The trial of Brazilian superstar Neymar over his transfer to Barcelona in 2013 was due to wrap up Monday just days after a major U-turn by Spanish prosecutors who dropped all fraud charges against the player.

Despite Friday's bombshell by prosecutors, the case did not collapse because the Barcelona court is also considering a lawsuit filed by Brazilian sports investment firm DIS claiming it had been defrauded during this transfer.&nbsp;

The trial is the culmination of a years-long legal saga over his 2013 transfer from the Brazilian club Santos, with Neymar one of nine defendants in the dock on corruption-related charges, among them his parents and their N&amp;N company, which manages his affairs.

Investigators began probing the transfer after a 2015 complaint filed by DIS, which owned 40 percent of the player's sporting rights when he was at Santos. It claims Neymar, Barcelona and the Brazilian club colluded to mask the true cost of his transfer thereby defrauding it of its legitimate financial interests.&nbsp;

Both Neymar and his parents, along with the rest of the defendants, will be given the chance to address the court by videoconference before the end of the day.&nbsp;

Spanish prosecutors had been seeking a two-year prison term and a fine of 10 million euros ($9.9 million) for the 30-year-old, who now plays for Paris Saint-Germain and will in three weeks lead Brazil into the Qatar World Cup.&nbsp;

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But in a dramatic turn of events on Friday, the state prosecutor said it was dropping all criminal charges against the defendants on grounds there was not enough evidence to show a crime had been committed.

Prosecutors had pushed ahead with the case after concurring with allegations by Brazilian sports investment firm DIS that it had been defrauded during this transfer.&nbsp;They later said the allegations were not based on evidence but on "assumptions", concluding it was a matter for civil rather than criminal justice.&nbsp;

Although the trial phase draws to a close on Monday, the courts final ruling is not expected for weeks.&nbsp;In 2015, DIS filed a complaint in Spain against Neymar, Barcelona and Santos alleging fraud and seeking to recover 35 million euros.

Barca said the transfer cost 57.1 million euros, with 40 million euros paid to N&amp;N, Neymar's parents' company, and 17.1 million to Santos, of which 6.8 million was given to DIS.

Spanish prosecutors initially said they believed the actual value was at least 83 million euros.&nbsp;Following Friday's bombshell, DIS strongly disputed the prosecution's stance that no crime had been committed.&nbsp;

"We cannot agree with that," its lawyer Eliseo Martinez said. "If that were the case, this trial would never have started."

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However, the company has eased its stance somewhat, asking that the footballer face only two-and-a-half years behind bars if found guilty, instead of five.&nbsp;

Neymar's lawyers will ask that the court order DIS to pay all the legal costs on grounds of acting with "recklessness" and "in bad faith", sources close to his legal team said.&nbsp;

On the second day of the trial, which began on October 17, Neymar said he didn't remember if he took part in the transfer negotiations, saying he only signed documents presented to him by his father. All of the other defendants, including former Barca presidents Josep Maria Bartomeu and Sandro Rosell, also deny any wrongdoing.

The trial of Brazilian superstar Neymar over his transfer to Barcelona in 2013 was due to wrap up Monday just days after a major U-turn by Spanish prosecutors who dropped all fraud charges against the player.

The trial of Brazilian superstar Neymar over his transfer to Barcelona in 2013 was due to wrap up Monday just days after a major U-turn by Spanish prosecutors who dropped all fraud charges against the player. Despite Friday's bombshell by prosecutors, the case did not collapse because the Barcelona court is also considering a lawsuit filed by Brazilian sports investment firm DIS claiming it had been defrauded during this transfer. The trial is the culmination of a years-long legal saga over his 2013 transfer from the Brazilian club Santos, with Neymar one of nine defendants in the dock on corruption-related charges, among them his parents and their N&N company, which manages his affairs. Investigators began probing the transfer after a 2015 complaint filed by DIS, which owned 40 percent of the player's sporting rights when he was at Santos. It claims Neymar, Barcelona and the Brazilian club colluded to mask the true cost of his transfer thereby defrauding it of its legitimate financial interests. Both Neymar and his parents, along with the rest of the defendants, will be given the chance to address the court by videoconference before the end of the day. Spanish prosecutors had been seeking a two-year prison term and a fine of 10 million euros ($9.9 million) for the 30-year-old, who now plays for Paris Saint-Germain and will in three weeks lead Brazil into the Qatar World Cup. Also Read: Belgium star Romelu Lukaku picks up a hamstring injury before Qatar World Cup But in a dramatic turn of events on Friday, the state prosecutor said it was dropping all criminal charges against the defendants on grounds there was not enough evidence to show a crime had been committed. Prosecutors had pushed ahead with the case after concurring with allegations by Brazilian sports investment firm DIS that it had been defrauded during this transfer. They later said the allegations were not based on evidence but on "assumptions", concluding it was a matter for civil rather than criminal justice. Although the trial phase draws to a close on Monday, the courts final ruling is not expected for weeks. In 2015, DIS filed a complaint in Spain against Neymar, Barcelona and Santos alleging fraud and seeking to recover 35 million euros. Barca said the transfer cost 57.1 million euros, with 40 million euros paid to N&N, Neymar's parents' company, and 17.1 million to Santos, of which 6.8 million was given to DIS. Spanish prosecutors initially said they believed the actual value was at least 83 million euros. Following Friday's bombshell, DIS strongly disputed the prosecution's stance that no crime had been committed. "We cannot agree with that," its lawyer Eliseo Martinez said. "If that were the case, this trial would never have started." Also Read: Erik Ten Hag hopes 'magnificent' De Gea stays on at Man United as Spaniard stars in win over West Ham However, the company has eased its stance somewhat, asking that the footballer face only two-and-a-half years behind bars if found guilty, instead of five. Neymar's lawyers will ask that the court order DIS to pay all the legal costs on grounds of acting with "recklessness" and "in bad faith", sources close to his legal team said. On the second day of the trial, which began on October 17, Neymar said he didn't remember if he took part in the transfer negotiations, saying he only signed documents presented to him by his father. All of the other defendants, including former Barca presidents Josep Maria Bartomeu and Sandro Rosell, also deny any wrongdoing.

Neymar corruption trial wraps up after Spain prosecutors drop charges

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated world football for over a decade. The arch-rivals continue to shatter records despite being in the final laps of their respective careers and are still integral members of their respective clubs and national teams.

Both Ronaldo and Messi have enjoyed unparalleled success on the football pitch and the duo might not admit but they have made each other better players by pushing each other to be their best. Recently, FC Barcelona head coach Xavi explained how in their battle for supremacy, Ronaldo helped Messi become a better player.

Xavi, who witnessed Messi grow from a phenomenal young talent to a bonafide legend at Camp Nou, spoke about the Argentine's epic rivalry with Ronaldo which gave him the extra push to get better.

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"Cristiano gave him an extra push to become a better player. Cristiano and Leo probably won't admit it. I am convinced they used to keep an eye on each other. If you're competitive, you want to be the best," Xavi said in the BBC documentary 'Messi: The Enigma'.

Messi and Ronaldo have won a staggering 12 Ballon d'Ors between them with the Argentine claiming the prestigious award eight times. The duo won the Ballon D'Or between them for ten straight years before Real Madrid's Luka Modric ended their streak in 2018.

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Despite being on the fag end of their playing careers, both Messi and Ronaldo have been going strong and are there are no signs of either of them hanging up their boots anytime soon. While the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar is set to be their final appearance in the World Cup, both players can continue playing at the highest level for a couple of more years.

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated world football for over a decade. The arch-rivals continue to shatter records despite being in the final laps of their respective careers and are still integral members of their respective clubs and national teams.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated world football for over a decade. The arch-rivals continue to shatter records despite being in the final laps of their respective careers and are still integral members of their respective clubs and national teams. Both Ronaldo and Messi have enjoyed unparalleled success on the football pitch and the duo might not admit but they have made each other better players by pushing each other to be their best. Recently, FC Barcelona head coach Xavi explained how in their battle for supremacy, Ronaldo helped Messi become a better player. Xavi, who witnessed Messi grow from a phenomenal young talent to a bonafide legend at Camp Nou, spoke about the Argentine's epic rivalry with Ronaldo which gave him the extra push to get better. Also Read: Ronaldo breaks silence after being dropped from Manchester United's squad for Chelsea clash "Cristiano gave him an extra push to become a better player. Cristiano and Leo probably won't admit it. I am convinced they used to keep an eye on each other. If you're competitive, you want to be the best," Xavi said in the BBC documentary 'Messi: The Enigma'. Messi and Ronaldo have won a staggering 12 Ballon d'Ors between them with the Argentine claiming the prestigious award eight times. The duo won the Ballon D'Or between them for ten straight years before Real Madrid's Luka Modric ended their streak in 2018. Also Read: Premier League: Aston Villa sack manager Steven Gerrard after poor start to season Despite being on the fag end of their playing careers, both Messi and Ronaldo have been going strong and are there are no signs of either of them hanging up their boots anytime soon. While the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar is set to be their final appearance in the World Cup, both players can continue playing at the highest level for a couple of more years.

Barcelona head coach Xavi explains how Cristiano Ronaldo made Lionel Messi a better player

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez says he will walk away from his post if he feels he cannot help the team improve.

The Catalans are close to elimination from the Champions League after a draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, despite heavy summer expenditure, and have faced criticism this week, ahead of the Clasico on Sunday.

"I know there's a lot of pressure, a lot of criticism, this is Barca," Xavi told a press conference on Saturday.

"I will not stop working and trying. The day that I'm not sure (of myself), I will leave. I will not be a problem for Barcelona, the day I see I am not a solution."

Xavi's side, La Liga leaders, face champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, where they won 4-0 last season.

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The coach insisted that it is too early to judge his team after the new arrivals this summer, and believes they are heading in the right direction.

"It's a vital game for us, and for Madrid too, let's see who comes out of it as leaders," said Xavi. "I think (our) project is under construction. The debacle in Europe is sad, but we are on a good path. We are having a splendid season in La Liga.

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"We have made good signings, it's too soon to draw conclusions. We have to keep working, I don't know any other path towards success."

Barcelona will have defender Jules Kounde back from injury after Xavi confirmed the French international was training at 100 percent. 
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Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez says he will walk away from his post if he feels he cannot help the team improve. The Catalans are close to elimination from the Champions League after a draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, despite heavy summer expenditure, and have faced criticism this week, ahead of the Clasico on Sunday.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez says he will walk away from his post if he feels he cannot help the team improve. The Catalans are close to elimination from the Champions League after a draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, despite heavy summer expenditure, and have faced criticism this week, ahead of the Clasico on Sunday. "I know there's a lot of pressure, a lot of criticism, this is Barca," Xavi told a press conference on Saturday. "I will not stop working and trying. The day that I'm not sure (of myself), I will leave. I will not be a problem for Barcelona, the day I see I am not a solution." Xavi's side, La Liga leaders, face champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, where they won 4-0 last season. Also Read: Manchester United star Mason Greenwood arrested after breaching bail conditions in alleged assault case The coach insisted that it is too early to judge his team after the new arrivals this summer, and believes they are heading in the right direction. "It's a vital game for us, and for Madrid too, let's see who comes out of it as leaders," said Xavi. "I think (our) project is under construction. The debacle in Europe is sad, but we are on a good path. We are having a splendid season in La Liga. Also Read: Premier League club Brentford condemn online racist abuse of striker Ivan Toney "We have made good signings, it's too soon to draw conclusions. We have to keep working, I don't know any other path towards success." Barcelona will have defender Jules Kounde back from injury after Xavi confirmed the French international was training at 100 percent.

I will leave Barcelona if I think I'm not the solution, says head coach Xavi ahead of El Clasico

Inter Milan bounced back after two consecutive losses in Serie A with a crucial Champions League 1-0 win against Barcelona on Tuesday thanks to a Hakan Calhanoglu goal.

The Turkish midfielder slotted home a clinical strike from just outside the area, with the ball going into the corner to the goalkeeper’s right in added time before the break.

The home win lifted Inter to second place in Group C on six points, three behind leaders Bayern Munich and three in front of Barcelona.

Inter and Barca will face each other again next week at the Camp Nou when a third loss in four games would leave Barca in danger of being knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage for the second consecutive season.

Inter came into the match having lost four of their previous six games in all competitions and are ninth in Serie A, four points from the European qualification spots and eight behind leaders Napoli and Atalanta.

Barcelona, by contrast, arrived as the new LaLiga leaders and with striker Robert Lewandowski on a roll, having scored in six consecutive LaLiga match weeks.

But the Polish star forward made no impression at the San Siro, ending with no shots on target, having been neutralized by Inter’s five-man defence.

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In the 24th minute, Barcelona got a break when a potential penalty for a handball by Eric Garcia inside the box was ruled out by the VAR check which spotted a close offside in the build-up.

Inter Milan had a Joaquin Correa goal ruled out in the very next play for another offside.

However, they manage to break the deadlock at the end of the first half with Calhanoglu's precise, low shot.

Ousmane Dembele was the lone bright spot for Barcelona up front, creating the few opportunities that Barcelona had despite dominating the ball possession.

The French winger had two cross-shots that went just wide in the first half and thundered a close-range shot off the right post midway through the second half.

Dembele kept insisting until he placed a perfect cross in Pedri's path but Barca’s potential equaliser was ruled out after the VAR check spotted a handball by Ansu Fati right before Pedri’s strike.

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Barca pressed with long balls and crosses in the final minutes. Their players clamoured for a penalty in added time, complaining about a possible handball inside the box by substitute Denzel Dumfries. But after a VAR check the referee ruled there had been no infringement by the Dutch defender.

"I'm really angry, I just can't understand how that is not a penalty; it's clear. It's an injustice," a frustrated Xavi Hernandez told Movistar Plus.

"That's why I said yesterday (at the news conference) that the referees should come out and explain their decisions, because we don't understand anything."

Inter Milan bounced back after two consecutive losses in Serie A with a crucial Champions League 1-0 win against Barcelona on Tuesday thanks to a Hakan Calhanoglu goal.

Inter Milan bounced back after two consecutive losses in Serie A with a crucial Champions League 1-0 win against Barcelona on Tuesday thanks to a Hakan Calhanoglu goal. The Turkish midfielder slotted home a clinical strike from just outside the area, with the ball going into the corner to the goalkeeper’s right in added time before the break. The home win lifted Inter to second place in Group C on six points, three behind leaders Bayern Munich and three in front of Barcelona. Inter and Barca will face each other again next week at the Camp Nou when a third loss in four games would leave Barca in danger of being knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage for the second consecutive season. Inter came into the match having lost four of their previous six games in all competitions and are ninth in Serie A, four points from the European qualification spots and eight behind leaders Napoli and Atalanta. Barcelona, by contrast, arrived as the new LaLiga leaders and with striker Robert Lewandowski on a roll, having scored in six consecutive LaLiga match weeks. But the Polish star forward made no impression at the San Siro, ending with no shots on target, having been neutralized by Inter’s five-man defence. Also Read: Champions League: Liverpool edge Rangers as Bayern Munich, Napoli earn dominant victories In the 24th minute, Barcelona got a break when a potential penalty for a handball by Eric Garcia inside the box was ruled out by the VAR check which spotted a close offside in the build-up. Inter Milan had a Joaquin Correa goal ruled out in the very next play for another offside. However, they manage to break the deadlock at the end of the first half with Calhanoglu's precise, low shot. Ousmane Dembele was the lone bright spot for Barcelona up front, creating the few opportunities that Barcelona had despite dominating the ball possession. The French winger had two cross-shots that went just wide in the first half and thundered a close-range shot off the right post midway through the second half. Dembele kept insisting until he placed a perfect cross in Pedri's path but Barca’s potential equaliser was ruled out after the VAR check spotted a handball by Ansu Fati right before Pedri’s strike. Also Read: Shocking! Exit gates were closed during deadly stadium stampede, says Indonesia football association Barca pressed with long balls and crosses in the final minutes. Their players clamoured for a penalty in added time, complaining about a possible handball inside the box by substitute Denzel Dumfries. But after a VAR check the referee ruled there had been no infringement by the Dutch defender. "I'm really angry, I just can't understand how that is not a penalty; it's clear. It's an injustice," a frustrated Xavi Hernandez told Movistar Plus. "That's why I said yesterday (at the news conference) that the referees should come out and explain their decisions, because we don't understand anything."

Hakan Calhanoglu scores as Inter Milan earn crucial 1-0 win against FC Barcelona in Champions League

Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez was left fuming after controversial refereeing decisions in his side's 1-0 loss against Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday. Barcelona were denied a late penalty in the game after Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries appeared to have handled the ball when Barcelona forward Ansu Fati looked set to head in a shot towards goal.

Barcelona were trailing 1-0 and hoped for a final shot at drawing the game after Dumfries' foul. There was a long check as the VAR analysed the incident but Xavi's men were not awarded a penalty as Inter eventually secured a hard-fought win.

The last-minute handball call was not the only controversial referee decision during the game as Inter too were denied a penalty in the first half after a handball from Barcelona defender Eric Garcia. The replays showed Inter's Lautaro Martinez was marginally offside seconds before the incident, which led to Inter losing the penalty.

