La Liga on Friday issues a counter-statement after Lionel Messi’s letter, via his father and agent Jorge Messi, put out a letter. La Liga contradicting to what Messi had said in his letter, stated that the EUR 700 million release clause still exists and the Spanish governing body stands by its earlier statement where they had mentioned the same.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi on Friday issued a statement, addressed to La Liga boss Javier Tebas, stating that the EUR 700 million release clause doesn’t exist in his contract while criticizing La Liga’s ‘partial’ stance after they released a statement in support of Barcelona.&nbsp;

<img alt="La Liga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d1b9d5b-7bfa-4d29-8fa2-0b4b13176f43" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/La%20Liga.JPG" />

While Messi in his statement said that La Liga had misinterpreted the clause of his contract which allows him to leave for free and in that case, the EUR 700 million release clause ends after the 2019-20 season. However, La Liga said that 'they stand by their interpretation of Messi's contract'.

The statement by Lionel Messi took a jibe at La Liga as it stated that they don’t which contract did La Liga analyze before releasing the statement. It was repeatedly mentioned in the statement that as per clause 8.2.3.5, the EUR 700 release clause doesn’t apply at all at the end of 2019-20 season.&nbsp;

<img alt="Messi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98bf9b20-587b-4951-bc75-bbcab4261bf9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Messi_0.JPG" />

This is the first time when an official statement has been put out by Messi’s entourage in relation to the ongoing transfer saga. Messi, earlier last week, had sent a burofax to Barcelona asking them to allow him to leave the club for free.&nbsp;

In further twist in the ‘BarcaGate’ saga, on Thursday, it was revealed that Spanish police are investigating a case against Bartomeu with allegations that the Barca president hired a social media agency to post negative things about former and present club players.&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, a statement from Barcelona is expected on the matter after both Messi and La Liga issued respective statements. 
&nbsp;

La Liga on Friday issues a counter-statement after Lionel Messi’s letter, via his father and agent Jorge Messi, put out a letter. La Liga contradicting to what Messi had said in his letter, stated that the EUR 700 million release clause still exists and the Spanish governing body stands by its earlier statement where they had mentioned the same.

La Liga on Friday issues a counter-statement after Lionel Messi’s letter, via his father and agent Jorge Messi, put out a letter. La Liga contradicting to what Messi had said in his letter, stated that the EUR 700 million release clause still exists and the Spanish governing body stands by its earlier statement where they had mentioned the same. Lionel Messi on Friday issued a statement, addressed to La Liga boss Javier Tebas, stating that the EUR 700 million release clause doesn’t exist in his contract while criticizing La Liga’s ‘partial’ stance after they released a statement in support of Barcelona. While Messi in his statement said that La Liga had misinterpreted the clause of his contract which allows him to leave for free and in that case, the EUR 700 million release clause ends after the 2019-20 season. However, La Liga said that 'they stand by their interpretation of Messi's contract'. The statement by Lionel Messi took a jibe at La Liga as it stated that they don’t which contract did La Liga analyze before releasing the statement. It was repeatedly mentioned in the statement that as per clause 8.2.3.5, the EUR 700 release clause doesn’t apply at all at the end of 2019-20 season. This is the first time when an official statement has been put out by Messi’s entourage in relation to the ongoing transfer saga. Messi, earlier last week, had sent a burofax to Barcelona asking them to allow him to leave the club for free. In further twist in the ‘BarcaGate’ saga, on Thursday, it was revealed that Spanish police are investigating a case against Bartomeu with allegations that the Barca president hired a social media agency to post negative things about former and present club players. Meanwhile, a statement from Barcelona is expected on the matter after both Messi and La Liga issued respective statements.

La Liga hits back at Lionel Messi, says 'release clause still exists'

Luka Modric blows out his cheeks. "It would be a huge loss," he says. "Like when Cristiano left. But you can't think about the past. It's football and that's it."&nbsp;

Modric has faced Lionel Messi 21 times and is the only player since 2008 other than Cristiano Ronaldo to beat him to the Ballon d'Or. He knows what it would mean if he leaves.&nbsp;

"If it happens it will be a huge loss for the prestige of the league," he tells AFP. "But we need to go forward. Other players will become stars.&nbsp;

"When Ronaldo left, the same thing happened, the life of Real Madrid went on without him and it will be the same for Barcelona and La Liga without Messi."&nbsp;

After Ronaldo, Real Madrid needed two sacked coaches and the return of the old one to get back on their feet, a recovery still not complete as shown by a second consecutive exit in the Champions League last 16.&nbsp;

Messi's departure, even his unhappiness, would give Madrid an opening, not only to win La Liga again but to establish their own period of supremacy in Spain.&nbsp;

The first step is defending the title they won in July.&nbsp;

"We don't have a young team but we have an experienced team," says Modric. "We have young players, who will get better. I don't know if we will buy players but even if it stays like this, we have enough quality.

"We showed it in La Liga and we know we can do it again. After the suspension, we came back so motivated. We missed football, we missed winning games.&nbsp;

"We had worked so hard, I think physically we were the best team in the league and that's why we won it. It was my second La Liga title and I want to win more."&nbsp;

<h2>- Dressing room leader -</h2>

Modric was arguably Real Madrid's best player during the 11-game run-in, perhaps benefitting more than anyone from the three-month pause, after a period when he found himself rotated.&nbsp;

"I had two injuries that set me back and then other players took their opportunity," Modric says. "It wasn't easy for me, but maybe now Zizou sees it differently because I never gave up and in the end I was playing again. I feel well now, I feel fit, I feel motivated."&nbsp;

He turns 35 next week but Modric still feels instrumental to this Real Madrid, his calm masking an inner-steel that is well-suited to Zidane and perhaps symbolic of the team as a whole.&nbsp;

In his autobiography, 'My Game', released last month, Modric said Zidane urged him to be more of a leader and he has been supporting Eden Hazard during the Belgian's injury-ravaged opening year.&nbsp;

"Eden is a great guy and a special player," says Modric. "But he was playing with pain and when you're on the pitch, people always expect the best. They don't care if you have little problems.&nbsp;

"I spoke to him and said, 'Eden maybe you need not to play now and recover because next season we need you at your best. This is a season where you're getting to know everything but next season you need to be 100 per cent because if not, it's going to be difficult'.&nbsp;

"Hopefully he comes back without any problems and then I'm sure he'll show his potential and why the club bought him because we will need him a lot."&nbsp;

<h2>- Zidane 'one of the best' -</h2>

Hazard retains the confidence of Zidane but the same cannot be said for Gareth Bale, whose prospects look bleaker than ever if he stays.&nbsp;

Modric has spent 12 years playing with Bale, four at Tottenham and eight with Madrid, and he is one of those closest to the Welshman in the dressing room.&nbsp;

"Gareth is a great, great player," Modric says. "But his situation is not easy. He always has my support but he needs to decide what is best for him and what he wants to do now with his career.&nbsp;

"It was not an easy season for him but it is what it is. Maybe now he needs to get back to his best. Maybe to fight or... We'll see what happens with him."&nbsp;

Unlike Bale, Modric trusts Zidane absolutely, dismissing those who claim he is a motivator graced with good luck.&nbsp;

"He just perfectly understands players," Modric says. "He is one of the best coaches, definitely.&nbsp;

"What we have achieved is unimaginable and still people say it's because of luck or this or that, and they don't give him the recognition he deserves -- but he doesn't need it. His results speak for themselves."&nbsp;

Modric recalls one of his first meetings with Zidane in 2016, which he cites as a turning point in his career.&nbsp;

"I remember it word for word," says Modric. "He said, 'I see you as a player who can one day win the Ballon d'Or'. I'd never even thought about the Ballon d'Or before but when someone like Zizou tells you that, you feel so much confidence.&nbsp;

"It's why we've always had such a great relationship and I hope he stays at Madrid for a long, long time."&nbsp;

Luka Modric's autobiography, 'My Game', was released on August 20 in the UK, France and Spain.&nbsp;

Luka Modric blows out his cheeks. "It would be a huge loss," he says. "Like when Cristiano left. But you can't think about the past. It's football and that's it.

Luka Modric blows out his cheeks. "It would be a huge loss," he says. "Like when Cristiano left. But you can't think about the past. It's football and that's it." Modric has faced Lionel Messi 21 times and is the only player since 2008 other than Cristiano Ronaldo to beat him to the Ballon d'Or. He knows what it would mean if he leaves. "If it happens it will be a huge loss for the prestige of the league," he tells AFP. "But we need to go forward. Other players will become stars. "When Ronaldo left, the same thing happened, the life of Real Madrid went on without him and it will be the same for Barcelona and La Liga without Messi." After Ronaldo, Real Madrid needed two sacked coaches and the return of the old one to get back on their feet, a recovery still not complete as shown by a second consecutive exit in the Champions League last 16. Messi's departure, even his unhappiness, would give Madrid an opening, not only to win La Liga again but to establish their own period of supremacy in Spain. The first step is defending the title they won in July. "We don't have a young team but we have an experienced team," says Modric. "We have young players, who will get better. I don't know if we will buy players but even if it stays like this, we have enough quality. "We showed it in La Liga and we know we can do it again. After the suspension, we came back so motivated. We missed football, we missed winning games. "We had worked so hard, I think physically we were the best team in the league and that's why we won it. It was my second La Liga title and I want to win more." - Dressing room leader - Modric was arguably Real Madrid's best player during the 11-game run-in, perhaps benefitting more than anyone from the three-month pause, after a period when he found himself rotated. "I had two injuries that set me back and then other players took their opportunity," Modric says. "It wasn't easy for me, but maybe now Zizou sees it differently because I never gave up and in the end I was playing again. I feel well now, I feel fit, I feel motivated." He turns 35 next week but Modric still feels instrumental to this Real Madrid, his calm masking an inner-steel that is well-suited to Zidane and perhaps symbolic of the team as a whole. In his autobiography, 'My Game', released last month, Modric said Zidane urged him to be more of a leader and he has been supporting Eden Hazard during the Belgian's injury-ravaged opening year. "Eden is a great guy and a special player," says Modric. "But he was playing with pain and when you're on the pitch, people always expect the best. They don't care if you have little problems. "I spoke to him and said, 'Eden maybe you need not to play now and recover because next season we need you at your best. This is a season where you're getting to know everything but next season you need to be 100 per cent because if not, it's going to be difficult'. "Hopefully he comes back without any problems and then I'm sure he'll show his potential and why the club bought him because we will need him a lot." - Zidane 'one of the best' - Hazard retains the confidence of Zidane but the same cannot be said for Gareth Bale, whose prospects look bleaker than ever if he stays. Modric has spent 12 years playing with Bale, four at Tottenham and eight with Madrid, and he is one of those closest to the Welshman in the dressing room. "Gareth is a great, great player," Modric says. "But his situation is not easy. He always has my support but he needs to decide what is best for him and what he wants to do now with his career. "It was not an easy season for him but it is what it is. Maybe now he needs to get back to his best. Maybe to fight or... We'll see what happens with him." Unlike Bale, Modric trusts Zidane absolutely, dismissing those who claim he is a motivator graced with good luck. "He just perfectly understands players," Modric says. "He is one of the best coaches, definitely. "What we have achieved is unimaginable and still people say it's because of luck or this or that, and they don't give him the recognition he deserves -- but he doesn't need it. His results speak for themselves." Modric recalls one of his first meetings with Zidane in 2016, which he cites as a turning point in his career. "I remember it word for word," says Modric. "He said, 'I see you as a player who can one day win the Ballon d'Or'. I'd never even thought about the Ballon d'Or before but when someone like Zizou tells you that, you feel so much confidence. "It's why we've always had such a great relationship and I hope he stays at Madrid for a long, long time." Luka Modric's autobiography, 'My Game', was released on August 20 in the UK, France and Spain.

