<p>Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said his team "gave away two points" to Valencia in a tense 1-1 draw on Sunday in La Liga.</p>

<p>The champions moved third, a point clear of Atletico Madrid, but trail Real Madrid by four and surprise leaders Girona by six, having played one game more than all three sides.</p>

<p>Atletico fell 2-0 at Athletic Bilbao earlier Saturday but the Catalans could not take full advantage in an entertaining clash on the east coast.</p>

<p>Joao Felix sent Barcelona ahead in the second half after a slick team move, but Hugo Guillamon's fine strike pegged them back.</p>

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<p>"We have to be much stronger in the opponent's box, the chances are so clear (and) we didn't win the game," Xavi told Movistar. "I think we gave away two points, because the team had a very good game... we take away a point that leaves us very unsatisfied."</p>

<p>Barcelona have won just one of their last four league matches, including being ripped apart by a rampant Girona last weekend at home.</p>

<p>They were further shaken by a midweek Champions League defeat by Belgian side Royal Antwerp, which created further questions over Xavi's management even though the Catalans were already through to the last 16.</p>

<p>In the subsequent days, club figures, including president Joan Laporta, showed him support, ahead of what Spanish media billed a 'final' at Valencia's rowdy Mestalla stadium.</p>

<p>"Anything that wasn't three points was a tough blow for us," Barca midfielder Pedri told Movistar. "We did a lot of things right but we didn't get the goal -- I think our play was a lot better than in the Girona game, where we weren't good."</p>

<p>The Spain international said the team were backing Xavi.</p>

<p>"We're with the coach, these aren't good moments for any of us... we have to be united to turn it around."</p>

<p>As in Barca's defeat by Girona, the game flowed from end-to-end.</p>

<p>Both goalkeepers were called into action before Felix sent Barca ahead early in the second half.</p>

<p>Frenkie de Jong played in Raphinha with a delightful pass and the Brazilian teed the ball up for the Portuguese forward to tap home.</p>

<p>Guillamon equalised in the 70th minute after Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo allowed a ball to bounce instead of clearing his lines.</p>

<p>The Spain midfielder found the top corner from the edge of the box to put Ruben Baraja's team level. Ferran Torres and Raphinha missed big chances in the final stages as Barca searched for a winner.</p>

<p>The draw takes Valencia 10th, with Baraja's side significantly more solid than last season when they battled relegation.</p>

<p>Leaders Girona host Alaves on Monday, after Real Madrid welcome Villarreal on Sunday.</p>


Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said his team "gave away two points" to Valencia in a tense 1-1 draw on Sunday in La Liga. The champions moved third, a point clear of Atletico Madrid, but trail Real Madrid by four and surprise leaders Girona by six, having played one game more than all three sides.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said his team "gave away two points" to Valencia in a tense 1-1 draw on Sunday in La Liga. The champions moved third, a point clear of Atletico Madrid, but trail Real Madrid by four and surprise leaders Girona by six, having played one game more than all three sides. Atletico fell 2-0 at Athletic Bilbao earlier Saturday but the Catalans could not take full advantage in an entertaining clash on the east coast. Joao Felix sent Barcelona ahead in the second half after a slick team move, but Hugo Guillamon's fine strike pegged them back. ALSO READ: Premier League: Man City squander lead vs Crystal Palace; Newcastle, Chelsea win "We have to be much stronger in the opponent's box, the chances are so clear (and) we didn't win the game," Xavi told Movistar. "I think we gave away two points, because the team had a very good game... we take away a point that leaves us very unsatisfied." Barcelona have won just one of their last four league matches, including being ripped apart by a rampant Girona last weekend at home. They were further shaken by a midweek Champions League defeat by Belgian side Royal Antwerp, which created further questions over Xavi's management even though the Catalans were already through to the last 16. In the subsequent days, club figures, including president Joan Laporta, showed him support, ahead of what Spanish media billed a 'final' at Valencia's rowdy Mestalla stadium. "Anything that wasn't three points was a tough blow for us," Barca midfielder Pedri told Movistar. "We did a lot of things right but we didn't get the goal -- I think our play was a lot better than in the Girona game, where we weren't good." The Spain international said the team were backing Xavi. "We're with the coach, these aren't good moments for any of us... we have to be united to turn it around." As in Barca's defeat by Girona, the game flowed from end-to-end. Both goalkeepers were called into action before Felix sent Barca ahead early in the second half. Frenkie de Jong played in Raphinha with a delightful pass and the Brazilian teed the ball up for the Portuguese forward to tap home. Guillamon equalised in the 70th minute after Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo allowed a ball to bounce instead of clearing his lines. The Spain midfielder found the top corner from the edge of the box to put Ruben Baraja's team level. Ferran Torres and Raphinha missed big chances in the final stages as Barca searched for a winner. The draw takes Valencia 10th, with Baraja's side significantly more solid than last season when they battled relegation. Leaders Girona host Alaves on Monday, after Real Madrid welcome Villarreal on Sunday.

La Liga: Barcelona drop two points at Valencia as Atletico suffer shock defeat against Bilbao

<p>Former England and Tottenham Hotspur manager Terry Venables, whose death at the age of 80 was announced on Sunday, was remembered fondly on Monday in Australia, where he served as head coach of the Socceroos for two years. Despite the most notable aspect of Venables's reign being the failure to qualify for the 1998 World Cup in a playoff against Iran, warm tributes were paid to the man who became known to one and all as "El Tel" after his stint at Barcelona.</p>

<p>With Crystal Palace, Queens Park Rangers, Spurs and the Catalan giants on his resume, it was a huge surprise when Venables was lured Down Under after England's semi-final exit from Euro 96.</p>

<p>"We had to pinch ourselves to think we had Terry Venables as coach, it was very surreal," former Australia midfielder Robbie Slater told Fox Sports News.</p>

<p>"He was a wonderful man, larger than life, almost like a rock star. As a person, I found him so endearing and so easy to like and I think his man-management skills were incredible. "He really took an interest in all the players and he loved his time with the Socceroos and he was devastated by the loss to Iran."</p>

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<p>Under Venables, Australia reached the final of the 1997 Confederations Cup, where they lost 6-0 to Brazil after hat-tricks from Ronaldo and Romario, and breached the top 30 of the FIFA rankings for the first time. The Holy Grail for the Socceroos, though, was getting to the World Cup finals and they looked on course to do just that until Iran scored two late goals in the second leg of their intercontinental playoff in late 1997.</p>

<p>Venables later said he had never felt as low as that night at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where 85,000 fans had gathered in the hope of watching Australia break their long World Cup finals drought. "Terry was not just a great person and character, he was a very special coach," his assistant with the Socceroos Les Scheinflug said in a Football Australia statement.</p>

<p>"We were incredibly lucky to have him at the helm of the Socceroos. Terry commenced our journey towards realising our ambition of returning to the World Cup stage (in 2006)." Ange Postecoglou, the Australian now managing Spurs, also acknowledged the influence Venables had on football Down Under after the Premier League club's game at Tottenham Stadium on Sunday. "Anyone who I've ever come across who has worked with him will say that he's by far the best coach, manager, tactician they've come across," Postecoglou told reporters.</p>


Former England and Tottenham Hotspur manager Terry Venables, whose death at the age of 80 was announced on Sunday, was remembered fondly on Monday in Australia, where he served as head coach of the Socceroos for two years.

Former England and Tottenham Hotspur manager Terry Venables, whose death at the age of 80 was announced on Sunday, was remembered fondly on Monday in Australia, where he served as head coach of the Socceroos for two years. Despite the most notable aspect of Venables's reign being the failure to qualify for the 1998 World Cup in a playoff against Iran, warm tributes were paid to the man who became known to one and all as "El Tel" after his stint at Barcelona. With Crystal Palace, Queens Park Rangers, Spurs and the Catalan giants on his resume, it was a huge surprise when Venables was lured Down Under after England's semi-final exit from Euro 96. "We had to pinch ourselves to think we had Terry Venables as coach, it was very surreal," former Australia midfielder Robbie Slater told Fox Sports News. "He was a wonderful man, larger than life, almost like a rock star. As a person, I found him so endearing and so easy to like and I think his man-management skills were incredible. "He really took an interest in all the players and he loved his time with the Socceroos and he was devastated by the loss to Iran." Also Read: Sri Lanka Sports minister Roshan Ranasinghe sacked following cricket board cleanup saga Under Venables, Australia reached the final of the 1997 Confederations Cup, where they lost 6-0 to Brazil after hat-tricks from Ronaldo and Romario, and breached the top 30 of the FIFA rankings for the first time. The Holy Grail for the Socceroos, though, was getting to the World Cup finals and they looked on course to do just that until Iran scored two late goals in the second leg of their intercontinental playoff in late 1997. Venables later said he had never felt as low as that night at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where 85,000 fans had gathered in the hope of watching Australia break their long World Cup finals drought. "Terry was not just a great person and character, he was a very special coach," his assistant with the Socceroos Les Scheinflug said in a Football Australia statement. "We were incredibly lucky to have him at the helm of the Socceroos. Terry commenced our journey towards realising our ambition of returning to the World Cup stage (in 2006)." Ange Postecoglou, the Australian now managing Spurs, also acknowledged the influence Venables had on football Down Under after the Premier League club's game at Tottenham Stadium on Sunday. "Anyone who I've ever come across who has worked with him will say that he's by far the best coach, manager, tactician they've come across," Postecoglou told reporters.

Tributes pour in from all across world for veteran manager Terry Venables

<p>Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez insisted on Saturday his club were in a dip but not falling into crisis and said president Joan Laporta had full confidence in his project. The Spanish champions have played poorly in recent weeks and fell to an embarrassing 1-0 defeat by Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday in Hamburg.</p>

<p>Despite the loss, Barcelona are still joint group leaders and expected to qualify for the knock-out phases, and are third in La Liga.</p>

<p>The Catalans lost at home to Real Madrid in the Clasico on October 28 and scraped a 1-0 win at Real Sociedad last weekend, despite a drab performance.</p>

<p>"I don't think this is (my worst moment) at all, my worst moment as a coach came last year," Xavi told a news conference, referring to his team's Champions League group stage elimination. "I have lived through terrible crises here, this doesn't go that far, it's a dip ... we haven't played well, we have to recover our game.</p>

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<p>"Getting that back is key -- as a coach, I feel good, this is nothing to do with the situation we had last year."</p>

<p>Spanish media singled out Xavi for criticism after the Shakhtar loss, but the coach said Laporta was 'calm'.</p>

<p>"After each game we speak with the president," explained Xavi.&nbsp;"We are very united, he's a very positive person, more than me even, and he is very calm. "He has maximum confidence in us, as staff and as a group."</p>

<p>Barcelona host Alaves on Sunday seeking to rebuild confidence after a tricky few weeks.</p>

<p>Xavi said the team needs to adhere to their traditional strategy of positional play to find their way out of their slump.</p>

<p>"We've played badly for two games and we have to recover, to be more faithful to our identity," he continued.</p>

<p>"(It's happened) because we're not well positioned on the pitch, we are sure what we can, or must, improve, and I hope from tomorrow everyone sees that."</p>


Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez insisted on Saturday his club were in a dip but not falling into crisis and said president Joan Laporta had full confidence in his project.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez insisted on Saturday his club were in a dip but not falling into crisis and said president Joan Laporta had full confidence in his project. The Spanish champions have played poorly in recent weeks and fell to an embarrassing 1-0 defeat by Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday in Hamburg. Despite the loss, Barcelona are still joint group leaders and expected to qualify for the knock-out phases, and are third in La Liga. The Catalans lost at home to Real Madrid in the Clasico on October 28 and scraped a 1-0 win at Real Sociedad last weekend, despite a drab performance. "I don't think this is (my worst moment) at all, my worst moment as a coach came last year," Xavi told a news conference, referring to his team's Champions League group stage elimination. "I have lived through terrible crises here, this doesn't go that far, it's a dip ... we haven't played well, we have to recover our game. ALSO READ: Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz's father recounts 'difficult time' of kidnapping "Getting that back is key -- as a coach, I feel good, this is nothing to do with the situation we had last year." Spanish media singled out Xavi for criticism after the Shakhtar loss, but the coach said Laporta was 'calm'. "After each game we speak with the president," explained Xavi. "We are very united, he's a very positive person, more than me even, and he is very calm. "He has maximum confidence in us, as staff and as a group." Barcelona host Alaves on Sunday seeking to rebuild confidence after a tricky few weeks. Xavi said the team needs to adhere to their traditional strategy of positional play to find their way out of their slump. "We've played badly for two games and we have to recover, to be more faithful to our identity," he continued. "(It's happened) because we're not well positioned on the pitch, we are sure what we can, or must, improve, and I hope from tomorrow everyone sees that."

Barcelona are in a dip, not a crisis: Coach Xavi on team's latest slump

<p>Barcelona's teenage substitute Marc Guiu scored late in the second half on his debut to secure a 1-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga, sending Xavi Hernandez's side up to third, one point behind Real Madrid ahead of next week's Clasico.</p>

<p>The 17-year-old Barca youth product latched onto a pass on the edge of the box and beat goalkeeper Unai Simon with a low shot after only his second touch of the ball to score his first league goal quicker than any player in the club's history.</p>

<p>Barca climbed one place with 24 points to close on Real Madrid, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Sevilla on Saturday.</p>

<p>"We knew they (Bilbao) were going to put constant pressure on us," said Xavi. "They have done an extraordinary job. It has been difficult for us (but) if anyone deserved the victory, it was Barcelona."</p>

<p>Barca, without the injured Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Robert Lewandowski, had more possession but created fewer chances than the visitors in the first half, where their best opportunity saw Joao Felix hit the bar after 10 minutes.</p>

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<p>Bilbao could have taken the lead when Inaki Williams' effort was saved by Marc-Andre ter Stegen before the goalkeeper then denied Nico Williams in first-half stoppage time.</p>

<p>The visitors had lost left back Yuri Berchiche midway through the first half as he appeared to hurt his ankle.</p>

<p>Barca were sharper in attack after the break but their Spain keeper Simon kept out Felix twice and held firm until striker Guiu scored in the 80th, seconds after replacing Fermin Lopez.</p>

<p>At 17 years 291 days, Guiu became the youngest player to score for Barcelona on his debut in LaLiga this century.</p>

<p>"I can't believe it. I'm out of breath, enjoying the moment," he told Esports 3. "This is unimaginable. I've been working all my life to take advantage of opportunities and it's come to me.</p>

<p>"Joao Felix controlled the ball, I saw that there was space behind the defence, he gave it to me and I beat Unai Simon. It's an honour to have scored a goal against a goalkeeper of his calibre".</p>

<p>Barca host Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Wednesday before hosting Real Madrid next Saturday.</p>

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Barcelona's teenage substitute Marc Guiu scored late in the second half on his debut to secure a 1-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga, sending Xavi Hernandez's side up to third, one point behind Real Madrid ahead of next week's Clasico.

Barcelona's teenage substitute Marc Guiu scored late in the second half on his debut to secure a 1-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga, sending Xavi Hernandez's side up to third, one point behind Real Madrid ahead of next week's Clasico. The 17-year-old Barca youth product latched onto a pass on the edge of the box and beat goalkeeper Unai Simon with a low shot after only his second touch of the ball to score his first league goal quicker than any player in the club's history. Barca climbed one place with 24 points to close on Real Madrid, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Sevilla on Saturday. "We knew they (Bilbao) were going to put constant pressure on us," said Xavi. "They have done an extraordinary job. It has been difficult for us (but) if anyone deserved the victory, it was Barcelona." Barca, without the injured Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Robert Lewandowski, had more possession but created fewer chances than the visitors in the first half, where their best opportunity saw Joao Felix hit the bar after 10 minutes. ALSO READ: Premier League: Aston Villa thrash West Ham 4-1 to close on top four; Watkins, Bailey impress Bilbao could have taken the lead when Inaki Williams' effort was saved by Marc-Andre ter Stegen before the goalkeeper then denied Nico Williams in first-half stoppage time. The visitors had lost left back Yuri Berchiche midway through the first half as he appeared to hurt his ankle. Barca were sharper in attack after the break but their Spain keeper Simon kept out Felix twice and held firm until striker Guiu scored in the 80th, seconds after replacing Fermin Lopez. At 17 years 291 days, Guiu became the youngest player to score for Barcelona on his debut in LaLiga this century. "I can't believe it. I'm out of breath, enjoying the moment," he told Esports 3. "This is unimaginable. I've been working all my life to take advantage of opportunities and it's come to me. "Joao Felix controlled the ball, I saw that there was space behind the defence, he gave it to me and I beat Unai Simon. It's an honour to have scored a goal against a goalkeeper of his calibre". Barca host Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Wednesday before hosting Real Madrid next Saturday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Late strike from debutant teenager Marc Guiu hands Barcelona 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao

<p>Barcelona came back from two goals down to share a thrilling 2-2 draw with Granada but lost ground in the La Liga title race on Sunday.</p>

<p>Bryan Zaragoza sent the hosts two goals ahead but Lamine Yamal and Sergi Roberto's goals preserved the champions' record as the only unbeaten team in La Liga.</p>

<p>However, the Catalans are now third and sit three points behind leaders Real Madrid, and one behind neighbours Girona, who both won on Saturday.</p>

<p>Zaragoza struck twice in the first half, breaking the deadlock after only 17 seconds -- the fastest goal Barcelona have conceded in the 21st century.</p>

<p>Yamal pulled Barcelona back into the game just before half-time, becoming La Liga's youngest ever goalscorer in the process at 16 years and 87 days. Xavi Hernandez's side levelled with three minutes remaining when substitute Sergi Roberto turned home, but they could not find a late winner in a high-octane finale.</p>

<p>It was the third comeback they have made in recent weeks, beating Celta Vigo from two goals down and twice falling behind at Mallorca in another 2-2 draw.</p>

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<p>"I think we totally dominated, we created chances, we deserved more, but (we drew) because of our own mistakes, we can't start off in that way," Xavi told DAZN. "We take away a point, which for us, is not enough."</p>

<p>Barcelona's night was also marred by a knee injury to Jules Kounde, with the Catalans already tending to Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Raphinha in the treatment room.</p>

<p>Xavi deployed Ferran Torres as a false nine to replace Lewandowski, while he handed Fermin Lopez his first start for the club in midfield.</p>

<p>The coach left Oriol Romeu on the bench, starting without a pure defensive midfielder and dividing the role up between Ilkay Gundogan and Gavi.</p>

<p>The latter turned into trouble immediately, with Granada stealing the ball from the young midfielder in the build-up to the first goal.</p>

<p>Lucas Boye fed Zaragoza, who fired across Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who might have done more to keep the shot from finding the bottom corner, although the ball appeared to bobble before passing the Barcelona goalkeeper.</p>

<p>Gavi forced a save at the other end and Joao Felix fired wide as Barcelona hunted for the equaliser.</p>

<p>Zaragoza doubled the hosts' lead at the Nuevo Los Carmenes stadium with a brilliant individual goal, leaving Kounde wobbling before finishing sublimely with the outside of his boot into the top corner.</p>

<p>"He's a player who is not easy to stop when he's sprinting," admitted Xavi.</p>

<h2>- Record breaker -</h2>

<p>Barcelona found a route back into the match in first-half stoppage time when Felix prodded the ball into Yamal's path just a couple of yards out and he rolled home to break yet another record.</p>

<p>However, there was no time for Spain's youngest ever player and goalscorer, to celebrate. Barcelona sought the equaliser, with Gundogan forcing a good stop from Andre Ferreira and Ronald Araujo hammering inches wide.</p>

<p>Eventually it came through Sergi Roberto, who turned home Alejandro Balde's low cross, while Granada complained about a collision earlier in the move they wanted called as a foul.</p>

<p>Zaragoza almost claimed his hat-trick as the hosts responded furiously, but he crashed a shot off the post as the game flew end-to-end.</p>

<p>Felix headed in what he thought was the winner and Xavi leapt for joy on the touchline, but Ferran Torres, who did not touch the ball yet was ruled to be interfering with play, was offside.</p>

<p>"The feeling is that just as easily as they ruled it out, they could have given it ... Ferran is not interfering with anyone," said Xavi.</p>

<p>Granada coach Paco Lopez said he was proud of his team and that he hoped 22-year-old winger Zaragoza would keep his feet on the ground.</p>

<p>"I congratulate my team and my players, I can't ask for more from them," Lopez told DAZN. "We have to keep cool heads with (Zaragoza), because he's got out of the ordinary talent but has to work hard."</p>

<p>The draw keeps Granada 19th, two points from safety.</p>

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Barcelona came back from two goals down to share a thrilling 2-2 draw with Granada but lost ground in the La Liga title race on Sunday. Bryan Zaragoza sent the hosts two goals ahead but Lamine Yamal and Sergi Roberto's goals preserved the champions' record as the only unbeaten team in La Liga.