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Inter Milan then took the lead at the stroke of halftime as midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu scored the decisive goal to put his side ahead in the crucial clash. Barcelona came close to scoring the equaliser in the second half when Pedri scored in the 66th minute. However, the goal was ruled out as replays showed Fati had handled the ball in the build-up.

It was the handball call in the dying minutes of the game which didn't go in Barcelona's favour that infuriated Xavi. The Barcelona head coach said it was clear injustice and that the referee should have been asked to explain the decision why he didn't award a penalty to Barcelona.

"I'm p***** off because it's an injustice that we've had to experience. We've suffered a very important defeat. We have three finals left in a very uncomfortable situation," Xavi said after the game.

"The referee should speak. For me, it's a very clear handball. The referee is very important in this sport, and he should go out and give explanations. He didn't want to give them to me. He gave me explanations of the plays he had cancelled, but I asked him about the last one," he added.

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Their defeat against Inter Milan has left Barcelona in a spot of bother as they currently lied third in Group C with just three points from three matches. Bayern Munich are comfortably placed on top with three wins in three games and Barcelona's rematch with Inter next will prove to be decisive in deciding who will take the second spot in the group and progress to the Round of 16.

Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez was left fuming after controversial refereeing decisions in his side's 1-0 loss against Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez was left fuming after controversial refereeing decisions in his side's 1-0 loss against Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday. Barcelona were denied a late penalty in the game after Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries appeared to have handled the ball when Barcelona forward Ansu Fati looked set to head in a shot towards goal. Barcelona were trailing 1-0 and hoped for a final shot at drawing the game after Dumfries' foul. There was a long check as the VAR analysed the incident but Xavi's men were not awarded a penalty as Inter eventually secured a hard-fought win. The last-minute handball call was not the only controversial referee decision during the game as Inter too were denied a penalty in the first half after a handball from Barcelona defender Eric Garcia. The replays showed Inter's Lautaro Martinez was marginally offside seconds before the incident, which led to Inter losing the penalty. Also Read: Hakan Calhanoglu scores as Inter Milan earn crucial 1-0 win against FC Barcelona in Champions League Inter Milan then took the lead at the stroke of halftime as midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu scored the decisive goal to put his side ahead in the crucial clash. Barcelona came close to scoring the equaliser in the second half when Pedri scored in the 66th minute. However, the goal was ruled out as replays showed Fati had handled the ball in the build-up. It was the handball call in the dying minutes of the game which didn't go in Barcelona's favour that infuriated Xavi. The Barcelona head coach said it was clear injustice and that the referee should have been asked to explain the decision why he didn't award a penalty to Barcelona. "I'm p***** off because it's an injustice that we've had to experience. We've suffered a very important defeat. We have three finals left in a very uncomfortable situation," Xavi said after the game. "The referee should speak. For me, it's a very clear handball. The referee is very important in this sport, and he should go out and give explanations. He didn't want to give them to me. He gave me explanations of the plays he had cancelled, but I asked him about the last one," he added. Also Read: Champions League: Liverpool edge Rangers as Bayern Munich, Napoli earn dominant victories Their defeat against Inter Milan has left Barcelona in a spot of bother as they currently lied third in Group C with just three points from three matches. Bayern Munich are comfortably placed on top with three wins in three games and Barcelona's rematch with Inter next will prove to be decisive in deciding who will take the second spot in the group and progress to the Round of 16.

'It's an injustice': Xavi furious at referee after Barcelona's Champions League defeat against Inter Milan

Barcelona said it recorded a profit of 98 million euros ($98.27 million) for the 2021-22 financial year and forecast a 274 million euros profit for this season.

Barcelona rank second on Forbes' list of soccer team valuations with a current value of $5 billion, behind rivals Real Madrid, who are valued at $5.1 billion.

The club said on Monday their board of directors closed the financial year with a turnover of 1.017 billion euros and approved an operating income budget of 1.255 billion euros for this season.

Earlier this month, LaLiga raised Barcelona's spending limit by 800 million euros, bringing the club out of a spending deficit after the Catalan side sold off chunks of assets to patch up their finances.

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To offset losses and comply with LaLiga's financial fair play rules, Barcelona sold 25% of their domestic television rights to U.S. investment firm Sixth Street for the next 25 years in two deals worth over 500 million euros.

The club raised an additional 200 million euros from the sale of a total 49% stake in Barca Studios in two separate transactions, while also signing a long-term sponsorship deal with streaming giant Spotify in March.

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That allowed Barcelona to spend more than 150 million euros in the close season on Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Jules Kounde, while Andreas Christensen, Franck Kessie, Hector Bellerin and Marcos Alonso all arrived on free transfers.

Barcelona are second in LaLiga on 16 points after six games, two points behind Real.

Barcelona said it recorded a profit of 98 million euros ($98.27 million) for the 2021-22 financial year and forecast a 274 million euros profit for this season. Barcelona rank second on Forbes' list of soccer team valuations with a current value of $5 billion, behind rivals Real Madrid, who are valued at $5.

Barcelona said it recorded a profit of 98 million euros ($98.27 million) for the 2021-22 financial year and forecast a 274 million euros profit for this season. Barcelona rank second on Forbes' list of soccer team valuations with a current value of $5 billion, behind rivals Real Madrid, who are valued at $5.1 billion. The club said on Monday their board of directors closed the financial year with a turnover of 1.017 billion euros and approved an operating income budget of 1.255 billion euros for this season. Earlier this month, LaLiga raised Barcelona's spending limit by 800 million euros, bringing the club out of a spending deficit after the Catalan side sold off chunks of assets to patch up their finances. Also Read: WATCH - Ronaldo wins hearts! Man United striker hugs young fan, signs autograph at Moldovan airport To offset losses and comply with LaLiga's financial fair play rules, Barcelona sold 25% of their domestic television rights to U.S. investment firm Sixth Street for the next 25 years in two deals worth over 500 million euros. The club raised an additional 200 million euros from the sale of a total 49% stake in Barca Studios in two separate transactions, while also signing a long-term sponsorship deal with streaming giant Spotify in March. Also Read: WATCH: Atletico Madrid fans hurl vile racist chants at Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr That allowed Barcelona to spend more than 150 million euros in the close season on Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Jules Kounde, while Andreas Christensen, Franck Kessie, Hector Bellerin and Marcos Alonso all arrived on free transfers. Barcelona are second in LaLiga on 16 points after six games, two points behind Real.

FC Barcelona forecast 274 million euros profit this season after selling off club's assets

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski continued his insatiable run of form in front of goal by scoring twice and Memphis Depay also got on the scoresheet as the Catalans cruised to a 3-0 win at home to struggling Elche in LaLiga on Saturday.

The victory took Barca top of the standings on 16 points from six games although Real Madrid, on 15, can return to the summit if they win away at Atletico Madrid on Sunday.

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Barcelona's coach Xavi Hernandez rotated his squad for the visit of the league's bottom side, making five changes to the team that lost 2-0 at Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

His side's task was made easier when Elche centre-back Gonzalo Verdu was sent off in the 14th minute for pulling Lewandowski's shirt as the striker was about to reach the area. From that moment on a fifth consecutive league win for Barca looked inevitable, and so it proved.

"We have a big squad, everyone is training well and prepared to play when the team needs them, and that's the important thing," said Xavi.

"This is an atypical year with the compressed calendar so we need all our players and we need to make sure that whoever plays, they are up to the task. We have a lot of players to choose and squads win titles, not starting 11s."

Lewandowski opened the scoring in the 34th minute, arriving deep in the area to knock in a cross from Alejandro Balde and score for the fifth consecutive game in LaLiga.

Memphis scored a magnificent goal to double Barcelona's lead in the 41st minute, receiving the ball with his back to goal and a defender right behind him but swivelling at speed and blasting into the roof of the net.

Moments later the hosts thought they had scored a third when Pedri netted a pass from Lewandowski but the effort was ruled out for offside. The decision, however, could not placate Elche's furious coach Francisco, who was sent off for dissent.

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Lewandowski grabbed his second goal of the game early in the second half, pouncing inside the area after Memphis had fought hard to win back the ball.

It was the Polish striker's eighth league goal this season and his 11th in all competitions, and he nearly completed a hat-trick later on, firing just over the crossbar.

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski continued his insatiable run of form in front of goal by scoring twice and Memphis Depay also got on the scoresheet as the Catalans cruised to a 3-0 win at home to struggling Elche in LaLiga on Saturday.

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski continued his insatiable run of form in front of goal by scoring twice and Memphis Depay also got on the scoresheet as the Catalans cruised to a 3-0 win at home to struggling Elche in LaLiga on Saturday. The victory took Barca top of the standings on 16 points from six games although Real Madrid, on 15, can return to the summit if they win away at Atletico Madrid on Sunday. ALSO READ: 'A good performance'- Pep Guardiola hails Jack Grealish for latest outing amid complaints from the fans Barcelona's coach Xavi Hernandez rotated his squad for the visit of the league's bottom side, making five changes to the team that lost 2-0 at Bayern Munich in the Champions League. His side's task was made easier when Elche centre-back Gonzalo Verdu was sent off in the 14th minute for pulling Lewandowski's shirt as the striker was about to reach the area. From that moment on a fifth consecutive league win for Barca looked inevitable, and so it proved. "We have a big squad, everyone is training well and prepared to play when the team needs them, and that's the important thing," said Xavi. "This is an atypical year with the compressed calendar so we need all our players and we need to make sure that whoever plays, they are up to the task. We have a lot of players to choose and squads win titles, not starting 11s." Lewandowski opened the scoring in the 34th minute, arriving deep in the area to knock in a cross from Alejandro Balde and score for the fifth consecutive game in LaLiga. Memphis scored a magnificent goal to double Barcelona's lead in the 41st minute, receiving the ball with his back to goal and a defender right behind him but swivelling at speed and blasting into the roof of the net. Moments later the hosts thought they had scored a third when Pedri netted a pass from Lewandowski but the effort was ruled out for offside. The decision, however, could not placate Elche's furious coach Francisco, who was sent off for dissent. ALSO READ: Paul Pogba's brother Mathias likely to be charged in extortion case against the Juventus star Lewandowski grabbed his second goal of the game early in the second half, pouncing inside the area after Memphis had fought hard to win back the ball. It was the Polish striker's eighth league goal this season and his 11th in all competitions, and he nearly completed a hat-trick later on, firing just over the crossbar.

Robert Lewandowski bags a brace as Barcelona storm past LaLiga competitors Elche in a 3-0 win

Former FC Barcelona right-back Dani Alves recently offered fans his take on who, he believes, to be the best player in the history of the sport. While discussing his pick for the spot, Alves was asked to make his choice between his former Catalunya teammate Lionel Messi and Pele.&nbsp;

He categorically rallied behind Messi, hailing him as the greatest player ever to have laced up a pair of boots. He asserted that it did not make sense to include Pele in a conversation regarding the best player in the history of the sport.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-miss-seeing-you-on-the-court-making-us-enjoy-lionel-messi-all-praise-for-genius-roger-federer-516747" hreflang="en">We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer</a>

“I stay with Pelé for one reason: football has changed. Messi changed a generation. All those people who are more than football, I’m going to stay with them. And besides, I’m Brazilian. For me, Pelé should not enter in that debate. If you ask me, who is the best player in history? I would say Messi. Pelé doesn’t fit in there,” Alves told ESPN&nbsp;

The Argentine maestro boasts of an impressive tally of seven Ballon d'Ors, as he is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in the world. As far as GOAT debates are concerned the former Barcelona talisman is a constant presence in the discussion.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-ronaldo-scores-maiden-goal-this-season-as-manchester-united-beat-sheriff-tiraspol-2-0-516718" hreflang="en">Ronaldo scores maiden Europa League goal as Manchester United beat Sheriff Tiraspol 2-0</a>

Alves and Messi played alongside each other for what seems to be the longest amount of time, spending eight years at FC Barcelona during the Argentine's stint with the club. Over the course of their joint tenure at the Camp Nou-based outfit, the duo laid claim to a plethora of titles, filling their trophy cabinets up with silverware.

The duo have represented both PSG and Barcelona and are currently in a race for the highest number of titles. As things currently stand, the Brazilian finds himself in the lead, boasting of 43 titles, while Messi only has 41 career trophies to his name.

Former FC Barcelona right-back Dani Alves recently offered fans his take on who, he believes, to be the best player in the history of the sport. While discussing his pick for the spot, Alves was asked to make his choice between his former Catalunya teammate Lionel Messi and Pele.

Former FC Barcelona right-back Dani Alves recently offered fans his take on who, he believes, to be the best player in the history of the sport. While discussing his pick for the spot, Alves was asked to make his choice between his former Catalunya teammate Lionel Messi and Pele. He categorically rallied behind Messi, hailing him as the greatest player ever to have laced up a pair of boots. He asserted that it did not make sense to include Pele in a conversation regarding the best player in the history of the sport. ALSO READ: We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer “I stay with Pelé for one reason: football has changed. Messi changed a generation. All those people who are more than football, I’m going to stay with them. And besides, I’m Brazilian. For me, Pelé should not enter in that debate. If you ask me, who is the best player in history? I would say Messi. Pelé doesn’t fit in there,” Alves told ESPN The Argentine maestro boasts of an impressive tally of seven Ballon d'Ors, as he is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in the world. As far as GOAT debates are concerned the former Barcelona talisman is a constant presence in the discussion. ALSO READ: Ronaldo scores maiden Europa League goal as Manchester United beat Sheriff Tiraspol 2-0 Alves and Messi played alongside each other for what seems to be the longest amount of time, spending eight years at FC Barcelona during the Argentine's stint with the club. Over the course of their joint tenure at the Camp Nou-based outfit, the duo laid claim to a plethora of titles, filling their trophy cabinets up with silverware. The duo have represented both PSG and Barcelona and are currently in a race for the highest number of titles. As things currently stand, the Brazilian finds himself in the lead, boasting of 43 titles, while Messi only has 41 career trophies to his name.

‘Messi changed a generation’- Dani Alves picks the Argentine over Pele as best player in history

Chaos ensued both on and off the pitch during the most recent UEFA Champions League matchday, with fans indulging in a number of indelicate demonstrations across the world in their respective stadiums.&nbsp;

Olympique de Marseille's Group D fixture saw them&nbsp;lock horns with&nbsp;Eintracht Frankfurt at The Stade Vélodrome. The fast-paced affair saw the local heroes suffer a one-goal loss at the hands of the visiting team.

However, it was the fans in attendance at the Orange Vélodrome who managed to steal the headlines for all the wrong reasons. A faction&nbsp;of visiting supporters was seen making obscene gestures during the game, including the Nazi salute. Footage of this incident saw one of the fans sporting an&nbsp;Eintracht Frankfurt logo on his person.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/late-winner-from-joel-matip-gives-liverpool-uefa-champions-league-lift-off-515919" hreflang="en">Late winner from Joel Matip gives Liverpool UEFA Champions League lift off</a>

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Here is footage of Nazi salutes being made from the away end in Marseille: 
 
<a href="https://t.co/6CHKJaGhfi">pic.twitter.com/6CHKJaGhfi</a>
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) <a href="https://twitter.com/GFFN/status/1569742111519432707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In response to these insensitive actions, the club was forced to issue an immediate statement, distancing itself from any and all anti-semitic sentiments that were presented by the supporters.

"The club dissociates itself completely and utterly from the one isolated incident that occurred during the run-up to the UEFA Champions League match between Olympique de Marseille and Eintracht Frankfurt, where a gesture resembling a Nazi salute was made. Anti-Semitic ideas are totally opposed to the club’s categoric and immutable values and roots,” read the statement.

On the other hand, the Group C clash between Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona, which took place at the iconic Allianz Arena, saw fans holding a banner at one end of the stadium. The banner in question referenced neither team present on the field at the time.&nbsp;

“Last Minute Match Delays And Bans Because Of A Royal’s Death – Respect Fans,” read the banner.

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Bayern fans protesting against impact of Queen’s death on fixtures — Rangers v Napoli games seem to be central to this one <a href="https://t.co/G9vqjPbmAu">pic.twitter.com/G9vqjPbmAu</a>
— Mark Ogden (@MarkOgden_) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkOgden_/status/1569769935592628239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-pssed-off-xavi-reacts-as-barcelona-lose-to-bayern-munich-in-ucl-says-we-were-better-515982" hreflang="en">'I'm p*ssed off' - Xavi reacts as Barcelona lose to Bayern Munich in UCL, says 'we were better'</a>

This was reportedly referring to the scheduling issues that fans faced after the match between&nbsp;Rangers and Napoli in Glasgow was delayed by 24 hours due to policing issues and the problems that the visiting&nbsp;fans faced while making their way to the&nbsp;Ibrox Stadium to watch the action unfold in the rescheduled match.

UEFA subsequently released a statement addressing this matter, claiming that the organizational conundrum took place due to the 'ongoing events surrounding the national mourning for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.'

Chaos ensued both on and off the pitch during the most recent UEFA Champions League matchday, with fans indulging in a number of indelicate demonstrations across the world in their respective stadiums.