Modric: Messi leaving would be a huge blow to La Liga's prestige

Over the years, Lionel Messi has troubled Real Madrid a lot while playing for Barcelona but with things developing quick, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner may not be seen playing for Blaugrana in the future. Arch-rival and captain of Real Madrid, Sergio Ramos has given his take on the entire Messi transfer saga as the Spaniard said Messi has earned the right to decide his future.&nbsp;

However, Ramos clarified that he doesn’t know whether leaving with a conflict with Barcelona is the right way to leave while adding for Spanish football, Barcelona and Real Madrid, he would like Messi to continue his career at Barcelona.&nbsp;

Ramos is of the view that Messi’s presence make La Liga, Barcelona and El Clasicos a better spectacle and added that that he wants to beat the best and Messi is one of the best in the world.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lionel-messis-next-team-clubs-who-can-really-afford-to-sign-the-argentine-323423" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi's next team: Clubs who can really afford to sign the Argentine</a>

"He's earned the right to decide his future,” Ramos told reporters in a press-conference, “but I don't know if it's the best way."

He added: “For Spanish football, for Barcelona and for us, we'd like him to stay. Leo makes the Spanish league, his team and the Clasicos better.

"You always like beating the best and he's one of the best in the world."

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/stay-or-go-messi-in-legal-tangle-with-barcelona-over-leaving-club-323132" hreflang="en">Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club</a>

Messi’s father Jorge met Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu on Wednesday with another meeting scheduled for Thursday as both the camps look for a mutual agreement in relation to Argentine’s future. While Barcelona continue to remain firm on their stance that they want Messi to stay, his father is in Spain to negotiate a possible deal which would allow Messi to leave the Nou Camp.&nbsp;

Messi, earlier last week, had sent a burofax asking Barcelona to allow him to leave for free, as per an existing clause in his contract. He later skipped the PCR tests conducted by Barcelona while also being absent from new manager Ronald Koeman’s first training session. 
&nbsp;

Over the years, Lionel Messi has troubled Real Madrid a lot while playing for Barcelona but with things developing quick, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner may not be seen playing for Blaugrana in the future.

Over the years, Lionel Messi has troubled Real Madrid a lot while playing for Barcelona but with things developing quick, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner may not be seen playing for Blaugrana in the future. Arch-rival and captain of Real Madrid, Sergio Ramos has given his take on the entire Messi transfer saga as the Spaniard said Messi has earned the right to decide his future. However, Ramos clarified that he doesn’t know whether leaving with a conflict with Barcelona is the right way to leave while adding for Spanish football, Barcelona and Real Madrid, he would like Messi to continue his career at Barcelona. Ramos is of the view that Messi’s presence make La Liga, Barcelona and El Clasicos a better spectacle and added that that he wants to beat the best and Messi is one of the best in the world. IN PICS | Lionel Messi's next team: Clubs who can really afford to sign the Argentine "He's earned the right to decide his future,” Ramos told reporters in a press-conference, “but I don't know if it's the best way." He added: “For Spanish football, for Barcelona and for us, we'd like him to stay. Leo makes the Spanish league, his team and the Clasicos better. "You always like beating the best and he's one of the best in the world." IN PICS | Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club Messi’s father Jorge met Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu on Wednesday with another meeting scheduled for Thursday as both the camps look for a mutual agreement in relation to Argentine’s future. While Barcelona continue to remain firm on their stance that they want Messi to stay, his father is in Spain to negotiate a possible deal which would allow Messi to leave the Nou Camp. Messi, earlier last week, had sent a burofax asking Barcelona to allow him to leave for free, as per an existing clause in his contract. He later skipped the PCR tests conducted by Barcelona while also being absent from new manager Ronald Koeman’s first training session.

Should Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos opines

FC Barcelona launched their new 2020-21 Stadium kits for sale today. The club took to Twitter to announce this news with a poster that featured players donning the new jersey.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
👕 The 20/21 home 'Stadium' jersey is now available 
🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnlyForCulers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnlyForCulers</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1301066379479613441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, Messi's presence in the poster raised a lot of questions and left the netizens puzzled. Some of the users were against the player's presence on the poster.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi's decision to leave his club has sparked off a massive controversy involving the club's top brass.&nbsp;

Last week, the player sent a buro-fax to Barcelona asking them to allow him to leave for free, as per an existing clause in his contract. However, Barcelona refuses to listen to Messi and are firm that the EUR 700 million release clause is still active and if the Argentine maestro has to leave the club then the full amount needs to be paid.&nbsp;

Even La Liga jumped in between and issued a statement agreeing to Barcelona’s stance as the Spanish league said that the full release clause needs to be paid by any other team if they want to acquire Messi’s services.

Here are the reactions:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Is Messi Available?
— Varun Shiralkar (@vrshiralkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/vrshiralkar/status/1301066508664107009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Remove Messi from the posters and stop using him for clout
— Setien Junior (@SonOfSetien) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonOfSetien/status/1301066497951846400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Messi 🤔🤔
— 6️⃣ Ballon d'Or 🐐 (@fcb10futbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/fcb10futbol/status/1301066459024519168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Remove Messi 
He’s a city player
— Ömar (@King__Umar) <a href="https://twitter.com/King__Umar/status/1301066520827703296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Wow, you really thought of putting Messi's pic on this? :P
— Palak Zatakia (@palakzat) <a href="https://twitter.com/palakzat/status/1301066562229559298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

FC Barcelona launched their new 2020-21 Stadium kits for sale today. The club took to Twitter to announce this news with a poster that featured players donning the new jersey.

FC Barcelona launched their new 2020-21 Stadium kits for sale today. The club took to Twitter to announce this news with a poster that featured players donning the new jersey. 👕 The 20/21 home 'Stadium' jersey is now available 🔵🔴 #OnlyForCulers — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 2, 2020 × However, Messi's presence in the poster raised a lot of questions and left the netizens puzzled. Some of the users were against the player's presence on the poster. Lionel Messi's decision to leave his club has sparked off a massive controversy involving the club's top brass. Last week, the player sent a buro-fax to Barcelona asking them to allow him to leave for free, as per an existing clause in his contract. However, Barcelona refuses to listen to Messi and are firm that the EUR 700 million release clause is still active and if the Argentine maestro has to leave the club then the full amount needs to be paid. Even La Liga jumped in between and issued a statement agreeing to Barcelona’s stance as the Spanish league said that the full release clause needs to be paid by any other team if they want to acquire Messi’s services. Here are the reactions: Is Messi Available? — Varun Shiralkar (@vrshiralkar) September 2, 2020 × Remove Messi from the posters and stop using him for clout — Setien Junior (@SonOfSetien) September 2, 2020 × Messi 🤔🤔 — 6️⃣ Ballon d'Or 🐐 (@fcb10futbol) September 2, 2020 × Remove Messi He’s a city player — Ömar (@King__Umar) September 2, 2020 × Wow, you really thought of putting Messi's pic on this? :P — Palak Zatakia (@palakzat) September 2, 2020 ×

Netizens puzzled after Barcelona launch 'Stadium' kit featuring Lionel Messi

The organisers of Spanish football league La Liga have announced the schedule for the 2020-21 season as the defending champions Real Madrid will witness a delayed start to their title defence.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-misses-first-pre-season-training-session-as-barcelona-stand-off-continues-324446" hreflang="en">Messi misses first pre-season training session as Barcelona stand-off continues</a>

According to Goal.com, Madrid will commence their campaign late as teams that participated in Champions League will sit out the opening week.&nbsp;

The fans will witness the first El Clasico of the season between Real Madrid and Barcelona on October 35 at the Camp Nou and the return leg of this fixture will then be held in April 2021, with the Catalan giants visiting the Santiago Bernabeu.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-difficult-jorge-gives-lionel-messi-verdict-ahead-of-talks-with-barcelonas-bartomeu-324715" hreflang="en">WATCH: 'Difficult...' - Jorge gives Lionel Messi verdict ahead of talks with Barcelona's Bartomeu</a>

Madrid's match with Getafe, Barcelona's clash against Elche, and Atletico Madrid's meeting with Sevilla will be postponed while the rest of the league will Kickoff on September 11 and 12. The defending champions will play their first match of the 2020-21 La Liga season against Real Sociedad, whereas, their arch-rivals Barcelona will begin their league campaign against &nbsp;Villarreal.

The Madrid derby between Real and Atletico will take place on December 12 at the Santiago Bernabeu with a return leg to be held on March 7 at the Wanda Metropolitano.

The season will conclude on May 23, 2021, and on the final matchday, Real Madrid will take on Villarreal while Barcelona will lock horns with SD Eibar.

The organisers of Spanish football league La Liga have announced the schedule for the 2020-21 season as the defending champions Real Madrid will witness a delayed start to their title defence.