Barcelona came back from two goals down to share a thrilling 2-2 draw with Granada but lost ground in the La Liga title race on Sunday. Bryan Zaragoza sent the hosts two goals ahead but Lamine Yamal and Sergi Roberto's goals preserved the champions' record as the only unbeaten team in La Liga. However, the Catalans are now third and sit three points behind leaders Real Madrid, and one behind neighbours Girona, who both won on Saturday. Zaragoza struck twice in the first half, breaking the deadlock after only 17 seconds -- the fastest goal Barcelona have conceded in the 21st century. Yamal pulled Barcelona back into the game just before half-time, becoming La Liga's youngest ever goalscorer in the process at 16 years and 87 days. Xavi Hernandez's side levelled with three minutes remaining when substitute Sergi Roberto turned home, but they could not find a late winner in a high-octane finale. It was the third comeback they have made in recent weeks, beating Celta Vigo from two goals down and twice falling behind at Mallorca in another 2-2 draw. ALSO READ: World Championships 2023: Flurry of golds highlight Simone Biles’ impressive comeback as Paris Olympics loom "I think we totally dominated, we created chances, we deserved more, but (we drew) because of our own mistakes, we can't start off in that way," Xavi told DAZN. "We take away a point, which for us, is not enough." Barcelona's night was also marred by a knee injury to Jules Kounde, with the Catalans already tending to Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Raphinha in the treatment room. Xavi deployed Ferran Torres as a false nine to replace Lewandowski, while he handed Fermin Lopez his first start for the club in midfield. The coach left Oriol Romeu on the bench, starting without a pure defensive midfielder and dividing the role up between Ilkay Gundogan and Gavi. The latter turned into trouble immediately, with Granada stealing the ball from the young midfielder in the build-up to the first goal. Lucas Boye fed Zaragoza, who fired across Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who might have done more to keep the shot from finding the bottom corner, although the ball appeared to bobble before passing the Barcelona goalkeeper. Gavi forced a save at the other end and Joao Felix fired wide as Barcelona hunted for the equaliser. Zaragoza doubled the hosts' lead at the Nuevo Los Carmenes stadium with a brilliant individual goal, leaving Kounde wobbling before finishing sublimely with the outside of his boot into the top corner. "He's a player who is not easy to stop when he's sprinting," admitted Xavi. - Record breaker - Barcelona found a route back into the match in first-half stoppage time when Felix prodded the ball into Yamal's path just a couple of yards out and he rolled home to break yet another record. However, there was no time for Spain's youngest ever player and goalscorer, to celebrate. Barcelona sought the equaliser, with Gundogan forcing a good stop from Andre Ferreira and Ronald Araujo hammering inches wide. Eventually it came through Sergi Roberto, who turned home Alejandro Balde's low cross, while Granada complained about a collision earlier in the move they wanted called as a foul. Zaragoza almost claimed his hat-trick as the hosts responded furiously, but he crashed a shot off the post as the game flew end-to-end. Felix headed in what he thought was the winner and Xavi leapt for joy on the touchline, but Ferran Torres, who did not touch the ball yet was ruled to be interfering with play, was offside. "The feeling is that just as easily as they ruled it out, they could have given it ... Ferran is not interfering with anyone," said Xavi. Granada coach Paco Lopez said he was proud of his team and that he hoped 22-year-old winger Zaragoza would keep his feet on the ground. "I congratulate my team and my players, I can't ask for more from them," Lopez told DAZN. "We have to keep cool heads with (Zaragoza), because he's got out of the ordinary talent but has to work hard." The draw keeps Granada 19th, two points from safety. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Lamine Yamal creates history but Barcelona lose ground in title race despite draw against Granada

<p>Barcelona’s legend and football’s greatest son, Lionel Messi, could return to his former club in January 2024, reports in Spanish media claim. The Inter-Miami superstar could play for Barcelona but on loan if his current club fails to qualify for the Eastern Conference playoffs. If there is any truth to what is being said, chances of him playing in front of Camp Nou in a Barca jersey for a final time could become a reality.</p>

<p>Per the Spanish outlet AS, the World Cup winner with Argentina could head back to Barcelona on loan for a proper send-off at the club where he had spent 17 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following his departure from Barcelona in 2021, Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal, where he struggled to mingle with his teammates and bosses.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lengthy-ban-looms-on-paul-pogba-as-b-sample-confirms-positive-drugs-test-643380">Lengthy ban looms on Paul Pogba as B sample confirms positive drugs test</a></strong></p>

<p>Following his unsanctioned visit to Saudi Arabia for a commercial commitment in April, Messi had a fallout with the top brass and decided against signing the new contract.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During that time, Messi admitted he had discussions with Barcelona over a stunning return, but the deal couldn’t materialise as Messi wasn’t sure of Barca’s financial structure, which was the main reason behind his departure in the first place.</p>

<p>In a surprising turn of events, Messi later joined David Beckham’s Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer. His move to MLS made him leave Europe, and with his on-field rival Cristiano Ronaldo also joining the Saudi Pro League in the winter transfer window in January, their rivalry was said to be over for good.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Messi’s maiden MLS season could end soon</h2>

<p>Messi’s Inter Miami is five points adrift of playoffs with only three matches left. Although they have a game in hand in comparison to other teams, if they fail to qualify with Messi sidelined with injury (having missed the last four of the five matches), his maiden season could get over by October 21 at the earliest.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, despite suffering a leg injury during the previous international break, Messi is named in Argentina’s next two WC qualifying matches.</p>

<p>Moreover, Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas even hinted that he wouldn't stand in Messi's way if he wished to complete his dream return to the club for whom he played 778 matches, scoring 672 goals and assisting 303 times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was while playing for Barcelona that Messi won a record seven Ballon d’Or.&nbsp;</p>

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Barcelona’s legend and football’s greatest son, Lionel Messi, could return to his former club in January 2024, reports in Spanish media claim. The Inter-Miami superstar could play for Barcelona but on loan if his current club fails to qualify for the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Barcelona’s legend and football’s greatest son, Lionel Messi, could return to his former club in January 2024, reports in Spanish media claim. The Inter-Miami superstar could play for Barcelona but on loan if his current club fails to qualify for the Eastern Conference playoffs. If there is any truth to what is being said, chances of him playing in front of Camp Nou in a Barca jersey for a final time could become a reality. Per the Spanish outlet AS, the World Cup winner with Argentina could head back to Barcelona on loan for a proper send-off at the club where he had spent 17 years. Following his departure from Barcelona in 2021, Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal, where he struggled to mingle with his teammates and bosses. ALSO READ: Lengthy ban looms on Paul Pogba as B sample confirms positive drugs test Following his unsanctioned visit to Saudi Arabia for a commercial commitment in April, Messi had a fallout with the top brass and decided against signing the new contract. During that time, Messi admitted he had discussions with Barcelona over a stunning return, but the deal couldn’t materialise as Messi wasn’t sure of Barca’s financial structure, which was the main reason behind his departure in the first place. In a surprising turn of events, Messi later joined David Beckham’s Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer. His move to MLS made him leave Europe, and with his on-field rival Cristiano Ronaldo also joining the Saudi Pro League in the winter transfer window in January, their rivalry was said to be over for good. Messi’s maiden MLS season could end soon Messi’s Inter Miami is five points adrift of playoffs with only three matches left. Although they have a game in hand in comparison to other teams, if they fail to qualify with Messi sidelined with injury (having missed the last four of the five matches), his maiden season could get over by October 21 at the earliest. Meanwhile, despite suffering a leg injury during the previous international break, Messi is named in Argentina’s next two WC qualifying matches. Moreover, Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas even hinted that he wouldn't stand in Messi's way if he wished to complete his dream return to the club for whom he played 778 matches, scoring 672 goals and assisting 303 times. It was while playing for Barcelona that Messi won a record seven Ballon d’Or. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lionel Messi’s remarriage with Barcelona still a possibility: Reports

<p>Spanish soccer club Barcelona are under investigation for suspected "active bribery" as part of a probe into suspected corruption spanning two decades at the refereeing committee, according to a court document seen by Reuters on Thursday.</p>

<p>Police also searched the offices of the football federation RFEF in Madrid on Thursday, the Barcelona court said, as part of the ongoing inquiry into "possible systemic corruption" within the Spanish refereeing committee.</p>

<p>Spanish football and the RFEF in particular are going through a moment of reckoning amid allegations of sexual abuse against former RFEF chief Luis Rubiales.</p>

<p>Rubiales kissed World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips on August&nbsp;20, setting off a furore that largely overshadowed both the women's team triumph in Sydney and the refereeing scandal. Rubiales has since quit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/efl-cup-man-city-crash-out-at-newcastle-chelsea-bounce-back-arsenal-liverpool-win-640445">EFL Cup: Man City crash out at Newcastle, Chelsea bounce back; Arsenal, Liverpool win</a></strong></p>

<p>The refereeing investigation has now been widened to include Barcelona as a suspect. Investigating judge Joaquin Aguirre Lopez said earlier in September the club may have benefited from graft.</p>

<p>In March, prosecutors filed a complaint over alleged payments of more than 7.3 million euros ($7.8 million) over 17 years to firms owned by Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, who was vice-president of the RFEF's refereeing committee from 1993 to 2018.</p>

<p>Reuters has been unable to reach Negreira. RFEF and Barcelona were not immediately available for comments.</p>

<p>Barcelona has denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement in February it had paid an external consultant who supplied it with "technical reports related to professional refereeing", which it said was a common practice among professional football clubs.</p>

<p>Barcelona's arch-rivals Real Madrid had joined the prosecution in the lawsuit as a damaged party.</p>

<p>According to judge Aguirre, Negreira was responsible for ranking and evaluating the referees. However, no evidence has been found so far of Negreira paying referees to influence match results, Aguirre said in early September.</p>

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Spanish soccer club Barcelona are under investigation for suspected "active bribery" as part of a probe into suspected corruption spanning two decades at the refereeing committee, according to a court document seen by Reuters on Thursday.

Spanish soccer club Barcelona are under investigation for suspected "active bribery" as part of a probe into suspected corruption spanning two decades at the refereeing committee, according to a court document seen by Reuters on Thursday. Police also searched the offices of the football federation RFEF in Madrid on Thursday, the Barcelona court said, as part of the ongoing inquiry into "possible systemic corruption" within the Spanish refereeing committee. Spanish football and the RFEF in particular are going through a moment of reckoning amid allegations of sexual abuse against former RFEF chief Luis Rubiales. Rubiales kissed World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips on August 20, setting off a furore that largely overshadowed both the women's team triumph in Sydney and the refereeing scandal. Rubiales has since quit. ALSO READ: EFL Cup: Man City crash out at Newcastle, Chelsea bounce back; Arsenal, Liverpool win The refereeing investigation has now been widened to include Barcelona as a suspect. Investigating judge Joaquin Aguirre Lopez said earlier in September the club may have benefited from graft. In March, prosecutors filed a complaint over alleged payments of more than 7.3 million euros ($7.8 million) over 17 years to firms owned by Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, who was vice-president of the RFEF's refereeing committee from 1993 to 2018. Reuters has been unable to reach Negreira. RFEF and Barcelona were not immediately available for comments. Barcelona has denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement in February it had paid an external consultant who supplied it with "technical reports related to professional refereeing", which it said was a common practice among professional football clubs. Barcelona's arch-rivals Real Madrid had joined the prosecution in the lawsuit as a damaged party. According to judge Aguirre, Negreira was responsible for ranking and evaluating the referees. However, no evidence has been found so far of Negreira paying referees to influence match results, Aguirre said in early September. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FC Barcelona under investigation for suspected corruption in refereeing case

<p>Barcelona signed Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season, the Spanish champions said Friday.</p>

<p>"Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement for the loan of player Joao Felix until June 30, 2024. There is no option to buy," said the Catalan club in a statement, before then announcing Cancelo's arrival.</p>

<p>Barcelona loaned winger Ansu Fati to Brighton and defender Clement Lenglet to Aston Villa earlier Friday to help create room to accommodate their new arrivals on the wage bill and register the players with La Liga, who have strict financial fair play rules.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-lia-side-getafe-signs-controversial-manchester-united-striker-mason-greenwood-on-loan-on-deadline-day-631576">La Liga side Getafe signs controversial Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood on loan on deadline day</a></strong></p>

<p>The Catalans also sold winger Ez Abde to Real Betis for 7.5 million euros ($8.1 million), keeping an option to buy him back and 50 percent of the value of his next sale, and loaned defender Eric Garcia to Girona.</p>

<p>Felix became one of the most expensive players in history when Atletico Madrid signed him from Benfica in 2019 for 126 million euros ($136 million) at just 19 years old.</p>

<p>The Portuguese forward, 23, failed to find consistent form in the Spanish capital and Atletico loaned him to Chelsea last season, where he also struggled. Felix has spoken out about his desire to play for Barcelona in the past.</p>

<p>"The club publicly expresses their gratitude to the player for the financial effort made (to join) and his desire to wear the Barca shirt," added Barcelona.</p>

<p>Atletico said Felix has signed a two-year contract extension, until 2029.</p>

<p>Barcelona then confirmed the arrival of Cancelo on loan from Manchester City, also with no option to buy.</p>

<p>The club needed a specialist right-back, using central defender Jules Kounde in that position for the majority of last season.</p>

<p>Cancelo, 29, fell out of favour at Manchester City last season, joining Bayern Munich on loan in January.</p>

<p>The Portugal international was pivotal for City coach Pep Guardiola in previous years as he played an important role in two Premier League triumphs. Cancelo signed a five-year deal with City in February 2022 but less than a year later Guardiola sent him to Bayern.</p>

<p>Barcelona have had a busy transfer window, signing Ilkay Gundogan, Oriol Romeu and Inigo Martinez, while Ousmane Dembele, Franck Kessie and others departed.</p>

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Barcelona signed Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season, the Spanish champions said Friday.

Barcelona signed Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season, the Spanish champions said Friday. "Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement for the loan of player Joao Felix until June 30, 2024. There is no option to buy," said the Catalan club in a statement, before then announcing Cancelo's arrival. Barcelona loaned winger Ansu Fati to Brighton and defender Clement Lenglet to Aston Villa earlier Friday to help create room to accommodate their new arrivals on the wage bill and register the players with La Liga, who have strict financial fair play rules. ALSO READ: La Liga side Getafe signs controversial Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood on loan on deadline day The Catalans also sold winger Ez Abde to Real Betis for 7.5 million euros ($8.1 million), keeping an option to buy him back and 50 percent of the value of his next sale, and loaned defender Eric Garcia to Girona. Felix became one of the most expensive players in history when Atletico Madrid signed him from Benfica in 2019 for 126 million euros ($136 million) at just 19 years old. The Portuguese forward, 23, failed to find consistent form in the Spanish capital and Atletico loaned him to Chelsea last season, where he also struggled. Felix has spoken out about his desire to play for Barcelona in the past. "The club publicly expresses their gratitude to the player for the financial effort made (to join) and his desire to wear the Barca shirt," added Barcelona. Atletico said Felix has signed a two-year contract extension, until 2029. Barcelona then confirmed the arrival of Cancelo on loan from Manchester City, also with no option to buy. The club needed a specialist right-back, using central defender Jules Kounde in that position for the majority of last season. Cancelo, 29, fell out of favour at Manchester City last season, joining Bayern Munich on loan in January. The Portugal international was pivotal for City coach Pep Guardiola in previous years as he played an important role in two Premier League triumphs. Cancelo signed a five-year deal with City in February 2022 but less than a year later Guardiola sent him to Bayern. Barcelona have had a busy transfer window, signing Ilkay Gundogan, Oriol Romeu and Inigo Martinez, while Ousmane Dembele, Franck Kessie and others departed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Football Transfer News: Barcelona bolster squad with dual signing of Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo on loan

<p>Paris Saint-Germain will kick off their quest for a maiden Champions League trophy in a strong Group F featuring Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Newcastle United following the draw on Thursday.</p>

<p>PSG, AC Milan and Dortmund have crossed paths on multiple occasions in Europe's elite competition, but it is a tough welcome back to the Champions League for Newcastle, who will be playing in the tournament for the first time in 20 years.</p>

<p>Holders Manchester City will take on RB Leipzig, Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys in Group G. City captured their first European crown this year and Pep Guardiola's side should have few problems in making the last 16, having handed Leipzig a 7-0 thrashing in last year's tournament.</p>

<p>Record 14-times winners Real Madrid will play Serie A champions Napoli, Braga and Union Berlin in Group C.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/france-recall-lucas-hernandez-for-euro-2024-qualifier-vs-ireland-as-two-world-cup-winners-overlooked-630938">France recall Lucas Hernandez for Euro 2024 Qualifier vs Ireland as two World Cup winners overlooked</a></strong></p>

<p>German heavyweights Bayern Munich take on Manchester United, FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray in Group A.</p>

<p>United and Bayern have met 11 times in the Champions League, with perhaps their most memorable clash coming in the 1999 final, when the English side emerged victorious to complete the treble.</p>

<p>The clubs were also involved in the race to sign Harry Kane in this transfer window, with the England striker opting to join the Bundesliga champions.</p>

<p>Last season's runners-up Inter Milan meet Benfica, RB Salzburg and Real Sociedad in Group D, while Europa League winners Sevilla and Arsenal were drawn together in Group B along with PSV Eindhoven and RC Lens.</p>

<p>LaLiga champions Barcelona were handed a favourable draw, paired with Porto, Shakhtar Donetsk and Royal Antwerp in Group H.</p>

<p>Group E is made up of Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Celtic. Feyenoord and Celtic met in the 1970 final, which the Dutch side won 2-1 after extra time.</p>

<p>The Champions League group stage will begin on Sept. 19 and conclude on Dec. 13. The knockout stages begin in February, with the final taking place at London's Wembley Stadium in June.</p>

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Paris Saint-Germain will kick off their quest for a maiden Champions League trophy in a strong Group F featuring Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Newcastle United following the draw on Thursday.