Chaos ensued both on and off the pitch during the most recent UEFA Champions League matchday, with fans indulging in a number of indelicate demonstrations across the world in their respective stadiums. Olympique de Marseille's Group D fixture saw them lock horns with Eintracht Frankfurt at The Stade Vélodrome. The fast-paced affair saw the local heroes suffer a one-goal loss at the hands of the visiting team. However, it was the fans in attendance at the Orange Vélodrome who managed to steal the headlines for all the wrong reasons. A faction of visiting supporters was seen making obscene gestures during the game, including the Nazi salute. Footage of this incident saw one of the fans sporting an Eintracht Frankfurt logo on his person. ALSO READ: Late winner from Joel Matip gives Liverpool UEFA Champions League lift off Here is footage of Nazi salutes being made from the away end in Marseille: pic.twitter.com/6CHKJaGhfi — Get French Football News (@GFFN) September 13, 2022 × In response to these insensitive actions, the club was forced to issue an immediate statement, distancing itself from any and all anti-semitic sentiments that were presented by the supporters. "The club dissociates itself completely and utterly from the one isolated incident that occurred during the run-up to the UEFA Champions League match between Olympique de Marseille and Eintracht Frankfurt, where a gesture resembling a Nazi salute was made. Anti-Semitic ideas are totally opposed to the club’s categoric and immutable values and roots,” read the statement. On the other hand, the Group C clash between Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona, which took place at the iconic Allianz Arena, saw fans holding a banner at one end of the stadium. The banner in question referenced neither team present on the field at the time. “Last Minute Match Delays And Bans Because Of A Royal’s Death – Respect Fans,” read the banner. Bayern fans protesting against impact of Queen’s death on fixtures — Rangers v Napoli games seem to be central to this one pic.twitter.com/G9vqjPbmAu — Mark Ogden (@MarkOgden_) September 13, 2022 × ALSO READ: 'I'm p*ssed off' - Xavi reacts as Barcelona lose to Bayern Munich in UCL, says 'we were better' This was reportedly referring to the scheduling issues that fans faced after the match between Rangers and Napoli in Glasgow was delayed by 24 hours due to policing issues and the problems that the visiting fans faced while making their way to the Ibrox Stadium to watch the action unfold in the rescheduled match. UEFA subsequently released a statement addressing this matter, claiming that the organizational conundrum took place due to the 'ongoing events surrounding the national mourning for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.'

Champions League matchday 2 marred by Nazi salutes and protests against delaying fixtures over Queen's death

Bayern Munich will welcome Robert Lewandowski's Barcelona to the Allianz Arena on Tuesday, hoping to jolt themselves out of a poor run of Bundesliga form. Despite Wednesday's impressive 2-0 win at Inter Milan, Bayern have drawn three games in a row and sit in the unfamiliar position of third place after six matches.&nbsp;

While Bayern have not struggled to find the back of the net this season with 31 goals in nine games, they have missed Lewandowski's penetration at crucial moments in recent weeks.&nbsp;Lewandowski has had a dominant start to life in Spain, scoring six times in five La Liga matches for Barcelona to sit in his usual spot atop the goalscoring charts.&nbsp;

With four wins and a draw, Barcelona are unbeaten in the league and sit second behind Real Madrid.&nbsp;In the Champions League, Lewandowski opened his account with a hat-trick in Barcelona's 5-1 home win against Viktoria Plzen.&nbsp;

Speaking directly after their 2-2 home draw with Stuttgart on Saturday, Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said his team knew better than most the kind of damage Lewandowski could inflict.&nbsp;

"We have been warned," Salihamidzic said about his former striker's form for his new club.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-come-from-behind-to-beat-mallorca-4-1-to-return-atop-515322">Real Madrid come from behind to beat Mallorca 4-1 to return atop</a>

Bayern have a strong recent Champions League record against Barcelona, with two 3-0 wins last season along with an 8-2 quarter-final thumping on the way to winning the 2020 title.&nbsp;

The six-time European champions are however fully aware that this Barcelona side is stronger than some of the recent incarnations.

"Worried? I don't know (about that)," Salihamidzic said on Saturday when asked if his side were fearful ahead of Barca's visit.&nbsp;

"We have to shift up two gears, even three against Barcelona.

"Barcelona have top players, play good football (and) 'Lewa' is up front, he uses every opportunity."&nbsp;

Manager Julian Nagelsmann said his side's Bundesliga form will not change the preparation for Tuesday's game.&nbsp;

"I approach the week the way I would have done it if we had won," Nagelsmann said on Saturday.&nbsp;

"We're trying to come up with a good idea for Barcelona, which will be difficult.&nbsp;

"I would have done the same thing if we had won 4-0 today."

After his side's 2-0 win over Inter, Nagelsmann said his side were "looking forward" to taking on the man who scored 344 goals in 375 Bayern appearances.

"I am looking forward to it (the reunion with Lewandowski). Not so much as an opponent because he's very dangerous, but as a person I will be pleased to see him."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/devastated-that-my-time-at-chelsea-has-come-to-an-end-thomas-tuchel-reacts-after-being-sacked-515346">'Devastated that my time at Chelsea has come to an end'- Thomas Tuchel reacts after being sacked</a>

Nagelsmann said he hoped fans would welcome Lewandowski back warmly, despite the acrimonious nature of his departure.

"I hope the fans will honour that too, regardless of how things were with his departure."

Bayern forward Thomas Mueller, who said he was "mad at ourselves for the first time this season" after the draw with Stuttgart, said he was happy for the focus to shift away from his side's domestic problems.&nbsp;

"We're really looking forward to the duel - not just because of Robert," Mueller said.&nbsp;

"It's a meeting at the summit in the group."

Bayern Munich will welcome Robert Lewandowski's Barcelona to the Allianz Arena on Tuesday, hoping to jolt themselves out of a poor run of Bundesliga form. Despite Wednesday's impressive 2-0 win at Inter Milan, Bayern have drawn three games in a row and sit in the unfamiliar position of third place after six matches.

Bayern Munich will welcome Robert Lewandowski's Barcelona to the Allianz Arena on Tuesday, hoping to jolt themselves out of a poor run of Bundesliga form. Despite Wednesday's impressive 2-0 win at Inter Milan, Bayern have drawn three games in a row and sit in the unfamiliar position of third place after six matches. While Bayern have not struggled to find the back of the net this season with 31 goals in nine games, they have missed Lewandowski's penetration at crucial moments in recent weeks. Lewandowski has had a dominant start to life in Spain, scoring six times in five La Liga matches for Barcelona to sit in his usual spot atop the goalscoring charts. With four wins and a draw, Barcelona are unbeaten in the league and sit second behind Real Madrid. In the Champions League, Lewandowski opened his account with a hat-trick in Barcelona's 5-1 home win against Viktoria Plzen. Speaking directly after their 2-2 home draw with Stuttgart on Saturday, Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said his team knew better than most the kind of damage Lewandowski could inflict. "We have been warned," Salihamidzic said about his former striker's form for his new club. Also Read: Real Madrid come from behind to beat Mallorca 4-1 to return atop Bayern have a strong recent Champions League record against Barcelona, with two 3-0 wins last season along with an 8-2 quarter-final thumping on the way to winning the 2020 title. The six-time European champions are however fully aware that this Barcelona side is stronger than some of the recent incarnations. "Worried? I don't know (about that)," Salihamidzic said on Saturday when asked if his side were fearful ahead of Barca's visit. "We have to shift up two gears, even three against Barcelona. "Barcelona have top players, play good football (and) 'Lewa' is up front, he uses every opportunity." Manager Julian Nagelsmann said his side's Bundesliga form will not change the preparation for Tuesday's game. "I approach the week the way I would have done it if we had won," Nagelsmann said on Saturday. "We're trying to come up with a good idea for Barcelona, which will be difficult. "I would have done the same thing if we had won 4-0 today." After his side's 2-0 win over Inter, Nagelsmann said his side were "looking forward" to taking on the man who scored 344 goals in 375 Bayern appearances. "I am looking forward to it (the reunion with Lewandowski). Not so much as an opponent because he's very dangerous, but as a person I will be pleased to see him." Also Read: 'Devastated that my time at Chelsea has come to an end'- Thomas Tuchel reacts after being sacked Nagelsmann said he hoped fans would welcome Lewandowski back warmly, despite the acrimonious nature of his departure. "I hope the fans will honour that too, regardless of how things were with his departure." Bayern forward Thomas Mueller, who said he was "mad at ourselves for the first time this season" after the draw with Stuttgart, said he was happy for the focus to shift away from his side's domestic problems. "We're really looking forward to the duel - not just because of Robert," Mueller said. "It's a meeting at the summit in the group."

'We've been warned': Bayern Munich wary ahead of Lewandowski reunion in Champions League

Barcelona frontman Xavi Hernandez recently offered fans a sneak peek into his list of the best strikers in the world. He included the likes of Catalunya's own Robert Lewandowski, arch-nemeses Real Madrid's Karim Benzema and Manchester City's Erling Haaland. One of the biggest omissions from his list was Paris Saint-Germain's&nbsp;Kylian Mbappe, who is frequently hailed as one of the greatest attacking talents in the world.

This comes shortly after the strikers in question were seen in their element, entertaining fans with a series of electrifying performances each on the grandest stage of club football, the UEFA Champions League. In the aftermath of the Champions League action, Xavi was witnessed talking up&nbsp;Lewandowski's game, before revealing his list of Top-3 attackers in the world.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-fantastic-diogo-dalot-waxes-lyrical-about-manchester-united-teammate-marcus-rashford-514119" hreflang="en">‘He is fantastic’- Diogo Dalot waxes lyrical about Manchester United teammate Marcus Rashford</a>

"It's fantastic to have him in the team, I can't praise him enough. But it's not just the hat-trick, it's everything he does and what he brings.&nbsp;Apart from the goals, he makes the team play, he understands when to press, he gives us many solutions in attack, how he communicates, he understands the game. The best? There's him, Benzema and also Haaland," said Xavi.

The reason behind Xavi's glowing review of Lewandowski was his mindblowing performance in Barcelona's most recent Champions League draw against&nbsp;Czech side&nbsp;<a data-content-type="section-topic" data-link-tracking="InArticle|Link" href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/all-about/viktoria-plzen" rel="Follow" target="_self">Viktoria Plzen. which took place at home, where&nbsp;the Pole bagged a hat-trick.</a>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-embarrassing-jamie-carragher-nukes-liverpools-defensive-efforts-against-napoli-after-4-1-drubbing-514105" hreflang="en">'It's embarrassing'- Jamie Carragher nukes Liverpool's defensive efforts against Napoli after 4-1 drubbing</a>

Haaland, who featured on Xavi's list of Top-3 strikers in the world also recorded an extremely successful outing in Manchester City's UCL Group Stage draw against Sevilla as he recorded a brace, to help City see through their romp of the&nbsp;Spanish giants in their backyard of&nbsp;Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium.&nbsp;

Karim Benzema, however, did not fare as well owing to an injury that forced him off the field during Los Blancos' hard-fought 3-0 win against Celtic. Kylian Mbappe, on the other hand, managed to find the back of the&nbsp;net twice, single-handedly carrying Paris Saint-Germain to victory against Juventus in a clash that ended at 2-1.

Barcelona frontman Xavi Hernandez recently offered fans a sneak peek into his list of the best strikers in the world. He included the likes of Catalunya's own Robert Lewandowski, arch-nemeses Real Madrid's Karim Benzema and Manchester City's Erling Haaland.

Barcelona frontman Xavi Hernandez recently offered fans a sneak peek into his list of the best strikers in the world. He included the likes of Catalunya's own Robert Lewandowski, arch-nemeses Real Madrid's Karim Benzema and Manchester City's Erling Haaland. One of the biggest omissions from his list was Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe, who is frequently hailed as one of the greatest attacking talents in the world. This comes shortly after the strikers in question were seen in their element, entertaining fans with a series of electrifying performances each on the grandest stage of club football, the UEFA Champions League. In the aftermath of the Champions League action, Xavi was witnessed talking up Lewandowski's game, before revealing his list of Top-3 attackers in the world. ALSO READ: ‘He is fantastic’- Diogo Dalot waxes lyrical about Manchester United teammate Marcus Rashford "It's fantastic to have him in the team, I can't praise him enough. But it's not just the hat-trick, it's everything he does and what he brings. Apart from the goals, he makes the team play, he understands when to press, he gives us many solutions in attack, how he communicates, he understands the game. The best? There's him, Benzema and also Haaland," said Xavi. The reason behind Xavi's glowing review of Lewandowski was his mindblowing performance in Barcelona's most recent Champions League draw against Czech side Viktoria Plzen. which took place at home, where the Pole bagged a hat-trick. ALSO READ: 'It's embarrassing'- Jamie Carragher nukes Liverpool's defensive efforts against Napoli after 4-1 drubbing Haaland, who featured on Xavi's list of Top-3 strikers in the world also recorded an extremely successful outing in Manchester City's UCL Group Stage draw against Sevilla as he recorded a brace, to help City see through their romp of the Spanish giants in their backyard of Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium. Karim Benzema, however, did not fare as well owing to an injury that forced him off the field during Los Blancos' hard-fought 3-0 win against Celtic. Kylian Mbappe, on the other hand, managed to find the back of the net twice, single-handedly carrying Paris Saint-Germain to victory against Juventus in a clash that ended at 2-1.

Barcelona’s Xavi snubs Kylian Mbappe as he backs Erling Haaland among others as world’s best strikers

Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was the victim of a violent armed robbery at his home in the early hours of Monday, the Spanish club said.

"He is ok now, scared but ok," a Barcelona source told AFP, confirming press reports.

At least four men broke into his home in Castelldefels near Barcelona through the garden and threatened him and his wife with guns and iron bars, and hit him, daily El Pais reported. The thieves fled by car after forcing the Gabon international to open a safe and making off with jewels that were inside, the newspaper reported.

A spokeswoman for Catalan police, the&nbsp;Mossos&nbsp;d'Esquadra, confirmed they were investigating a violent robbery in Castelldefels but refused to identify the victim, citing privacy rules.

"The investigation remains open and we are gathering information," she told AFP.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogbas-brother-vows-to-make-explosive-revelations-about-juventus-star-and-mbappe-in-bizarre-video-510903">Paul Pogba's brother vows to make 'explosive' revelations about Juventus star and Mbappe in bizarre video</a>

The incident comes as Aubameyang is linked with a return to the Premier League after interest from Chelsea. He joined Barcelona in February from Arsenal after reportedly having fallen out with Gunners manager Mikel Arteta due to disciplinary breaches.

Several high-profile footballers in Spain have been subject to robberies though most of these break-ins occur while the stars are playing. In June police arrested six people in connection with the three-million-euro burglary at the house belonging to former Brazil forward Ronaldo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cristiano-ronaldo-hilariously-pranks-rio-ferdinand-ahead-of-southampton-clash-510906">Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo hilariously pranks Rio Ferdinand ahead of Southampton clash</a>

Paris Saint-Germain player Marco Verratti was staying at Ronaldo's house in Ibiza but was not home when the burglars struck, taking jewellery and money. And earlier this month police recovered Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski's watch, which was stolen as the player signed autographs before a training session.

Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was the victim of a violent armed robbery at his home in the early hours of Monday, the Spanish club said. "He is ok now, scared but ok," a Barcelona source told AFP, confirming press reports.

Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was the victim of a violent armed robbery at his home in the early hours of Monday, the Spanish club said. "He is ok now, scared but ok," a Barcelona source told AFP, confirming press reports. At least four men broke into his home in Castelldefels near Barcelona through the garden and threatened him and his wife with guns and iron bars, and hit him, daily El Pais reported. The thieves fled by car after forcing the Gabon international to open a safe and making off with jewels that were inside, the newspaper reported. A spokeswoman for Catalan police, the Mossos d'Esquadra, confirmed they were investigating a violent robbery in Castelldefels but refused to identify the victim, citing privacy rules. "The investigation remains open and we are gathering information," she told AFP. Also Read: Paul Pogba's brother vows to make 'explosive' revelations about Juventus star and Mbappe in bizarre video The incident comes as Aubameyang is linked with a return to the Premier League after interest from Chelsea. He joined Barcelona in February from Arsenal after reportedly having fallen out with Gunners manager Mikel Arteta due to disciplinary breaches. Several high-profile footballers in Spain have been subject to robberies though most of these break-ins occur while the stars are playing. In June police arrested six people in connection with the three-million-euro burglary at the house belonging to former Brazil forward Ronaldo. Also Read: Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo hilariously pranks Rio Ferdinand ahead of Southampton clash Paris Saint-Germain player Marco Verratti was staying at Ronaldo's house in Ibiza but was not home when the burglars struck, taking jewellery and money. And earlier this month police recovered Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski's watch, which was stolen as the player signed autographs before a training session.

Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang assaulted in armed robbery at his home

Lionel Messi can make a sensational return to FC Barcelona next summer as the Spanish club has reportedly already started negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over re-signing the Argentine legend. Messi left his boyhood club Barcelona last year after the Catalan giants failed to renew his contract due to financial constraints and La Liga rules.

However,&nbsp;Barcelona are now keen on reuniting with their former superstar and have also started discussions with Messi's representatives over a move back to the club in 2023. The news was reported by Catalunya Radio on Sunday after Barcelona beat Mexican side Pumas UNAM 6-0 in the Joan Gamper Trophy.

As per Catalunya Radio's El Club de la Mitjanit programme, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has begun discussions with Messi's entourage about a possible return to Barcelona next year. Messi currently has a two-year contract at PSG which will expire next summer making him a free agent. The Argentine, however, has an option to extend his deal to another season at the French club.