The organisers of Spanish football league La Liga have announced the schedule for the 2020-21 season as the defending champions Real Madrid will witness a delayed start to their title defence. Also read: Messi misses first pre-season training session as Barcelona stand-off continues According to Goal.com, Madrid will commence their campaign late as teams that participated in Champions League will sit out the opening week. The fans will witness the first El Clasico of the season between Real Madrid and Barcelona on October 35 at the Camp Nou and the return leg of this fixture will then be held in April 2021, with the Catalan giants visiting the Santiago Bernabeu. Also read: WATCH: 'Difficult...' - Jorge gives Lionel Messi verdict ahead of talks with Barcelona's Bartomeu Madrid's match with Getafe, Barcelona's clash against Elche, and Atletico Madrid's meeting with Sevilla will be postponed while the rest of the league will Kickoff on September 11 and 12. The defending champions will play their first match of the 2020-21 La Liga season against Real Sociedad, whereas, their arch-rivals Barcelona will begin their league campaign against Villarreal. The Madrid derby between Real and Atletico will take place on December 12 at the Santiago Bernabeu with a return leg to be held on March 7 at the Wanda Metropolitano. The season will conclude on May 23, 2021, and on the final matchday, Real Madrid will take on Villarreal while Barcelona will lock horns with SD Eibar.

From El Clasicos to Madrid Derbies: La Liga schedule announced!

Spanish midfielder David Silva has agreed a two-year contract with Real Sociedad following his departure from Manchester City, the La Liga club announced on Monday.

Silva, 34, spent a decade with City and made his final appearance as a substitute in Saturday's 3-1 defeat by Lyon in the Champions League quarter-finals. He is expected to join his new Sociedad team-mates in the coming days for pre-season training.

The 2020/21 La Liga campaign is scheduled to begin on September 12. Sociedad finished sixth last season to qualify for the Europa League.

Silva won 11 domestic trophies in his time in Manchester and is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's finest imports.

City said a statue will be erected next year in his honour, while a pitch at the club's training ground will also be named after him.&nbsp;

Silva is the fourth-highest goalscorer in Spain's history and sixth for all-time appearances, and was part of the squads which won the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships, in 2008 and 2012.

Spanish midfielder David Silva has agreed a two-year contract with Real Sociedad following his departure from Manchester City, the La Liga club announced on Monday.

Spanish midfielder David Silva has agreed a two-year contract with Real Sociedad following his departure from Manchester City, the La Liga club announced on Monday. Silva, 34, spent a decade with City and made his final appearance as a substitute in Saturday's 3-1 defeat by Lyon in the Champions League quarter-finals. He is expected to join his new Sociedad team-mates in the coming days for pre-season training. The 2020/21 La Liga campaign is scheduled to begin on September 12. Sociedad finished sixth last season to qualify for the Europa League. Silva won 11 domestic trophies in his time in Manchester and is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's finest imports. City said a statue will be erected next year in his honour, while a pitch at the club's training ground will also be named after him. Silva is the fourth-highest goalscorer in Spain's history and sixth for all-time appearances, and was part of the squads which won the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships, in 2008 and 2012.

David Silva joins Real Sociedad on two-year deal

La Liga's Valencia have announced two cases of coronavirus in their squad and coaching staff a day after returning to pre-season training. The team has decided to keep their names confidential.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-liverpool-and-chelsea-striker-daniel-sturridge-wants-premier-league-comeback-319705" hreflang="en">Former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge wants Premier League comeback</a>

According to the club's statement, two individuals are isolating at home, whereas, the rest of the squad will resume training under strict protocols.

"The PCR and blood serum tests carried out on Monday for the first team, coaching staff and employees have detected two positive cases of COVID-19," the statement&nbsp;read.&nbsp;

"Those who have tested positive will remain isolated in their homes, in accordance with LaLiga and club protocols. The health authorities have been informed immediately of their status.&nbsp;

"From the start of this health crisis,&nbsp;Valencia&nbsp;have given special importance to measures to halt the expansion of the pandemic, and will maintain a strict protocol to which all members of the club are completely committed."&nbsp;

Coronavirus pandemic has heavily affected Valencia. In March, the club reported that over one-third team got infected to COVID-19.&nbsp;

Spain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the pandemic. Spain overtook Britain on Monday as the country with most infections in Western Europe.&nbsp;

Two days ago, Atletico Madrid players Angel Correa Sime Vrsaljko tested positive for COVID-19 and will be missing out on Champions League quarter-finals against RB Leipzig on Thursday.&nbsp;

La Liga's Valencia have announced two cases of coronavirus in their squad and coaching staff a day after returning to pre-season training. The team has decided to keep their names confidential.

La Liga's Valencia have announced two cases of coronavirus in their squad and coaching staff a day after returning to pre-season training. The team has decided to keep their names confidential. Also read: Former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge wants Premier League comeback According to the club's statement, two individuals are isolating at home, whereas, the rest of the squad will resume training under strict protocols. "The PCR and blood serum tests carried out on Monday for the first team, coaching staff and employees have detected two positive cases of COVID-19," the statement read. "Those who have tested positive will remain isolated in their homes, in accordance with LaLiga and club protocols. The health authorities have been informed immediately of their status. "From the start of this health crisis, Valencia have given special importance to measures to halt the expansion of the pandemic, and will maintain a strict protocol to which all members of the club are completely committed." Coronavirus pandemic has heavily affected Valencia. In March, the club reported that over one-third team got infected to COVID-19. Spain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the pandemic. Spain overtook Britain on Monday as the country with most infections in Western Europe. Two days ago, Atletico Madrid players Angel Correa Sime Vrsaljko tested positive for COVID-19 and will be missing out on Champions League quarter-finals against RB Leipzig on Thursday.

La Liga: Valencia reports two cases of COVID-19 in their squad and coaching staff

Barca star Lionel Messi extended his record and won his seventh La Liga golden boot after scoring twice against Alaves on final La Liga match day.&nbsp;

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The Barcelona captain has won this fourth time in a row. Messi ended his La Liga season with 25 goals that are four goals more than Karim Benzema who sits at second.&nbsp;

Barcelona thrashed Alaves 5-0 on the final matchday with Messi scoring the second and the fifth goal along with teen sensation Ansu Fati, Luis Suarez and Nelson Semedo, who scored the other goals.&nbsp;

This is the first time La Liga's top scorer has managed fewer than 30 goals since Mallorca's Daniel Guiza 12 years ago.

Despite losing the La Liga in the final stages of the league, the Catalan side is still hoping to win the Champions League and will host Napoli on August 8 for the second leg of the round of 16 clash. In the first leg, both teams drew 1-1 in Italy.&nbsp;

Earlier, Messi became the first player in the Spanish League to score 20 assists and goals in the same season. He achieved this feat after assisting Arturo Vidal during the match against Real Valladolid.&nbsp;

He is the first player to score 20 assists in a season since Xavi who did it during 2008-09 season. But no player has scored 20 goals alongside in the Spanish top-flight until now.&nbsp;

Messi is the second player to achieve this feat in Europe's top five leagues. Theirry Henry was the first to do it during 2002-03 Premier League season and had scored 24 goals and contributed 20 assists for Arsenal. He overtook Henry's record by scoring 25 goals along with 20 assists.&nbsp;

Barca star Lionel Messi extended his record and won his seventh La Liga golden boot after scoring twice against Alaves on final La Liga match day. Also read: Aubameyang double fires Arsenal past Manchester City into Cup final The Barcelona captain has won this fourth time in a row.

Barca star Lionel Messi extended his record and won his seventh La Liga golden boot after scoring twice against Alaves on final La Liga match day. Also read: Aubameyang double fires Arsenal past Manchester City into Cup final The Barcelona captain has won this fourth time in a row. Messi ended his La Liga season with 25 goals that are four goals more than Karim Benzema who sits at second. Barcelona thrashed Alaves 5-0 on the final matchday with Messi scoring the second and the fifth goal along with teen sensation Ansu Fati, Luis Suarez and Nelson Semedo, who scored the other goals. This is the first time La Liga's top scorer has managed fewer than 30 goals since Mallorca's Daniel Guiza 12 years ago. Despite losing the La Liga in the final stages of the league, the Catalan side is still hoping to win the Champions League and will host Napoli on August 8 for the second leg of the round of 16 clash. In the first leg, both teams drew 1-1 in Italy. Earlier, Messi became the first player in the Spanish League to score 20 assists and goals in the same season. He achieved this feat after assisting Arturo Vidal during the match against Real Valladolid. He is the first player to score 20 assists in a season since Xavi who did it during 2008-09 season. But no player has scored 20 goals alongside in the Spanish top-flight until now. Messi is the second player to achieve this feat in Europe's top five leagues. Theirry Henry was the first to do it during 2002-03 Premier League season and had scored 24 goals and contributed 20 assists for Arsenal. He overtook Henry's record by scoring 25 goals along with 20 assists.

La Liga: Barcelona star Lionel Messi wins record 7th Golden Boot after scoring twice against Alaves

Real Madrid are just one game away to seal the deal and win the La Liga. But their coach, Zinedine Zidane has urged his players to focus as the league has not been won yet.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fans-unlikely-to-return-for-la-liga-in-september-due-to-given-circumstances-spains-health-minister-313786" hreflang="en">Fans unlikely to return for La Liga in September due to given circumstances: Spain's health minister</a>

Madrid capitalised on the Barcelona's errors in the final phase of the title and have developed a four points lead over Camp Nuo side.&nbsp;

After a win at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, Real Madrid will win the third league title in eight years. Since the restart from coronavirus lockdown, Real Madrid have won nine out of nine games.&nbsp;

Madrid could even afford to lose to Villarreal if they beat Leganes on Sunday but Zidane is wary of complacency.

“There is a lot of noise about celebrations and holidays and all that but tomorrow we have a game, period,” said Zidane in a press conference on Wednesday.

“We have to focus all our energy on tomorrow, nothing else. There is a lot of talk but all the players, everyone who works at the club, is only thinking about the game.

“Nobody knows what will happen until it happens.”

“It was something quite particuar that when we started to work again after lockdown and after three months at home, the players had this desire to do something great,” said Zidane.

“I saw the players and they wanted something more, they were staying after training to do extra. That says everything you need to know about this team,” he added.&nbsp;

The bottom line is if Real wins tonight's match they win the league.

(Inputs from AFP)

Real Madrid are just one game away to seal the deal and win the La Liga. But their coach, Zinedine Zidane has urged his players to focus as the league has not been won yet.