Paris Saint-Germain will kick off their quest for a maiden Champions League trophy in a strong Group F featuring Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Newcastle United following the draw on Thursday. PSG, AC Milan and Dortmund have crossed paths on multiple occasions in Europe's elite competition, but it is a tough welcome back to the Champions League for Newcastle, who will be playing in the tournament for the first time in 20 years. Holders Manchester City will take on RB Leipzig, Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys in Group G. City captured their first European crown this year and Pep Guardiola's side should have few problems in making the last 16, having handed Leipzig a 7-0 thrashing in last year's tournament. Record 14-times winners Real Madrid will play Serie A champions Napoli, Braga and Union Berlin in Group C. ALSO READ: France recall Lucas Hernandez for Euro 2024 Qualifier vs Ireland as two World Cup winners overlooked German heavyweights Bayern Munich take on Manchester United, FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray in Group A. United and Bayern have met 11 times in the Champions League, with perhaps their most memorable clash coming in the 1999 final, when the English side emerged victorious to complete the treble. The clubs were also involved in the race to sign Harry Kane in this transfer window, with the England striker opting to join the Bundesliga champions. Last season's runners-up Inter Milan meet Benfica, RB Salzburg and Real Sociedad in Group D, while Europa League winners Sevilla and Arsenal were drawn together in Group B along with PSV Eindhoven and RC Lens. LaLiga champions Barcelona were handed a favourable draw, paired with Porto, Shakhtar Donetsk and Royal Antwerp in Group H. Group E is made up of Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Celtic. Feyenoord and Celtic met in the 1970 final, which the Dutch side won 2-1 after extra time. The Champions League group stage will begin on Sept. 19 and conclude on Dec. 13. The knockout stages begin in February, with the final taking place at London's Wembley Stadium in June. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UEFA Champions League Draw: PSG, Newcastle United in Group of Death, holders Man City to face RB Leipzig

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<p>Lamine Yamal, Barcelona's rising star, received a standing ovation from Villarreal fans after his electric performance for Barcelona at the Estadio de la Ceramica on 27 August, 2023. The 16-year-old prodigy is the youngest player to register a La Liga assist in the 21st century. After the match, Yamal gave his first public interview. He said, "I'm not scared," after making two goals in the seven-goal-thriller. "I go out and play football," he told local broadcaster <em>Movistar</em>. Following the declaration of Yamal as the MVP (Most Valued Player), the official website of FC Barcelona published an article about him with the title, "Lamine Yamal, a diamond in the making."</p>

<p>Here's everything you need to know about Barcelona's teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lamine Yamal Age, Nationality &amp; Parents</strong></h2>

<p>Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana was born on 13 July 2007 in Mataró to a Moroccan father and an Equatorial Guinean mother. He is a Spanish football player who plays right winger for the La Liga club FC Barcelona. He has played for Spain's U17 squad in the European Championship 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/us-gymnastics-championships-simone-biles-wins-record-eighth-us-all-around-title-629863" target="_blank">US Gymnastics Championships: Simone Biles wins record eighth US all-around title</a></p>

<h2><strong>Lamine Yamal Career &amp; Stats</strong></h2>

<p>Xavi selected Lamine Yamal to train with the team with other youngsters in September 2022. He will reportedly sign a five-year contract with the club soon. He debuted with FC Barcelona on 29 April 2023, when he replaced Gavi in the 83rd minute in a 4-0 win against Real Betis in La Liga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yamal became the youngest player to appear for Barcelona's first team at 15 years, nine months, and 16 days. Furthermore, he won his first title with Barcelona on 14 May 2023. However, he did not attend the title celebration because he was busy with his international duty in Spain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopras-gold-medal-throw-at-world-athletics-and-warm-gesture-for-paks-arshad-nadeem-watch-629824" target="_blank">Neeraj Chopra's gold medal throw at World Athletics and warm gesture for Pak's Arshad Nadeem</a></p>

<p>On 20 August 2023, Yamal became the youngest starter for Barcelona in La Liga. In his next standing appearance, Lamine received a standing ovation from Villarreal fans after his impressive performance at the Estadio de la Ceramica on 27 August 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, he has made three appearances in the La Liga and has received one yellow card. He was the top goal scorer in the Spain U17 European Championship.</p>

<p>It's undeniable that Yamal is currently one of the most promising talents on Barca's roster. Fans shall have numerous opportunities to witness his skills during the upcoming season.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Lamine Yamal, Barcelona's rising star, received a standing ovation from Villarreal fans after his electric performance for Barcelona at the Estadio de la Ceramica on 27 August, 2023.

Lamine Yamal, Barcelona's rising star, received a standing ovation from Villarreal fans after his electric performance for Barcelona at the Estadio de la Ceramica on 27 August, 2023. The 16-year-old prodigy is the youngest player to register a La Liga assist in the 21st century. After the match, Yamal gave his first public interview. He said, "I'm not scared," after making two goals in the seven-goal-thriller. "I go out and play football," he told local broadcaster Movistar. Following the declaration of Yamal as the MVP (Most Valued Player), the official website of FC Barcelona published an article about him with the title, "Lamine Yamal, a diamond in the making." Here's everything you need to know about Barcelona's teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal. Lamine Yamal Age, Nationality & Parents Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana was born on 13 July 2007 in Mataró to a Moroccan father and an Equatorial Guinean mother. He is a Spanish football player who plays right winger for the La Liga club FC Barcelona. He has played for Spain's U17 squad in the European Championship 2023. ALSO READ | US Gymnastics Championships: Simone Biles wins record eighth US all-around title Lamine Yamal Career & Stats Xavi selected Lamine Yamal to train with the team with other youngsters in September 2022. He will reportedly sign a five-year contract with the club soon. He debuted with FC Barcelona on 29 April 2023, when he replaced Gavi in the 83rd minute in a 4-0 win against Real Betis in La Liga. Yamal became the youngest player to appear for Barcelona's first team at 15 years, nine months, and 16 days. Furthermore, he won his first title with Barcelona on 14 May 2023. However, he did not attend the title celebration because he was busy with his international duty in Spain. WATCH | Neeraj Chopra's gold medal throw at World Athletics and warm gesture for Pak's Arshad Nadeem On 20 August 2023, Yamal became the youngest starter for Barcelona in La Liga. In his next standing appearance, Lamine received a standing ovation from Villarreal fans after his impressive performance at the Estadio de la Ceramica on 27 August 2023. So far, he has made three appearances in the La Liga and has received one yellow card. He was the top goal scorer in the Spain U17 European Championship. It's undeniable that Yamal is currently one of the most promising talents on Barca's roster. Fans shall have numerous opportunities to witness his skills during the upcoming season. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Lamine Yamal? Barcelona's teenage sensation; Know about his career, age, nationality, parents & stats

<p>Lionel Messi said on Thursday he has re-found happiness since joining Inter Miami, describing his move to Major League Soccer as the "opposite" of his transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain.</p>

<p>Messi, who has scored nine goals in six appearances since joining Miami, joined the MLS club after two seasons in France with PSG.</p>

<p>Speaking to local media for the first time since arriving in Miami, a relaxed Messi talked positively of his life in South Florida and contrasted it with his time in the French capital, which drew to a close earlier this year with sections of PSG's fans booing him.</p>

<p>"As I said at the time, my departure to Paris was not something I wanted, it was not something I wanted to leave Barcelona and, so to speak, it was from one day to the next," he said.</p>

<p>"And, well, I also had to get used to a place that was totally different from where I had been living all my life, both in terms of the city and in a sporting sense, and, well, it was difficult, but the opposite of what is happening to me now here," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peaking-usas-shacarri-richardson-aims-to-end-jamaican-domination-at-world-championships-626578">Peaking USA's Sha'Carri Richardson aims to end Jamaican domination at World Championships</a></p>

<p>Messi had been with Barcelona from the age of 13, when he moved from Argentina to join the Spanish giants and his move, after years of success, was primarily the result of financial difficulties at the club.</p>

<p>There had been speculation that Messi might return to Barcelona or join the wave of players heading to the Saudi league but Messi said he was pleased with his decision.</p>

<p>"I can tell you that I am very happy with the decision we made, not only for the game, for how it is going, but for my family, for how we live day by day, for how we enjoy the city, for this new experience and the reception of the people that was extraordinary from the first day, not only in Miami," he said.</p>

<h2>- 'Family decision' -</h2>

<p>"I made two away trips with the team and the treatment of the people towards me was spectacular. So, I am grateful and happy for the moment I am living and above all to be able to continue enjoying what I liked all my life, to play and to be able to do it in this way with joy," he said, stressing his decision had made together with his family.</p>

<p>The seven-times Ballon d'Or winner has the chance to win his first trophy when Miami take on Nashville on Saturday in the final of the Leagues Cup.</p>

<p>It would also be his club's first triumph in just their third season of existence.</p>

<p>"It would be amazing, wouldn't it? Both for me and for all the people who are fans of the club, for the club itself," he said. "We want to be a point of reference and winning a title would help a lot in that. It is a very young club, it has been around for a very short time, and to win our first title would be great for all of us," he said.</p>

<p>Despite huge expectations and the hope that the Argentine World Cup winner will lead the sport to new heights in the United States, Messi said he was simply enjoying the game and his life.</p>

<p>"The truth is that I don't think about all those things, I simply came here to play, to continue enjoying football, which is what I have liked all my life and I chose this place for that reason, above all things," he said.</p>

<p>Messi said his family had settled in well, despite them not yet having found a permanent home in the area and he said that he enjoyed to be part of the Spanish-speaking community in South Florida.</p>

<p>"From the beginning, since my arrival, the welcome was impressive, it is a city with many Latinos, and that makes everything much easier too," he said.</p>

<p>"The Latinos are much closer, much more demonstrative, always showing affection, closeness, and I think that is the most important, the healthiest and the most beautiful thing in order to be able to settle in and enjoy what you do," he said.</p>

<p>"I already knew the city pretty well, how the people were. I already loved it....but to be living here every day and passing all of my time here has let me get a lot closer to the city and the people here.</p>

<p>"I'm happy, I'm enjoying this new chapter of my life, the experience of living in the United States, which was something I always had in mind to do."</p>

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Lionel Messi said on Thursday he has re-found happiness since joining Inter Miami, describing his move to Major League Soccer as the "opposite" of his transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain.

Lionel Messi said on Thursday he has re-found happiness since joining Inter Miami, describing his move to Major League Soccer as the "opposite" of his transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain. Messi, who has scored nine goals in six appearances since joining Miami, joined the MLS club after two seasons in France with PSG. Speaking to local media for the first time since arriving in Miami, a relaxed Messi talked positively of his life in South Florida and contrasted it with his time in the French capital, which drew to a close earlier this year with sections of PSG's fans booing him. "As I said at the time, my departure to Paris was not something I wanted, it was not something I wanted to leave Barcelona and, so to speak, it was from one day to the next," he said. "And, well, I also had to get used to a place that was totally different from where I had been living all my life, both in terms of the city and in a sporting sense, and, well, it was difficult, but the opposite of what is happening to me now here," he said. ALSO READ: Peaking USA's Sha'Carri Richardson aims to end Jamaican domination at World Championships Messi had been with Barcelona from the age of 13, when he moved from Argentina to join the Spanish giants and his move, after years of success, was primarily the result of financial difficulties at the club. There had been speculation that Messi might return to Barcelona or join the wave of players heading to the Saudi league but Messi said he was pleased with his decision. "I can tell you that I am very happy with the decision we made, not only for the game, for how it is going, but for my family, for how we live day by day, for how we enjoy the city, for this new experience and the reception of the people that was extraordinary from the first day, not only in Miami," he said. - 'Family decision' - "I made two away trips with the team and the treatment of the people towards me was spectacular. So, I am grateful and happy for the moment I am living and above all to be able to continue enjoying what I liked all my life, to play and to be able to do it in this way with joy," he said, stressing his decision had made together with his family. The seven-times Ballon d'Or winner has the chance to win his first trophy when Miami take on Nashville on Saturday in the final of the Leagues Cup. It would also be his club's first triumph in just their third season of existence. "It would be amazing, wouldn't it? Both for me and for all the people who are fans of the club, for the club itself," he said. "We want to be a point of reference and winning a title would help a lot in that. It is a very young club, it has been around for a very short time, and to win our first title would be great for all of us," he said. Despite huge expectations and the hope that the Argentine World Cup winner will lead the sport to new heights in the United States, Messi said he was simply enjoying the game and his life. "The truth is that I don't think about all those things, I simply came here to play, to continue enjoying football, which is what I have liked all my life and I chose this place for that reason, above all things," he said. Messi said his family had settled in well, despite them not yet having found a permanent home in the area and he said that he enjoyed to be part of the Spanish-speaking community in South Florida. "From the beginning, since my arrival, the welcome was impressive, it is a city with many Latinos, and that makes everything much easier too," he said. "The Latinos are much closer, much more demonstrative, always showing affection, closeness, and I think that is the most important, the healthiest and the most beautiful thing in order to be able to settle in and enjoy what you do," he said. "I already knew the city pretty well, how the people were. I already loved it....but to be living here every day and passing all of my time here has let me get a lot closer to the city and the people here. "I'm happy, I'm enjoying this new chapter of my life, the experience of living in the United States, which was something I always had in mind to do." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Messi, Magic & Miami - Football legend opens up on MLS move, life in South Florida and how happy he is here

<p>Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is among several Barcelona players who have yet to be registered with LaLiga due to the club's breach of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, raising doubts about their participation in Sunday's season opener against Getafe.</p>

<p>Other than former Manchester City captain Gundogan, who joined on a free transfer in June, new signings Inigo Martinez, Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu have also not been registered.</p>

<p>Players such as Ronald Araujo, Marcos Alonso, Sergi Roberto and Inaki Pena, who signed new contracts, also remain unregistered. That means the LaLiga champions have only 12 players available for their season debut.</p>

<p>Barca experienced the same situation last season, when they were blocked by the strict LaLiga financial regulations to register new signings such as Robert Lewandowski, Franck Kessie, Andreas Christensen and Raphinha. They were eventually registered on the eve of Barca's season opener after the club triggered a last minute economic operation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-tells-psg-he-is-going-nowhere-this-summer-amid-potential-move-to-real-madrid-624281">Kylian Mbappe tells PSG he is going nowhere this summer amid potential move to Real Madrid</a></p>

<p>Defender Jules Kounde, however, ended up missing several games as his formalities were not completed until the end of August.</p>

<p>Clubs have to meet LaLiga's salary cap to register new signings as well as those who sign contract renewals.</p>

<p>Last year, Barcelona resorted to selling club assets as "economic levers" to create the margin they needed with LaLiga, as their debts totalled 1.35 billion Euros ($1.49 billion).</p>

<p>They will not be able to play at Camp Nou for the next few seasons after agreeing a financing deal worth 1.45 billion euros to renovate the iconic but outdated stadium.</p>

<p>The 100,000-seater venue was the club's biggest source of income and they will have to be creative to stay competitive within the restrictions of LaLiga's FFP rules for the second season in a row.</p>

<p>Last year, the club signed a shirt and stadium sponsorship deal with audio streaming platform Spotify in an agreement worth 280 million euros.</p>

<p>They also agreed to sell a 25% stake in their LaLiga TV rights for the next 25 years to U.S. private equity group Sixth Street for 607.5 million euros and approved the sale of a minority share of their audio-visual division to Socios.com and Orpheus Media for 200 million.</p>

<p>It has been reported that they are trying to sell another percentage of their audio-visual division to generate the margin they need to meet LaLiga's salary cap numbers.</p>

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Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is among several Barcelona players who have yet to be registered with LaLiga due to the club's breach of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, raising doubts about their participation in Sunday's season opener against Getafe.

Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is among several Barcelona players who have yet to be registered with LaLiga due to the club's breach of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, raising doubts about their participation in Sunday's season opener against Getafe. Other than former Manchester City captain Gundogan, who joined on a free transfer in June, new signings Inigo Martinez, Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu have also not been registered. Players such as Ronald Araujo, Marcos Alonso, Sergi Roberto and Inaki Pena, who signed new contracts, also remain unregistered. That means the LaLiga champions have only 12 players available for their season debut. Barca experienced the same situation last season, when they were blocked by the strict LaLiga financial regulations to register new signings such as Robert Lewandowski, Franck Kessie, Andreas Christensen and Raphinha. They were eventually registered on the eve of Barca's season opener after the club triggered a last minute economic operation. ALSO READ: Kylian Mbappe tells PSG he is going nowhere this summer amid potential move to Real Madrid Defender Jules Kounde, however, ended up missing several games as his formalities were not completed until the end of August. Clubs have to meet LaLiga's salary cap to register new signings as well as those who sign contract renewals. Last year, Barcelona resorted to selling club assets as "economic levers" to create the margin they needed with LaLiga, as their debts totalled 1.35 billion Euros ($1.49 billion). They will not be able to play at Camp Nou for the next few seasons after agreeing a financing deal worth 1.45 billion euros to renovate the iconic but outdated stadium. The 100,000-seater venue was the club's biggest source of income and they will have to be creative to stay competitive within the restrictions of LaLiga's FFP rules for the second season in a row. Last year, the club signed a shirt and stadium sponsorship deal with audio streaming platform Spotify in an agreement worth 280 million euros. They also agreed to sell a 25% stake in their LaLiga TV rights for the next 25 years to U.S. private equity group Sixth Street for 607.5 million euros and approved the sale of a minority share of their audio-visual division to Socios.com and Orpheus Media for 200 million. It has been reported that they are trying to sell another percentage of their audio-visual division to generate the margin they need to meet LaLiga's salary cap numbers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trouble mounts for FC Barcelona as Ilkay Gundogan among several players yet to be registered with La Liga

<p>Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign young striker Vitor Roque from Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, the Spanish champions said Wednesday. The 18-year-old forward will join Barca from the start of the 2024-25 season on a deal until the summer of 2031.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">FC Barcelona signs Vitor Roque! 🇧🇷</p>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1679087604489224192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The release clause is fixed at 500 million euros ($551 million)," said Barcelona in a statement. Spanish reports suggest the Catalans will pay 30 million euros for the Brazil striker with another 31 million euros in potential add-ons. Barcelona have brought in Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez on free transfers this summer, with the Catalan giants still suffering from financial difficulties.</p>

<p>They are currently able to spend only 50 per cent of any savings or new income because of La Liga financial restrictions on clubs exceeding their spending limit, as determined by the Spanish league.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lionel-messi-arrives-in-florida-to-finalise-inter-miami-move-614598">Football: Lionel Messi arrives in Florida to finalise Inter Miami move</a></p>

<p>Roque, one of the hottest prospects in Brazilian football, has scored six goals in his last six games. The forward made his debut for the Brazilian national team in March and is able to play in wider areas as well as through the middle. Roque finished as the top goalscorer at the South American Under-20 championship earlier this year with six goals as Brazil triumphed.</p>

<p>Barcelona are still looking for a holding midfielder to replace captain Sergio Busquets, who left the club at the end of last season to join Inter Miami.</p>

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Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign young striker Vitor Roque from Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, the Spanish champions said Wednesday. The 18-year-old forward will join Barca from the start of the 2024-25 season on a deal until the summer of 2031.

Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign young striker Vitor Roque from Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, the Spanish champions said Wednesday. The 18-year-old forward will join Barca from the start of the 2024-25 season on a deal until the summer of 2031. FC Barcelona signs Vitor Roque! 🇧🇷 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 12, 2023 × "The release clause is fixed at 500 million euros ($551 million)," said Barcelona in a statement. Spanish reports suggest the Catalans will pay 30 million euros for the Brazil striker with another 31 million euros in potential add-ons. Barcelona have brought in Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez on free transfers this summer, with the Catalan giants still suffering from financial difficulties. They are currently able to spend only 50 per cent of any savings or new income because of La Liga financial restrictions on clubs exceeding their spending limit, as determined by the Spanish league. Also Read: Football: Lionel Messi arrives in Florida to finalise Inter Miami move Roque, one of the hottest prospects in Brazilian football, has scored six goals in his last six games. The forward made his debut for the Brazilian national team in March and is able to play in wider areas as well as through the middle. Roque finished as the top goalscorer at the South American Under-20 championship earlier this year with six goals as Brazil triumphed. Barcelona are still looking for a holding midfielder to replace captain Sergio Busquets, who left the club at the end of last season to join Inter Miami. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Barcelona complete signing of Brazilian wonderkid Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense

<p>Former Barcelona and Inter Milan midfielder Luis Suarez, the only male footballer born in Spain to win the Ballon D'Or, died at the age of 88 on Sunday. The Spaniard became the first player born in the country to win the Ballon d'Or in 1960 and later coached La Roja at the 1990 World Cup.</p>

<p>"From the RFEF we want to convey our condolences to all relatives and close friends of Luis Suarez Miramontes," wrote the Spanish football federation on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">⚫ Desde la RFEF queremos transmitir nuestro pésame a todos los familiares y allegados de Luis Suárez Miramontes.<br />
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Primer Balón de Oro español, Campeón de Europa en 1964, seleccionador nacional y una de las mayores leyendas de nuestro fútbol.<br />
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Descansa en paz, Luisito. <a href="https://t.co/Q4IqYj0Lma">pic.twitter.com/Q4IqYj0Lma</a></p>
— RFEF (@rfef) <a href="https://twitter.com/rfef/status/1677964496248225792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Suarez was loved in Italy too after becoming one of the league's most celebrated midfielders at Inter Milan under coach Helenio Herrera in the 1960s.</p>

<p>"Saying goodbye to Luisito leaves us with a deep melancholy -- the nostalgia of his perfect and inimitable football, which inspired generations, is combined with the memory of a unique footballer and a great, great Inter player," wrote Inter in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-and-psg-turning-into-sour-affair-as-french-footballer-calls-his-club-divisive-team-613540">Kylian Mbappe and PSG turning into sour affair as French footballer calls his club 'divisive team'</a></p>

<p>Suarez, born in La Coruna in 1935, began his career at Deportivo La Coruna, before moving to Barcelona in 1954. He won two La Liga trophies with the Catalan giants, among other silverware and earning the Ballon d'Or. The only other player born in Spain to win the Ballon d'Or is Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas, who has won the women's trophy twice.</p>

<p>Alfredo Di Stefano, who played for Argentina and later the Spanish national team, won it twice but was born in Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>Suarez moved to Inter Milan in 1961 for a world record fee and won two European Cups and three Serie A trophies as well as other silverware during the club's most glorious era. He also lifted the European Championships trophy with Spain in 1964, making 32 appearances for the national team. Suarez retired in 1973 at Sampdoria, going on to coach both them and Inter, as well as Como and Cagliari.</p>

<p>"Goodbye Luisito," wrote Sampdoria on Twitter, posting a photo of the Spaniard in tribute.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="it">Ciao Luisito. 😢 <a href="https://t.co/PHRIIdHpRs">pic.twitter.com/PHRIIdHpRs</a></p>
— U.C. Sampdoria (@sampdoria) <a href="https://twitter.com/sampdoria/status/1677953997464821771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In 1988 he took over as coach of the Spanish national team, taking them to the World Cup in Italy two years later, where they were beaten by Yugoslavia in the last 16.</p>

<p>Suarez worked on Spanish radio in his later years as a commentator. He was the namesake of, but no relation to Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, who also played for Barcelona.</p>

<p>"His father told me that if he's called Luis, it's my fault," the Spaniard told So Foot in 2016.</p>

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Former Barcelona and Inter Milan midfielder Luis Suarez, the only male footballer born in Spain to win the Ballon D'Or, died at the age of 88 on Sunday. The Spaniard became the first player born in the country to win the Ballon d'Or in 1960 and later coached La Roja at the 1990 World Cup.

Former Barcelona and Inter Milan midfielder Luis Suarez, the only male footballer born in Spain to win the Ballon D'Or, died at the age of 88 on Sunday. The Spaniard became the first player born in the country to win the Ballon d'Or in 1960 and later coached La Roja at the 1990 World Cup. "From the RFEF we want to convey our condolences to all relatives and close friends of Luis Suarez Miramontes," wrote the Spanish football federation on Twitter. ⚫ Desde la RFEF queremos transmitir nuestro pésame a todos los familiares y allegados de Luis Suárez Miramontes. Primer Balón de Oro español, Campeón de Europa en 1964, seleccionador nacional y una de las mayores leyendas de nuestro fútbol. Descansa en paz, Luisito. pic.twitter.com/Q4IqYj0Lma — RFEF (@rfef) July 9, 2023 × Suarez was loved in Italy too after becoming one of the league's most celebrated midfielders at Inter Milan under coach Helenio Herrera in the 1960s. "Saying goodbye to Luisito leaves us with a deep melancholy -- the nostalgia of his perfect and inimitable football, which inspired generations, is combined with the memory of a unique footballer and a great, great Inter player," wrote Inter in a statement. ALSO READ: Kylian Mbappe and PSG turning into sour affair as French footballer calls his club 'divisive team' Suarez, born in La Coruna in 1935, began his career at Deportivo La Coruna, before moving to Barcelona in 1954. He won two La Liga trophies with the Catalan giants, among other silverware and earning the Ballon d'Or. The only other player born in Spain to win the Ballon d'Or is Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas, who has won the women's trophy twice. Alfredo Di Stefano, who played for Argentina and later the Spanish national team, won it twice but was born in Buenos Aires. Suarez moved to Inter Milan in 1961 for a world record fee and won two European Cups and three Serie A trophies as well as other silverware during the club's most glorious era. He also lifted the European Championships trophy with Spain in 1964, making 32 appearances for the national team. Suarez retired in 1973 at Sampdoria, going on to coach both them and Inter, as well as Como and Cagliari. "Goodbye Luisito," wrote Sampdoria on Twitter, posting a photo of the Spaniard in tribute. Ciao Luisito. 😢 pic.twitter.com/PHRIIdHpRs — U.C. Sampdoria (@sampdoria) July 9, 2023 × In 1988 he took over as coach of the Spanish national team, taking them to the World Cup in Italy two years later, where they were beaten by Yugoslavia in the last 16. Suarez worked on Spanish radio in his later years as a commentator. He was the namesake of, but no relation to Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, who also played for Barcelona. "His father told me that if he's called Luis, it's my fault," the Spaniard told So Foot in 2016. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spain's only Ballon d'Or winning player Luis Suarez dies at 88

<p>Ilkay Gundogan has signed for Barcelona on a free transfer at the end of his Manchester City contract, the Catalan club said Monday. The German midfielder, 32, has agreed a two-year deal with the option for a year's extension and a release clause of 400 million euros ($436 million).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Details of Ilkay Gündogan deal 🔵🔴<br />
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◉ €400m release clause;<br />
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◉ Contract until June 2025;<br />
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◉ Clause to extend until 2026;<br />
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◉ Picked Barcelona despite Man City attempts to keep him, Arsenal intererest and Saudi’s huge proposals. <a href="https://t.co/rAxbBWNOi7">pic.twitter.com/rAxbBWNOi7</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1673244541652959232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"He is bringing his presence, nose for goal and reading of the game which has made him one of the best midfielders of the past decade," said Barcelona in a statement.</p>

<p>Gundogan has been an influential presence for Pep Guardiola's City side since joining in 2016, captaining the team to a stunning treble this season. The midfielder netted twice in the FA Cup final win over rivals Manchester United and Guardiola admitted City were trying to renew his deal.</p>

<p>Manchester City are poised to seal the arrival of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea to help replace Gundogan, who won five Premier League titles during his time at the club, as well as helping them earn their first ever Champions League win this season.</p>

<p>"This club made me realise all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity," Gundogan told Manchester City's club website. "I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After 7 years a wonderful time ends. You made me realize all my dreams. 🏆💯 I will carry you forever in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue! Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManCity</a>! 💙🫶🏼 <a href="https://t.co/YLCrsJU0TG">pic.twitter.com/YLCrsJU0TG</a></p>
— Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IlkayGuendogan/status/1673241418293293056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-defender-benjamin-mendy-faces-retrial-for-alleged-sex-offences-608837">French defender Benjamin Mendy faces retrial for alleged sex offences</a></p>

<p>Gundogan was the first signing Guardiola made after arriving at City, joining for around 20 million pounds ($25 million). He moved to City from Borussia Dortmund, where he won the Bundesliga and German Cup in 2012. Gundogan scored 60 goals in 304 appearances for the club, winning 12 major trophies.</p>

<p>"Ilkay has been tremendous, absolutely tremendous," said City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. "To be the captain of this club in this historic treble, lifting the Premier League first and then the FA Cup and then the Champions League, he will go down in the folklore of Manchester City forever."</p>

<p>City's director of football Txiki Begiristain highlighted Gundogan's mental attributes.</p>

<p>"Ilkay's intelligence, leadership and commitment to the club -- both on and off the field -- has been an inspiration to everyone," said Begiristain.</p>

<h2>- New adventure -</h2>

<p>Barcelona's new signing bolsters a midfield with plenty of options, including young Spaniards Pedri and Gavi, and Dutchman Frenkie de Jong. However, coach Xavi Hernandez has said the club still need to sign a defensive midfielder after captain Sergio Busquets left for Inter Miami at the end of his contract.</p>

<p>Barcelona moved for Gundogan after failing to secure the return of Lionel Messi at the end of his deal with Paris Saint-Germain. The club's all-time record goal-scorer and greatest ever player was tempted by a return but finally opted to join Inter Miami, with Busquets following him there.</p>

<p>Gundogan turns 33 in October but finished the season in some of the most sparkling form of his career. The midfielder netted six goals in his final seven games for City as he helped the club seal their treble, prompting them to make a final and ultimately unsuccessful effort to keep him.</p>

<p>"If he goes to Barca it would be an extraordinary signing, we're fighting for him to stay," said Guardiola last week. "If he signs for Barca, I'll tell him that he will have a great time there."</p>

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Ilkay Gundogan has signed for Barcelona on a free transfer at the end of his Manchester City contract, the Catalan club said Monday. The German midfielder, 32, has agreed a two-year deal with the option for a year's extension and a release clause of 400 million euros ($436 million).

Ilkay Gundogan has signed for Barcelona on a free transfer at the end of his Manchester City contract, the Catalan club said Monday. The German midfielder, 32, has agreed a two-year deal with the option for a year's extension and a release clause of 400 million euros ($436 million). Details of Ilkay Gündogan deal 🔵🔴 ◉ €400m release clause; ◉ Contract until June 2025; ◉ Clause to extend until 2026; ◉ Picked Barcelona despite Man City attempts to keep him, Arsenal intererest and Saudi’s huge proposals. pic.twitter.com/rAxbBWNOi7 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 26, 2023 × "He is bringing his presence, nose for goal and reading of the game which has made him one of the best midfielders of the past decade," said Barcelona in a statement. Gundogan has been an influential presence for Pep Guardiola's City side since joining in 2016, captaining the team to a stunning treble this season. The midfielder netted twice in the FA Cup final win over rivals Manchester United and Guardiola admitted City were trying to renew his deal. Manchester City are poised to seal the arrival of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea to help replace Gundogan, who won five Premier League titles during his time at the club, as well as helping them earn their first ever Champions League win this season. "This club made me realise all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity," Gundogan told Manchester City's club website. "I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue." After 7 years a wonderful time ends. You made me realize all my dreams. 🏆💯 I will carry you forever in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue! Thank you @ManCity! 💙🫶🏼 pic.twitter.com/YLCrsJU0TG — Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan) June 26, 2023 × ALSO READ: French defender Benjamin Mendy faces retrial for alleged sex offences Gundogan was the first signing Guardiola made after arriving at City, joining for around 20 million pounds ($25 million). He moved to City from Borussia Dortmund, where he won the Bundesliga and German Cup in 2012. Gundogan scored 60 goals in 304 appearances for the club, winning 12 major trophies. "Ilkay has been tremendous, absolutely tremendous," said City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. "To be the captain of this club in this historic treble, lifting the Premier League first and then the FA Cup and then the Champions League, he will go down in the folklore of Manchester City forever." City's director of football Txiki Begiristain highlighted Gundogan's mental attributes. "Ilkay's intelligence, leadership and commitment to the club -- both on and off the field -- has been an inspiration to everyone," said Begiristain. - New adventure - Barcelona's new signing bolsters a midfield with plenty of options, including young Spaniards Pedri and Gavi, and Dutchman Frenkie de Jong. However, coach Xavi Hernandez has said the club still need to sign a defensive midfielder after captain Sergio Busquets left for Inter Miami at the end of his contract. Barcelona moved for Gundogan after failing to secure the return of Lionel Messi at the end of his deal with Paris Saint-Germain. The club's all-time record goal-scorer and greatest ever player was tempted by a return but finally opted to join Inter Miami, with Busquets following him there. Gundogan turns 33 in October but finished the season in some of the most sparkling form of his career. The midfielder netted six goals in his final seven games for City as he helped the club seal their treble, prompting them to make a final and ultimately unsuccessful effort to keep him. "If he goes to Barca it would be an extraordinary signing, we're fighting for him to stay," said Guardiola last week. "If he signs for Barca, I'll tell him that he will have a great time there." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan completes FC Barcelona move on two-year deal

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<p>Kylian Mbappe wished his former PSG teammate Lionel Messi on his 36th birthday in a heartfelt note on social media. From rubbing shoulders and sharing the dressing room for two seasons in France to playing against each other in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar, Messi and Mbappe had some rapport on and off the field.</p>

<p>On Messi’s 36th birthday on Saturday, June 24, Mbappe, on his Instagram handle, thanked the Argentine superstar and even said he learned a lot from Messi in those two years. The French striker also wished his ex-teammate best wishes for his new venture.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-concacaf-bans-four-players-following-brawl-in-usmnt-mexico-nations-league-semifinal-608274">Football: CONCACAF bans four players following brawl in USMNT-Mexico Nations League semifinal</a></p>

<p>"Happy birthday legend. Thank you for these 2 years together in Paris, I learned a lot from you as a player, partner, opponent and man. For that alone I am thankful. Good luck on your new adventure," Mbappe wrote on Instagram.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct4Ed--MzkB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kylian Mbappé (@k.mbappe)</a></p>
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<p>Upon joining the French club from FC Barcelona after spending nearly two decades at Camp Nou, Messi’s two-year tenure with PSG didn’t end the way everyone had hoped for.</p>

<p>After PSG failed to win the Champions League during this time – the same purpose for which Messi joined the club, things started to fall apart between the two. Also, his casual visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, worked as a catalyst as he got suspended for the same. Though he issued a public apology for his unapproved visit to the Gulf nation, Messi decided not to renew his contract further.</p>

<p>After PSG lifted the Ligue 1 title this season, Messi, who during his stay in Paris, was often booed by home fans, decided to join USA’s Inter Miami despite several offers from Saudi Arabia and his former club Barcelona.</p>

<h2>Messi on not joining Barcelona</h2>

<p>After joining the MLS team on a free transfer, Messi disclosed why he didn’t go elsewhere. The World Cup winner with Argentina revealed the only reason he didn’t rejoin Barcelona was because of a lack of surety from the club, and after how his exit unfolded in the first place in 2021, Messi feared suffering the same fate again.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Mbappe, the 2018 World Champion, didn’t sign a contract with French giants, and though rumours of him joining Real Madrid this summer did rounds on the internet, Mbappe put everything under the map and confirmed he would stay at PSG for one more season.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Kylian Mbappe wished his former PSG teammate Lionel Messi on his 36th birthday in a heartfelt note on social media. From rubbing shoulders and sharing the dressing room for two seasons in France to playing against each other in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar, Messi and Mbappe had some rapport on and off the field.