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However, Messi is reportedly keen on returning to Barcelona where he rose to fame after graduating from the club's famed La Masia academy. Messi, who is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, spent 17 seasons at Barcelona winning numerous trophies and a staggering 7 Ballon d'Ors before leaving the club last summer.

Messi won ten La Liga titles, four Champions League titles, three UEFA Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cup titles with FC Barcelona before leaving the club last summer. Messi is arguably one of the greatest to have played for the club and it remains to be seen if he will be able to make his dream return to club next summer.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/erik-ten-hag-era-at-manchester-united-begins-with-a-shambolic-defeat-against-brighton-in-premier-league-504647">Erik Ten Hag era at Manchester United begins with a shambolic defeat against Brighton in Premier League</a>

The rumours of Messi's return to Barcelona had sparked up earlier this summer after FC Barcelona president Laporta said he owes a return to the Argentinian, who was let go by the club last year due to their poor financial situation. Laporta had said Messi's chapter at Barcelona is not over yet.

“I did what I had to do in order to put the institution above the best player in history. I've known Messi since he was a kid, I love Leo. I feel a moral debt to the best player in history. I'll do my best to make sure Messi has the best ending of his career with Barcelona," Laporta had said.

“I would like to do it. It will not be easy but I think that with the correct strategy we could do it. We will do our best to have Messi ending his career with Barcelona," he added.

Lionel Messi can make a sensational return to FC Barcelona next summer as the Spanish club has reportedly already started negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over re-signing the Argentine legend.

Lionel Messi can make a sensational return to FC Barcelona next summer as the Spanish club has reportedly already started negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over re-signing the Argentine legend. Messi left his boyhood club Barcelona last year after the Catalan giants failed to renew his contract due to financial constraints and La Liga rules. However, Barcelona are now keen on reuniting with their former superstar and have also started discussions with Messi's representatives over a move back to the club in 2023. The news was reported by Catalunya Radio on Sunday after Barcelona beat Mexican side Pumas UNAM 6-0 in the Joan Gamper Trophy. As per Catalunya Radio's El Club de la Mitjanit programme, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has begun discussions with Messi's entourage about a possible return to Barcelona next year. Messi currently has a two-year contract at PSG which will expire next summer making him a free agent. The Argentine, however, has an option to extend his deal to another season at the French club. Also Read: Five strikers Manchester United can sign this window if Cristiano Ronaldo leaves However, Messi is reportedly keen on returning to Barcelona where he rose to fame after graduating from the club's famed La Masia academy. Messi, who is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, spent 17 seasons at Barcelona winning numerous trophies and a staggering 7 Ballon d'Ors before leaving the club last summer. Messi won ten La Liga titles, four Champions League titles, three UEFA Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cup titles with FC Barcelona before leaving the club last summer. Messi is arguably one of the greatest to have played for the club and it remains to be seen if he will be able to make his dream return to club next summer. Also Read: Erik Ten Hag era at Manchester United begins with a shambolic defeat against Brighton in Premier League The rumours of Messi's return to Barcelona had sparked up earlier this summer after FC Barcelona president Laporta said he owes a return to the Argentinian, who was let go by the club last year due to their poor financial situation. Laporta had said Messi's chapter at Barcelona is not over yet. “I did what I had to do in order to put the institution above the best player in history. I've known Messi since he was a kid, I love Leo. I feel a moral debt to the best player in history. I'll do my best to make sure Messi has the best ending of his career with Barcelona," Laporta had said. “I would like to do it. It will not be easy but I think that with the correct strategy we could do it. We will do our best to have Messi ending his career with Barcelona," he added.

Lionel Messi back to FC Barcelona? Club begins negotiations to sign PSG forward next summer

In a shocking revelation, an FC Barcelona executive reportedly tried to bribe a UEFA official into launching an investigation against Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain over Financial Fair Play regulations in 2020. The Barcelona executive brought up the matter of FFP during his dinner meeting with a UEFA counterpart last year and asked if there was anyone in the department 'he could pay'.

Barcelona have been enduring one of the worst financial crisis in the club's history as they are yet to recover from the huge losses suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some poor decisions in the transfer market along with their financial mishandlings have led to a mess at the Spanish club.

FC Barcelona have sold a part of&nbsp;the club's telecast rights and a stake in their studios among others to boost their finances and make signings in the ongoing transfer window. However, they are still far off from recovering from the staggering debt they are in.

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Amid the club's poor financial situation, a report in The Athletic has claimed a Barcelona executive tried to bribe a UEFA official in 2020. The Barcelona executive felt UEFA have been light on rich clubs like Man City and PSG, who have great financial backing when it comes to Financial Fair Play regulations. He also felt Barcelona are not in a position to compete with those clubs considering their current financial situation.

“Eventually, the Barça official asked, ‘Is there anyone in your FFP department we could pay?’. The UEFA official understood that his counterpart was trying to find somebody to bribe," The Athletic quoted an excerpt from a book written by Financial Times journalist Simon Kuper which exposed the details of the meeting between the Barcelona executive and the UEFA official.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-unacceptable-man-utd-boss-erik-ten-hag-slams-cristiano-ronaldo-for-leaving-game-before-final-whistle-503284">'It's unacceptable': Man Utd boss Erik Ten Hag slams Cristiano Ronaldo for leaving game before final whistle</a>

Responding to the allegations, UEFA said they are unaware of any such meeting with a Barcelona executive. Interestingly, UEFA had banned Manchester City for two years from the Champions League in 2020&nbsp;for a serious FFP breach and failure to cooperate in the investigation.

However, the ban was lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in July, 2020 which allowed City to continue taking part in the competition that season. City's fine was also reduced to 10 million euros from 30 million euros by the court.

In a shocking revelation, an FC Barcelona executive reportedly tried to bribe a UEFA official into launching an investigation against Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain over Financial Fair Play regulations in 2020.

In a shocking revelation, an FC Barcelona executive reportedly tried to bribe a UEFA official into launching an investigation against Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain over Financial Fair Play regulations in 2020. The Barcelona executive brought up the matter of FFP during his dinner meeting with a UEFA counterpart last year and asked if there was anyone in the department 'he could pay'. Barcelona have been enduring one of the worst financial crisis in the club's history as they are yet to recover from the huge losses suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some poor decisions in the transfer market along with their financial mishandlings have led to a mess at the Spanish club. FC Barcelona have sold a part of the club's telecast rights and a stake in their studios among others to boost their finances and make signings in the ongoing transfer window. However, they are still far off from recovering from the staggering debt they are in. Also Read: Premier League clubs to not take the knee before every match, gesture limited to only significant games Amid the club's poor financial situation, a report in The Athletic has claimed a Barcelona executive tried to bribe a UEFA official in 2020. The Barcelona executive felt UEFA have been light on rich clubs like Man City and PSG, who have great financial backing when it comes to Financial Fair Play regulations. He also felt Barcelona are not in a position to compete with those clubs considering their current financial situation. “Eventually, the Barça official asked, ‘Is there anyone in your FFP department we could pay?’. The UEFA official understood that his counterpart was trying to find somebody to bribe," The Athletic quoted an excerpt from a book written by Financial Times journalist Simon Kuper which exposed the details of the meeting between the Barcelona executive and the UEFA official. Also Read: 'It's unacceptable': Man Utd boss Erik Ten Hag slams Cristiano Ronaldo for leaving game before final whistle Responding to the allegations, UEFA said they are unaware of any such meeting with a Barcelona executive. Interestingly, UEFA had banned Manchester City for two years from the Champions League in 2020 for a serious FFP breach and failure to cooperate in the investigation. However, the ban was lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in July, 2020 which allowed City to continue taking part in the competition that season. City's fine was also reduced to 10 million euros from 30 million euros by the court.

Barcelona executive tried to bribe UEFA official to investigate PSG, Man City over Financial Fair Play

Manchester United are set to embark on a new era under new manager Erik Ten Hag as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. United endured a horrendous campaign last season as they missed out on a top-four spot in the Premier League to finish a disappointing sixth while also getting knocked from the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

After sacking former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last season and letting go of Ralf Rangnick, who served as an interim manager after Solskjaer's departure, United are banking on Ten Hag to bail them out of trouble next season and bring an end to the five-year-long trophy drought at the club.

However, with a squad full of glaring holes that need to be filled ahead of the new season, Ten Hag has his task cut out. The Dutch manager has already prioritised midfield as a key area that he would like to reinforce ahead of the new season after the departure of the likes of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard.

While United have already roped in Christian Eriksen on a free signing, they are still in the market for more solid midfielders with Barcelona's Frenkie De Jong on top of their wish list. De Jong has been heavily linked with a move to United this summer and it is believed a deal for the Dutch midfielder is close despite his initial reluctance to leave the La Liga club.

Also Read -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-erling-haaland-misses-a-sitter-for-manchester-city-as-liverpool-win-community-shield-502238">WATCH: Erling Haaland misses a sitter for Manchester City as Liverpool win Community Shield</a>

De Jong is one of the most talented midfielders in the world, who joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2020. However, the Dutch midfielder is reportedly on extraordinarily high wages and Barcelona are looking to offload him to balance their wage bill ahead of the new season.

Barcelona have already made a host of new signings this summer and keeping De Jong on his current wages might pose a problem for them in registering their new signings. If his move to Manchester United materialises, De Jong will join a unique list of footballers who have played for Barcelona and United, two of the most successful clubs in the world.

Here is a look at some of the top footballers who have played for both Barcelona and Man Utd:

Jordi Cruyff

<img alt="Jordi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e27a4a4b-ea58-4671-9de2-e1dcd6bf7185" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jordi.png" />

Jordi Cruyff, the son of Barcelona and Netherland legend Johan Cruyff is one of the handful of footballers to have played for Barcelona and Manchester United in their careers. Jordi, an attacking midfielder started his career at Barcelona where he came up through the ranks before making his first team debut in 1994.

Jordi made 54&nbsp;appereances for Barcelona before joining United in 1996. He scored 8 times in 54 games for United and ledt the club on loan to La Liga side Celta Vigo in 1999 before securing a permanent move to Alaves. Jordi is currently serving as an sporting advisor for his former club Barcelona.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-lot-of-sht-was-said-about-me-robert-lewandowski-lashes-out-at-bayern-munich-after-joining-barcelona-502036">'A lot of sh*t was said about me': Lewandowski lashes out at Bayern Munich after joining Barcelona</a>

Gerard Pique

<img alt="Pique" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3d3605f2-86b1-49c9-98fe-32f884e15e0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pique.png" />

Gerard Pique, who is regarded as one of the finest central defenders of the generation, came through Barcelona's famed La Masia academy. However, he left Barcelona to join Manchester United in 2004 and spent 4 seasons at Old Trafford before returning to Barcelona in 2008.

He established his credentials as one of the best defenders in the world at Barcelona and helped them dominate European football for several years. Pique is still at Barcelona having won 8 La Liga titles, 3 Champions League trophies and 3 UEFA Super Cup titles with the club so far.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

<img alt="zlatan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="285a653e-2513-4f46-97c1-9a28945d3376" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Zlatan%20g.png" />

Zlatan Ibrahimovic too enjoyed successive spells at both FC Barcelona and Manchester United. The Swedish striker, who currently plays for Italian club AC Milan and is still going strong at 40, spent two seasons at United under fomer manager Jose Mourinho from 2016 to 2018.&nbsp;

Ibrahimovic scored 29 goals in 53 appereances for the Red Devils and won the Europa League and the League Cup with the club. The superstar striker had earlier spent two seasons with FC Barcelona as well from 2009 to 2011 where he scored 16 goals in 29 matches in the La Liga before joining AC Milan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-eager-to-exit-man-utd-to-not-lose-ucl-record-to-arch-rival-lionel-messi-report-501718">Cristiano Ronaldo eager to exit Man Utd to not lose UCL record to arch-rival Lionel Messi: Report</a>

Alexis Sanchez

<img alt="Sanchez" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9bc35904-6cdf-4538-88b5-b29918461ec0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sanchez.png" />

Aexis Sanchez might be one of the finest forwards of the current generation but the Chilean had a forgetful spell at Manchester United after signing for the club from Premier League rivals Arsenal in 2018. He managed just 3 goals in 32 league appereances for United in what was a horrendous spell for the Chilean at Old Trafford.

Sanchez, however, enjoyed a successful spell at FC Barcelona from 2011 to 2014. The Chilean forward made 88 appereances for the Spanish club and scored 39 goals while winning a La Liga and a UEFA Super Cup title with the club.

Memphis Depay

<img alt="Memphis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a44f750a-f785-48f5-b0e8-d459f79c7443" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Memphis.png" />

Memphis Depay was considered the next big thing in Dutch football when Manchester United signed him from PSV Eindhoven in 2015. Depay arrived in a deal worth 25 million pounds and signed a 4-year contract at United. He had a decent start before suffering a downfall after infamously asking to wear the iconic no.7 shirt at United.

Depay managed to score only 7 goals in 53 appereances for the club before leaving for French club Lyon in 2016. He scripted his resurgence at Lyon with 76 goas in 178 appereances before FC Barcelona roped him in last year to bolster their attack. However, Depay has failed to impress at Barcelona and might leave the club this summer.

&nbsp;

Manchester United are set to embark on a new era under new manager Erik Ten Hag as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. United endured a horrendous campaign last season as they missed out on a top-four spot in the Premier League to finish a disappointing sixth while also getting knocked from the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Manchester United are set to embark on a new era under new manager Erik Ten Hag as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. United endured a horrendous campaign last season as they missed out on a top-four spot in the Premier League to finish a disappointing sixth while also getting knocked from the Round of 16 in the Champions League. After sacking former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last season and letting go of Ralf Rangnick, who served as an interim manager after Solskjaer's departure, United are banking on Ten Hag to bail them out of trouble next season and bring an end to the five-year-long trophy drought at the club. However, with a squad full of glaring holes that need to be filled ahead of the new season, Ten Hag has his task cut out. The Dutch manager has already prioritised midfield as a key area that he would like to reinforce ahead of the new season after the departure of the likes of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard. While United have already roped in Christian Eriksen on a free signing, they are still in the market for more solid midfielders with Barcelona's Frenkie De Jong on top of their wish list. De Jong has been heavily linked with a move to United this summer and it is believed a deal for the Dutch midfielder is close despite his initial reluctance to leave the La Liga club. Also Read - WATCH: Erling Haaland misses a sitter for Manchester City as Liverpool win Community Shield De Jong is one of the most talented midfielders in the world, who joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2020. However, the Dutch midfielder is reportedly on extraordinarily high wages and Barcelona are looking to offload him to balance their wage bill ahead of the new season. Barcelona have already made a host of new signings this summer and keeping De Jong on his current wages might pose a problem for them in registering their new signings. If his move to Manchester United materialises, De Jong will join a unique list of footballers who have played for Barcelona and United, two of the most successful clubs in the world. Here is a look at some of the top footballers who have played for both Barcelona and Man Utd: Jordi Cruyff Jordi Cruyff, the son of Barcelona and Netherland legend Johan Cruyff is one of the handful of footballers to have played for Barcelona and Manchester United in their careers. Jordi, an attacking midfielder started his career at Barcelona where he came up through the ranks before making his first team debut in 1994. Jordi made 54 appereances for Barcelona before joining United in 1996. He scored 8 times in 54 games for United and ledt the club on loan to La Liga side Celta Vigo in 1999 before securing a permanent move to Alaves. Jordi is currently serving as an sporting advisor for his former club Barcelona. Also Read: 'A lot of sh*t was said about me': Lewandowski lashes out at Bayern Munich after joining Barcelona Gerard Pique Gerard Pique, who is regarded as one of the finest central defenders of the generation, came through Barcelona's famed La Masia academy. However, he left Barcelona to join Manchester United in 2004 and spent 4 seasons at Old Trafford before returning to Barcelona in 2008. He established his credentials as one of the best defenders in the world at Barcelona and helped them dominate European football for several years. Pique is still at Barcelona having won 8 La Liga titles, 3 Champions League trophies and 3 UEFA Super Cup titles with the club so far. Zlatan Ibrahimovic Zlatan Ibrahimovic too enjoyed successive spells at both FC Barcelona and Manchester United. The Swedish striker, who currently plays for Italian club AC Milan and is still going strong at 40, spent two seasons at United under fomer manager Jose Mourinho from 2016 to 2018. Ibrahimovic scored 29 goals in 53 appereances for the Red Devils and won the Europa League and the League Cup with the club. The superstar striker had earlier spent two seasons with FC Barcelona as well from 2009 to 2011 where he scored 16 goals in 29 matches in the La Liga before joining AC Milan. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo eager to exit Man Utd to not lose UCL record to arch-rival Lionel Messi: Report Alexis Sanchez Aexis Sanchez might be one of the finest forwards of the current generation but the Chilean had a forgetful spell at Manchester United after signing for the club from Premier League rivals Arsenal in 2018. He managed just 3 goals in 32 league appereances for United in what was a horrendous spell for the Chilean at Old Trafford. Sanchez, however, enjoyed a successful spell at FC Barcelona from 2011 to 2014. The Chilean forward made 88 appereances for the Spanish club and scored 39 goals while winning a La Liga and a UEFA Super Cup title with the club. Memphis Depay Memphis Depay was considered the next big thing in Dutch football when Manchester United signed him from PSV Eindhoven in 2015. Depay arrived in a deal worth 25 million pounds and signed a 4-year contract at United. He had a decent start before suffering a downfall after infamously asking to wear the iconic no.7 shirt at United. Depay managed to score only 7 goals in 53 appereances for the club before leaving for French club Lyon in 2016. He scripted his resurgence at Lyon with 76 goas in 178 appereances before FC Barcelona roped him in last year to bolster their attack. However, Depay has failed to impress at Barcelona and might leave the club this summer.