Real Madrid are just one game away to seal the deal and win the La Liga. But their coach, Zinedine Zidane has urged his players to focus as the league has not been won yet. Also read: Fans unlikely to return for La Liga in September due to given circumstances: Spain's health minister Madrid capitalised on the Barcelona's errors in the final phase of the title and have developed a four points lead over Camp Nuo side. After a win at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, Real Madrid will win the third league title in eight years. Since the restart from coronavirus lockdown, Real Madrid have won nine out of nine games. Madrid could even afford to lose to Villarreal if they beat Leganes on Sunday but Zidane is wary of complacency. “There is a lot of noise about celebrations and holidays and all that but tomorrow we have a game, period,” said Zidane in a press conference on Wednesday. “We have to focus all our energy on tomorrow, nothing else. There is a lot of talk but all the players, everyone who works at the club, is only thinking about the game. “Nobody knows what will happen until it happens.” “It was something quite particuar that when we started to work again after lockdown and after three months at home, the players had this desire to do something great,” said Zidane. “I saw the players and they wanted something more, they were staying after training to do extra. That says everything you need to know about this team,” he added. The bottom line is if Real wins tonight's match they win the league. (Inputs from AFP)

Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid are a match away from clinching the La Liga title

Spanish health minister expressed doubts on fans returning to stadiums in September as the country fears another wave of COVID-19 infections.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/porto-secure-29th-portuguese-league-title-313684" hreflang="en">Porto secure 29th Portuguese league title</a>

Spain's department of sports had planned to let fans with reduced capacity back for La Liga's new season which is set to begin in September, however, a spike in cases has led to imposing local lockdowns in some areas in Spain.&nbsp;

"To be honest, I don't see it, given the reality we are in," health minister Santiago Illa told radio station Cadena Ser on Thursday.

"We have seen some clusters of infections and although we have fortunately been able to control them, I still don't see (fans returning).

"We're going to take our time and provide information so the sports department can make the decision when necessary. We have to step carefully with the virus, and concentrating large numbers of people at this time is not advisable at all."

Large-scale celebrations in Vitoria to mark Baskonia winning the basketball championship have been criticised by Illa.&nbsp;

"I understand what it means to win a title or win promotion but the situation we have in Spain is of a controlled epidemic but with a virus that is still circulating," he added.

"In the last few days we've seen images that put people's health at risk. We are advising people to celebrate sporting triumphs at home and in no circumstances to go out to the streets and concentrate in large numbers." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Spanish health minister expressed doubts on fans returning to stadiums in September as the country fears another wave of COVID-19 infections. Also read: Porto secure 29th Portuguese league title Spain's department of sports had planned to let fans with reduced capacity back for La Liga's new season which is set to begin in September, however, a spike in cases has led to imposing local lockdowns in some areas in Spain.

Spanish health minister expressed doubts on fans returning to stadiums in September as the country fears another wave of COVID-19 infections. Also read: Porto secure 29th Portuguese league title Spain's department of sports had planned to let fans with reduced capacity back for La Liga's new season which is set to begin in September, however, a spike in cases has led to imposing local lockdowns in some areas in Spain. "To be honest, I don't see it, given the reality we are in," health minister Santiago Illa told radio station Cadena Ser on Thursday. "We have seen some clusters of infections and although we have fortunately been able to control them, I still don't see (fans returning). "We're going to take our time and provide information so the sports department can make the decision when necessary. We have to step carefully with the virus, and concentrating large numbers of people at this time is not advisable at all." Large-scale celebrations in Vitoria to mark Baskonia winning the basketball championship have been criticised by Illa. "I understand what it means to win a title or win promotion but the situation we have in Spain is of a controlled epidemic but with a virus that is still circulating," he added. "In the last few days we've seen images that put people's health at risk. We are advising people to celebrate sporting triumphs at home and in no circumstances to go out to the streets and concentrate in large numbers."

Fans unlikely to return for La Liga in September due to given circumstances: Spain's health minister

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title.

Early goals from Ferland Mendy and Karim Benzema were enough to restore a four-point lead over Barcelona and Real will clinch their first league title since 2017 with a win over Villarreal on Thursday or at Leganes on the final day of the season.

“It’s true that we’re one step closer but we have to keep going, there are still more points to play for and we’re going to try and win every game left as that was always our objective,” said captain Sergio Ramos.

“I really hope we can celebrate winning this league title, our results speak for themselves.”

Zinedine Zidane’s Real side got off to a flying start when French defender Mendy skipped into the box practically unopposed and rifled the ball into the net from the tightest of angles in the 10th minute, scoring his first goal for the club.

Real’s top scorer Benzema doubled the advantage with a cool finish six minutes later to net his 19th goal of the season but 10th placed Granada, who still had slim hopes of European qualification, refused to lie down.

Real’s in-form goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made the first of two fine saves by tipping away a shot from defender Domingos Duarte before the break and Venezuelan forward Darwin Machis pulled one back early in the second half.

It was the first goal Real had conceded in six matches but Granada threatened to equalise as Machis missed the target on the volley while Courtois showed superb reflexes to deny forward Antonin late on.

Ramos was then the hero as he cleared a Ramon Azeez shot off the line seconds later and the leaders had to withstand a goalmouth scramble in added time.

Zidane celebrated wildly when the full-time whistle came and praised his side for coping with Granada’s late onslaught.

“I let out a shout because I was happy and because in football you have to suffer,” said the Frenchman, who is closing in on his second La Liga title in under four years as Real coach along with three Champions League crowns.

“I shouted out loud because the three points were very important and I wanted to tell my players that they had played a superb game. To win this league you have to suffer a little bit and we dug in as a team. You have to be proud of this team.”

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title.

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title. Early goals from Ferland Mendy and Karim Benzema were enough to restore a four-point lead over Barcelona and Real will clinch their first league title since 2017 with a win over Villarreal on Thursday or at Leganes on the final day of the season. “It’s true that we’re one step closer but we have to keep going, there are still more points to play for and we’re going to try and win every game left as that was always our objective,” said captain Sergio Ramos. “I really hope we can celebrate winning this league title, our results speak for themselves.” Zinedine Zidane’s Real side got off to a flying start when French defender Mendy skipped into the box practically unopposed and rifled the ball into the net from the tightest of angles in the 10th minute, scoring his first goal for the club. Real’s top scorer Benzema doubled the advantage with a cool finish six minutes later to net his 19th goal of the season but 10th placed Granada, who still had slim hopes of European qualification, refused to lie down. Real’s in-form goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made the first of two fine saves by tipping away a shot from defender Domingos Duarte before the break and Venezuelan forward Darwin Machis pulled one back early in the second half. It was the first goal Real had conceded in six matches but Granada threatened to equalise as Machis missed the target on the volley while Courtois showed superb reflexes to deny forward Antonin late on. Ramos was then the hero as he cleared a Ramon Azeez shot off the line seconds later and the leaders had to withstand a goalmouth scramble in added time. Zidane celebrated wildly when the full-time whistle came and praised his side for coping with Granada’s late onslaught. “I let out a shout because I was happy and because in football you have to suffer,” said the Frenchman, who is closing in on his second La Liga title in under four years as Real coach along with three Champions League crowns. “I shouted out loud because the three points were very important and I wanted to tell my players that they had played a superb game. To win this league you have to suffer a little bit and we dug in as a team. You have to be proud of this team.”

Real Madrid dig deep to beat Granada and move closer to title

Lionel Messi has added another feather to his cap after becoming the first player in the Spanish League to score 20 assists and goals in the same season. He achieved this feat after assisting Arturo Vidal during the match against Real Valladolid.&nbsp;

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He is the first player to score 20 assists in a season since Xavi who did it during 2008-09 season. But no player has scored 20 goals alongside in the Spanish top-flight until now.

Messi is the second player to achieve this feat in Europe's top five leagues. Theirry Henry was the first to do it during 2002-03 Premier League season and had scored 24 goals and contributed 20 assists for Arsenal.&nbsp;

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Messi tops the goal-scoring list in La Liga with 22 goals, second to him is Real Madrid's Karim Benzema, who has 18 goals in the tally.&nbsp;

Earlier, some reports suggest that Lionel Messi is set to leave his childhood club after he called off contract renewal talks Barcelona. The Catalonia giant could bid farewell to their all-time top scorer at the end of next season if Messi does not renew his contract.

According to Cadena SER, Lionel Messi is frustrated with the team's performance and furious with the top management of the club. The reports suggest that he will not be continuing after 2021.&nbsp;

Sports news website ESPN has said that "sources have confirmed" Messi was angry at the reports that were leaked to media saying that he was responsible for club's problems.

Lionel Messi has added another feather to his cap after becoming the first player in the Spanish League to score 20 assists and goals in the same season. He achieved this feat after assisting Arturo Vidal during the match against Real Valladolid.

Lionel Messi has added another feather to his cap after becoming the first player in the Spanish League to score 20 assists and goals in the same season. He achieved this feat after assisting Arturo Vidal during the match against Real Valladolid. Also read: Premier League: Liverpool held at Anfield by Burnley, Norwich relegated He is the first player to score 20 assists in a season since Xavi who did it during 2008-09 season. But no player has scored 20 goals alongside in the Spanish top-flight until now. Messi is the second player to achieve this feat in Europe's top five leagues. Theirry Henry was the first to do it during 2002-03 Premier League season and had scored 24 goals and contributed 20 assists for Arsenal. Also read: Mourinho eyes third Europa League title with Tottenham Hotspurs Messi tops the goal-scoring list in La Liga with 22 goals, second to him is Real Madrid's Karim Benzema, who has 18 goals in the tally. Earlier, some reports suggest that Lionel Messi is set to leave his childhood club after he called off contract renewal talks Barcelona. The Catalonia giant could bid farewell to their all-time top scorer at the end of next season if Messi does not renew his contract. According to Cadena SER, Lionel Messi is frustrated with the team's performance and furious with the top management of the club. The reports suggest that he will not be continuing after 2021. Sports news website ESPN has said that "sources have confirmed" Messi was angry at the reports that were leaked to media saying that he was responsible for club's problems.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi becomes first player in La Liga to score 20 assists and 20 goals

Real Madrid took another step towards their first La Liga title in three years by beating free-falling Alaves 2-0 at home on Friday, overcoming a number of high-profile absences to secure their eighth consecutive victory.