Kylian Mbappe wished his former PSG teammate Lionel Messi on his 36th birthday in a heartfelt note on social media. From rubbing shoulders and sharing the dressing room for two seasons in France to playing against each other in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar, Messi and Mbappe had some rapport on and off the field. On Messi’s 36th birthday on Saturday, June 24, Mbappe, on his Instagram handle, thanked the Argentine superstar and even said he learned a lot from Messi in those two years. The French striker also wished his ex-teammate best wishes for his new venture. ALSO READ: Football: CONCACAF bans four players following brawl in USMNT-Mexico Nations League semifinal "Happy birthday legend. Thank you for these 2 years together in Paris, I learned a lot from you as a player, partner, opponent and man. For that alone I am thankful. Good luck on your new adventure," Mbappe wrote on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kylian Mbappé (@k.mbappe) × Upon joining the French club from FC Barcelona after spending nearly two decades at Camp Nou, Messi’s two-year tenure with PSG didn’t end the way everyone had hoped for. After PSG failed to win the Champions League during this time – the same purpose for which Messi joined the club, things started to fall apart between the two. Also, his casual visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, worked as a catalyst as he got suspended for the same. Though he issued a public apology for his unapproved visit to the Gulf nation, Messi decided not to renew his contract further. After PSG lifted the Ligue 1 title this season, Messi, who during his stay in Paris, was often booed by home fans, decided to join USA’s Inter Miami despite several offers from Saudi Arabia and his former club Barcelona. Messi on not joining Barcelona After joining the MLS team on a free transfer, Messi disclosed why he didn’t go elsewhere. The World Cup winner with Argentina revealed the only reason he didn’t rejoin Barcelona was because of a lack of surety from the club, and after how his exit unfolded in the first place in 2021, Messi feared suffering the same fate again. On the other hand, Mbappe, the 2018 World Champion, didn’t sign a contract with French giants, and though rumours of him joining Real Madrid this summer did rounds on the internet, Mbappe put everything under the map and confirmed he would stay at PSG for one more season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I learned a lot from you as a player...': Kylian Mbappe's heartfelt birthday post for Lionel Messi

<p>Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is set to leave the treble winners to join Barcelona on a free transfer, according to reports on Wednesday. Gundogan is believed to have been offered a three-year deal by Barcelona and is expected to complete his move to the Spanish champions when his City contract expires at the end of June.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ilkay Gündogan to Barcelona, here we go! Final approval arrived on club side to register him as new signing, green light from the player. It’s done deal, signed few minutes ago. 🚨🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a><br />
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Gündogan has agreed a two year deal valid until June 2025 with option for further year. <a href="https://t.co/Gr467hNBms">pic.twitter.com/Gr467hNBms</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1671558716594745345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>City were reported to have been willing to give their 32-year-old captain a new one-year contract with the option of a further 12 months. But Gundogan's impending move to the Camp Nou was revealed on the same day City agreed a £30 million ($38 million) deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic.</p>

<p>Kovacic's versatility and experience would help compensate for the loss of the influential Gundogan, whose leadership and knack for scoring crucial goals played a key role in City's success in Pep Guardiola's reign.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-given-four-match-ban-for-insulting-referee-anthony-taylor-in-europa-league-final-607074">Jose Mourinho given four-match ban for insulting referee Anthony Taylor in Europa League final</a></p>

<p>Gundogan netted twice in City's FA Cup final victory over Manchester United this season before Guardiola's Premier League champions went on to beat Inter Milan in the Champions League final.</p>

<p>The Germany international played 51 games this term, scoring 11 goals, including six in his last seven appearances, during the tense treble run-in.</p>

<p>City are only the second English side to win all three major trophies in a single season.</p>

<h2>City legend on his way to Barcelona</h2>

<p>Gundogan will be fondly remembered by City fans as one of the understated touchstones of their club's golden era. The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder has won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and the Champions League in his seven years at City.</p>

<p>Guardiola was keen to keep Gundogan, who has a close relationship with the City boss after living in the same luxury Manchester apartment block for many years.</p>

<p>But, given Gundogan's age, City reportedly did not want to match Barcelona's offer and appear to have taken a pragmatic decision to let him leave.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is set to leave the treble winners to join Barcelona on a free transfer, according to reports on Wednesday. Gundogan is believed to have been offered a three-year deal by Barcelona and is expected to complete his move to the Spanish champions when his City contract expires at the end of June.

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is set to leave the treble winners to join Barcelona on a free transfer, according to reports on Wednesday. Gundogan is believed to have been offered a three-year deal by Barcelona and is expected to complete his move to the Spanish champions when his City contract expires at the end of June. Ilkay Gündogan to Barcelona, here we go! Final approval arrived on club side to register him as new signing, green light from the player. It’s done deal, signed few minutes ago. 🚨🔵🔴 #FCB Gündogan has agreed a two year deal valid until June 2025 with option for further year. pic.twitter.com/Gr467hNBms — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 21, 2023 × City were reported to have been willing to give their 32-year-old captain a new one-year contract with the option of a further 12 months. But Gundogan's impending move to the Camp Nou was revealed on the same day City agreed a £30 million ($38 million) deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic. Kovacic's versatility and experience would help compensate for the loss of the influential Gundogan, whose leadership and knack for scoring crucial goals played a key role in City's success in Pep Guardiola's reign. ALSO READ: Jose Mourinho given four-match ban for insulting referee Anthony Taylor in Europa League final Gundogan netted twice in City's FA Cup final victory over Manchester United this season before Guardiola's Premier League champions went on to beat Inter Milan in the Champions League final. The Germany international played 51 games this term, scoring 11 goals, including six in his last seven appearances, during the tense treble run-in. City are only the second English side to win all three major trophies in a single season. City legend on his way to Barcelona Gundogan will be fondly remembered by City fans as one of the understated touchstones of their club's golden era. The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder has won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and the Champions League in his seven years at City. Guardiola was keen to keep Gundogan, who has a close relationship with the City boss after living in the same luxury Manchester apartment block for many years. But, given Gundogan's age, City reportedly did not want to match Barcelona's offer and appear to have taken a pragmatic decision to let him leave. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Manchester City legend set to join FC Barcelona on free transfer this summer

<p>Barcelona are all set to kick off their La Liga title defence against capital side Getafe on August 12 as they try to win back-to-back titles for the first time since 2019. The Spanish champions won their first La Liga title in four seasons in May as they ended the four-year drought of domestic title silverware. On the horizon, record champions Real Madrid will play Athletic Bilbao away from home as they try to clinch glory after the 2022 title win. The first El Clasico in La Liga will take place on October 29 while Real’s first local derby against Atletico Madrid will take place on September 24.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Your club's debut, derby, last game of the season... ⚽<br />
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🗓 Make sure you know what's going on every matchday in the First Division! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LALIGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LALIGA</a></p>
— LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1671862874170376192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Barcelona begin title defence at Getafe</strong></h2>

<p>Defending champions Barcelona will look to kick start their title defence on a high as they take on Getafe away from home with fresh blood in their veins. The squad is going through a significant overhaul in the summer as they said goodbye to Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. The club will play all their home matches at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium as their traditional home Camp Nou is under construction. Barcelona are active in the transfer market and are looking to sign the likes of Joao Cancelo while İlkay Gündoğan is almost done.</p>

<h2><strong>First El Clasico set for October</strong></h2>

<p>The first La Liga El Clasico of the season will take place on October 29 at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium with the return leg scheduled for April 21 next year. The teams could also meet in the final of the Spanish Super Cup if they win their respective semifinal matches. Barcelona are scheduled to play Osasuna while Real host Atletico in January at a neutral venue.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bell-claims-australia-have-more-to-work-on-despite-cummins-cos-narrow-win-in-edgbaston-607319">Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins &amp; Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston</a></p>

<h2><strong>Real Madrid face tough task on opening day</strong></h2>

<p>Carlo Ancelotti’s side will start their campaign against Athletic Bilbao while their tough tests traditional derby affair will see them play Atletico on September 24 at the Estadio Metropolitano. The return affair between the sides will take place on February 2 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Real will look to reclaim the La Liga title for a record 36th time when the season begins.</p>

<p>The last of the season will see arch-rivals Real and Barcelona face Andalusians prospect as the former hosts Real Betis while the latter travels to Europa League winners Sevilla.</p>

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Barcelona are all set to kick off their La Liga title defence against capital side Getafe on August 12 as they try to win back-to-back titles for the first time since 2019.

Barcelona are all set to kick off their La Liga title defence against capital side Getafe on August 12 as they try to win back-to-back titles for the first time since 2019. The Spanish champions won their first La Liga title in four seasons in May as they ended the four-year drought of domestic title silverware. On the horizon, record champions Real Madrid will play Athletic Bilbao away from home as they try to clinch glory after the 2022 title win. The first El Clasico in La Liga will take place on October 29 while Real’s first local derby against Atletico Madrid will take place on September 24. Your club's debut, derby, last game of the season... ⚽ 🗓 Make sure you know what's going on every matchday in the First Division! #LALIGA — LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) June 22, 2023 × Barcelona begin title defence at Getafe Defending champions Barcelona will look to kick start their title defence on a high as they take on Getafe away from home with fresh blood in their veins. The squad is going through a significant overhaul in the summer as they said goodbye to Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. The club will play all their home matches at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium as their traditional home Camp Nou is under construction. Barcelona are active in the transfer market and are looking to sign the likes of Joao Cancelo while İlkay Gündoğan is almost done. First El Clasico set for October The first La Liga El Clasico of the season will take place on October 29 at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium with the return leg scheduled for April 21 next year. The teams could also meet in the final of the Spanish Super Cup if they win their respective semifinal matches. Barcelona are scheduled to play Osasuna while Real host Atletico in January at a neutral venue. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins & Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston Real Madrid face tough task on opening day Carlo Ancelotti’s side will start their campaign against Athletic Bilbao while their tough tests traditional derby affair will see them play Atletico on September 24 at the Estadio Metropolitano. The return affair between the sides will take place on February 2 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Real will look to reclaim the La Liga title for a record 36th time when the season begins. The last of the season will see arch-rivals Real and Barcelona face Andalusians prospect as the former hosts Real Betis while the latter travels to Europa League winners Sevilla. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Barcelona kick off title defence at Getafe; to host Real Madrid in first El Clasico on October 29

<p>Declan Rice will leave West Ham United in the close season, chairman David Sullivan said on Thursday, a day after the midfielder captained the club to their first European trophy in 58 years. Sullivan said a gentleman's agreement means Rice can leave despite a year remaining on his contract with the option to extend it by a further 12 months.</p>

<p>When asked if Wednesday's 2-1 victory over Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final was Rice's last game for the club, Sullivan told Talksport: "I think it has to be.</p>

<p>"We promised him he could go. He set his heart on going. You can't ask for a man who has committed more to us this season. In due course, he has to get on and we have to get a replacement, or several replacements.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-makes-shocking-revelation-after-inter-miami-switch-says-there-was-an-ugly-feeling-with-barca-602203">Lionel Messi makes SHOCKING revelation after Inter Miami switch, says 'there was an ugly feeling with Barça'</a></p>

<p>"It's not something we want to happen. We offered him 200,000 pounds ($249,260) per week 18 months ago. He turned it down. It's cost him 10 million pounds to stay at West Ham in that time (in lost wages). And he wants to go. You can't keep a player who doesn't want to be there... I think the offers will start to come today."</p>

<p>Rice was also named the Europa Conference League player of the season and was among six West Ham players who made the competition's team of the season.</p>

<p>Rice joined West Ham's academy from Chelsea as a teenager and has been ever-present since his breakthrough season in 2017-18. He took over the captaincy after Mark Noble's retirement last year.</p>

<p>The 24-year-old played 50 games in all competitions this season as West Ham finished 14th in the Premier League before clinching the Europa Conference League in Prague on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Rice has played more than 200 games for West Ham and also earned 41 caps for England since his international debut in 2019.</p>

<h2>Bayern, City, and Barcelona chase Rice</h2>

<p>After winning the Europa Conference League, West Ham was sure to receive some offers for their captain. Valued at around £100 million ($124 million), Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona are some of the top teams chasing Rice for that decisive position that he plays in.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">More on Declan Rice’s future ✨🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿<br />
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◉ Arsenal have official bid ready since May, it will be submitted soon.<br />
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◉ Xhaka to Leverkusen to happen right after new midfielder deal.<br />
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◉ Bayern want Rice; they feel priority is to stay in England.<br />
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◉ Nothing sealed/agreed yet. <a href="https://t.co/aRyFh5MziF">pic.twitter.com/aRyFh5MziF</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1666766544003629056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Premier League winners Manchester City and second-placed Arsenal were front runners until Bayern entered the race for the defensive mid-fielder. From Spain, champions Barcelona are also keen on bringing Rice on board, per reports, after their legend and captain Sergio Busquets decided to leave the club this summer.</p>

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Declan Rice will leave West Ham United in the close season, chairman David Sullivan said on Thursday, a day after the midfielder captained the club to their first European trophy in 58 years.

Declan Rice will leave West Ham United in the close season, chairman David Sullivan said on Thursday, a day after the midfielder captained the club to their first European trophy in 58 years. Sullivan said a gentleman's agreement means Rice can leave despite a year remaining on his contract with the option to extend it by a further 12 months. When asked if Wednesday's 2-1 victory over Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final was Rice's last game for the club, Sullivan told Talksport: "I think it has to be. "We promised him he could go. He set his heart on going. You can't ask for a man who has committed more to us this season. In due course, he has to get on and we have to get a replacement, or several replacements. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi makes SHOCKING revelation after Inter Miami switch, says 'there was an ugly feeling with Barça' "It's not something we want to happen. We offered him 200,000 pounds ($249,260) per week 18 months ago. He turned it down. It's cost him 10 million pounds to stay at West Ham in that time (in lost wages). And he wants to go. You can't keep a player who doesn't want to be there... I think the offers will start to come today." Rice was also named the Europa Conference League player of the season and was among six West Ham players who made the competition's team of the season. Rice joined West Ham's academy from Chelsea as a teenager and has been ever-present since his breakthrough season in 2017-18. He took over the captaincy after Mark Noble's retirement last year. The 24-year-old played 50 games in all competitions this season as West Ham finished 14th in the Premier League before clinching the Europa Conference League in Prague on Wednesday. Rice has played more than 200 games for West Ham and also earned 41 caps for England since his international debut in 2019. Bayern, City, and Barcelona chase Rice After winning the Europa Conference League, West Ham was sure to receive some offers for their captain. Valued at around £100 million ($124 million), Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona are some of the top teams chasing Rice for that decisive position that he plays in. More on Declan Rice’s future ✨🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 ◉ Arsenal have official bid ready since May, it will be submitted soon. ◉ Xhaka to Leverkusen to happen right after new midfielder deal. ◉ Bayern want Rice; they feel priority is to stay in England. ◉ Nothing sealed/agreed yet. pic.twitter.com/aRyFh5MziF — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 8, 2023 × Premier League winners Manchester City and second-placed Arsenal were front runners until Bayern entered the race for the defensive mid-fielder. From Spain, champions Barcelona are also keen on bringing Rice on board, per reports, after their legend and captain Sergio Busquets decided to leave the club this summer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Declan Rice will leave West Ham this summer, admits chairman David Sullivan

<p>Lionel Messi on Wednesday said he will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia. The Argentine forward, 35, has spent the last two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, playing his final game for the club on Saturday, after moving from Barcelona in 2021, where he spent the majority of his career.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨🚨 BREAKING: Lionel Messi to Inter Miami, here we go! The decision has been made and it will be announced by Leo in the next hours <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InterMiami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InterMiami</a><br />
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🇺🇸 Messi will play in MLS. No more chances for Barcelona/Al Hilal despite trying to make it happen.<br />
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𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐄 𝐆𝐎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MLS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MLS</a> <a href="https://t.co/OTYWIlEzNc">pic.twitter.com/OTYWIlEzNc</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1666481587834220546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>MLS and Inter Miami confirmed the news on social media, although the American League noted: "Work remains to finalise a formal agreement".</p>

<p>"I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 per cent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there," Messi told Spanish newspapers Diario Sport and Mundo Deportivo. "After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day-to-day life more."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-announces-inter-miami-move-601923">Lionel Messi announces Inter Miami move</a></p>

<p>Messi is a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and is expected to earn the individual accolade once more after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in December.</p>

<p>The football world was eagerly awaiting Messi's decision after PSG confirmed this week the playmaker, widely considered the best player in the history of football, was departing.</p>

<p>The romance of a Barcelona return and the prospect of eye-watering riches in Saudi Arabia fell by the wayside as Messi opted to join MLS, with Miami a city he has holidayed in on previous occasions.</p>

<p>"If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia or elsewhere," said Messi. "It seemed a lot of money and the truth is that my decision went another way and not for money."</p>

<p>Inter Miami, co-owned by former England international David Beckham and founded in 2018, sacked coach Phil Neville last week with the team at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.</p>

<p>Some reports say key MLS sponsors including Adidas and Apple TV, who own the league's domestic broadcasting rights, may be contributing to his deal.<br />
<br />
Messi, who turns 36 later this month, is now set to finish his club career outside the spotlight of top-level European football.</p>

<h2>- ‘Would have loved to return to Barcelona’ -</h2>

<p>Messi said he would have loved to return to Barcelona but was afraid that the financial complications which stopped the Catalan club extending his deal in 2021 would interfere again.</p>

<p>"I really wanted to come back, I was really looking forward to it," continued Messi. "But, on the other hand, after having lived through what I lived through, after the exit I had... I didn't want to go through the same situation again and have to wait to see what was going to happen.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Messi: "I really wanted to return to Barça, I had that dream. But after what happened two years ago, I did not want to be in the same situation again, leaving my future in the hands of someone else...". 🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a><br />
<br />
"I wanted to take my own decision, thinking of me and my family". <a href="https://t.co/u0A7xs2XiK">pic.twitter.com/u0A7xs2XiK</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1666524588673495040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I didn't want to leave my future in the hands of others. Somehow, I wanted to make my own decision for myself, for my family."</p>

<p>Messi said he plans to live in Barcelona again in the future and be involved with his former side in some way.</p>

<p>"I don't know at what moment and when, but hopefully I can return one day to contribute something to the club," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Messi: "I'd love to be close to Barcelona. I will live in Barcelona again, it's already decided. I hope to help the club one day, because it's the club I love". 🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a><br />
<br />
"I wanna thank the Barça fans for all their support. And yes, I'd love to be again here... definitely". <a href="https://t.co/NmESEve1OF">pic.twitter.com/NmESEve1OF</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1666534583179812870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before that, though, Messi will give the growth of football in the United States another jolt of momentum with his arrival, which comes just three years ahead of the 2026 World Cup being co-hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico.</p>

<p>Having spent the past two seasons of his career at a lavishly funded PSG side, Messi will be going to a more modest set-up in Miami.</p>

<p>In their first game since Messi's announcement on Wednesday, Miami defeated Alabama non-league side Birmingham Legion 1-0 in the US Open Cup to reach the semi-finals.</p>

<h3>- Glittering history -</h3>

<p>Messi joined Barcelona's academy at 13 years old after leaving his homeland. He became the Catalan club's greatest icon, scoring a record 672 goals in 778 games, winning 35 trophies, including four Champions League triumphs and 10 La Liga titles.</p>

<p>After his unexpected Barcelona departure, Messi linked up in Paris with his former team-mate Neymar and Kylian Mbappe in a star-studded attacking trident, but PSG flattered to deceive during his time at the club.</p>

<p>While they won Ligue 1 twice, they suffered two devastating Champions League last-16 exits, with Messi a target for supporters' anger.</p>

<p>Already being booed by fans, he took an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia, where he is a tourism ambassador, and was fined and suspended by PSG.</p>

<p>Messi returned from suspension to play his 75th and final match for PSG last weekend in a defeat by Clermont, during which he was jeered once more and could not add to his tally of 32 goals for the club.</p>

<p>"They were two years which were in general difficult for me, but they are behind me now," said Messi.</p>

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Lionel Messi on Wednesday said he will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia.

