? Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Coutinho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phil_Coutinho</a>&#39;s unveiling as a Bar&ccedil;a player - LIVE! 
???? <a href="https://t.co/WYp1O1DkYa">https://t.co/WYp1O1DkYa</a> ???? 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoutinhoDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoutinhoDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/OMQ0dNCNwI">pic.twitter.com/OMQ0dNCNwI</a>
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Coutinho has agreed to a deal through to 2023 and is looking forward to playing alongside Messi, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta.

He described them as well as club stalwarts Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets as &quot;idols&quot;.

Coutinho has already lined up alongside Suarez for 18 months at Liverpool before the Uruguayan made the same move to&nbsp;FC Barcelona in 2014.

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???? Fans are beginning to fill Camp Nou as they wait to see <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Coutinho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phil_Coutinho</a> in a Bar&ccedil;a shirt for the first time... ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoutinhoDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoutinhoDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/sigOrJtixF">pic.twitter.com/sigOrJtixF</a>
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&quot;Everybody knows about his quality. He has been playing at the highest level for years now and that is important,&quot; said Suarez.

&quot;Now we need to make sure he feels at home because we know that changing club is always difficult, but I think he is the type of player who will fit well into the team.&quot;

Valverde admitted that it would be a challenge shoehorning his new recruit into a squad already running away with the Spanish league title.

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???? Done deal! <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Coutinho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phil_Coutinho</a> 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoutinhoDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoutinhoDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/8djvhmytAO">pic.twitter.com/8djvhmytAO</a>
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&quot;Coutinho is a player who I think can bring a lot to us,&quot; said Valverde. &quot;He&#39;s an important signing.&quot;

&quot;I have seen him play in various positions -- on the right, the left, in the middle, on the wings. We will evaluate all of this... but, of course, I don&#39;t think he will play as a goalkeeper!&quot;&nbsp;

The timing of Barca&#39;s move for Coutinho has been questioned because he will not be able to play in the Champions League having already played in the competition for Liverpool this season.

But he is likely to be used to give 33-year-old Iniesta a rest, keeping the veteran midfielder fresh for the Champions League.

&nbsp;

Coutinho has agreed to a 5-year deal and is looking forward to playing alongside Messi, Andres Iniesta

Philippe Coutinho is to be officially unveiled as a Barcelona player on Monday as he completes a 160-million-euro ($192 million) move the third richest in history that he described as "a dream come true". The 25-year-old former Liverpool playmaker will be officially presented to the world's media after Barca coach Ernesto Valverde predicted the Brazilian would comfortably fit into a team already containing global superstar Lionel Messi. In a video message on Sunday showing Coutinho posing for photographers at the Camp Nou wearing a Barcelona jacket, he said: "I want to play, win trophies and make the supporters happy. Those are my objectives. "Barca fans, I'm here now. It's a dream come true!" ???? Watch @Phil_Coutinho's unveiling as a Barça player - LIVE! ???? https://t.co/WYp1O1DkYa ???? ???????? #CoutinhoDay pic.twitter.com/OMQ0dNCNwI — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 8, 2018 × Coutinho has agreed to a deal through to 2023 and is looking forward to playing alongside Messi, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta. He described them as well as club stalwarts Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets as "idols". Coutinho has already lined up alongside Suarez for 18 months at Liverpool before the Uruguayan made the same move to FC Barcelona in 2014. ???? Fans are beginning to fill Camp Nou as they wait to see @Phil_Coutinho in a Barça shirt for the first time... ???????? #CoutinhoDay pic.twitter.com/sigOrJtixF — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 8, 2018 × "Everybody knows about his quality. He has been playing at the highest level for years now and that is important," said Suarez. "Now we need to make sure he feels at home because we know that changing club is always difficult, but I think he is the type of player who will fit well into the team." Valverde admitted that it would be a challenge shoehorning his new recruit into a squad already running away with the Spanish league title. ???? Done deal! @Phil_Coutinho ???????? #CoutinhoDay pic.twitter.com/8djvhmytAO — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 8, 2018 × "Coutinho is a player who I think can bring a lot to us," said Valverde. "He's an important signing." "I have seen him play in various positions -- on the right, the left, in the middle, on the wings. We will evaluate all of this... but, of course, I don't think he will play as a goalkeeper!" The timing of Barca's move for Coutinho has been questioned because he will not be able to play in the Champions League having already played in the competition for Liverpool this season. But he is likely to be used to give 33-year-old Iniesta a rest, keeping the veteran midfielder fresh for the Champions League.

Camp Nou, fans welcome Coutinho

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