Real were missing three of their first-choice defenders as captain Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal were suspended and Marcelo was injured but they again showed their defensive solidity and recorded a fifth consecutive clean sheet.

Zinedine Zidane’s side got off to a comfortable start as Karim Benzema converted from the spot in the 11th minute after Ferland Mendy was judged to have been fouled by Ximo Navarro just as he entered the area.

It was the third game in a row in which Real had broken the deadlock thanks to a penalty and they sealed the win when Benzema turned provider and allowed Marco Asensio to tap into an empty net early in the second half.

Real moved on to 80 points, restoring their four-point lead over second-placed Barcelona with three games remaining.

Alaves meanwhile fell to a sixth consecutive defeat which left them in 17th place, hovering three points and one position above the relegation zone.

It was their first match under new coach Juan Ramon Lopez Muniz after Asier Garitano was dismissed and they made a bold start as former Real forward Joselu headed against the crossbar in the opening minute and Raphael Varane was forced to clear a shot on the rebound from Lucas Perez off the line.

The struggling visitors still managed to cause plenty of problems for Real’s makeshift defence after going behind, with Scottish winger Oliver Burke forcing Thibaut Courtois into a good save and later teeing up Joselu, whose shot ballooned over the bar.

Real’s second goal was initially ruled offside but awarded following a VAR review.

VAR also worked in their favour for the penalty, following a week in which Barca’s president and coach raged against how the technology has been used recently.

“The noise about VAR does not bother us, we can only control the attitude we continue to show on the pitch,” said Real defender Varane.

“We are focused on our objective and we have three finals left. It was vital to win and it was important to keep another clean sheet and that gives us a lot of confidence.”

Real Madrid took another step towards their first La Liga title in three years by beating free-falling Alaves 2-0 at home on Friday, overcoming a number of high-profile absences to secure their eighth consecutive victory.

Real Madrid took another step towards their first La Liga title in three years by beating free-falling Alaves 2-0 at home on Friday, overcoming a number of high-profile absences to secure their eighth consecutive victory. Real were missing three of their first-choice defenders as captain Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal were suspended and Marcelo was injured but they again showed their defensive solidity and recorded a fifth consecutive clean sheet. Zinedine Zidane’s side got off to a comfortable start as Karim Benzema converted from the spot in the 11th minute after Ferland Mendy was judged to have been fouled by Ximo Navarro just as he entered the area. It was the third game in a row in which Real had broken the deadlock thanks to a penalty and they sealed the win when Benzema turned provider and allowed Marco Asensio to tap into an empty net early in the second half. Real moved on to 80 points, restoring their four-point lead over second-placed Barcelona with three games remaining. Alaves meanwhile fell to a sixth consecutive defeat which left them in 17th place, hovering three points and one position above the relegation zone. It was their first match under new coach Juan Ramon Lopez Muniz after Asier Garitano was dismissed and they made a bold start as former Real forward Joselu headed against the crossbar in the opening minute and Raphael Varane was forced to clear a shot on the rebound from Lucas Perez off the line. The struggling visitors still managed to cause plenty of problems for Real’s makeshift defence after going behind, with Scottish winger Oliver Burke forcing Thibaut Courtois into a good save and later teeing up Joselu, whose shot ballooned over the bar. Real’s second goal was initially ruled offside but awarded following a VAR review. VAR also worked in their favour for the penalty, following a week in which Barca’s president and coach raged against how the technology has been used recently. “The noise about VAR does not bother us, we can only control the attitude we continue to show on the pitch,” said Real defender Varane. “We are focused on our objective and we have three finals left. It was vital to win and it was important to keep another clean sheet and that gives us a lot of confidence.”

Relentless Real can almost touch title after eighth win in a row

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.&nbsp;

A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck.&nbsp;

Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound.&nbsp;

This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday.&nbsp;

Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play.

"Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort.&nbsp;

Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances.

With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites.&nbsp;

"We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do."&nbsp;

Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation.&nbsp;

The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Ask forgiveness' -</h2>

Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild.&nbsp;

"We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez.&nbsp;

"We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger."&nbsp;

Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack.&nbsp;

Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen.&nbsp;

Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post.&nbsp;

Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review.&nbsp;

But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10.&nbsp;

With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later.&nbsp;

A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in.&nbsp;

Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away.&nbsp;

Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points.

Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.&nbsp;

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga. A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck. Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound. This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday. Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play. "Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort. Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances. With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites. "We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do." Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation. The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016. - 'Ask forgiveness' - Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild. "We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez. "We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger." Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack. Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post. Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review. But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10. With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later. A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in. Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away. Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points. Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

Barcelona stay in touch with Real Madrid and send down rivals Espanyol

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. will have a COVID-19 test again after an error in the first test, however, the Brazilian teenager has not tested positive for coronavirus, his manager Zinedine Zidane said on Thursday.

The Brazilian forward, Vinicius, did not train with the Real Madrid squad on Thursday as a precaution ahead of Los Blancos’ La Liga match against Alaves.&nbsp;

“He has not tested positive, but it went wrong,” Zidane told reporters in a virtual news conference.

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“There was an error. There were errors on other occasions as well and that is why we followed the protocol and he did not train, for safety.

“But it has not been positive. This afternoon we will do another test. If everything goes well he will return with the group to train and play.”

<h2>Luka Jovic unavailable for Alaves match: Zidane</h2>

Real Madrid, who will be without Luka Jovic, as the Serbian striker was forced to self-isolate at home as a precaution after coming in contact with a friend who tested positive for COVID-19.

Zidane confirmed the 22-year-old, who has had a torrid debut season for Madrid was not available for the game.

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“Since we do not want to risk it, he is not with us. I hope this changes quickly and that he comes back soon,” Zidane added.

“These are things that happen. It’s true that he’s not very happy, especially with the injury. But he’s a very good footballer, a striker who scores goals but has not played much.

“We will count on him and for next year too.”

Real Madrid are atop the La Liga table with 77 points, one ahead of Barcelona with a game in hand and would be looking to continue their winning run when they take on Alaves.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. will have a COVID-19 test again after an error in the first test, however, the Brazilian teenager has not tested positive for coronavirus, his manager Zinedine Zidane said on Thursday.

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. will have a COVID-19 test again after an error in the first test, however, the Brazilian teenager has not tested positive for coronavirus, his manager Zinedine Zidane said on Thursday. The Brazilian forward, Vinicius, did not train with the Real Madrid squad on Thursday as a precaution ahead of Los Blancos’ La Liga match against Alaves. “He has not tested positive, but it went wrong,” Zidane told reporters in a virtual news conference. ALSO READ: Manuel Pellegrini named new Real Betis manager on three-year deal “There was an error. There were errors on other occasions as well and that is why we followed the protocol and he did not train, for safety. “But it has not been positive. This afternoon we will do another test. If everything goes well he will return with the group to train and play.” Luka Jovic unavailable for Alaves match: Zidane Real Madrid, who will be without Luka Jovic, as the Serbian striker was forced to self-isolate at home as a precaution after coming in contact with a friend who tested positive for COVID-19. Zidane confirmed the 22-year-old, who has had a torrid debut season for Madrid was not available for the game. ALSO READ: FIFA wants uniform global use of VAR, says refs chief Collina “Since we do not want to risk it, he is not with us. I hope this changes quickly and that he comes back soon,” Zidane added. “These are things that happen. It’s true that he’s not very happy, especially with the injury. But he’s a very good footballer, a striker who scores goals but has not played much. “We will count on him and for next year too.” Real Madrid are atop the La Liga table with 77 points, one ahead of Barcelona with a game in hand and would be looking to continue their winning run when they take on Alaves.

Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr to retake COVID-19 test after error: Zinedine Zidane

Real Betis have appointed former Real Madrid and Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini as their manager from next season on a three-year contract, the La Liga side said on Thursday.

Pellegrini, who won the Premier League with City in 2013-14 as well as two League Cups, returns to Spain where he had successful spells with Villarreal and Malaga.

The Chilean, 66, led Villarreal to the 2006 Champions League semi-finals and led Malaga into Europe’s premier club competition for the first time in 2012, leading them to the quarter-finals a year later.

"Real Betis has signed Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini to take up the reins of the first team next season. The contract between Pellegrini and the club is until June 2023," the club said in a statement.

Pellegrini replaces coach Rubi who was sacked last month after Betis failed to win any of the first three matches in their return to action. Sporting director Alexis Trujillo was placed in interim charge until the end of the season.

Pellegrini’s last job was with Premier League side West Ham United, who sacked him in December after a string of poor results.

One of Spain’s best-supported clubs with more than 50,000 season ticket holders, Betis are currently 13th in the league with 41 points, 12 points above the relegation zone.

Real Betis have appointed former Real Madrid and Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini as their manager from next season on a three-year contract, the La Liga side said on Thursday.

Real Betis have appointed former Real Madrid and Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini as their manager from next season on a three-year contract, the La Liga side said on Thursday. Pellegrini, who won the Premier League with City in 2013-14 as well as two League Cups, returns to Spain where he had successful spells with Villarreal and Malaga. The Chilean, 66, led Villarreal to the 2006 Champions League semi-finals and led Malaga into Europe’s premier club competition for the first time in 2012, leading them to the quarter-finals a year later. "Real Betis has signed Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini to take up the reins of the first team next season. The contract between Pellegrini and the club is until June 2023," the club said in a statement. Pellegrini replaces coach Rubi who was sacked last month after Betis failed to win any of the first three matches in their return to action. Sporting director Alexis Trujillo was placed in interim charge until the end of the season. Pellegrini’s last job was with Premier League side West Ham United, who sacked him in December after a string of poor results. One of Spain’s best-supported clubs with more than 50,000 season ticket holders, Betis are currently 13th in the league with 41 points, 12 points above the relegation zone.

Manuel Pellegrini named new Real Betis manager on three-year deal

Antoine Griezmann answered his critics in style on Sunday by scoring with a sensational chip as Barcelona thrashed Villarreal 4-1 to keep their faint La Liga title hopes alive.&nbsp;

After the humiliation of being brought on in the 90th minute against his former club Atletico Madrid, Griezmann was back in the starting line-up at La Ceramica and repaid the faith with a stunning goal, teed up by Lionel Messi.&nbsp;

"It was the kind of goal only great players can score," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien. "He played a spectacular match."