Will Frenkie De Jong sign for Manchester United? A look at players who have played for Barcelona and Man Utd

Trouble seems to be mounting up for Brazilian star Neymar, who is set to face trial in October this year over alleged irregularities in his transfer to FC Barcelona from Brazilian club Santos in 2013. As per a report in AFP, judicial sources informed that Neymar along with his parents and former FC Barcelona presidents Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu will be tried for alleged corruption in the Brazilian's transfer to Barcelona.

Neymar, who currently plays for French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), joined the Ligue 1 outfit from Barcelona in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros making him the most expensive transfer in football history. However, Neymar isn't facing legal trouble for his move to PSG but for his transfer from Santos to Barcelona.

A Brazilian company DIS has levelled charges of corruption against Neymar and his parents while former Barcelona presidents Rosell and Bartomeu are also set to face charges of fraud. DIS are former owners of a percentage of Neymar's rights and were supposed to earn a part of the player's transfer fee earned by Santos from Barcelona for his transfer in 2013.

Barcelona had officially announced that they paid a transfer fee of 57.1 million ($63.6 million) for Neymar's transfer from Santos in 2013, out of which 40 million euros were paid to the footballer's family and the remaining 17.1 million euros went to Santos. Santos paid 6.8 million out of the 17.1 million to DIS for the player's rights.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/golden-boot-winners-from-last-5-editions-of-fifa-world-cup-498280">Golden Boot winners from last 5 editions of FIFA World Cup</a>

However, Spanish prosecutors later revealed that Barcelona actually paid at least 83.3 million euros for Neymar's transfer from Santos after DIS alleged that the Brazilian footballer had joined hands with Barcelona to hide the real cost of the entire deal. Thus, DIS have levelled charges against Neymar, his parents as his father acts as his agent, and former Barcelona presidents Rossell and Bartomeu.

While Rossell was the president of Barcelona when the transfer took place, he later resigned in January 2014 over corruption charges in Neymar's transfer. Bartomeu then took over as the new president of the La Liga club. The two will face charges of corruption and fraud in the matter. The trial is set to take place from October 17 to 31 this year, as per AFP.

Neymar has insisted he was only focused on the footballing aspect of his transfer to Barcelona and trusted his father, who is also his agent. Meanwhile, the prosecutors have requested a two-year prison sentence for the footballer. This is not the first time Neymar is in trouble over financial irregularities.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-alex-ferguson-part-of-ronaldos-meeting-with-ten-hag-over-his-man-utd-future-heres-the-truth-500929">Was Alex Ferguson part of Ronaldo's meeting with Ten Hag over his Man UTD future? Here's the truth</a>

The Brazilian, who is one of the best-paid footballers in the world at present, was on the 'blacklist' of Spanish authorities over unpaid taxes, as per a document in 2020. He has also faced fines over tax evasion in his native country Brazil.&nbsp;

If the charges against him are proved, Neymar can face a potential prison sentence which will shatter his hopes for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022. He is Brazil's second-highest goal-scorer of all time and his absence can prve to be a huge blow for the Selecao at the World Cup.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Trouble seems to be mounting up for Brazilian star Neymar, who is set to face trial in October this year over alleged irregularities in his transfer to FC Barcelona from Brazilian club Santos in 2013.

Trouble seems to be mounting up for Brazilian star Neymar, who is set to face trial in October this year over alleged irregularities in his transfer to FC Barcelona from Brazilian club Santos in 2013. As per a report in AFP, judicial sources informed that Neymar along with his parents and former FC Barcelona presidents Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu will be tried for alleged corruption in the Brazilian's transfer to Barcelona. Neymar, who currently plays for French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), joined the Ligue 1 outfit from Barcelona in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros making him the most expensive transfer in football history. However, Neymar isn't facing legal trouble for his move to PSG but for his transfer from Santos to Barcelona. A Brazilian company DIS has levelled charges of corruption against Neymar and his parents while former Barcelona presidents Rosell and Bartomeu are also set to face charges of fraud. DIS are former owners of a percentage of Neymar's rights and were supposed to earn a part of the player's transfer fee earned by Santos from Barcelona for his transfer in 2013. Barcelona had officially announced that they paid a transfer fee of 57.1 million ($63.6 million) for Neymar's transfer from Santos in 2013, out of which 40 million euros were paid to the footballer's family and the remaining 17.1 million euros went to Santos. Santos paid 6.8 million out of the 17.1 million to DIS for the player's rights. Also Read: Golden Boot winners from last 5 editions of FIFA World Cup However, Spanish prosecutors later revealed that Barcelona actually paid at least 83.3 million euros for Neymar's transfer from Santos after DIS alleged that the Brazilian footballer had joined hands with Barcelona to hide the real cost of the entire deal. Thus, DIS have levelled charges against Neymar, his parents as his father acts as his agent, and former Barcelona presidents Rossell and Bartomeu. While Rossell was the president of Barcelona when the transfer took place, he later resigned in January 2014 over corruption charges in Neymar's transfer. Bartomeu then took over as the new president of the La Liga club. The two will face charges of corruption and fraud in the matter. The trial is set to take place from October 17 to 31 this year, as per AFP. Neymar has insisted he was only focused on the footballing aspect of his transfer to Barcelona and trusted his father, who is also his agent. Meanwhile, the prosecutors have requested a two-year prison sentence for the footballer. This is not the first time Neymar is in trouble over financial irregularities. Also Read: Was Alex Ferguson part of Ronaldo's meeting with Ten Hag over his Man UTD future? Here's the truth The Brazilian, who is one of the best-paid footballers in the world at present, was on the 'blacklist' of Spanish authorities over unpaid taxes, as per a document in 2020. He has also faced fines over tax evasion in his native country Brazil. If the charges against him are proved, Neymar can face a potential prison sentence which will shatter his hopes for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022. He is Brazil's second-highest goal-scorer of all time and his absence can prve to be a huge blow for the Selecao at the World Cup. (With inputs from agencies)

Trouble for Neymar as PSG star set to face trial over irregularities in Barcelona transfer

Marvel Studios' new trailer of much-anticipated 'Black Widow' takes fans on a trip to the past into Natasha Romanoff's journey.

The new trailer also plays on fans' nostalgia as the trailer has some major Avengers vibes,&nbsp;from the flashbacks with her and the Avengers to the actual score used in this trailer. 
 
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fp9pNPdNwjI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> &nbsp;

The trailer starts off with a voiceover from Natasha,&nbsp;&nbsp;as flashbacks to previous movies play, where she alludes to some unfinished business and secrets from her past.&nbsp;The clip shows Scarlett Johansson's character confronting her tumultuous past and mending her old relationships, all while being pursued by an unstoppable villain.

The film takes place after Captain America: Civil War, where we find Natasha on the run from the government as she deals with her history as a spy, as well as her broken relationships before she became an Avenger.

Black Widow will be released both in theatres and on Disney+ with Premier Access on July 9.

The forthcoming feature was helmed by Berlin Syndrome director Cate Shortland and chronologically takes place after the events of Captain America: Civil War.

A series of clips from older entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe are shown while the superheroine is heard recalling that she had a difficult time 'choosing between what the world wants you to be and what you are.' 
 
'Black Widow'&nbsp;will be released both in theatres and on Disney+ with Premier Access on July 9. 
&nbsp;

Marvel Studios' new trailer of much-anticipated 'Black Widow' takes fans on a trip to the past into Natasha Romanoff's journey. The new trailer also plays on fans' nostalgia as the trailer has some major Avengers vibes, from the flashbacks with her and the Avengers to the actual score used in this trailer.

Marvel Studios' new trailer of much-anticipated 'Black Widow' takes fans on a trip to the past into Natasha Romanoff's journey. The new trailer also plays on fans' nostalgia as the trailer has some major Avengers vibes, from the flashbacks with her and the Avengers to the actual score used in this trailer. The trailer starts off with a voiceover from Natasha, as flashbacks to previous movies play, where she alludes to some unfinished business and secrets from her past. The clip shows Scarlett Johansson's character confronting her tumultuous past and mending her old relationships, all while being pursued by an unstoppable villain. The film takes place after Captain America: Civil War, where we find Natasha on the run from the government as she deals with her history as a spy, as well as her broken relationships before she became an Avenger. Black Widow will be released both in theatres and on Disney+ with Premier Access on July 9. The forthcoming feature was helmed by Berlin Syndrome director Cate Shortland and chronologically takes place after the events of Captain America: Civil War. A series of clips from older entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe are shown while the superheroine is heard recalling that she had a difficult time 'choosing between what the world wants you to be and what you are.' 'Black Widow' will be released both in theatres and on Disney+ with Premier Access on July 9.

‘We will see’: After Laporta, Barcelona head coach Xavi opens up on Lionel Messi's return to club

FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta claimed Lionel Messi's historic chapter at the club is not over yet when asked about the possibility of bringing him back to the club. One of the greatest players to have played for Barcelona, Messi had joined the Spanish club's famed La Masia academy at the tender age of 13 and rose through the ranks to play for the senior team.

Messi went on to become one of the legends of the game at Barcelona and played an instrumental role in helping the club dominate Europe. Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2005/06 season and went on to feature in 16 straight seasons for the club helping them win numerous trophies and accolades.

The 34-year-old had to leave as a free agent last summer after Barcelona failed to offer him a new contract due to La Liga rules and their poor financial situation. It brought an end to Messi's glorious spell at the club as he joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) where he currently has a year left on his contract.

Messi had even offered to reduce his salary to sign a new contract at FC Barcelona last year but he had to be let go due to financial constraints. Nonetheless, Barcelona president Laporta has claimed Messi's grand chapter at Barcelona is not over yet and that there is a distinct possibility that the Argentine will return to the club in the future.

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“Messi has been everything. For Barca, he has possibly been the best player in history, the most efficient, only comparable to Johan Cruyff in the history of Barca. But it had to happen one day, we had to make a decision as a consequence of the legacy we had received, the institution is above players and coaches," Laporta was quoted as saying by ESPN.

“I don't believe Messi's chapter at Barcelona is over. And I believe it is our responsibility to make sure that chapter is still open, that it hasn't closed. To have a moment to do it how it should have been done so that he may have a much more splendid ending than what he had," he added.

Laporta said as the president of the club he feels he 'owes' a return to the cub to Messi, who was ready to sign a new contract last year after his previous contract expired but couldn't due to the club's dire financial situation. Messi's exit had come as a shock to many, including some of his teammates but it exposed Barcelona's financial situation.

“Do I feel like I owe him one? Yes. Morally, as the president of Barcelona, I think I did what needed to be done. But also as Barcelona's president, and personally, I believe I owe him one," said Laporta on the chances of bringing Messi back to the Catalan club in order to give him a farewell he deserves.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-someone-hacked-barcelonas-account-sergio-aguero-opens-up-on-lionel-messis-exit-from-barca-499219">'Thought someone hacked Barcelona's account': Sergio Aguero opens up on Lionel Messi's exit from Barca</a>

Messi, a 7-time Ballon d'Or winner scored a whopping 672 goals for Barcelona in a total of 778 appearances for&nbsp;the club across competitions. He inspired the club to a staggering 10 La Liga and 4 Champions League crowns while also clinching a plethora of individual honours.

FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta claimed Lionel Messi's historic chapter at the club is not over yet when asked about the possibility of bringing him back to the club.

FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta claimed Lionel Messi's historic chapter at the club is not over yet when asked about the possibility of bringing him back to the club. One of the greatest players to have played for Barcelona, Messi had joined the Spanish club's famed La Masia academy at the tender age of 13 and rose through the ranks to play for the senior team. Messi went on to become one of the legends of the game at Barcelona and played an instrumental role in helping the club dominate Europe. Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2005/06 season and went on to feature in 16 straight seasons for the club helping them win numerous trophies and accolades. The 34-year-old had to leave as a free agent last summer after Barcelona failed to offer him a new contract due to La Liga rules and their poor financial situation. It brought an end to Messi's glorious spell at the club as he joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) where he currently has a year left on his contract. Messi had even offered to reduce his salary to sign a new contract at FC Barcelona last year but he had to be let go due to financial constraints. Nonetheless, Barcelona president Laporta has claimed Messi's grand chapter at Barcelona is not over yet and that there is a distinct possibility that the Argentine will return to the club in the future. Also Read: Atletico Madrid willing to part ways with Antoine Griezmann for mega Cristiano Ronaldo move - Report “Messi has been everything. For Barca, he has possibly been the best player in history, the most efficient, only comparable to Johan Cruyff in the history of Barca. But it had to happen one day, we had to make a decision as a consequence of the legacy we had received, the institution is above players and coaches," Laporta was quoted as saying by ESPN. “I don't believe Messi's chapter at Barcelona is over. And I believe it is our responsibility to make sure that chapter is still open, that it hasn't closed. To have a moment to do it how it should have been done so that he may have a much more splendid ending than what he had," he added. Laporta said as the president of the club he feels he 'owes' a return to the cub to Messi, who was ready to sign a new contract last year after his previous contract expired but couldn't due to the club's dire financial situation. Messi's exit had come as a shock to many, including some of his teammates but it exposed Barcelona's financial situation. “Do I feel like I owe him one? Yes. Morally, as the president of Barcelona, I think I did what needed to be done. But also as Barcelona's president, and personally, I believe I owe him one," said Laporta on the chances of bringing Messi back to the Catalan club in order to give him a farewell he deserves. Also Read: 'Thought someone hacked Barcelona's account': Sergio Aguero opens up on Lionel Messi's exit from Barca Messi, a 7-time Ballon d'Or winner scored a whopping 672 goals for Barcelona in a total of 778 appearances for the club across competitions. He inspired the club to a staggering 10 La Liga and 4 Champions League crowns while also clinching a plethora of individual honours.

'Lionel Messi's chapter at Barcelona not over': Club president Laporta makes bold claim on Argentine's return

Sergio Aguero recalled how he thought FC Barcelona's social media accounts were hacked when the club announced Lionel Messi's exit last year. Messi left his boyhood club FC Barcelona 17 years after making his debut for the senior team in 2003. His contract at the club had expired in 2021 and the Argentine great offered to reduce his salary but Barcelona's poor financial situation and La Liga's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules meant his contract was not renewed.

His exit from Barcelona had sent shockwaves around the world as Messi was expected to finish his career at the Spanish club having spent over two decades at the Camp Nou after joining the club at the tender age of 6. However, it was not meant to be as Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as a free agent after leaving Barcelona.

Former Argentina and Barcelona striker Aguero, who is a close friend of Messi, revealed he was shocked when he came to know about his departure from the club. Aguero had joined Barcelona from Manchester City just a few months before Messi's exit from the club was finalised.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-back-out-from-signing-ronaldo-from-man-united-due-to-financial-constraints-report-499050">Atletico Madrid back out from signing Ronaldo from Man United due to financial constraints: Report</a>

The duo never managed to play a game together for the Catalan club and the news of Messi's departure initially felt like a joke to Aguero. “How did I find out about Messi’s departure from Barça? I was with Ibai, drinking mate and suddenly… he looks at the phone and says to me: ‘No, is this true?’ and shows me the phone with the Barça official announcement," Aguero recalled in an interview with Jose Alvarez.

“When Barcelona announced Messi’s departure I thought someone had hacked Barça’s social networks. I thought it was a joke," he added.

Months later, Aguero had to retire from football after being diagnosed with a heart condition. Despite not having managed to play with him at Barcelona, Aguero played with Messi for several years for their national team Argentina. Their friendship goes back to the time when the duo had first met during a junior training camp with the national team.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-sorry-for-neymar-pep-guardiola-responds-to-rumours-of-psg-superstar-joining-manchester-city-499185">&nbsp;'I am sorry for Neymar': Pep Guardiola responds to rumours of PSG superstar joining Manchester City</a>

While Aguero was part of Argentina's U-16 squad, Messi was playing for the U-20 squad. The duo became friends ever since then and shared some great moments on the pitch playing for their country. Recalling the first time he met Messi, Aguero revealed he didn't recognise him despite the Argentine legend already being a household name in the country's football circuit at the time.

"I said quietly to him 'what's your name again', and he says 'Leo'. And I said 'No. What's your name?' And he said 'Lionel' and laughed. 'And your surname?', 'Messi.' My two friends looked at me and said 'You don't know who it is?'" - Aguero said recalling his first meeting with Messi.

Sergio Aguero recalled how he thought FC Barcelona's social media accounts were hacked when the club announced Lionel Messi's exit last year. Messi left his boyhood club FC Barcelona 17 years after making his debut for the senior team in 2003.