Lionel Messi on Wednesday said he will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia. The Argentine forward, 35, has spent the last two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, playing his final game for the club on Saturday, after moving from Barcelona in 2021, where he spent the majority of his career. 🚨🚨 BREAKING: Lionel Messi to Inter Miami, here we go! The decision has been made and it will be announced by Leo in the next hours #InterMiami 🇺🇸 Messi will play in MLS. No more chances for Barcelona/Al Hilal despite trying to make it happen. 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐄 𝐆𝐎#Messi #MLS pic.twitter.com/OTYWIlEzNc — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2023 × MLS and Inter Miami confirmed the news on social media, although the American League noted: "Work remains to finalise a formal agreement". "I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 per cent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there," Messi told Spanish newspapers Diario Sport and Mundo Deportivo. "After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day-to-day life more." ALSO READ: Lionel Messi announces Inter Miami move Messi is a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and is expected to earn the individual accolade once more after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in December. The football world was eagerly awaiting Messi's decision after PSG confirmed this week the playmaker, widely considered the best player in the history of football, was departing. The romance of a Barcelona return and the prospect of eye-watering riches in Saudi Arabia fell by the wayside as Messi opted to join MLS, with Miami a city he has holidayed in on previous occasions. "If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia or elsewhere," said Messi. "It seemed a lot of money and the truth is that my decision went another way and not for money." Inter Miami, co-owned by former England international David Beckham and founded in 2018, sacked coach Phil Neville last week with the team at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Some reports say key MLS sponsors including Adidas and Apple TV, who own the league's domestic broadcasting rights, may be contributing to his deal. Messi, who turns 36 later this month, is now set to finish his club career outside the spotlight of top-level European football. - ‘Would have loved to return to Barcelona’ - Messi said he would have loved to return to Barcelona but was afraid that the financial complications which stopped the Catalan club extending his deal in 2021 would interfere again. "I really wanted to come back, I was really looking forward to it," continued Messi. "But, on the other hand, after having lived through what I lived through, after the exit I had... I didn't want to go through the same situation again and have to wait to see what was going to happen. Messi: "I really wanted to return to Barça, I had that dream. But after what happened two years ago, I did not want to be in the same situation again, leaving my future in the hands of someone else...". 🔵🔴 #FCB "I wanted to take my own decision, thinking of me and my family". pic.twitter.com/u0A7xs2XiK — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2023 × "I didn't want to leave my future in the hands of others. Somehow, I wanted to make my own decision for myself, for my family." Messi said he plans to live in Barcelona again in the future and be involved with his former side in some way. "I don't know at what moment and when, but hopefully I can return one day to contribute something to the club," he said. Messi: "I'd love to be close to Barcelona. I will live in Barcelona again, it's already decided. I hope to help the club one day, because it's the club I love". 🔵🔴 #FCB "I wanna thank the Barça fans for all their support. And yes, I'd love to be again here... definitely". pic.twitter.com/NmESEve1OF — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2023 × Before that, though, Messi will give the growth of football in the United States another jolt of momentum with his arrival, which comes just three years ahead of the 2026 World Cup being co-hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Having spent the past two seasons of his career at a lavishly funded PSG side, Messi will be going to a more modest set-up in Miami. In their first game since Messi's announcement on Wednesday, Miami defeated Alabama non-league side Birmingham Legion 1-0 in the US Open Cup to reach the semi-finals. - Glittering history - Messi joined Barcelona's academy at 13 years old after leaving his homeland. He became the Catalan club's greatest icon, scoring a record 672 goals in 778 games, winning 35 trophies, including four Champions League triumphs and 10 La Liga titles. After his unexpected Barcelona departure, Messi linked up in Paris with his former team-mate Neymar and Kylian Mbappe in a star-studded attacking trident, but PSG flattered to deceive during his time at the club. While they won Ligue 1 twice, they suffered two devastating Champions League last-16 exits, with Messi a target for supporters' anger. Already being booed by fans, he took an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia, where he is a tourism ambassador, and was fined and suspended by PSG. Messi returned from suspension to play his 75th and final match for PSG last weekend in a defeat by Clermont, during which he was jeered once more and could not add to his tally of 32 goals for the club. "They were two years which were in general difficult for me, but they are behind me now," said Messi. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami

<p>Is Lionel Messi set to return to FC Barcelona? The latest&nbsp;reports suggest so. Days after Paris Saint Germain (PSG) – his previous club, announced Messi’s departure after two seasons at the helm, Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has provided a big break on this matter. After meeting Barcelona President Joan Laporta recently, Messi’s father claimed the Argentine star is keen on returning to Camp Nou this summer amid rumours of him signing a lucrative Saudi Pro League deal.</p>

<p>“Leo wants to return to Barcelona, and I’d love to see him back to Barça. I can say that we are confident — as Barça move is an option for sure. But you will know the future soon,” said Jorge Messi, as quoted by multiple outlets.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 Jorge Messi after meeting Barcelona president Laporta: “Leo wants to return to Barcelona and I’d love to see him back to Barça”.<br />
<br />
“Barça move is an option for sure”, Jorge Messi added — via <a href="https://twitter.com/tjuanmarti?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tjuanmarti</a>. <a href="https://t.co/UwIrMX4GSz">pic.twitter.com/UwIrMX4GSz</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1665684977449684992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Messi, who recently led Argentina to a World Cup victory, left Barcelona in 2021 after the club failed to extend his contract due to Financial Fair Play rules in LaLiga. After spending nearly two decades at Camp Nou, Messi left Barça and joined Ligue 1 giants PSG on a two-year deal. There, he joined his former Barcelona teammate and close friend Neymar.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luka-modric-lionel-messi-among-ten-top-level-stars-on-list-of-saudi-transfer-targets-600820">Luka Modric, Lionel Messi among 'ten top-level stars' on list of Saudi transfer targets</a></p>

<p>Following the French League win and appearing in his final league game for PSG the past week, the board, in a statement, announced Messi’s departure.</p>

<p>“After two seasons in the capital, Leo Messi’s adventure with Paris Saint-Germain will come to a conclusion at the end of the 2022-23 season," the club said in a widely expected announcement.</p>

<p>“I would like to thank the club, the city of Paris and its people for these two years. I wish you all the best for the future," said Leo Messi.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Barça head coach Xavi Hernandez and President Laporta have insisted on bringing the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner back&nbsp;where he belongs.</p>

<p>Since Barcelona had prepared a ‘viable plan’ to re-sign Messi – considering all FFP factors, the official bid is yet to be made. Jorge Messi was at the Laporta&nbsp;house to discuss this deal.</p>

<p>For that to happen, the Spanish Football League is yet to approve Barcelona’s plan. As per several reports, the blueprint includes contract extensions of a few players and a highly-likely mega-deal of Lionel Messi's signing.</p>

<p>Besides Barcelona, there are reports from the Gulf stating Messi is also on the&nbsp;radar of a few teams in the Saudi Pro League – where his old foe, Cristiano Ronaldo, plays for Al Nassr. Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami has also shown interest in bringing Leo on board.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi will make a final call on his future shortly.</p>

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Is Lionel Messi set to return to FC Barcelona? The latest reports suggest so. Days after Paris Saint Germain (PSG) – his previous club, announced Messi’s departure after two seasons at the helm, Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has provided a big break on this matter.

Is Lionel Messi set to return to FC Barcelona? The latest reports suggest so. Days after Paris Saint Germain (PSG) – his previous club, announced Messi’s departure after two seasons at the helm, Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has provided a big break on this matter. After meeting Barcelona President Joan Laporta recently, Messi’s father claimed the Argentine star is keen on returning to Camp Nou this summer amid rumours of him signing a lucrative Saudi Pro League deal. “Leo wants to return to Barcelona, and I’d love to see him back to Barça. I can say that we are confident — as Barça move is an option for sure. But you will know the future soon,” said Jorge Messi, as quoted by multiple outlets. 🚨 Jorge Messi after meeting Barcelona president Laporta: “Leo wants to return to Barcelona and I’d love to see him back to Barça”. “Barça move is an option for sure”, Jorge Messi added — via @tjuanmarti. pic.twitter.com/UwIrMX4GSz — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 5, 2023 × Messi, who recently led Argentina to a World Cup victory, left Barcelona in 2021 after the club failed to extend his contract due to Financial Fair Play rules in LaLiga. After spending nearly two decades at Camp Nou, Messi left Barça and joined Ligue 1 giants PSG on a two-year deal. There, he joined his former Barcelona teammate and close friend Neymar. ALSO READ: Luka Modric, Lionel Messi among 'ten top-level stars' on list of Saudi transfer targets Following the French League win and appearing in his final league game for PSG the past week, the board, in a statement, announced Messi’s departure. “After two seasons in the capital, Leo Messi’s adventure with Paris Saint-Germain will come to a conclusion at the end of the 2022-23 season," the club said in a widely expected announcement. “I would like to thank the club, the city of Paris and its people for these two years. I wish you all the best for the future," said Leo Messi. Meanwhile, Barça head coach Xavi Hernandez and President Laporta have insisted on bringing the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner back where he belongs. Since Barcelona had prepared a ‘viable plan’ to re-sign Messi – considering all FFP factors, the official bid is yet to be made. Jorge Messi was at the Laporta house to discuss this deal. For that to happen, the Spanish Football League is yet to approve Barcelona’s plan. As per several reports, the blueprint includes contract extensions of a few players and a highly-likely mega-deal of Lionel Messi's signing. Besides Barcelona, there are reports from the Gulf stating Messi is also on the radar of a few teams in the Saudi Pro League – where his old foe, Cristiano Ronaldo, plays for Al Nassr. Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami has also shown interest in bringing Leo on board. Lionel Messi will make a final call on his future shortly. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Lionel Messi to Barcelona a done deal? Messi's father provides BIG update after recent catch-up with club prez

<p>Lionel Messi and FC Barcelona rumours are back again, and this time, several reports emerging from Spain suggest Messi has given his former club a 10-day deadline to prove if they can sign him this summer amid concerns around Financial Fair Play rules. With top bosses, including the president and head coach, Xavi, going public on how much they want Messi back at Camp Nou, Barcelona is yet to get the green signal from LaLiga over the same.</p>

<p>With Lionel Messi’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain up this summer, the World Cup winner with Argentina will look out for a new club. While there is serious interest from Al-Hilal in Saudi Pro League to sign him, MLS club Inter Miami is also in the race to bring Messi on the board.</p>

<p>However, having spent more than two decades at FC Barcelona, several people close to him feel Messi’s heart still lies there, and as a result, he’s not ruling out a chance to return to Camp Nou for his final run. For this to reach its fruitful conclusion, a lot needs to be done and taken care of in between.</p>

<p>Earlier, Barcelona President Joan Laporta revealed the club proposed a ‘viable plan’ to LaLiga that states selling a few players and a roadmap on how to sign Messi this summer.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-jose-mourinho-gives-away-his-silver-medal-amid-speculations-surrounding-future-at-as-roma-598970">WATCH: Jose Mourinho gives away his silver medal amid speculations surrounding future at AS Roma</a></p>

<p>However, Messi giving a ten-day deadline to Barcelona doesn’t mean he will sign the papers and announce his return to the club - it means Messi would get clarity on his future before the new season begins.</p>

<h2>How can Barcelona sign Messi?</h2>

<p>With the Spanish League wanting Barcelona to lower expenditure&nbsp;by 200 million, the sale of veterans Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Gerard Pique last season helped them cut the cost by nearly 100 million. Also, because Camp Nou is getting renovated, the income will get shrunk by 50 million despite playing in Montjuïc.</p>

<p>It is also understood that LaLiga will accept the plan by next week, and then Barcelona can go ahead and execute the sales and purchases to fulfil what is proposed. Firstly, Barca wants to complete contract extensions of a few players, and then their priority would be to get the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner back to where he belonged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, another request from Lionel Messi’s camp is his iconic reunion with the number 10 jersey – that for now belongs to winger Ansu Fati.</p>

<p>While Fati could switch the jersey number for Messi’s homecoming, a consensus among people close to information states Barcelona could rather contemplate selling Fati to generate more funds.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Lionel Messi and FC Barcelona rumours are back again, and this time, several reports emerging from Spain suggest Messi has given his former club a 10-day deadline to prove if they can sign him this summer amid concerns around Financial Fair Play rules.

Lionel Messi and FC Barcelona rumours are back again, and this time, several reports emerging from Spain suggest Messi has given his former club a 10-day deadline to prove if they can sign him this summer amid concerns around Financial Fair Play rules. With top bosses, including the president and head coach, Xavi, going public on how much they want Messi back at Camp Nou, Barcelona is yet to get the green signal from LaLiga over the same. With Lionel Messi’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain up this summer, the World Cup winner with Argentina will look out for a new club. While there is serious interest from Al-Hilal in Saudi Pro League to sign him, MLS club Inter Miami is also in the race to bring Messi on the board. However, having spent more than two decades at FC Barcelona, several people close to him feel Messi’s heart still lies there, and as a result, he’s not ruling out a chance to return to Camp Nou for his final run. For this to reach its fruitful conclusion, a lot needs to be done and taken care of in between. Earlier, Barcelona President Joan Laporta revealed the club proposed a ‘viable plan’ to LaLiga that states selling a few players and a roadmap on how to sign Messi this summer. ALSO READ: WATCH: Jose Mourinho gives away his silver medal amid speculations surrounding future at AS Roma However, Messi giving a ten-day deadline to Barcelona doesn’t mean he will sign the papers and announce his return to the club - it means Messi would get clarity on his future before the new season begins. How can Barcelona sign Messi? With the Spanish League wanting Barcelona to lower expenditure by 200 million, the sale of veterans Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Gerard Pique last season helped them cut the cost by nearly 100 million. Also, because Camp Nou is getting renovated, the income will get shrunk by 50 million despite playing in Montjuïc. It is also understood that LaLiga will accept the plan by next week, and then Barcelona can go ahead and execute the sales and purchases to fulfil what is proposed. Firstly, Barca wants to complete contract extensions of a few players, and then their priority would be to get the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner back to where he belonged. Besides, another request from Lionel Messi’s camp is his iconic reunion with the number 10 jersey – that for now belongs to winger Ansu Fati. While Fati could switch the jersey number for Messi’s homecoming, a consensus among people close to information states Barcelona could rather contemplate selling Fati to generate more funds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Messi gives 10-day deadline to Barcelona to prove they can sign him this summer amid FFP concerns

<p>Barcelona brought on 15-year-old forward Lamine Yamal in their 4-0 win over Real Betis on Saturday to make him their youngest ever player in La Liga. The Catalan club said he was their second youngest player of all time, behind Albert Almasque in 1902, who played in the Macaya cup at 13 years, 11 months and six days old.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest player to EVER debut with Barcelona first team. 🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a><br />
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Born on July 13, 2007 ✨ <a href="https://t.co/2OxJNKl5M6">pic.twitter.com/2OxJNKl5M6</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1652418432959229952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The winger replaced Gavi with four minutes plus stoppage time remaining to make his debut at 15 years, nine months and 16 days old.</p>

<p>"He's got innate talent in the final third which is difficult to find," Xavi told reporters. "He doesn't seem like he's 15 years old, he's more mature than his years. I've seen him train and he's showed it.</p>

<p>"He played 10 minutes, but did well, he can mark an era at the club."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-barcelona-edge-closer-to-title-with-4-0-demolition-over-10-man-real-betis-587436">La Liga: Barcelona edge closer to title with 4-0 demolition over 10-man Real Betis</a></p>

<p>Yamal had a shot on target during a bright cameo as Barcelona restored their 11-point lead at the top of the table.</p>

<p>Xavi agreed with comparisons to Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati, who also make their debuts at young ages for the club.</p>

<p>"I told him to try things and he did," Xavi told Movistar. "At 15 years old, just imagine it. He's a special player, he could score, assist, he had confidence.</p>

<p>"When you see it in training you realise, he could be big."</p>

<p>Yamal also created a chance for Ousmane Dembele with a scooped pass over the top for the French winger.</p>

<p>Raphinha, who scored Barcelona's third goal against Betis, said the squad were all talking about Yamal's debut.</p>

<p>"We were talking about this on the bench, when I was 15 I think I was playing for my neighbourhood team," Barca winger Raphinha told Movistar. "And seeing him come on in this stadium, with all these people, is incredible.</p>


Barcelona brought on 15-year-old forward Lamine Yamal in their 4-0 win over Real Betis on Saturday to make him their youngest ever player in La Liga. The Catalan club said he was their second youngest player of all time, behind Albert Almasque in 1902, who played in the Macaya cup at 13 years, 11 months and six days old.

Barcelona brought on 15-year-old forward Lamine Yamal in their 4-0 win over Real Betis on Saturday to make him their youngest ever player in La Liga. The Catalan club said he was their second youngest player of all time, behind Albert Almasque in 1902, who played in the Macaya cup at 13 years, 11 months and six days old. Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest player to EVER debut with Barcelona first team. 🔵🔴 #FCB Born on July 13, 2007 ✨ pic.twitter.com/2OxJNKl5M6 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 29, 2023 × The winger replaced Gavi with four minutes plus stoppage time remaining to make his debut at 15 years, nine months and 16 days old. "He's got innate talent in the final third which is difficult to find," Xavi told reporters. "He doesn't seem like he's 15 years old, he's more mature than his years. I've seen him train and he's showed it. "He played 10 minutes, but did well, he can mark an era at the club." ALSO READ: La Liga: Barcelona edge closer to title with 4-0 demolition over 10-man Real Betis Yamal had a shot on target during a bright cameo as Barcelona restored their 11-point lead at the top of the table. Xavi agreed with comparisons to Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati, who also make their debuts at young ages for the club. "I told him to try things and he did," Xavi told Movistar. "At 15 years old, just imagine it. He's a special player, he could score, assist, he had confidence. "When you see it in training you realise, he could be big." Yamal also created a chance for Ousmane Dembele with a scooped pass over the top for the French winger. Raphinha, who scored Barcelona's third goal against Betis, said the squad were all talking about Yamal's debut. "We were talking about this on the bench, when I was 15 I think I was playing for my neighbourhood team," Barca winger Raphinha told Movistar. "And seeing him come on in this stadium, with all these people, is incredible.