Messi also laid on a curling Luis Suarez shot into the top corner after Gerard Moreno cancelled out a Pau Torres own-goal that had put Barca in front. Ansu Fati then added a fourth late on.&nbsp;

An impressive victory for Setien's side reduces the gap back to four points behind Real Madrid, who earlier ground out another 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at San Mames, with a Sergio Ramos penalty proving the difference.

Madrid's resilient performance, and their third 1-0 victory in a row, offered a stark contrast to a goal-fest from Barcelona that was certainly easier on the eye but instructive on the title race too.&nbsp;

An end-to-end contest, full of chances for both sides, showed Messi, Suarez and Griezmann at their free-flowing best yet the defence was opened up with ease by Villarreal, who might have scored more.&nbsp;

Madrid's discipline and organisation has made them firm favourites with four games remaining.&nbsp;

"We needed this match a while ago," admitted Setien. "We have to keep adding points and we'll see what happens."

Griezmann had experienced his lowest moment since joining Barcelona on Tuesday in the draw against Atletico but this was the perfect response.&nbsp;

He celebrated his goal by sharing a warm embrace with Messi.&nbsp;

Villarreal looked a difficult opponent after winning five games out of six since the restart, a run that has put them in in touching distance of the top four.&nbsp;

This defeat leaves them three points behind Sevilla, who play Eibar on Monday.&nbsp;

The first half was perhaps the most entertaining in La Liga since the restart, with four goals and chances for two or three more.&nbsp;

Barca were ahead within three minutes, Torres diverting Jordi Alba's cross into his own net under pressure from Griezmann at the near post.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>- Ramos on the spot -</h2>

But Villarreal were level 11 minutes later as a superb pass from Samuel Chukwueze sent Paco Alcacer scampering in down the right and he did brilliantly to switch to Santi Cazorla on the opposite side.&nbsp;

Cazorla's drive was parried but only to Moreno, who finished.&nbsp;

Messi laid on two sumptuous assists before half-time but the finishes were even better.&nbsp;

After chesting the ball down in the centre circle, Messi touched and turned, leaving his marker for dead.&nbsp;

He drove through two Villarreal defenders before pushing the ball left to Suarez, who arrived from the angle on the edge of the box and curled first time into the far corner.&nbsp;

If that was power, Griezmann's was finesse, Messi and Suarez combining before Messi dragged back to the Frenchman, who caressed a delightful chip over Sergio Asenjo and in.&nbsp;

Messi thought he had his goal in the second half but Arturo Vidal was offside.&nbsp;

Suarez was taken off, presumably rested, and Fati added a fourth off the bench. The teenager cut in from the left and pulled his shot back inside the near post.&nbsp;

After edging out Getafe on Thursday, through a Ramos spot-kick, Madrid repeated the trick at San Mames, their captain's nerve from the spot combining with a gutsy display for a pivotal win.&nbsp;

Ramos was perhaps fortunate not to concede a penalty himself late on when, off the ball, he seemed to slip and tread on the foot of Raul Garcia, but Madrid escaped.&nbsp;

Instead, the defender's 10th goal of the season, the best tally of his career, proved decisive.

"It's a massive win," said Ramos. "We knew today was going to be one of the biggest games that we have left.&nbsp;

"It's always a difficult game away at Bilbao and we saw it like that. We're happy with another crucial three points that put more pressure on Barcelona."&nbsp;

Antoine Griezmann answered his critics in style on Sunday by scoring with a sensational chip as Barcelona thrashed Villarreal 4-1 to keep their faint La Liga title hopes alive.

Antoine Griezmann answered his critics in style on Sunday by scoring with a sensational chip as Barcelona thrashed Villarreal 4-1 to keep their faint La Liga title hopes alive. After the humiliation of being brought on in the 90th minute against his former club Atletico Madrid, Griezmann was back in the starting line-up at La Ceramica and repaid the faith with a stunning goal, teed up by Lionel Messi. "It was the kind of goal only great players can score," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien. "He played a spectacular match." Messi also laid on a curling Luis Suarez shot into the top corner after Gerard Moreno cancelled out a Pau Torres own-goal that had put Barca in front. Ansu Fati then added a fourth late on. An impressive victory for Setien's side reduces the gap back to four points behind Real Madrid, who earlier ground out another 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at San Mames, with a Sergio Ramos penalty proving the difference. Madrid's resilient performance, and their third 1-0 victory in a row, offered a stark contrast to a goal-fest from Barcelona that was certainly easier on the eye but instructive on the title race too. An end-to-end contest, full of chances for both sides, showed Messi, Suarez and Griezmann at their free-flowing best yet the defence was opened up with ease by Villarreal, who might have scored more. Madrid's discipline and organisation has made them firm favourites with four games remaining. "We needed this match a while ago," admitted Setien. "We have to keep adding points and we'll see what happens." Griezmann had experienced his lowest moment since joining Barcelona on Tuesday in the draw against Atletico but this was the perfect response. He celebrated his goal by sharing a warm embrace with Messi. Villarreal looked a difficult opponent after winning five games out of six since the restart, a run that has put them in in touching distance of the top four. This defeat leaves them three points behind Sevilla, who play Eibar on Monday. The first half was perhaps the most entertaining in La Liga since the restart, with four goals and chances for two or three more. Barca were ahead within three minutes, Torres diverting Jordi Alba's cross into his own net under pressure from Griezmann at the near post. - Ramos on the spot - But Villarreal were level 11 minutes later as a superb pass from Samuel Chukwueze sent Paco Alcacer scampering in down the right and he did brilliantly to switch to Santi Cazorla on the opposite side. Cazorla's drive was parried but only to Moreno, who finished. Messi laid on two sumptuous assists before half-time but the finishes were even better. After chesting the ball down in the centre circle, Messi touched and turned, leaving his marker for dead. He drove through two Villarreal defenders before pushing the ball left to Suarez, who arrived from the angle on the edge of the box and curled first time into the far corner. If that was power, Griezmann's was finesse, Messi and Suarez combining before Messi dragged back to the Frenchman, who caressed a delightful chip over Sergio Asenjo and in. Messi thought he had his goal in the second half but Arturo Vidal was offside. Suarez was taken off, presumably rested, and Fati added a fourth off the bench. The teenager cut in from the left and pulled his shot back inside the near post. After edging out Getafe on Thursday, through a Ramos spot-kick, Madrid repeated the trick at San Mames, their captain's nerve from the spot combining with a gutsy display for a pivotal win. Ramos was perhaps fortunate not to concede a penalty himself late on when, off the ball, he seemed to slip and tread on the foot of Raul Garcia, but Madrid escaped. Instead, the defender's 10th goal of the season, the best tally of his career, proved decisive. "It's a massive win," said Ramos. "We knew today was going to be one of the biggest games that we have left. "It's always a difficult game away at Bilbao and we saw it like that. We're happy with another crucial three points that put more pressure on Barcelona."

Griezmann stars against Villarreal as Barca keep title hopes alive

Some reports suggest that Lionel Messi is set to leave his childhood club after he called off contract renewal talks Barcelona. The Catalonia giant could bid farewell to their all-time top scorer at the end of next season if Messi does not renew his contract.

Also read:<a href="wionews.com/sports/quique-setiens-job-in-danger-as-barcelona-continue-to-disappoint-309460">&nbsp;</a><a href="wionews.com/sports/quique-setiens-job-in-danger-as-barcelona-continue-to-disappoint-309460">Quique Setien's job in danger as Barcelona continue to disappoint</a>

&nbsp;According to Cadena SER, Lionel Messi is frustrated with the team's performance and furious with the top management of the club. The reports suggest that he will not be continuing after 2021.&nbsp;

Sports news website ESPN has said that "sources have confirmed" Messi was angry at the reports that were leaked to media saying that he was responsible for club's problems.&nbsp;

Earlier, Messi and Abidal were involved in a spat after sporting director's comments where he criticized Barca's first team's efforts on-field and Barca's sacked manager, Ernesto Valverde. Abidal also targetted club legend Xavi for his comments about the offered managerial position.&nbsp;

Messi might eye a big transfer move to Premier League giants Manchester City. Other teams are also keeping a close eye on the controversy. Signing him is impossible as his release clause is 700 million euros and hats the reason teams are waiting for the club legend's clause to expire.&nbsp;

Some reports suggest that Lionel Messi is set to leave his childhood club after he called off contract renewal talks Barcelona. The Catalonia giant could bid farewell to their all-time top scorer at the end of next season if Messi does not renew his contract.

Some reports suggest that Lionel Messi is set to leave his childhood club after he called off contract renewal talks Barcelona. The Catalonia giant could bid farewell to their all-time top scorer at the end of next season if Messi does not renew his contract. Also read: Quique Setien's job in danger as Barcelona continue to disappoint According to Cadena SER, Lionel Messi is frustrated with the team's performance and furious with the top management of the club. The reports suggest that he will not be continuing after 2021. Sports news website ESPN has said that "sources have confirmed" Messi was angry at the reports that were leaked to media saying that he was responsible for club's problems. Earlier, Messi and Abidal were involved in a spat after sporting director's comments where he criticized Barca's first team's efforts on-field and Barca's sacked manager, Ernesto Valverde. Abidal also targetted club legend Xavi for his comments about the offered managerial position. Messi might eye a big transfer move to Premier League giants Manchester City. Other teams are also keeping a close eye on the controversy. Signing him is impossible as his release clause is 700 million euros and hats the reason teams are waiting for the club legend's clause to expire.

Lionel Messi set to leave Barcelona in 2021: Reports

Spain's secretary of sports Irene Lozano and La Liga chief Javier Tebas have jointly said that the league matches will be held without fans until the end of the season to avoid the risk of coronavirus infection.&nbsp;

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Last month, Tebas said that the league could host fans once the threat of virus is minimized, while the league drew up a draft protocol if the government's department for sport approved their return.

However, the Spanish secretary of sports has constantly said that the season should end without any fans as it could risk in a surge of virus spread.&nbsp;

"The safest thing to do is to complete the season without spectators," she said.

"Football moves masses of people, it's not like the theatre. A match behind-closed-doors is attended by only 250 people, but a stadium only at one-third of its capacity could mean 30,000 people. That's why it's different to other activities."