Sergio Aguero recalled how he thought FC Barcelona's social media accounts were hacked when the club announced Lionel Messi's exit last year. Messi left his boyhood club FC Barcelona 17 years after making his debut for the senior team in 2003. His contract at the club had expired in 2021 and the Argentine great offered to reduce his salary but Barcelona's poor financial situation and La Liga's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules meant his contract was not renewed. His exit from Barcelona had sent shockwaves around the world as Messi was expected to finish his career at the Spanish club having spent over two decades at the Camp Nou after joining the club at the tender age of 6. However, it was not meant to be as Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as a free agent after leaving Barcelona. Former Argentina and Barcelona striker Aguero, who is a close friend of Messi, revealed he was shocked when he came to know about his departure from the club. Aguero had joined Barcelona from Manchester City just a few months before Messi's exit from the club was finalised. Also Read: Atletico Madrid back out from signing Ronaldo from Man United due to financial constraints: Report The duo never managed to play a game together for the Catalan club and the news of Messi's departure initially felt like a joke to Aguero. “How did I find out about Messi’s departure from Barça? I was with Ibai, drinking mate and suddenly… he looks at the phone and says to me: ‘No, is this true?’ and shows me the phone with the Barça official announcement," Aguero recalled in an interview with Jose Alvarez. “When Barcelona announced Messi’s departure I thought someone had hacked Barça’s social networks. I thought it was a joke," he added. Months later, Aguero had to retire from football after being diagnosed with a heart condition. Despite not having managed to play with him at Barcelona, Aguero played with Messi for several years for their national team Argentina. Their friendship goes back to the time when the duo had first met during a junior training camp with the national team. Also Read: 'I am sorry for Neymar': Pep Guardiola responds to rumours of PSG superstar joining Manchester City While Aguero was part of Argentina's U-16 squad, Messi was playing for the U-20 squad. The duo became friends ever since then and shared some great moments on the pitch playing for their country. Recalling the first time he met Messi, Aguero revealed he didn't recognise him despite the Argentine legend already being a household name in the country's football circuit at the time. "I said quietly to him 'what's your name again', and he says 'Leo'. And I said 'No. What's your name?' And he said 'Lionel' and laughed. 'And your surname?', 'Messi.' My two friends looked at me and said 'You don't know who it is?'" - Aguero said recalling his first meeting with Messi.

'Thought someone hacked Barcelona's account': Sergio Aguero opens up on Lionel Messi's exit from Barca

Spanish club FC Barcelona on Tuesday (July 19) officially confirmed Robert Lewandowski is joining Barcelona in a €50 million deal until 2027. In a statement, Barca confirmed the move three days after both clubs announced that a deal "in principle" had been struck for Lewandowski.

Spanish club FC Barcelona on Tuesday (July 19) officially confirmed Robert Lewandowski is joining Barcelona in a €50 million deal until 2027. In a statement, Barca confirmed the move three days after both clubs announced that a deal "in principle" had been struck for Lewandowski. "Barcelona and Bayern Munich have arrived at an agreement for the transfer of Robert Lewandowski for a total of €45 million + €5 million in variables," Barca said in a statement. The player will sign a contract with the Club for the next four seasons. The buyout clause has been set at €500 million," the statement added. ALSO READ | 'I am well informed': Erik Ten Hag claims Cristiano Ronaldo will extend stay at Man Utd despite exit rumours The Polish striker met his new teammates in the United States when he arrived in Miami on Sunday. The new Barca striker also passed his medical. Lewandowski is Barcelona's fourth signing of the summer after Franck Kessie (AC Milan) and Andreas Christensen (Chelsea), arrived as free agents while Rapinha cost 70 million euros from Leeds. The agreement between Barca and Bayern closed the standoff with the player who said at the end of May "it is certain that my story with Bayern has come to an end". ALSO READ | 'They will miss Sterling, Jesus a lot': Sergio Aguero issues warning to Man City over Erling Haaland View this post on Instagram A post shared by FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona) × Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann sounded somewhat frustrated while speaking to the press ahead of the first preseason friendly against DC United over Lewandowski's move to Barcelona. As quoted by Bavarian Football Works, Nagelsmann was puzzled about Barcelona being able to buy multiple expensive players while in debt. He said: "I don’t know how" and added that they're the "only club in the world who has no money but could buy every player". Bayern had only offered Lewandowski a one-year extension to his contract, which expires in the summer of 2023. Reports emerged that he was also unhappy with the salary offered. There were claims that he had clashed with the Bavarian club's coach Nagelsmann over tactical choices. 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.

'It's not a dream': Robert Lewandowski joins Barcelona from Bayern until 2027

Bayern Munich confirmed on Saturday they have agreed a deal with Barcelona for the sale of Poland star Robert Lewandowski to the Spanish club.

"We have a verbal agreement from Barcelona. It's good for both sides that we have clarity," Bayern president Herbert Hainer said on the club's Twitter account.&nbsp;

"Robert is a very deserving player, he has won everything with us. We are incredibly grateful to him."

Bayern did not give details but Spanish and German media reported the two-time FIFA men's player of the year had agreed a four-year deal worth 50 million euros ($50.4m), including five million in potential add-ons.&nbsp;

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Robert Lewandowski is set to join FC Barcelona. 
 
Full details: <a href="https://t.co/LQ59LnkBZW">https://t.co/LQ59LnkBZW</a>
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Forward Lewandowski told German television he would be joining the Barcelona squad on their tour of the United States from July 18-31.&nbsp;Media reported he would undergo his medical in Miami.

The agreement between the two teams closes the standoff with the 33-year-old who said at the end of May "it is certain that my story with Bayern has come to an end."&nbsp;Bayern had only offered Lewandowski a one-year extension to his contract, which expires in the summer of 2023.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christian-eriksen-joins-erik-ten-hags-manchester-united-on-a-free-transfer-ahead-of-new-epl-season-497742">Christian Eriksen joins Erik Ten Hag's Manchester United on a free transfer ahead of new EPL season</a>

He was also unhappy with the salary offered and had clashed with the Bavarian club's coach Julian Nagelsmann over tactical choices. Although he resumed training with Bayern a few days ago, Lewandowski arrived late each time, except this Saturday, when he took the opportunity to bid farewell to his teammates.&nbsp;

The official presentation of the Bayern squad then took place at 1500 local time (1300GMT) without him. With his imminent arrival, Barcelona continue to strengthen with the ambition of returning to the forefront of the European scene.&nbsp;

He is the club's fourth summer transfer after Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie from AC Milan and Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen on a free transfer, and Brazil winger Raphinha, recruited for 70 million euro from Leeds.

A very generous transfer window for a club which suffered from an abysmal debt, exceeding one billion euros, a few months ago. Double European top scorer, Lewandowski, who turns 34 next month, can bring experience to supervise a very young group, carried by Ansu Fati, Pedri, Gavi and Ferran Torres.

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Lewandowski joined Bayern in 2014, scoring 344 goals in 375 competitive matches and broke the Bundesliga single-season scoring record. He won the Bundesliga in each of his eight seasons with the club as well as the Champions League, the Club World Cup and three German Cups.

This season again, "Lewy" scored 42 goals in 50 matches in all competitions, including 35 goals in 34 league matches and 13 goals in 10 Champions League matches.&nbsp;The striker's official presentation to Barcelona is not expected to take place until they return to Catalonia in early August.

Bayern Munich confirmed on Saturday they have agreed a deal with Barcelona for the sale of Poland star Robert Lewandowski to the Spanish club. "We have a verbal agreement from Barcelona.

Bayern Munich confirmed on Saturday they have agreed a deal with Barcelona for the sale of Poland star Robert Lewandowski to the Spanish club. "We have a verbal agreement from Barcelona. It's good for both sides that we have clarity," Bayern president Herbert Hainer said on the club's Twitter account. "Robert is a very deserving player, he has won everything with us. We are incredibly grateful to him." Bayern did not give details but Spanish and German media reported the two-time FIFA men's player of the year had agreed a four-year deal worth 50 million euros ($50.4m), including five million in potential add-ons. Robert Lewandowski is set to join FC Barcelona. Full details: https://t.co/LQ59LnkBZW — FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) July 16, 2022 × Forward Lewandowski told German television he would be joining the Barcelona squad on their tour of the United States from July 18-31. Media reported he would undergo his medical in Miami. The agreement between the two teams closes the standoff with the 33-year-old who said at the end of May "it is certain that my story with Bayern has come to an end." Bayern had only offered Lewandowski a one-year extension to his contract, which expires in the summer of 2023. Also Read: Christian Eriksen joins Erik Ten Hag's Manchester United on a free transfer ahead of new EPL season He was also unhappy with the salary offered and had clashed with the Bavarian club's coach Julian Nagelsmann over tactical choices. Although he resumed training with Bayern a few days ago, Lewandowski arrived late each time, except this Saturday, when he took the opportunity to bid farewell to his teammates. The official presentation of the Bayern squad then took place at 1500 local time (1300GMT) without him. With his imminent arrival, Barcelona continue to strengthen with the ambition of returning to the forefront of the European scene. He is the club's fourth summer transfer after Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie from AC Milan and Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen on a free transfer, and Brazil winger Raphinha, recruited for 70 million euro from Leeds. A very generous transfer window for a club which suffered from an abysmal debt, exceeding one billion euros, a few months ago. Double European top scorer, Lewandowski, who turns 34 next month, can bring experience to supervise a very young group, carried by Ansu Fati, Pedri, Gavi and Ferran Torres. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo likely to reject whopping $276 million per season offer from Saudi club - Report Lewandowski joined Bayern in 2014, scoring 344 goals in 375 competitive matches and broke the Bundesliga single-season scoring record. He won the Bundesliga in each of his eight seasons with the club as well as the Champions League, the Club World Cup and three German Cups. This season again, "Lewy" scored 42 goals in 50 matches in all competitions, including 35 goals in 34 league matches and 13 goals in 10 Champions League matches. The striker's official presentation to Barcelona is not expected to take place until they return to Catalonia in early August.

It's official! Bayern Munich confirm agreement with FC Barcelona for Robert Lewandowski's transfer

Bayern Munich seem&nbsp;to have finally given up on their desire to keep Robert Lewandowski at the club as the Polish striker is all set to join FC Barcelona this summer after the two clubs reportedly agreed a deal for him. Lewandowski is one of the best strikers in the world at present and his arrival will significantly bolster Barcelona's attack next season.

Lewandowski had just one year remaining on his existing contract at Bayern Munich and had already made up his mind to not sign an extension. He had also reportedly informed the club about his wish to leave the Bundesliga giants this summer in search of a fresh challenge. The Polish striker had his heart set on a move to FC Barcelona.

As per a report in Sky Sports, FC Barcelona have agreed a deal worth 50 million euros (USD 54 million) to sign the Polish striker this summer. Bayern Munich were earlier holding out for a bigger fee for their star striker but the two clubs have now come to a compromise over a deal worth 50 million euros.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christian-eriksen-joins-erik-ten-hags-manchester-united-on-a-free-transfer-ahead-of-new-epl-season-497742">Christian Eriksen joins Manchester United on a free transfer ahead of new EPL season</a>

As per the report, Lewandowski is all set to fly to Spain on Saturday (July 16) for his medical at FC Barcelona before the Spanish club can officially announce the transfer. Bayern Munich had earlier rejected an offer of around 40 million euros from FC Barcelona for the striker stating that he was not for sale.

However, the German club has now decided to not stay in Lewandowski's way as he wishes to leave Germany this summer. Lewandowski had joined Bayern Munich from rivals Borrusia Dortmund in 2014 and went on to become one of the best strikers to have played for the club.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-to-not-be-make-a-bid-for-cristiano-ronaldo-from-manchester-united-report-497588">Chelsea to not make a bid for Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United: Report</a>

Lewandowski scored a staggering&nbsp;344 goals in 374 appearances for Bayern and played an instrumental role in helping them dominate in Germany and Europe. Lewandowski was Bayern's top scorer when the club won the Champions League in 2020. He won 8 Bundesliga titles, one Champions League and 3 DFB Pokal trophies with&nbsp;Bayern.

Bayern Munich seem to have finally given up on their desire to keep Robert Lewandowski at the club as the Polish striker is all set to join FC Barcelona this summer after the two clubs reportedly agreed a deal for him.

Bayern Munich seem to have finally given up on their desire to keep Robert Lewandowski at the club as the Polish striker is all set to join FC Barcelona this summer after the two clubs reportedly agreed a deal for him. Lewandowski is one of the best strikers in the world at present and his arrival will significantly bolster Barcelona's attack next season. Lewandowski had just one year remaining on his existing contract at Bayern Munich and had already made up his mind to not sign an extension. He had also reportedly informed the club about his wish to leave the Bundesliga giants this summer in search of a fresh challenge. The Polish striker had his heart set on a move to FC Barcelona. As per a report in Sky Sports, FC Barcelona have agreed a deal worth 50 million euros (USD 54 million) to sign the Polish striker this summer. Bayern Munich were earlier holding out for a bigger fee for their star striker but the two clubs have now come to a compromise over a deal worth 50 million euros. Also Read: Christian Eriksen joins Manchester United on a free transfer ahead of new EPL season As per the report, Lewandowski is all set to fly to Spain on Saturday (July 16) for his medical at FC Barcelona before the Spanish club can officially announce the transfer. Bayern Munich had earlier rejected an offer of around 40 million euros from FC Barcelona for the striker stating that he was not for sale. However, the German club has now decided to not stay in Lewandowski's way as he wishes to leave Germany this summer. Lewandowski had joined Bayern Munich from rivals Borrusia Dortmund in 2014 and went on to become one of the best strikers to have played for the club. Also Read: Chelsea to not make a bid for Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United: Report Lewandowski scored a staggering 344 goals in 374 appearances for Bayern and played an instrumental role in helping them dominate in Germany and Europe. Lewandowski was Bayern's top scorer when the club won the Champions League in 2020. He won 8 Bundesliga titles, one Champions League and 3 DFB Pokal trophies with Bayern.

Robert Lewandowski set to sign for FC Barcelona as Bayern Munich agree deal for Polish striker's transfer

Barcelona have reached an agreement in principle to sign Brazilian winger Raphinha from Premier League side Leeds United, both clubs announced on Wednesday. Financial details were not disclosed but Spanish media reported that Barcelona will pay 58 million euros ($58.33 million) in a fee that could go up to 68 million with the agreed add-ons.

"FC Barcelona and Leeds United Football Club have reached an agreement in principle for the transfer of Raphael Dias Belloli, Raphinha, pending the player passing his medical," Barcelona said in a statement.

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Agreement in principle with <a href="https://twitter.com/LUFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LUFC</a> for the transfer of Raphinha
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Chelsea and Arsenal both tried to make a late push in an effort to sign the player, but the Brazil international chose to join Barcelona, who finished second in LaLiga last season.

Raphinha scored 17 goals in 67 games in all competitions for Leeds after joining the Yorkshire club in 2020 from Stade Rennais. The 25-year-old previously also played for Sporting CP.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-has-not-said-firm-no-real-madrid-legend-expects-psg-striker-to-join-la-liga-giants-in-future-496732">Mbappe has not said firm no: Real Madrid legend expects PSG striker to join La Liga giants in future</a>

Raphinha has taken the front seat to be Brazil`s right winger at this year`s World Cup in Qatar, starting seven of the last nine games of his national team and chipping in with three goals and two assists since being called for the first time by coach Tite in October 2021.

Raphinha becomes manager Xavi Hernandez`s third signing of the transfer window following the arrivals of Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen on free transfers.

Forward Ousmane Dembele, whose Barcelona contract expired last month, joined the team on Tuesday and is expected to sign a new deal with the Catalan giants.

Dembele`s potential contract extension would boost Barcelona`s attacking options as the team also look to sign Poland striker Robert Lewandowski from Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.

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Barcelona later announced that they have reached an agreement with the Portuguese club Sporting CP for the loan of winger Francisco Trincao until June 2023.

The deal includes the option to purchase the player when the loan period expires. Trincao joined Barcelona from SC Braga in 2020, featuring 42 times and scoring three goals in all competitions for the Catalan club in the 2020-21 campaign. He then spent the following season on loan at Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Barcelona have reached an agreement in principle to sign Brazilian winger Raphinha from Premier League side Leeds United, both clubs announced on Wednesday. Financial details were not disclosed but Spanish media reported that Barcelona will pay 58 million euros ($58.

Barcelona have reached an agreement in principle to sign Brazilian winger Raphinha from Premier League side Leeds United, both clubs announced on Wednesday. Financial details were not disclosed but Spanish media reported that Barcelona will pay 58 million euros ($58.33 million) in a fee that could go up to 68 million with the agreed add-ons. "FC Barcelona and Leeds United Football Club have reached an agreement in principle for the transfer of Raphael Dias Belloli, Raphinha, pending the player passing his medical," Barcelona said in a statement. Agreement in principle with @LUFC for the transfer of Raphinha — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 13, 2022 × Chelsea and Arsenal both tried to make a late push in an effort to sign the player, but the Brazil international chose to join Barcelona, who finished second in LaLiga last season. Raphinha scored 17 goals in 67 games in all competitions for Leeds after joining the Yorkshire club in 2020 from Stade Rennais. The 25-year-old previously also played for Sporting CP. Also Read: Mbappe has not said firm no: Real Madrid legend expects PSG striker to join La Liga giants in future Raphinha has taken the front seat to be Brazil`s right winger at this year`s World Cup in Qatar, starting seven of the last nine games of his national team and chipping in with three goals and two assists since being called for the first time by coach Tite in October 2021. Raphinha becomes manager Xavi Hernandez`s third signing of the transfer window following the arrivals of Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen on free transfers. Forward Ousmane Dembele, whose Barcelona contract expired last month, joined the team on Tuesday and is expected to sign a new deal with the Catalan giants. Dembele`s potential contract extension would boost Barcelona`s attacking options as the team also look to sign Poland striker Robert Lewandowski from Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich. Also Read: Need to close the gap with Man City and Liverpool, says Man United's legend Andy Cole Barcelona later announced that they have reached an agreement with the Portuguese club Sporting CP for the loan of winger Francisco Trincao until June 2023. The deal includes the option to purchase the player when the loan period expires. Trincao joined Barcelona from SC Braga in 2020, featuring 42 times and scoring three goals in all competitions for the Catalan club in the 2020-21 campaign. He then spent the following season on loan at Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Raphinha to FC Barcelona confirmed as club announces agreement with Leeds United for Brazilian's transfer

Cristiano Ronaldo's stint at Manchester United is all set to come to an abrupt end as the Portuguese superstar is reportedly looking to leave the club this summer. Ronaldo reportedly wants to join a club competing in the Champions League next season and add to his illustrious trophy cabinet as he feels United are not yet in a position to challenge for trophies next season after enduring a horrible campaign last season.