La Liga: Aged 15 years and nine months, Lamine Yamal becomes YOUNGEST player ever to debut for Barcelona

<p>Barcelona have never "done anything" to "obtain some type of sporting advantage," the club's president Joan Laporta said on Monday amid investigations into payments made to a former refereeing chief. Last month Spanish prosecutors charged the Catalan club with corruption after payments of more than 7.3 million euros ($7.8 million) to a company owned by a former refereeing chief were uncovered earlier this year.</p>

<p>Barcelona say they paid Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, the former referee and ex-vice president of the refereeing committee of the Spanish football federation (CTA) between 1994 and 2018, for reports and advice related to refereeing.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mikel-arteta-confident-of-arsenal-not-losing-track-in-title-race-after-successive-draw-in-premier-league-583283">Mikel Arteta confident of Arsenal not losing track in title race after successive draw in Premier League</a></p>

<p>The club "has never done anything with the goal or intention of altering the competition to achieve some type of sporting advantage," Laporta told a news conference called to discuss the affair.</p>

<p>The allegations of wrongdoing are part of a "smear campaign" against the Catalan side who are currently top of La Liga, he added.</p>

<p>As well as the club and Enriquez Negreira, two of the club's former presidents, Josep Maria Bartomeu and Sandro Rosell, are facing the same charge of corruption.</p>

<p>La Liga president Javier Tebas has said Spanish football is enduring its "worst" ever moment because of the refereeing corruption case involving Barcelona.</p>

<p>"The reputation of our football is at stake. I am ashamed. We have no explanation from Barcelona," he added last month.</p>

<p><strong>Xavi's Barcelona play yet another goalless draw in La Liga</strong></p>

<p>A subdued Barcelona were held to a 0-0 draw at Getafe on Sunday, leaving them 11 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Champions Madrid beat Cadiz on Saturday to cut back Barcelona's lead, and with nine games remaining it seems highly unlikely they will catch Barcelona -- but Xavi Hernandez's side are limping over the line.</p>

<p>Barcelona drew 0-0 at home against Girona on Monday and followed that up with a second consecutive bore draw, the team still wallowing after their Copa del Rey semi-final thrashing by Madrid earlier in April.</p>

<p>The one positive for Barca was a 22nd clean sheet of the season in the top flight, with Getafe, 15th, not creating much danger.</p>


Barcelona have never "done anything" to "obtain some type of sporting advantage," the club's president Joan Laporta said on Monday amid investigations into payments made to a former refereeing chief.

Barcelona have never "done anything" to "obtain some type of sporting advantage," the club's president Joan Laporta said on Monday amid investigations into payments made to a former refereeing chief. Last month Spanish prosecutors charged the Catalan club with corruption after payments of more than 7.3 million euros ($7.8 million) to a company owned by a former refereeing chief were uncovered earlier this year. Barcelona say they paid Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, the former referee and ex-vice president of the refereeing committee of the Spanish football federation (CTA) between 1994 and 2018, for reports and advice related to refereeing. ALSO READ: Mikel Arteta confident of Arsenal not losing track in title race after successive draw in Premier League The club "has never done anything with the goal or intention of altering the competition to achieve some type of sporting advantage," Laporta told a news conference called to discuss the affair. The allegations of wrongdoing are part of a "smear campaign" against the Catalan side who are currently top of La Liga, he added. As well as the club and Enriquez Negreira, two of the club's former presidents, Josep Maria Bartomeu and Sandro Rosell, are facing the same charge of corruption. La Liga president Javier Tebas has said Spanish football is enduring its "worst" ever moment because of the refereeing corruption case involving Barcelona. "The reputation of our football is at stake. I am ashamed. We have no explanation from Barcelona," he added last month. Xavi's Barcelona play yet another goalless draw in La Liga A subdued Barcelona were held to a 0-0 draw at Getafe on Sunday, leaving them 11 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Champions Madrid beat Cadiz on Saturday to cut back Barcelona's lead, and with nine games remaining it seems highly unlikely they will catch Barcelona -- but Xavi Hernandez's side are limping over the line. Barcelona drew 0-0 at home against Girona on Monday and followed that up with a second consecutive bore draw, the team still wallowing after their Copa del Rey semi-final thrashing by Madrid earlier in April. The one positive for Barca was a 22nd clean sheet of the season in the top flight, with Getafe, 15th, not creating much danger.

Barcelona have never 'done anything to 'obtain some type of sporting advantage, confirms Joan Laporta

<p>A subdued Barcelona were held to a 0-0 draw at Getafe on Sunday, leaving them 11 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Champions Madrid beat Cadiz on Saturday to cut back Barcelona's lead, and with nine games remaining it seems highly unlikely they will catch Barcelona -- but Xavi Hernandez's side are limping over the line.</p>

<p>Barcelona drew 0-0 at home against Girona on Monday and followed that up with a second consecutive bore draw, the team still wallowing after their Copa del Rey semi-final thrashing by Madrid earlier in April.</p>

<p>The one positive for Barca was a 22nd clean sheet of the season in the top flight, with Getafe, 15th, not creating much danger.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pl-arsenal-blow-up-2-0-lead-for-second-time-as-a-draw-against-west-ham-further-dent-their-title-hopes-583097">PL: Arsenal blow up 2-0 lead for second time as a draw against West Ham further dent their title hopes</a></p>

<p>Xavi, benching out of form forwards Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres, opted to use defender Alejandro Balde on the left wing, in front of Jordi Alba.</p>

<p>After a slow start, the Catalans created the first clear chance at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez, when Raphinha raced on to a long ball and fired against the post.</p>

<p>The rebound fell to Balde, but with the goal gaping, mishit an effort which struck the same upright.</p>

<p>Sergi Roberto pulled up injured, seemingly with a hamstring injury, adding to Barcelona's long list of absentees.</p>

<p>The league leaders have badly missed explosive winger Ousmane Dembele and creative midfielder Pedri in recent weeks.</p>

<p>David Soria saved well to keep out a Robert Lewandowski header just before the break.</p>

<p>The Getafe goalkeeper was again called into action early in the second half, making a fine stop from Franck Kessie, although the flag was raised for offside.</p>

<p>Lewandowski nodded narrowly wide from an Alba cross before Soria made another solid stop from a rasping Raphinha effort.</p>

<p>Getafe were content with the draw, sitting back as Barcelona probed for a breakthrough, although Borja Mayoral almost snatched a winner for the hosts on the break.</p>

<p>Ronald Araujo failed to clear the ball in his box and former Real Madrid striker Mayoral controlled the loose ball but slashed an effort wide.</p>

<p>Barcelona are still firm favourites to lift the title for the first time since 2019, but should they drop more points at home against Atletico Madrid next weekend, doubts could creep in.</p>


A subdued Barcelona were held to a 0-0 draw at Getafe on Sunday, leaving them 11 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Champions Madrid beat Cadiz on Saturday to cut back Barcelona's lead, and with nine games remaining it seems highly unlikely they will catch Barcelona -- but Xavi Hernandez's side are limping over the line.

A subdued Barcelona were held to a 0-0 draw at Getafe on Sunday, leaving them 11 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Champions Madrid beat Cadiz on Saturday to cut back Barcelona's lead, and with nine games remaining it seems highly unlikely they will catch Barcelona -- but Xavi Hernandez's side are limping over the line. Barcelona drew 0-0 at home against Girona on Monday and followed that up with a second consecutive bore draw, the team still wallowing after their Copa del Rey semi-final thrashing by Madrid earlier in April. The one positive for Barca was a 22nd clean sheet of the season in the top flight, with Getafe, 15th, not creating much danger. ALSO READ: PL: Arsenal blow up 2-0 lead for second time as a draw against West Ham further dent their title hopes Xavi, benching out of form forwards Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres, opted to use defender Alejandro Balde on the left wing, in front of Jordi Alba. After a slow start, the Catalans created the first clear chance at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez, when Raphinha raced on to a long ball and fired against the post. The rebound fell to Balde, but with the goal gaping, mishit an effort which struck the same upright. Sergi Roberto pulled up injured, seemingly with a hamstring injury, adding to Barcelona's long list of absentees. The league leaders have badly missed explosive winger Ousmane Dembele and creative midfielder Pedri in recent weeks. David Soria saved well to keep out a Robert Lewandowski header just before the break. The Getafe goalkeeper was again called into action early in the second half, making a fine stop from Franck Kessie, although the flag was raised for offside. Lewandowski nodded narrowly wide from an Alba cross before Soria made another solid stop from a rasping Raphinha effort. Getafe were content with the draw, sitting back as Barcelona probed for a breakthrough, although Borja Mayoral almost snatched a winner for the hosts on the break. Ronald Araujo failed to clear the ball in his box and former Real Madrid striker Mayoral controlled the loose ball but slashed an effort wide. Barcelona are still firm favourites to lift the title for the first time since 2019, but should they drop more points at home against Atletico Madrid next weekend, doubts could creep in.

La Liga: Barcelona maintain 11-point lead at the top after goalless draw against Getafe

<p>Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste has confirmed the club’s desire to resign former star and legendary Lionel Messi, two years after he left for Paris Saint-Germain. Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in December, will see his current contract with Paris Saint- Germain expires while there are also talks of an extension. However, according to Italian football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Messi could now be lured back to Camp Nou.</p>

<p>“We’ve been in contact with Leo Messi’s camp. Leo knows how much we appreciate him and I’d love for him to come back.</p>

<p>“For sure Messi loves Barça and the city, so we hope to find the right conditions to continue his history here,” quoted Barcelona vice president Yuste as per Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Barça vice president Rafa Yuste: “We’ve been in contact with Leo Messi’s camp. Leo knows how much we appreciate him and I’d love for him to come back” 🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a><br />
<br />
“For sure Messi loves Barça and the city, so we hope to find the right conditions to continue his history here”. <a href="https://t.co/bUOqNUlQLs">pic.twitter.com/bUOqNUlQLs</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1641749572367048704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Messi to leave PSG?</h3>

<p>With less than six months to go before his current deal expires, Messi is free to discuss terms with other teams around the world with Barcelona still a preferred preposition for him. The 35-year-old left Barcelona in controversial circumstances in 2021 which ended his association with the club. However, the club has now moved swiftly to bring him back as Messi’s old friend Xavi is the man in charge at the club.</p>

<p>The French champions are believed to want to keep both in the squad, but cannot afford to do so on their current wages, with neither showing any willingness to accept a sizeable salary cut.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-match-1-csk-vs-gt-heres-the-match-preview-prediction-of-gujarat-titans-vs-chennai-super-kings-577509">IPL 2023, Match 1, GT vs CSK - Here's the match preview, prediction of Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings</a></p>

<p>Messi reportedly earns £740,000-a-week and PSG are reluctant to renew his contract with potential Financial Fair Play punishments looming for them. The club is also facing a big wage bill with star names like Neymar and Kylian Mabppe on the books. Having already passed his peak, the option to move on goes well for both Messi and PSG while a comeback could also delight the Barcelona fans.</p>

<p>On the flip side, Al-Hilal are also reportedly interested in Messi’s signature, with Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League playing for Al-Nassr.</p>

<p>It remains to be seen how the transfer saga takes palce with PSG out of the Champions League and buying to win only the Ligue 1.</p>

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Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste has confirmed the club’s desire to resign former star and legendary Lionel Messi, two years after he left for Paris Saint-Germain.

Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste has confirmed the club’s desire to resign former star and legendary Lionel Messi, two years after he left for Paris Saint-Germain. Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in December, will see his current contract with Paris Saint- Germain expires while there are also talks of an extension. However, according to Italian football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Messi could now be lured back to Camp Nou. “We’ve been in contact with Leo Messi’s camp. Leo knows how much we appreciate him and I’d love for him to come back. “For sure Messi loves Barça and the city, so we hope to find the right conditions to continue his history here,” quoted Barcelona vice president Yuste as per Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano. Barça vice president Rafa Yuste: “We’ve been in contact with Leo Messi’s camp. Leo knows how much we appreciate him and I’d love for him to come back” 🔵🔴 #FCB “For sure Messi loves Barça and the city, so we hope to find the right conditions to continue his history here”. pic.twitter.com/bUOqNUlQLs — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 31, 2023 × Messi to leave PSG? With less than six months to go before his current deal expires, Messi is free to discuss terms with other teams around the world with Barcelona still a preferred preposition for him. The 35-year-old left Barcelona in controversial circumstances in 2021 which ended his association with the club. However, the club has now moved swiftly to bring him back as Messi’s old friend Xavi is the man in charge at the club. The French champions are believed to want to keep both in the squad, but cannot afford to do so on their current wages, with neither showing any willingness to accept a sizeable salary cut. ALSO READ | IPL 2023, Match 1, GT vs CSK - Here's the match preview, prediction of Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings Messi reportedly earns £740,000-a-week and PSG are reluctant to renew his contract with potential Financial Fair Play punishments looming for them. The club is also facing a big wage bill with star names like Neymar and Kylian Mabppe on the books. Having already passed his peak, the option to move on goes well for both Messi and PSG while a comeback could also delight the Barcelona fans. On the flip side, Al-Hilal are also reportedly interested in Messi’s signature, with Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League playing for Al-Nassr. It remains to be seen how the transfer saga takes palce with PSG out of the Champions League and buying to win only the Ligue 1. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barcelona vice-president Rafa Yuste confirms Lionel Messi contact, quotes 'I’d love for him to come back'

<p>Spanish prosecutors on Friday charged Barcelona with corruption over payments the club made to a former vice-president of Spain's referees' committee through a company owned by him. According to the prosecution, the Catalan club paid a total of more than 7.3 million euros to Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, former referee and ex-vice president of the refereeing committee of the Spanish football federation between 1994 and 2018.</p>

<p>Two of the club's former presidents, Josep Maria Bartomeu and Sandro Rosell, as well as Enriquez Negreira are facing the same charge, originating from the Barcelona prosecutor's office. Enriquez Negreira was allegedly paid for providing the club with advice on topics relating to referees.</p>

<p>"FC Barcelona obtained and maintained a strictly confidential verbal agreement with Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira so that, in his capacity as vice-president of the Technical Arbitral Committee (CTA) and in exchange for money, the latter carries out actions tending to benefit FC Barcelona in decisions by the referees," explained the Barcelona public prosecutor's office.</p>

<p>The investigation began after Spain's tax authorities identified irregularities in tax payments made between 2016 and 2018 by the company Dasnil 95 -- owned by Enriquez Negreira. Dasnil 95 reportedly received payments from Barcelona between those years. The last invoice, according to Cadena Ser radio, was issued in June 2018. After that the CTA was restructured and Enriquez Negreira left the organisation.</p>

<p>This week, current Barca boss Joan Laporta insisted his club had never "bought referees". Reports claim the Catalan side paid 6.5 million euros ($6.9 million) between 2001 and 2018 to Enriquez Negreira's firm.</p>

<p>"Let it be clear Barca have never bought referees and Barca have never had the intention of buying referees, absolutely never," said Laporta on Tuesday.</p>

<h3><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahmedabad-test-pitch-a-big-learning-curve-for-rohit-sharma-says-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-570558">Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri</a></strong></h3>

<p>Barcelona says Dasnil 95 was paid to advise the club on refereeing matters. But the prosecutors suspect the money could have been used to corrupt game officials. On the sporting level, Barcelona face no immediate danger because the governing bodies of Spanish, European and world football have five-year statute of limitations, Liga president Javier Tebas has said. On the criminal level, the accused could face up to four years in prison.</p>

<p>"The problem concerns us because it harms Spanish football and sport," Spanish Culture and Sports Minister Miquel Iceta said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Sanctions against the club could range from 'suspension of activity...to&nbsp; outright dissolution' as a company," Alberto Palomar, professor of law at Carlos III University of Madrid told AFP. The case has cast a shadow over Spain's refereeing body, which last week demanded that a single person's alleged actions not "tarnish" the "image" and "honour" of all referees.</p>


Spanish prosecutors on Friday charged Barcelona with corruption over payments the club made to a former vice-president of Spain's referees' committee through a company owned by him.

Spanish prosecutors on Friday charged Barcelona with corruption over payments the club made to a former vice-president of Spain's referees' committee through a company owned by him. According to the prosecution, the Catalan club paid a total of more than 7.3 million euros to Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, former referee and ex-vice president of the refereeing committee of the Spanish football federation between 1994 and 2018. Two of the club's former presidents, Josep Maria Bartomeu and Sandro Rosell, as well as Enriquez Negreira are facing the same charge, originating from the Barcelona prosecutor's office. Enriquez Negreira was allegedly paid for providing the club with advice on topics relating to referees. "FC Barcelona obtained and maintained a strictly confidential verbal agreement with Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira so that, in his capacity as vice-president of the Technical Arbitral Committee (CTA) and in exchange for money, the latter carries out actions tending to benefit FC Barcelona in decisions by the referees," explained the Barcelona public prosecutor's office. The investigation began after Spain's tax authorities identified irregularities in tax payments made between 2016 and 2018 by the company Dasnil 95 -- owned by Enriquez Negreira. Dasnil 95 reportedly received payments from Barcelona between those years. The last invoice, according to Cadena Ser radio, was issued in June 2018. After that the CTA was restructured and Enriquez Negreira left the organisation. This week, current Barca boss Joan Laporta insisted his club had never "bought referees". Reports claim the Catalan side paid 6.5 million euros ($6.9 million) between 2001 and 2018 to Enriquez Negreira's firm. "Let it be clear Barca have never bought referees and Barca have never had the intention of buying referees, absolutely never," said Laporta on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri Barcelona says Dasnil 95 was paid to advise the club on refereeing matters. But the prosecutors suspect the money could have been used to corrupt game officials. On the sporting level, Barcelona face no immediate danger because the governing bodies of Spanish, European and world football have five-year statute of limitations, Liga president Javier Tebas has said. On the criminal level, the accused could face up to four years in prison. "The problem concerns us because it harms Spanish football and sport," Spanish Culture and Sports Minister Miquel Iceta said on Tuesday. Sanctions against the club could range from 'suspension of activity...to outright dissolution' as a company," Alberto Palomar, professor of law at Carlos III University of Madrid told AFP. The case has cast a shadow over Spain's refereeing body, which last week demanded that a single person's alleged actions not "tarnish" the "image" and "honour" of all referees.