All top leagues in Europe have resumed their seasons without fans except &nbsp;Serbia, Bulgaria and Denmark, who have allowed their fans to attend football matches amid coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Tebas said that the league has not prioritised spectators during the match and will prevent them from coming inside or gathering outside the stadium.&nbsp;

Right now La Liga is not prioritising the return of supporters to stadiums," he said.

"The big problem is the crowds inside and outside the stadium. We had problems with the Asturian derby as there were more than 2,000 people outside. We can't afford to kid ourselves because if we aren't careful there could be a second wave."

(Inputs from Reuters)

Spain's secretary of sports Irene Lozano and La Liga chief Javier Tebas have jointly said that the league matches will be held without fans until the end of the season to avoid the risk of coronavirus infection.

Spain's secretary of sports Irene Lozano and La Liga chief Javier Tebas have jointly said that the league matches will be held without fans until the end of the season to avoid the risk of coronavirus infection. Also read: Wimbledon thanks London's NHS and front-line workers for their efforts! Last month, Tebas said that the league could host fans once the threat of virus is minimized, while the league drew up a draft protocol if the government's department for sport approved their return. However, the Spanish secretary of sports has constantly said that the season should end without any fans as it could risk in a surge of virus spread. "The safest thing to do is to complete the season without spectators," she said. "Football moves masses of people, it's not like the theatre. A match behind-closed-doors is attended by only 250 people, but a stadium only at one-third of its capacity could mean 30,000 people. That's why it's different to other activities." All top leagues in Europe have resumed their seasons without fans except Serbia, Bulgaria and Denmark, who have allowed their fans to attend football matches amid coronavirus pandemic. Tebas said that the league has not prioritised spectators during the match and will prevent them from coming inside or gathering outside the stadium. Right now La Liga is not prioritising the return of supporters to stadiums," he said. "The big problem is the crowds inside and outside the stadium. We had problems with the Asturian derby as there were more than 2,000 people outside. We can't afford to kid ourselves because if we aren't careful there could be a second wave." (Inputs from Reuters)

La Liga rules out possibility of fans returning to stadiums until end of season

Real Madrid coach Zinedine&nbsp;Zidane&nbsp;said his side will not rest until they are declared champions after title rivals Barcelona handed them the opportunity to go four points clear at the top of La Liga if they beat Getafe on Thursday.

Real will be targeting a sixth consecutive victory since the COVID-19 hiatus when they host Getafe, looking to capitalise on Barca's 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, which was the Catalans' third draw in six matches.

"The reality is we have 18 points left to fight for and you cannot say anything until you are champions mathematically,"&nbsp;Zidane&nbsp;told a virtual news conference on Wednesday.

"I have been in this situation as a player before and I know we still haven't won anything. The players and I are not about to forget that."

Real have a full squad for the Getafe game although there is concern about the recent performances of Eden Hazard, who has received rough treatment from opponents since returning from a serious ankle injury he sustained in February.

Zidane&nbsp;said he hoped players were not trying to target the Belgian.

"We know how good he is and so do our rivals. But I hope they are not trying to cause him damage. Our opponents play tough, but we have to be relaxed about that," he said.

"Eden has struggled because he has been away from the pitch for a long time and we have to be patient with him, but he'll be back to top form in no time at all."

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said his side will not rest until they are declared champions after title rivals Barcelona handed them the opportunity to go four points clear at the top of La Liga if they beat Getafe on Thursday.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said his side will not rest until they are declared champions after title rivals Barcelona handed them the opportunity to go four points clear at the top of La Liga if they beat Getafe on Thursday. Real will be targeting a sixth consecutive victory since the COVID-19 hiatus when they host Getafe, looking to capitalise on Barca's 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, which was the Catalans' third draw in six matches. "The reality is we have 18 points left to fight for and you cannot say anything until you are champions mathematically," Zidane told a virtual news conference on Wednesday. "I have been in this situation as a player before and I know we still haven't won anything. The players and I are not about to forget that." Real have a full squad for the Getafe game although there is concern about the recent performances of Eden Hazard, who has received rough treatment from opponents since returning from a serious ankle injury he sustained in February. Zidane said he hoped players were not trying to target the Belgian. "We know how good he is and so do our rivals. But I hope they are not trying to cause him damage. Our opponents play tough, but we have to be relaxed about that," he said. "Eden has struggled because he has been away from the pitch for a long time and we have to be patient with him, but he'll be back to top form in no time at all."

Real Madrid not about to get complacent after Barcelona slip-ups: Zinedine Zidane

Lionel Messi scored his 700th career goal but Barcelona suffered another blow to their La Liga title hopes after a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

Messi chipped in a penalty to reach another astonishing milestone at Camp Nou but twice Atletico hit back with spot-kicks of their own, Saul Niguez converting both after Barca took an early lead through Diego Costa's own goal.

The result gives Real Madrid the chance to move four points clear at the top of the table if they can overcome Getafe at home on Wednesday, a formidable lead with five games left.

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Atletico stay third, two points ahead of Sevilla, who won 3-0 at Leganes.

With a superior head-to-head, it would take a dramatic capitulation for Real Madrid not to lift the trophy from here but there is no guarantee Barcelona can finish strongly enough even to create pressure.

This was their third draw in four matches and with suggestions of disharmony between the players and coaching staff, the future of coach Quique Setien looks bleak too.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/quique-setiens-job-in-danger-as-barcelona-continue-to-disappoint-309460">Quique Setien's job in danger as Barcelona continue to disappoint</a>

"From the dressing room I feel supported, yes," he said. "And regarding the meeting with the board, I will not say what was said in that."

Setien was also asked about his job on Monday and had to play down the significance of a frank exchange of views in the dressing room following Saturday's draw at Celta Vigo.

Messi had also caused a stir by appearing to ignore Setien's assistant Eder Sarabia during a water break at Vigo and on Tuesday it was impossible to ignore the contrast with Atletico's players, who huddled around Diego Simeone while 50 metres away Setien stood alone.

At full-time, Setien stared into space with the look of a coach that is running out of time but he&nbsp;had taken bold decisions, leaving 120-million-euro signing Antoine Griezmann on the bench and handing another start to 20-year-old Riqui Puig.

"It's true that taking him out of the team like that is hard for a player of his level but the circumstances forced me to do it," said Setien of Griezmann. "Tomorrow I will speak to him, not to apologise, but it is a decision he has to understand."

Yet it started well for them as Costa endured a nightmare first quarter of an hour, first diverting Messi's corner into his own net after misjudging the flight of the ball at the near post.

Then he missed a penalty, won after the excellent Yannick Carrasco left Gerard Pique for dead and then cut back inside Arturo Vidal, who stuck out a leg.

Costa's shot was saved but VAR showed Marc-Andre ter Stegen had sprung off his line too early and Atletico were given a second chance. This time Saul took the ball and he scored the equaliser.

Messi dinked over the sliding Renan Lodi and then whistled a curling effort past the far post. His deflected free-kick forced Jan Oblak to adjust his feet and palm over.

Finally, it was laid on a plate for him shortly after half-time. Felipe clipped Nelson Semedo and Messi, with the 700th in sight, chipped the ball delicately down the middle.

But every time Barca pulled away, Atletico pegged them back. Another penalty was awarded, again instigated by the speedy Carrasco, who made the most of the slightest touch from Semedo.

Saul took responsibility again and while Ter Stegen got a hand to it, the ball squirmed into the corner.

Vidal twice went close, the second time heading wide Jordi Alba's cross, and Thomas Lemar might even have won it for Atletico in injury-time. For Barca, the draw was damaging enough.

Earlier, Sevilla's Oliver Torres scored twice and Munir El Haddadi added a third to see off Leganes and boost their hopes of holding onto fourth place.

Sevilla sit five points ahead of Getafe, having played a game more. Leganes stay 19th, nine points adrift of safety.

Lionel Messi scored his 700th career goal but Barcelona suffered another blow to their La Liga title hopes after a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Messi chipped in a penalty to reach another astonishing milestone at Camp Nou but twice Atletico hit back with spot-kicks of their own, Saul Niguez converting both after Barca took an early lead through Diego Costa's own goal.

Lionel Messi scored his 700th career goal but Barcelona suffered another blow to their La Liga title hopes after a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Messi chipped in a penalty to reach another astonishing milestone at Camp Nou but twice Atletico hit back with spot-kicks of their own, Saul Niguez converting both after Barca took an early lead through Diego Costa's own goal. The result gives Real Madrid the chance to move four points clear at the top of the table if they can overcome Getafe at home on Wednesday, a formidable lead with five games left. Also read: Real Madrid's Achraf Hakimi joins Inter Milan on a 50 million euro deal Atletico stay third, two points ahead of Sevilla, who won 3-0 at Leganes. With a superior head-to-head, it would take a dramatic capitulation for Real Madrid not to lift the trophy from here but there is no guarantee Barcelona can finish strongly enough even to create pressure. This was their third draw in four matches and with suggestions of disharmony between the players and coaching staff, the future of coach Quique Setien looks bleak too. Also read: Quique Setien's job in danger as Barcelona continue to disappoint "From the dressing room I feel supported, yes," he said. "And regarding the meeting with the board, I will not say what was said in that." Setien was also asked about his job on Monday and had to play down the significance of a frank exchange of views in the dressing room following Saturday's draw at Celta Vigo. Messi had also caused a stir by appearing to ignore Setien's assistant Eder Sarabia during a water break at Vigo and on Tuesday it was impossible to ignore the contrast with Atletico's players, who huddled around Diego Simeone while 50 metres away Setien stood alone. At full-time, Setien stared into space with the look of a coach that is running out of time but he had taken bold decisions, leaving 120-million-euro signing Antoine Griezmann on the bench and handing another start to 20-year-old Riqui Puig. "It's true that taking him out of the team like that is hard for a player of his level but the circumstances forced me to do it," said Setien of Griezmann. "Tomorrow I will speak to him, not to apologise, but it is a decision he has to understand." Yet it started well for them as Costa endured a nightmare first quarter of an hour, first diverting Messi's corner into his own net after misjudging the flight of the ball at the near post. Then he missed a penalty, won after the excellent Yannick Carrasco left Gerard Pique for dead and then cut back inside Arturo Vidal, who stuck out a leg. Costa's shot was saved but VAR showed Marc-Andre ter Stegen had sprung off his line too early and Atletico were given a second chance. This time Saul took the ball and he scored the equaliser. Messi dinked over the sliding Renan Lodi and then whistled a curling effort past the far post. His deflected free-kick forced Jan Oblak to adjust his feet and palm over. Finally, it was laid on a plate for him shortly after half-time. Felipe clipped Nelson Semedo and Messi, with the 700th in sight, chipped the ball delicately down the middle. But every time Barca pulled away, Atletico pegged them back. Another penalty was awarded, again instigated by the speedy Carrasco, who made the most of the slightest touch from Semedo. Saul took responsibility again and while Ter Stegen got a hand to it, the ball squirmed into the corner. Vidal twice went close, the second time heading wide Jordi Alba's cross, and Thomas Lemar might even have won it for Atletico in injury-time. For Barca, the draw was damaging enough. Earlier, Sevilla's Oliver Torres scored twice and Munir El Haddadi added a third to see off Leganes and boost their hopes of holding onto fourth place. Sevilla sit five points ahead of Getafe, having played a game more. Leganes stay 19th, nine points adrift of safety.