Ronaldo is also reportedly not happy with United's transfer business so far in the ongoing summer window and wants the club to show more ambition amid rivals Manchester City and Liverpool strengthening their already strong squads. Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes is already looking for potential clubs who can sign the Portuguese ahead of the next season.

Mendes had reportedly met Chelsea's new owner Todd Boehly recently where a potential move for Ronaldo was discussed. The Portuguese agent also met with high-profile officials at FC Barcelona to discuss the future of several players, including Ronaldo. Barcelona have been linked with a move for Ronaldo despite the Portuguese being a bonafide legend of arch-rivals Real Madrid.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-captain-harry-maguire-likes-post-about-cristiano-ronaldo-being-upset-over-pay-cut-at-club-495013">Man Utd&nbsp;captain Harry Maguire likes post about Cristiano Ronaldo being upset over pay cut at club</a>

FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta was asked about the possibility of signing Ronaldo and his talks with Mendes about the Portuguese star in their recent meeting during the press conference to unveil the signing of midfielder Franck Kessie. Mendes said he would not want to speak much as Ronaldo is still a United player but it was interesting for him to know that the legendary forward is in the market this summer.

"I had dinner on Monday with Jorge Mendes and we talked about the market in general. Cristiano? I'm not going to talk about the players who came out of the meeting, but it's always interesting to know how some names are on the market," said Mendes at the presser.

"I'm not going to talk about players in one way or another, it could be misunderstood. It doesn't contribute anything to the interests of Barca. We have to respect the players who have contracts with other teams," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-footballer-faces-two-more-rape-allegations-after-being-arrested-on-suspicion-of-rape-494780">Premier League footballer faces two more rape allegations after being arrested on suspicion of rape</a>

Barcelona are also currently in talks with Manchester United over the transfer of Dutch midfielder Frenkie De Jong. While Laporta has constantly maintained De Jong is not for sale, several reports have claimed that Barcelona have already agreed a fee with United&nbsp;for the transfer of the talented midfielder and are willing to let him leave this summer. 
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Cristiano Ronaldo's stint at Manchester United is all set to come to an abrupt end as the Portuguese superstar is reportedly looking to leave the club this summer.

Cristiano Ronaldo's stint at Manchester United is all set to come to an abrupt end as the Portuguese superstar is reportedly looking to leave the club this summer. Ronaldo reportedly wants to join a club competing in the Champions League next season and add to his illustrious trophy cabinet as he feels United are not yet in a position to challenge for trophies next season after enduring a horrible campaign last season. Ronaldo is also reportedly not happy with United's transfer business so far in the ongoing summer window and wants the club to show more ambition amid rivals Manchester City and Liverpool strengthening their already strong squads. Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes is already looking for potential clubs who can sign the Portuguese ahead of the next season. Mendes had reportedly met Chelsea's new owner Todd Boehly recently where a potential move for Ronaldo was discussed. The Portuguese agent also met with high-profile officials at FC Barcelona to discuss the future of several players, including Ronaldo. Barcelona have been linked with a move for Ronaldo despite the Portuguese being a bonafide legend of arch-rivals Real Madrid. Also Read: Man Utd captain Harry Maguire likes post about Cristiano Ronaldo being upset over pay cut at club FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta was asked about the possibility of signing Ronaldo and his talks with Mendes about the Portuguese star in their recent meeting during the press conference to unveil the signing of midfielder Franck Kessie. Mendes said he would not want to speak much as Ronaldo is still a United player but it was interesting for him to know that the legendary forward is in the market this summer. "I had dinner on Monday with Jorge Mendes and we talked about the market in general. Cristiano? I'm not going to talk about the players who came out of the meeting, but it's always interesting to know how some names are on the market," said Mendes at the presser. "I'm not going to talk about players in one way or another, it could be misunderstood. It doesn't contribute anything to the interests of Barca. We have to respect the players who have contracts with other teams," he added. Also Read: Premier League footballer faces two more rape allegations after being arrested on suspicion of rape Barcelona are also currently in talks with Manchester United over the transfer of Dutch midfielder Frenkie De Jong. While Laporta has constantly maintained De Jong is not for sale, several reports have claimed that Barcelona have already agreed a fee with United for the transfer of the talented midfielder and are willing to let him leave this summer.

Can Cristiano Ronaldo join FC Barcelona? Club president Joan Laporta responds to transfer speculations

Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie said the opportunity of playing under the guidance of manager Xavi Hernandez was crucial in his decision to join Barcelona on a free transfer after leaving AC Milan.

"When a great coach like him calls you, you see that all your efforts are worth it," Kessie told a news conference on Wednesday after signing a contract until June 2026.

"I am very happy to be part of this family and this great club. I really want to meet my teammates and coaching staff and start working right away."

The 25-year-old left AC Milan at the end of his contract in June after helping the Italian club to win their first Serie A title in 11 years last season. He has 58 caps for Ivory Coast.

Kessie, who can contribute in attack and defence as a box-to-box midfielder, said he did not have a preferred position on the pitch and was open to helping his team wherever his coach needed.

"I am at Xavi`s disposal, he will be the one who will decide my position here at Barca. I will work to offer my best version wherever I am. When a player starts playing, he never gets worse. We are always trying to improve," Kessie said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-captain-harry-maguire-likes-post-about-cristiano-ronaldo-being-upset-over-pay-cut-at-club-495013">Man Utd&nbsp;captain Harry Maguire likes post about Cristiano Ronaldo being upset over pay cut at club</a>

Barca also announced the signing of Denmark defender and free agent Andreas Christensen, who will join the club on a free transfer from Chelsea. Club president Joan Laporta, who inherited a deep financial crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic after he was elected last year for a second stint, said the team were looking for more players who "really want to play for Barcelona".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-neymar-leave-psg-this-summer-new-manager-christophe-galtier-responds-to-speculations-494756">Will Neymar leave PSG this summer? New manager Christophe Galtier responds to speculations</a>

Restricted by LaLiga`s Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, Barca are struggling to sign new players.

"I can`t say how many more signings we`ll be able to make," Laporta told the news conference, explaining that they need to activate measures approved last month to improve the club`s financial situation. It will not be easy but we need to reinforce the first team to be more competitive.

"We are in a situation of uncertainty. We are working to be able to sign. At this time we still can`t. We are talking to players we are interested in and ask them to wait for us."

Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie said the opportunity of playing under the guidance of manager Xavi Hernandez was crucial in his decision to join Barcelona on a free transfer after leaving AC Milan.

Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie said the opportunity of playing under the guidance of manager Xavi Hernandez was crucial in his decision to join Barcelona on a free transfer after leaving AC Milan. "When a great coach like him calls you, you see that all your efforts are worth it," Kessie told a news conference on Wednesday after signing a contract until June 2026. "I am very happy to be part of this family and this great club. I really want to meet my teammates and coaching staff and start working right away." The 25-year-old left AC Milan at the end of his contract in June after helping the Italian club to win their first Serie A title in 11 years last season. He has 58 caps for Ivory Coast. Kessie, who can contribute in attack and defence as a box-to-box midfielder, said he did not have a preferred position on the pitch and was open to helping his team wherever his coach needed. "I am at Xavi`s disposal, he will be the one who will decide my position here at Barca. I will work to offer my best version wherever I am. When a player starts playing, he never gets worse. We are always trying to improve," Kessie said. Also Read: Man Utd captain Harry Maguire likes post about Cristiano Ronaldo being upset over pay cut at club Barca also announced the signing of Denmark defender and free agent Andreas Christensen, who will join the club on a free transfer from Chelsea. Club president Joan Laporta, who inherited a deep financial crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic after he was elected last year for a second stint, said the team were looking for more players who "really want to play for Barcelona". Also Read: Will Neymar leave PSG this summer? New manager Christophe Galtier responds to speculations Restricted by LaLiga`s Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, Barca are struggling to sign new players. "I can`t say how many more signings we`ll be able to make," Laporta told the news conference, explaining that they need to activate measures approved last month to improve the club`s financial situation. It will not be easy but we need to reinforce the first team to be more competitive. "We are in a situation of uncertainty. We are working to be able to sign. At this time we still can`t. We are talking to players we are interested in and ask them to wait for us."

Franck Kessie says playing for Xavi was key factor in decision to join FC Barcelona

Manchester United are yet to make their first signing in the ongoing summer transfer window but the club are already plotting moves to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. With the arrival of Dutch manager Eri Ten Hag as the club's new head coach, there is a newfound optimism at United despite their usual slow moves in the transfer market. Ten Hag has already identified his key targets ahead of the new season with Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong on the top of his priority list.

United's midfield is in desperate need of a revamp after the departures of the likes of Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard and Nemanja Matic this summer. Ten Hag has identified midfield as an area of priority and reportedly wants the club to sort out De Jong's transfer at the earliest before moving on to other targets.

Earlier this week, there were reports claiming United have already agreed a deal with Barcelona for the transfer of De Jong, who played under Ten Hag at Ajax before securing his move to the La Liga giants in 2019. However, now Barcelona president Joan Laporta has claimed De Jong is not for sale and that the club would like to keep him at the Camp Nou.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-played-them-gary-neville-cheekily-reacts-to-mohammed-salahs-contract-extension-at-liverpool-493928">'He has played them': Gary Neville cheekily reacts to Mohammed Salah's contract extension at Liverpool</a> 
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Laporta claimed Barcelona has no intentions of selling De Jong, who is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world at present. His comments are contrary to the reports that United are close to finalising a deal for the Dutch midfielder.

"We have no intention of selling him and he wants to stay. Manchester United is not the only one who wants him," Laporta told Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo. However, Laporta revealed Barcelona have an issue with De Jong's current salary and the player will have to take a pay cut if he wants to stay.

“I'm going to do everything to keep Frenkie, but there’s also a salary issue and that would have to be adjusted,” Laporta&nbsp;said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-me-to-leave-cristiano-ronaldo-tells-manchester-united-he-wants-to-leave-this-summer-report-493947">'Time for me to leave': Cristiano Ronaldo tells Manchester United he wants to leave this summer - Report</a>

If Laporta's comments have any truth, it can come as a huge blow for United in their pursuit of the Dutch midfielder. Ten Hag has been trying to persuade De Jong to join him at United for several weeks now and the two clubs were&nbsp;believed to be in advance negotiations. However, the Barcelona president's comments has once again put the deal in doubt.

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Manchester United are yet to make their first signing in the ongoing summer transfer window but the club are already plotting moves to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.

Manchester United are yet to make their first signing in the ongoing summer transfer window but the club are already plotting moves to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. With the arrival of Dutch manager Eri Ten Hag as the club's new head coach, there is a newfound optimism at United despite their usual slow moves in the transfer market. Ten Hag has already identified his key targets ahead of the new season with Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong on the top of his priority list. United's midfield is in desperate need of a revamp after the departures of the likes of Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard and Nemanja Matic this summer. Ten Hag has identified midfield as an area of priority and reportedly wants the club to sort out De Jong's transfer at the earliest before moving on to other targets. Earlier this week, there were reports claiming United have already agreed a deal with Barcelona for the transfer of De Jong, who played under Ten Hag at Ajax before securing his move to the La Liga giants in 2019. However, now Barcelona president Joan Laporta has claimed De Jong is not for sale and that the club would like to keep him at the Camp Nou. Also Read: 'He has played them': Gary Neville cheekily reacts to Mohammed Salah's contract extension at Liverpool Laporta claimed Barcelona has no intentions of selling De Jong, who is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world at present. His comments are contrary to the reports that United are close to finalising a deal for the Dutch midfielder. "We have no intention of selling him and he wants to stay. Manchester United is not the only one who wants him," Laporta told Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo. However, Laporta revealed Barcelona have an issue with De Jong's current salary and the player will have to take a pay cut if he wants to stay. “I'm going to do everything to keep Frenkie, but there’s also a salary issue and that would have to be adjusted,” Laporta said. Also Read: 'Time for me to leave': Cristiano Ronaldo tells Manchester United he wants to leave this summer - Report If Laporta's comments have any truth, it can come as a huge blow for United in their pursuit of the Dutch midfielder. Ten Hag has been trying to persuade De Jong to join him at United for several weeks now and the two clubs were believed to be in advance negotiations. However, the Barcelona president's comments has once again put the deal in doubt.

'No intention of selling him': Barcelona president on Frenkie De Jong amid strong interest from Man Utd

Robert Lewandowski will go down as one of the greatest ever to have played for Bayern Munich but has already made up his mind to leave the German club this summer. Lewandowski has enjoyed a stunning spell at the Bundesliga club since joining them in 2014 and has been a consistent performer for them, scoring goals for fun one season after another. However, he intends to leave the club this summer in order to embark on a fresh challenge in his career.

Lewandowski reportedly prefers a move to FC Barcelona and has even publically confirmed he wants to leave Bayern Munich this summer. However, Bayern are in no mood to let go of their star striker easily and have now increased their asking price for the Polish forward.

As per a report in Sky Sports, Bayern Munich want a sum of 60 million euros (around USD 63.3 million) to let Lewandowski leave the club this summer. Bayern's tough stance on Lewandowski comes despite the player asking for a move away with only one year left on his current contract with the Bundesliga champions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogbas-brother-florentine-pogba-completes-move-to-indian-super-league-joins-atk-mohun-bagan-491703">Paul Pogba’s brother Florentin completes move to Indian Super League, joins ATK Mohun Bagan</a>

Barcelona had reportedly made an offer of around 40 million Euros (around USD 42 million) to Bayern Munich earlier this week but it was turned down by the German club, who are now holding out for a big fee for the Polish striker. Lewandowski has also reportedly confirmed his intention to Bayern that he doesn't want to extend his contract beyond the 2022-23 season.

However, despite the player's strong desire to secure a transfer, Bayern Munich are making all possible efforts to keep him at the club by increasing their demands significantly. Since joining Bayern Munich in 2014, Lewandowski has scored 344 goals for the club across all competitions and played an instrumental role in helping them win the Champions League in 2019-20.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-kind-of-player-will-come-to-bayern-then-lewandowski-warns-budesliga-giants-not-to-block-his-transfer-486061">'What kind of player will come to Bayern then?': Lewandowski warns Bundesliga giants not to block his transfer</a>

He has also been one of the best strikers in club football over the last few years and has been integral to Bayern's success. He has won eight Bundesliga titles, three German Cups and one Champions League title with Bayern Munich so far and has also been the club's top-scorer for the last five seasons in a row.

Robert Lewandowski will go down as one of the greatest ever to have played for Bayern Munich but has already made up his mind to leave the German club this summer.

Robert Lewandowski will go down as one of the greatest ever to have played for Bayern Munich but has already made up his mind to leave the German club this summer. Lewandowski has enjoyed a stunning spell at the Bundesliga club since joining them in 2014 and has been a consistent performer for them, scoring goals for fun one season after another. However, he intends to leave the club this summer in order to embark on a fresh challenge in his career. Lewandowski reportedly prefers a move to FC Barcelona and has even publically confirmed he wants to leave Bayern Munich this summer. However, Bayern are in no mood to let go of their star striker easily and have now increased their asking price for the Polish forward. As per a report in Sky Sports, Bayern Munich want a sum of 60 million euros (around USD 63.3 million) to let Lewandowski leave the club this summer. Bayern's tough stance on Lewandowski comes despite the player asking for a move away with only one year left on his current contract with the Bundesliga champions. Also Read: Paul Pogba’s brother Florentin completes move to Indian Super League, joins ATK Mohun Bagan Barcelona had reportedly made an offer of around 40 million Euros (around USD 42 million) to Bayern Munich earlier this week but it was turned down by the German club, who are now holding out for a big fee for the Polish striker. Lewandowski has also reportedly confirmed his intention to Bayern that he doesn't want to extend his contract beyond the 2022-23 season. However, despite the player's strong desire to secure a transfer, Bayern Munich are making all possible efforts to keep him at the club by increasing their demands significantly. Since joining Bayern Munich in 2014, Lewandowski has scored 344 goals for the club across all competitions and played an instrumental role in helping them win the Champions League in 2019-20. Also Read: 'What kind of player will come to Bayern then?': Lewandowski warns Bundesliga giants not to block his transfer He has also been one of the best strikers in club football over the last few years and has been integral to Bayern's success. He has won eight Bundesliga titles, three German Cups and one Champions League title with Bayern Munich so far and has also been the club's top-scorer for the last five seasons in a row.