Spanish court charges FC Barcelona with corruption in referee affair; Bartomeu, Sandro Rosell also included

<p>Ousmane Dembele's second-half strike gave Barcelona a 1-0 win over 10-man Real Sociedad in their Copa del Rey quarter-final on Wednesday, stretching their unbeaten streak to 12 games. Real Sociedad came into the match on the back of nine consecutive wins in all competitions and almost scored in the 29th minute when Japanese youngster Take Kubo's strike hit the bar. But their hopes of inflicting a surprise defeat on Barcelona at the Camp Nou were hit when forward Brais Mendez was shown a straight red card in the 40th minute for a wild challenge on Sergio Busquets. Barcelona were the better side for most of the match after that but only scored once thanks to a brilliant counter-attack by man-of-the-match Dembele in the 52nd minute.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">FULL TIME! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aRealSociedad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BarçaRealSociedad</a> <a href="https://t.co/mi3ouxHKqa">pic.twitter.com/mi3ouxHKqa</a></p>
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<p>The electric winger ran through the right channel after receiving a perfectly placed long pass from his France team mate Jules Kounde and lashed an unstoppable right-foot strike into the top corner. Sociedad should have equalised seven minutes later but Alexander Sorloth missed a sitter, skying a shot from inside the six-yard box from a Kubo cross.</p>

<p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;'We don't want to overcomplicate things too much', says Joe Root on England's approach for 2023 World Cup</p>

<p>After Gavi volleyed against the crossbar from a great cross by Dembele in the 68th minute, Real made a late push and could have scored on at least three occasions, with Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen making a string of saves to secure the win.</p>

<p>"It was a struggle for us after they were one-man down because they closed down well and defended relentlessly," Barca defender Ronald Araujo told Movistar Plus.</p>

<p>"I'm sure (coach) Xavi will give us a slap on the wrist, we probably should have closed out the game earlier. Now we need to correct the mistakes and move forward. I'm happy because we won at home and we continue on a good run."</p>

<p>Osasuna joined Barcelona in the semi-finals after they beat Sevilla 2-1 later on Wednesday thanks to an extra-time goal by Abde Ezzalzouli. Chimy Avila opened the scoring for the hosts in the 71st minute but Youssef En Nesyri equalised in the 94th minute, taking the match to extra time. Substitute Ezzalzouli scored the winner nine minutes into extra time on a counter-attack, slotting a right-foot shot inside the right post.</p>

<p>In the other quarter-finals, Real Madrid face Atletico Madrid and Valencia meet Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.</p>


Ousmane Dembele's second-half strike gave Barcelona a 1-0 win over 10-man Real Sociedad in their Copa del Rey quarter-final on Wednesday, stretching their unbeaten streak to 12 games.

Ousmane Dembele's second-half strike gave Barcelona a 1-0 win over 10-man Real Sociedad in their Copa del Rey quarter-final on Wednesday, stretching their unbeaten streak to 12 games. Real Sociedad came into the match on the back of nine consecutive wins in all competitions and almost scored in the 29th minute when Japanese youngster Take Kubo's strike hit the bar. But their hopes of inflicting a surprise defeat on Barcelona at the Camp Nou were hit when forward Brais Mendez was shown a straight red card in the 40th minute for a wild challenge on Sergio Busquets. Barcelona were the better side for most of the match after that but only scored once thanks to a brilliant counter-attack by man-of-the-match Dembele in the 52nd minute. FULL TIME! #BarçaRealSociedad pic.twitter.com/mi3ouxHKqa — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 25, 2023 × The electric winger ran through the right channel after receiving a perfectly placed long pass from his France team mate Jules Kounde and lashed an unstoppable right-foot strike into the top corner. Sociedad should have equalised seven minutes later but Alexander Sorloth missed a sitter, skying a shot from inside the six-yard box from a Kubo cross. ALSO READ: 'We don't want to overcomplicate things too much', says Joe Root on England's approach for 2023 World Cup After Gavi volleyed against the crossbar from a great cross by Dembele in the 68th minute, Real made a late push and could have scored on at least three occasions, with Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen making a string of saves to secure the win. "It was a struggle for us after they were one-man down because they closed down well and defended relentlessly," Barca defender Ronald Araujo told Movistar Plus. "I'm sure (coach) Xavi will give us a slap on the wrist, we probably should have closed out the game earlier. Now we need to correct the mistakes and move forward. I'm happy because we won at home and we continue on a good run." Osasuna joined Barcelona in the semi-finals after they beat Sevilla 2-1 later on Wednesday thanks to an extra-time goal by Abde Ezzalzouli. Chimy Avila opened the scoring for the hosts in the 71st minute but Youssef En Nesyri equalised in the 94th minute, taking the match to extra time. Substitute Ezzalzouli scored the winner nine minutes into extra time on a counter-attack, slotting a right-foot shot inside the right post. In the other quarter-finals, Real Madrid face Atletico Madrid and Valencia meet Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

Barcelona storm into Copa del Rey semis following Ousmane Dembele's super strike against Real Sociedad

<p>Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved Juanmi's and William Carvalho's poorly-struck spot kicks to give Barcelona a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Real Betis after the teams had finished level at 2-2 following extra time in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. Barcelona set up a dream showpiece clash on Sunday with Real Madrid, who had also beaten Valencia on penalties earlier in the week. The 30-year-old goalkeeper was Barcelona's hero as he made a series of outstanding saves during a match before blocking the efforts of Juanmi and Carvalho in the shootout.</p>

<p>"It was a beautiful match, one of those the fans show up to watch," Ter Stegen told Movistar Plus. "I’m very proud of myself. I think since last year I’ve been going through a great moment in my career and in my life.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2023-ive-already-thought-about-my-plans-against-ravichandran-ashwin-marnus-labuschagne-552271">IND vs AUS 2023: 'I've already thought about my plans against Ravichandran Ashwin' - Marnus Labuschagne</a></p>

<p>"It was a very difficult match mainly after the break because they dominated possession and made it really though for us. They were superior in the midfield, had control of the match and we had to fight really hard to advance."</p>

<p>Barcelona started well but once Pedri's 23rd minute goal was ruled out by the VAR for an offside in the build-up, they started to lose ground to Betis. After two outstanding reflex saves by Ter Stegen blocked Luiz Henrique and Rodri's bullet-like shots, Ousmane Dembele burst forward in a fine individual effort before he passed the ball to Lewandowski, who beat goalkeeper Claudio Bravo from close range to score the opener.</p>

<p>Betis came back in the second half, pressing Barcelona up-front, and Fekir slotted in a low shot just inside the far post in the 77th minute after being set-up by Luiz Henrique.<br />
Lewandowski thought he had put Barca back in-front with a strike three minutes later but VAR again ruled-out the goal for an offside in the build-up and the match went into extra time.</p>

<p>Ansu Fati put Barcelona back in front, finishing off a stunning move from just inside the area, but Betis fought back again and equalised thanks to another fine effort from Luiz Henrique, whose cross was brilliantly finished by substitute Loren Moron with a heel-kick from just inside the six-yard-box.</p>

<p>Barcelona did not put a foot wrong in the shootout while Betis were left ruing the penalty misses by Juanmi and Carvalho.</p>


Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved Juanmi's and William Carvalho's poorly-struck spot kicks to give Barcelona a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Real Betis after the teams had finished level at 2-2 following extra time in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved Juanmi's and William Carvalho's poorly-struck spot kicks to give Barcelona a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Real Betis after the teams had finished level at 2-2 following extra time in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. Barcelona set up a dream showpiece clash on Sunday with Real Madrid, who had also beaten Valencia on penalties earlier in the week. The 30-year-old goalkeeper was Barcelona's hero as he made a series of outstanding saves during a match before blocking the efforts of Juanmi and Carvalho in the shootout. "It was a beautiful match, one of those the fans show up to watch," Ter Stegen told Movistar Plus. "I’m very proud of myself. I think since last year I’ve been going through a great moment in my career and in my life. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS 2023: 'I've already thought about my plans against Ravichandran Ashwin' - Marnus Labuschagne "It was a very difficult match mainly after the break because they dominated possession and made it really though for us. They were superior in the midfield, had control of the match and we had to fight really hard to advance." Barcelona started well but once Pedri's 23rd minute goal was ruled out by the VAR for an offside in the build-up, they started to lose ground to Betis. After two outstanding reflex saves by Ter Stegen blocked Luiz Henrique and Rodri's bullet-like shots, Ousmane Dembele burst forward in a fine individual effort before he passed the ball to Lewandowski, who beat goalkeeper Claudio Bravo from close range to score the opener. Betis came back in the second half, pressing Barcelona up-front, and Fekir slotted in a low shot just inside the far post in the 77th minute after being set-up by Luiz Henrique. Lewandowski thought he had put Barca back in-front with a strike three minutes later but VAR again ruled-out the goal for an offside in the build-up and the match went into extra time. Ansu Fati put Barcelona back in front, finishing off a stunning move from just inside the area, but Betis fought back again and equalised thanks to another fine effort from Luiz Henrique, whose cross was brilliantly finished by substitute Loren Moron with a heel-kick from just inside the six-yard-box. Barcelona did not put a foot wrong in the shootout while Betis were left ruing the penalty misses by Juanmi and Carvalho.

Stunning saves from Ter Stegen against Real Betis in penalties send Barcelona into the Super Cup final

<p>Barcelona and Manchester United will meet in the Europa League play-offs for a place in the competition's last 16. Spanish side Barcelona met the 2017 Europa League winners twice in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals, winning on both occasions, while United lost both legs of the 2018-19 European Cup quarter-final meeting between the pair.</p>

<p>"The draw has given us the most difficult rival again, like in the Champions League group stage. Luck was not on our side. Manchester United are a great rival, a historic club - the worst that we could wish for," Barca manager Xavi Hernandez said after the draw.</p>

<p>United finished second in their Europa League group this season behind another Spanish team -- Real Sociedad -- and meet a Barca side that missed out on the Champions League last 16 after finishing third in their group behind Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-club-liverpool-put-up-for-sale-by-fenway-sports-group-531947">Premier League club Liverpool put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group</a></p>

<p>The eight group runners-up from the Europa League face eight third-placed sides from the Champions League group stages, with the winners of the two-legged play-offs progressing to the last 16.</p>

<p>The pick of the other ties sees six-time winners Sevilla facing Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Serie A giants Juventus take on Ligue 1 team Nantes, while Jose Mourinho's AS Roma face RB Salzburg.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-complete-fixtures-liverpool-to-face-real-madrid-psgt-up-against-bayern-munich-531897">Champions League last 16 complete fixtures: Liverpool to face Real Madrid, PSG up against Bayern Munich</a></p>

<p>The first legs of the ties will take place on Feb. 16, with the return match a week later on Feb. 23.</p>

<p><strong>Draw in full:</strong></p>

<p>Barcelona v Manchester United</p>

<p>Juventus v Nantes</p>

<p>Sporting Lisbon v Midtjylland</p>

<p>Shakhtar Donetsk v Stade Rennais</p>

<p>Ajax Amsterdam v Union Berlin</p>

<p>Bayer Leverkusen v AS Monaco</p>

<p>Sevilla v PSV Eindhoven</p>

<p>Salzburg v AS Roma</p>


Barcelona and Manchester United will meet in the Europa League play-offs for a place in the competition's last 16. Spanish side Barcelona met the 2017 Europa League winners twice in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals, winning on both occasions, while United lost both legs of the 2018-19 European Cup quarter-final meeting between the pair.

Barcelona and Manchester United will meet in the Europa League play-offs for a place in the competition's last 16. Spanish side Barcelona met the 2017 Europa League winners twice in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals, winning on both occasions, while United lost both legs of the 2018-19 European Cup quarter-final meeting between the pair. "The draw has given us the most difficult rival again, like in the Champions League group stage. Luck was not on our side. Manchester United are a great rival, a historic club - the worst that we could wish for," Barca manager Xavi Hernandez said after the draw. United finished second in their Europa League group this season behind another Spanish team -- Real Sociedad -- and meet a Barca side that missed out on the Champions League last 16 after finishing third in their group behind Bayern Munich and Inter Milan. Also Read: Premier League club Liverpool put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group The eight group runners-up from the Europa League face eight third-placed sides from the Champions League group stages, with the winners of the two-legged play-offs progressing to the last 16. The pick of the other ties sees six-time winners Sevilla facing Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Serie A giants Juventus take on Ligue 1 team Nantes, while Jose Mourinho's AS Roma face RB Salzburg. Also Read: Champions League last 16 complete fixtures: Liverpool to face Real Madrid, PSG up against Bayern Munich The first legs of the ties will take place on Feb. 16, with the return match a week later on Feb. 23. Draw in full: Barcelona v Manchester United Juventus v Nantes Sporting Lisbon v Midtjylland Shakhtar Donetsk v Stade Rennais Ajax Amsterdam v Union Berlin Bayer Leverkusen v AS Monaco Sevilla v PSV Eindhoven Salzburg v AS Roma

Europa League complete draw: Manchester United to take on FC Barcelona in playoffs for a spot in last 16

<p>Retiring Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he felt liberated when coach Xavi Hernandez took him off in the 83rd minute of the 2-0 win over Almeria on Saturday as he walked off in tears to a standing ovation from a packed Camp Nou.</p>

<p>The 35-year-old Pique announced on Friday that this would be his last game in the historic stadium as he decided to retire from soccer when LaLiga breaks for the World Cup next week.</p>

<p>"It was like taking a heavy burden off my back when I walked off the pitch," Pique told DAZN. "The last few months were really difficult and today I felt liberated. It was a lifetime experience that I'll take forever with me.</p>

<p>"I'm happy for giving it all for this club. There were good and bad days, but I'm proud of it. I think I leave with a job well done."</p>

<p>Pique started the game as captain on Saturday in a season where he faced heavy criticism for his poor form and fell out of favour with coach Xavi Hernandez who reportedly asked him in the close season to leave or retire.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-to-miss-psg-trip-to-lorient-with-achilles-injury-531474">Lionel Messi to miss PSG trip to Lorient with Achilles injury</a></p>

<p>The signings of centre backs Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and the breakout of youngster Ronald Araujo has left Pique out of the picture at the age of 35.</p>

<p>There was the added pressure regarding his salary, reportedly the biggest at a club struggling financially and where every euro could affect their ability to sign or register new players facing the scrutiny of LaLiga's Financial Fair Play.</p>

<p>According to multiple reports, Pique will renounce the remaining year and half of his salary, a decision that will help Barcelona improve their Financial Fair Play margin.</p>

<p>"Pique was outstanding today and has once again shown that the bigger the game, the more it pays off," Xavi told DAZN. "I have told him that he is a legend at Barca and we are very grateful for his years at the club."</p>

<p>After the game, Pique was lifted in the air by his team mates and celebrated by the fans who chanted repeatedly "President! President! President!" as he is widely viewed in Barcelona as a future candidate to take over that post.</p>

<p>Regarded as one of the best centre backs of his generation, Pique collected 36 trophies in an 18-year career, including four Champions League titles plus a World Cup and European Championship with Spain.</p>

<p>But he is also a successful businessman, as the founder of Kosmos Holding, a company that has big investments in E-Sports, owns Spain's second division club FC Andorra and signed a 25-year, $3 billion partnership with the International Tennis Federation to transform the Davis Cup, among other investments.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-has-last-chance-to-shine-on-world-cup-stage-for-portugal-in-qatar-531433">Cristiano Ronaldo has last chance to shine on World Cup stage for Portugal in Qatar</a></p>

<p>In June Pique announced his separation from Colombian singer Shakira and in April he denied any wrongdoing over his involvement in helping the Spanish FA secure a deal to relocate Spain's Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, an agreement which earned his Kosmos company $23.41 million in commission.</p>

<p>"I have a thousand things in front of me to choose, I need to organise myself," Pique said.</p>

<p>"This is my home. I was born here and I will return. But now it's time to enjoy the family, I'll go on vacation for a while."</p>


Retiring Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he felt liberated when coach Xavi Hernandez took him off in the 83rd minute of the 2-0 win over Almeria on Saturday as he walked off in tears to a standing ovation from a packed Camp Nou.

Retiring Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he felt liberated when coach Xavi Hernandez took him off in the 83rd minute of the 2-0 win over Almeria on Saturday as he walked off in tears to a standing ovation from a packed Camp Nou. The 35-year-old Pique announced on Friday that this would be his last game in the historic stadium as he decided to retire from soccer when LaLiga breaks for the World Cup next week. "It was like taking a heavy burden off my back when I walked off the pitch," Pique told DAZN. "The last few months were really difficult and today I felt liberated. It was a lifetime experience that I'll take forever with me. "I'm happy for giving it all for this club. There were good and bad days, but I'm proud of it. I think I leave with a job well done." Pique started the game as captain on Saturday in a season where he faced heavy criticism for his poor form and fell out of favour with coach Xavi Hernandez who reportedly asked him in the close season to leave or retire. Also Read: Lionel Messi to miss PSG trip to Lorient with Achilles injury The signings of centre backs Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and the breakout of youngster Ronald Araujo has left Pique out of the picture at the age of 35. There was the added pressure regarding his salary, reportedly the biggest at a club struggling financially and where every euro could affect their ability to sign or register new players facing the scrutiny of LaLiga's Financial Fair Play. According to multiple reports, Pique will renounce the remaining year and half of his salary, a decision that will help Barcelona improve their Financial Fair Play margin. "Pique was outstanding today and has once again shown that the bigger the game, the more it pays off," Xavi told DAZN. "I have told him that he is a legend at Barca and we are very grateful for his years at the club." After the game, Pique was lifted in the air by his team mates and celebrated by the fans who chanted repeatedly "President! President! President!" as he is widely viewed in Barcelona as a future candidate to take over that post. Regarded as one of the best centre backs of his generation, Pique collected 36 trophies in an 18-year career, including four Champions League titles plus a World Cup and European Championship with Spain. But he is also a successful businessman, as the founder of Kosmos Holding, a company that has big investments in E-Sports, owns Spain's second division club FC Andorra and signed a 25-year, $3 billion partnership with the International Tennis Federation to transform the Davis Cup, among other investments. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo has last chance to shine on World Cup stage for Portugal in Qatar In June Pique announced his separation from Colombian singer Shakira and in April he denied any wrongdoing over his involvement in helping the Spanish FA secure a deal to relocate Spain's Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, an agreement which earned his Kosmos company $23.41 million in commission. "I have a thousand things in front of me to choose, I need to organise myself," Pique said. "This is my home. I was born here and I will return. But now it's time to enjoy the family, I'll go on vacation for a while."

'I felt liberated': Barcelona defender Gerard Pique on decision to retire from football

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