Robert Lewandowski's move to Barcelona in doubt after Bayern Munich increase asking price for star striker

FC Barcelona are&nbsp;one of the most successful clubs in the history of football. The Spanish giants have not only been a force to reckon with in the La Liga but have also dominated European football for decades. Some of the greatest footballers of all time have donned the Barcelona jersey and have played for the Blaugrana. However, FC Barcelona currently find themselves&nbsp;in a massive financial mess.

Barcelona are debt-ridden and are facing one of their worst-ever financial crunches. The situation is a dire one and the club's vice-president&nbsp;Eduard Romeu has claimed they need at least 500 million Euros in order 'to save the club' this year. Barcelona are seriously strapped for cash and have not been able to fund big signings.

One of the most valuable clubs in the world, Barcelona were once known as a huge spender in the transfer market. They have signed the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Greizmann and Philippe Coutinho among others, who are some of the most expensive footballers of all time. Barcelona also had Lionel Messi in their squad until 2021 and he was one of the highest-paid footballers in the world at the time.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-star-mohamed-salah-and-chelseas-sam-kerr-win-pfa-player-of-the-year-awards-486827">&nbsp;Liverpool star Mohamed Salah and Chelsea's Sam Kerr win PFA Player of the Year awards</a>

However, the club is no more stable financially and have had to let go of a number of superstars due to the crunch. Some of the star players like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Gerard Pique also had to take pay cuts last season as Barcelona struggled to match La Liga's salary cap requirements. Now the club's vice-president Romeu has said Barcelona need 500 million Euros to save themselves.&nbsp;

"The number doing the most damage is asset imbalance. The negative capital of €500 million. You could add €150m to that in losses this season if we didn’t do anything. I said it before, if someone wants give me €500 million... That is what we need to save Barca," Romeu told Spanish outlet Sport in an interview.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/robert-lewandowski-to-frenkie-de-jong-5-biggest-football-transfers-that-can-happen-this-summer-481077">Robert Lewandowski to Frenkie De Jong: 5 biggest football transfers that can happen this summer</a>

Barcelona's debt has reportedly reached a staggering 1 billion Euros. In October last year, it was reported that the club owed around 98 million Euros in fees to other clubs for player transfers. They are in a critical situation and might need to sell some more big names this season while expecting not too many significant arrivals at the Camp Nou this summer.

Among the top players who can be sold this summer is Dutch midfielder Frenkie De Jong, who has been heavily linked with Manchester United and is likely to be offloaded soon by the Spanish club, who are in desperate need of unds. United are expected to sign De Jong for around 70-80 million Euros, as per reports.

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FC Barcelona are one of the most successful clubs in the history of football. The Spanish giants have not only been a force to reckon with in the La Liga but have also dominated European football for decades.

FC Barcelona are one of the most successful clubs in the history of football. The Spanish giants have not only been a force to reckon with in the La Liga but have also dominated European football for decades. Some of the greatest footballers of all time have donned the Barcelona jersey and have played for the Blaugrana. However, FC Barcelona currently find themselves in a massive financial mess. Barcelona are debt-ridden and are facing one of their worst-ever financial crunches. The situation is a dire one and the club's vice-president Eduard Romeu has claimed they need at least 500 million Euros in order 'to save the club' this year. Barcelona are seriously strapped for cash and have not been able to fund big signings. One of the most valuable clubs in the world, Barcelona were once known as a huge spender in the transfer market. They have signed the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Greizmann and Philippe Coutinho among others, who are some of the most expensive footballers of all time. Barcelona also had Lionel Messi in their squad until 2021 and he was one of the highest-paid footballers in the world at the time. Also Read: Liverpool star Mohamed Salah and Chelsea's Sam Kerr win PFA Player of the Year awards However, the club is no more stable financially and have had to let go of a number of superstars due to the crunch. Some of the star players like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Gerard Pique also had to take pay cuts last season as Barcelona struggled to match La Liga's salary cap requirements. Now the club's vice-president Romeu has said Barcelona need 500 million Euros to save themselves. "The number doing the most damage is asset imbalance. The negative capital of €500 million. You could add €150m to that in losses this season if we didn’t do anything. I said it before, if someone wants give me €500 million... That is what we need to save Barca," Romeu told Spanish outlet Sport in an interview. Also Read: Robert Lewandowski to Frenkie De Jong: 5 biggest football transfers that can happen this summer Barcelona's debt has reportedly reached a staggering 1 billion Euros. In October last year, it was reported that the club owed around 98 million Euros in fees to other clubs for player transfers. They are in a critical situation and might need to sell some more big names this season while expecting not too many significant arrivals at the Camp Nou this summer. Among the top players who can be sold this summer is Dutch midfielder Frenkie De Jong, who has been heavily linked with Manchester United and is likely to be offloaded soon by the Spanish club, who are in desperate need of unds. United are expected to sign De Jong for around 70-80 million Euros, as per reports.

We need 500 million Euros to save the club, claims FC Barcelona president as financial troubles mount

FC Barcelona star Gerard Pique and his singer wife Shakira recently confirmed thy are parting ways,&nbsp;bringing an end to their 12-year relationship. The announcement came after reports had gone viral claiming Pique was allegedly cheating on Shakira with another woman. Amid the allegations of infidelity, a Brazilian model has made some startling revelations against Pique and accused him of sending her lewd text messages behind Shakira's back.

As per a report published by Spanish newspaper Marca, Pique had allegedly sent some illicit messages to Brazilian model Suzy Cortez after meeting her through former FC Barcelona president Sandro Rosell. Rosell served as Barcelona's president from 2010 to 2014. The report also claimed that Pique was in direct contact with Cortez for a significant amount of time.

Cortez recently spoke to El Diario NY, a New York-based paper and revealed she had met Pique through Rosell, who was her friend. She went on to make some explosive revelations about the Spanish defender, alleging that he would regularly ask her when she was coming back to Europe and had also asked her about the size of her butt.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldos-mother-in-tears-after-her-son-scores-in-portugals-4-0-win-vs-switzerland-watch-485929">Ronaldo's mother in tears after her son scores in Portugal's 4-0 win vs Switzerland - Watch</a>

"I was a friend of the former president of Barcelona, Sandro Rosell. When Pique found out, he asked me for my number and sent me a message. When I returned to Brazil, he sent me a message directly on Instagram - which he deleted every day - asking me when would I return to Europe and always asking me how big my butt was," Cortez told El Diario, as quoted by Marca.

Cortez further also questioned the integrity of the entire Barcelona squad at the time and said there were only a couple of players who never sent her anything after meeting with her. The Brazilian model, who is a huge fan of Lionel Messi, said the Argentinian along with his Brazilian teammate Philippe Coutinho were the only players in the Barcelona squad who refrained from sending her lewd texts.

"He [Pique] was the one who sent me the most direct message. The only Barcelona players who never sent me anything were Messi and Coutinho. They are great husbands and respect their wives a lot," claimed Cortez.

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FC Barcelona have been rocked once again by another controversy after allegations on Pique. The Spanish club and the footballer himself are yet to respond to the accusations after his separation from former partner Shakira. The ex-couple has a&nbsp;&nbsp;9-year-old son.

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FC Barcelona star Gerard Pique and his singer wife Shakira recently confirmed thy are parting ways, bringing an end to their 12-year relationship. The announcement came after reports had gone viral claiming Pique was allegedly cheating on Shakira with another woman.

FC Barcelona star Gerard Pique and his singer wife Shakira recently confirmed thy are parting ways, bringing an end to their 12-year relationship. The announcement came after reports had gone viral claiming Pique was allegedly cheating on Shakira with another woman. Amid the allegations of infidelity, a Brazilian model has made some startling revelations against Pique and accused him of sending her lewd text messages behind Shakira's back. As per a report published by Spanish newspaper Marca, Pique had allegedly sent some illicit messages to Brazilian model Suzy Cortez after meeting her through former FC Barcelona president Sandro Rosell. Rosell served as Barcelona's president from 2010 to 2014. The report also claimed that Pique was in direct contact with Cortez for a significant amount of time. Cortez recently spoke to El Diario NY, a New York-based paper and revealed she had met Pique through Rosell, who was her friend. She went on to make some explosive revelations about the Spanish defender, alleging that he would regularly ask her when she was coming back to Europe and had also asked her about the size of her butt. Also Read: Ronaldo's mother in tears after her son scores in Portugal's 4-0 win vs Switzerland - Watch "I was a friend of the former president of Barcelona, Sandro Rosell. When Pique found out, he asked me for my number and sent me a message. When I returned to Brazil, he sent me a message directly on Instagram - which he deleted every day - asking me when would I return to Europe and always asking me how big my butt was," Cortez told El Diario, as quoted by Marca. Cortez further also questioned the integrity of the entire Barcelona squad at the time and said there were only a couple of players who never sent her anything after meeting with her. The Brazilian model, who is a huge fan of Lionel Messi, said the Argentinian along with his Brazilian teammate Philippe Coutinho were the only players in the Barcelona squad who refrained from sending her lewd texts. "He [Pique] was the one who sent me the most direct message. The only Barcelona players who never sent me anything were Messi and Coutinho. They are great husbands and respect their wives a lot," claimed Cortez. Also Read: PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe is world's most valuable player, reveals study FC Barcelona have been rocked once again by another controversy after allegations on Pique. The Spanish club and the footballer himself are yet to respond to the accusations after his separation from former partner Shakira. The ex-couple has a 9-year-old son. ×

Messi & Coutinho only Barca players who didn't text me: Brazilian model makes startling claims about Pique

Barcelona defeated lowly Mallorca 2-1 on Sunday to snap a three-match losing run at Camp Nou in all competitions as they climbed to second in LaLiga behind champions Real Madrid. With Real already having secured a record-extending 35th LaLiga title on Saturday, Barcelona made sure the disappointment of being out of the running for the top prize did not distract them from the job at hand.

Memphis Depay`s first-half strike calmed nerves at Camp Nou, where almost half the seats remained empty as fans disappointed with their team`s showing this season opted to stay away. Captain Sergio Busquets extended their lead early in the second half from a rebound.

Mallorca defender Antonio Raillo took advantage of a lapse in Barca`s defense to fire home a consolation from close range in the 79th minute. Xavi Hernandez`s team leapfrogged Sevilla to second in the standings. They are two points ahead of Julen Lopetegui`s side with 66 points.

With four games left, champions Real hold an unassailable 15-point lead over Barca. Mallorca are 16th with 32 points, a point above the drop zone.

"It’s very frustrating seeing Real Madrid win the league so early and with such an advantage,” midfielder Frenkie de Jong told Movistar Plus.

"But we have to admit that we struggled this season, didn’t play to our standards and were not able to compete with them. I hope next season things change for the best."

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Barcelona are now in a close race with Sevilla and Atletico Madrid to secure second spot in LaLiga, with the three clubs separated by just five points. The club that finishes second will earn an extra 3.4 million euros ($3.58 million) as they will feature in the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia.

Following a brilliant through pass by Jordi Alba, Depay fired Barcelona ahead in the 25th minute with a close-range finish. The Catalans extended their lead early in the second half when Busquets controlled a rebound in a crowded area and found the space to drill the ball into the back of the net.

Mallorca’s goal came from nowhere and the final score made the match look closer than it was. Teenager Ansu Fati was given a standing ovation when he made his first LaLiga appearance for Barca since November, coming on as a second-half substitute.

The 19-year-old has struggled to regain full fitness after suffering a number of injury setbacks over the past year.

Barcelona defeated lowly Mallorca 2-1 on Sunday to snap a three-match losing run at Camp Nou in all competitions as they climbed to second in LaLiga behind champions Real Madrid.

Barcelona defeated lowly Mallorca 2-1 on Sunday to snap a three-match losing run at Camp Nou in all competitions as they climbed to second in LaLiga behind champions Real Madrid. With Real already having secured a record-extending 35th LaLiga title on Saturday, Barcelona made sure the disappointment of being out of the running for the top prize did not distract them from the job at hand. Memphis Depay`s first-half strike calmed nerves at Camp Nou, where almost half the seats remained empty as fans disappointed with their team`s showing this season opted to stay away. Captain Sergio Busquets extended their lead early in the second half from a rebound. Mallorca defender Antonio Raillo took advantage of a lapse in Barca`s defense to fire home a consolation from close range in the 79th minute. Xavi Hernandez`s team leapfrogged Sevilla to second in the standings. They are two points ahead of Julen Lopetegui`s side with 66 points. With four games left, champions Real hold an unassailable 15-point lead over Barca. Mallorca are 16th with 32 points, a point above the drop zone. "It’s very frustrating seeing Real Madrid win the league so early and with such an advantage,” midfielder Frenkie de Jong told Movistar Plus. "But we have to admit that we struggled this season, didn’t play to our standards and were not able to compete with them. I hope next season things change for the best." Also Read: Premier League: Son Heung-min double against Leicester boosts Tottenham's top-four hopes Barcelona are now in a close race with Sevilla and Atletico Madrid to secure second spot in LaLiga, with the three clubs separated by just five points. The club that finishes second will earn an extra 3.4 million euros ($3.58 million) as they will feature in the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. Following a brilliant through pass by Jordi Alba, Depay fired Barcelona ahead in the 25th minute with a close-range finish. The Catalans extended their lead early in the second half when Busquets controlled a rebound in a crowded area and found the space to drill the ball into the back of the net. Mallorca’s goal came from nowhere and the final score made the match look closer than it was. Teenager Ansu Fati was given a standing ovation when he made his first LaLiga appearance for Barca since November, coming on as a second-half substitute. The 19-year-old has struggled to regain full fitness after suffering a number of injury setbacks over the past year.

Barcelona reclaim second spot in La Liga, defeat Real Mallorca 2-1 at Camp Nou

Barcelona ground out a feisty 1-0 win at Real Sociedad on Thursday to tighten their grip on a top-four finish in LaLiga and put the disappointing home loss to lowly Cadiz behind them.

Barca climbed to second in the standings, level on points with third-placed Sevilla and 15 behind leaders Real Madrid.

Barca, who have a game in hand, host Rayo Vallecano on Sunday but Real Madrid need only four more points from their last five games to secure the title.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored Barcelona`s winner on 11 minutes after Ousmane Dembele struck the post and Ferran Torres crossed to the Gabon striker who guided home a gentle header from close range.

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It was an intense game at a packed Reale Arena in San Sebastian where the hosts wasted several clear opportunities to score and dominated possession.

Barcelona survived the Basque onslaught thanks to incredible misses by Alexander Isak and Alexander Sorloth and to inspired goalkeeping by Marc Andre ter Stegen who made at least three superb saves.

"It is the game that I have suffered the most since I arrived in November," Barca coach Xavi Hernandez told Movistar Plus.

"Real Sociedad dominated the game, they are a great team, they put us on the ropes and deserved more, perhaps a draw," he added.

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"That is why it has been a vital win, a precious victory. It was a well fought and very important result that leaves us in second place, close to our objective of going to the Champions League next season."

Xavi said his team were exhausted in the second half, with several players in need of medical attention. Ronald Araujo and Dani Alves had to be substituted and Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba and Gavi struggled.

"It`s a long season," Alves told reporters.

"With too many games in the last weeks the wear and tear takes a toll on us and it is normal for players to be tired. It`s time for us to make an effort because there are few games left and we have to do everything to finish well."

Barcelona ground out a feisty 1-0 win at Real Sociedad on Thursday to tighten their grip on a top-four finish in LaLiga and put the disappointing home loss to lowly Cadiz behind them.

Barcelona ground out a feisty 1-0 win at Real Sociedad on Thursday to tighten their grip on a top-four finish in LaLiga and put the disappointing home loss to lowly Cadiz behind them. Barca climbed to second in the standings, level on points with third-placed Sevilla and 15 behind leaders Real Madrid. Barca, who have a game in hand, host Rayo Vallecano on Sunday but Real Madrid need only four more points from their last five games to secure the title. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored Barcelona`s winner on 11 minutes after Ousmane Dembele struck the post and Ferran Torres crossed to the Gabon striker who guided home a gentle header from close range. Also read | Shocking! Tyson punches fellow passenger in flight - Watch Video It was an intense game at a packed Reale Arena in San Sebastian where the hosts wasted several clear opportunities to score and dominated possession. Barcelona survived the Basque onslaught thanks to incredible misses by Alexander Isak and Alexander Sorloth and to inspired goalkeeping by Marc Andre ter Stegen who made at least three superb saves. "It is the game that I have suffered the most since I arrived in November," Barca coach Xavi Hernandez told Movistar Plus. "Real Sociedad dominated the game, they are a great team, they put us on the ropes and deserved more, perhaps a draw," he added. Also read | CR7 reacts as Liverpool fans display compassion for death of his newborn "That is why it has been a vital win, a precious victory. It was a well fought and very important result that leaves us in second place, close to our objective of going to the Champions League next season." Xavi said his team were exhausted in the second half, with several players in need of medical attention. Ronald Araujo and Dani Alves had to be substituted and Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba and Gavi struggled. "It`s a long season," Alves told reporters. "With too many games in the last weeks the wear and tear takes a toll on us and it is normal for players to be tired. It`s time for us to make an effort because there are few games left and we have to do everything to finish well."

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang strike earns FC Barcelona tough win against Real Sociedad

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