Messi scores 700th goal but Atletico draw hurts Barca's title hopes

Valencia have sacked coach Albert Celades and appointed long-standing club servant Voro until the end of the season, the La Liga club said in a statement on Monday.

Sporting director Cesar Sanchez then announced his resignation shortly after Celades was dismissed, deepening the institutional crisis at one of Spain’s most prestigious clubs.

According to Spanish media reports, Sanchez decided to resign after telling the squad earlier on Monday that Celades would remain in charge for Wednesday’s game against Athletic Bilbao, only for him to be sacked hours later.

Celades is the sixth manager Valencia have sacked since the club was bought by Singaporean billionaire Peter Lim in 2014 while Sanchez, who was appointed in January, is the sixth sporting director to have left the role in the same period.

Valencia appointed Celades last September after taking the surprising decision to dispense with Marcelino, who had led the club to successive top-four finishes and ended an 11-year wait for a major trophy by guiding them to win the Copa del Rey.

Celades had never previously been a first team coach at club level, building his reputation as Spain’s under-21 coach and as an assistant to Julen Lopetegui with the Spain side and Real Madrid.

He made a difficult start in losing his first game in charge 5-2 to Barcelona but improved his reputation by taking the team into the last 16 of the Champions League.

But they were comprehensively beaten 8-4 on aggregate by Atalanta and pressure mounted on Celades as the team’s domestic form continued to decline.

Valencia have sacked coach Albert Celades and appointed long-standing club servant Voro until the end of the season, the La Liga club said in a statement on Monday.

Valencia have sacked coach Albert Celades and appointed long-standing club servant Voro until the end of the season, the La Liga club said in a statement on Monday. Sporting director Cesar Sanchez then announced his resignation shortly after Celades was dismissed, deepening the institutional crisis at one of Spain’s most prestigious clubs. According to Spanish media reports, Sanchez decided to resign after telling the squad earlier on Monday that Celades would remain in charge for Wednesday’s game against Athletic Bilbao, only for him to be sacked hours later. Celades is the sixth manager Valencia have sacked since the club was bought by Singaporean billionaire Peter Lim in 2014 while Sanchez, who was appointed in January, is the sixth sporting director to have left the role in the same period. Valencia appointed Celades last September after taking the surprising decision to dispense with Marcelino, who had led the club to successive top-four finishes and ended an 11-year wait for a major trophy by guiding them to win the Copa del Rey. Celades had never previously been a first team coach at club level, building his reputation as Spain’s under-21 coach and as an assistant to Julen Lopetegui with the Spain side and Real Madrid. He made a difficult start in losing his first game in charge 5-2 to Barcelona but improved his reputation by taking the team into the last 16 of the Champions League. But they were comprehensively beaten 8-4 on aggregate by Atalanta and pressure mounted on Celades as the team’s domestic form continued to decline.

Chaos reigns at Valencia as coach is sacked, sporting director quits

Real Mallorca's Luka Romero made history on Wednesday by becoming the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days.

After training with Mallorca's senior team for the first time on June 1, Romero, who plays as an attacking midfielder, came on as a substitute in the 83rd minute of his team's 2-0 loss at Real Madrid.

"It was an unforgettable moment," Romero wrote on Twitter after the game.&nbsp;

"Thank you to everyone on the technical staff and at Real Mallorca for giving me this opportunity. I will never forget this day. It was a shame to lose but we keep believing."

Romero beat the record held for 81 years by Francisco Bao Rodriguez, known as 'Sanson', who played on December 31, 1939 aged 15 and 255 days for Celta Vigo against Sevilla.

Mallorca coach Vicente Moreno was seen talking to Romero before he brought the youngster on as a substitute.&nbsp;

"I tried to just keep him calm," Moreno said.&nbsp;

"I put my hand on his heart and I could tell it was beating very fast, which is normal for a kid of his age. He deserved to play and that's the reason he came on.

"We don't look at age. He has been training well and this seemed the best way to increase his motivation. His a great player and I think in the future he will give us a lot."

Romero was born in Mexico and could also play for Spain but his family is Argentinian and he has already represented Argentina at under-15 level.&nbsp;

"My whole family is Argentinian and my dream is to wear the national team's colours," Romero told the Argentinian Football Association in 2018.

Romero also had trials with Barcelona but joined Mallorca in 2011.

He is left-footed and has been likened to Spanish midfielder David Silva by Mallorca's assistant coach Dani Pendin.

After coming through the club's youth teams, he was an unused substitute against&nbsp;Villarreal&nbsp;and Leganes&nbsp;before finally being given his chance against Madrid.

"He is left-footed, fast, clever, mischievous, competitive ... the prototype of the Argentinian number 10," Pendin said in an interview with Spanish sports daily As last week.

"We have seen him develop since he was 12-years-old, but we did not want to build him up too fast because you have to take care of him.

"We saw him playing, he was doing incredible things in his age category, but physically he had not quite finished his growth and that could bring him problems if he came up against first division players too early.

"Today, when we see his feet, his body, we see that he is starting to form. And the fact that his father was a footballer also helps him a lot."

Mallorca are fighting relegation in La Liga. They sit 18th, three points away from safety with seven games left to play.

Real Mallorca's Luka Romero made history on Wednesday by becoming the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days. After training with Mallorca's senior team for the first time on June 1, Romero, who plays as an attacking midfielder, came on as a substitute in the 83rd minute of his team's 2-0 loss at Real Madrid.

Real Mallorca's Luka Romero made history on Wednesday by becoming the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days. After training with Mallorca's senior team for the first time on June 1, Romero, who plays as an attacking midfielder, came on as a substitute in the 83rd minute of his team's 2-0 loss at Real Madrid. "It was an unforgettable moment," Romero wrote on Twitter after the game. "Thank you to everyone on the technical staff and at Real Mallorca for giving me this opportunity. I will never forget this day. It was a shame to lose but we keep believing." Romero beat the record held for 81 years by Francisco Bao Rodriguez, known as 'Sanson', who played on December 31, 1939 aged 15 and 255 days for Celta Vigo against Sevilla. Mallorca coach Vicente Moreno was seen talking to Romero before he brought the youngster on as a substitute. "I tried to just keep him calm," Moreno said. "I put my hand on his heart and I could tell it was beating very fast, which is normal for a kid of his age. He deserved to play and that's the reason he came on. "We don't look at age. He has been training well and this seemed the best way to increase his motivation. His a great player and I think in the future he will give us a lot." Romero was born in Mexico and could also play for Spain but his family is Argentinian and he has already represented Argentina at under-15 level. "My whole family is Argentinian and my dream is to wear the national team's colours," Romero told the Argentinian Football Association in 2018. Romero also had trials with Barcelona but joined Mallorca in 2011. He is left-footed and has been likened to Spanish midfielder David Silva by Mallorca's assistant coach Dani Pendin. After coming through the club's youth teams, he was an unused substitute against Villarreal and Leganes before finally being given his chance against Madrid. "He is left-footed, fast, clever, mischievous, competitive ... the prototype of the Argentinian number 10," Pendin said in an interview with Spanish sports daily As last week. "We have seen him develop since he was 12-years-old, but we did not want to build him up too fast because you have to take care of him. "We saw him playing, he was doing incredible things in his age category, but physically he had not quite finished his growth and that could bring him problems if he came up against first division players too early. "Today, when we see his feet, his body, we see that he is starting to form. And the fact that his father was a footballer also helps him a lot." Mallorca are fighting relegation in La Liga. They sit 18th, three points away from safety with seven games left to play.

Luka Romero, 15, becomes youngest ever Liga player

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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Ramos justified his move when he denied Gareth Bale from taking the free-kick, he smashed the curling ball into the top corner. Madrid's 19-year-old prodigy, Vinicius Junior opened the score for the team in the first half.&nbsp;

Real Madrid and Barcelona are levelled on points in the table but due to superior goal differences, the Bernabeu side is on top.&nbsp;

"There are seven finals left," said Ramos. "There will be only one league in the year of coronavirus and we want to win it for the fans."

Gareth Bale got his first start since February 16 as coach Zinedine Zidane continued his rotation policy. Despite a start, the Welshman had an underwhelming display on the pitch and is unlikely to be a constant in the playing XI.&nbsp;

Vinicius Junior displayed a good form on the pitch as the Brazilian also hit the crossbar in the first half.

Eden Hazard continues to struggle with his ankle injury and was taken off shortly after an hour.&nbsp;

There was also the time in the end for history to be made as Mallorca's Luka Romero became the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days.

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday.

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday. Also read: Sergio Aguero's knee surgery goes well, expected to return in August Ramos justified his move when he denied Gareth Bale from taking the free-kick, he smashed the curling ball into the top corner. Madrid's 19-year-old prodigy, Vinicius Junior opened the score for the team in the first half. Real Madrid and Barcelona are levelled on points in the table but due to superior goal differences, the Bernabeu side is on top. "There are seven finals left," said Ramos. "There will be only one league in the year of coronavirus and we want to win it for the fans." Gareth Bale got his first start since February 16 as coach Zinedine Zidane continued his rotation policy. Despite a start, the Welshman had an underwhelming display on the pitch and is unlikely to be a constant in the playing XI. Vinicius Junior displayed a good form on the pitch as the Brazilian also hit the crossbar in the first half. Eden Hazard continues to struggle with his ankle injury and was taken off shortly after an hour. There was also the time in the end for history to be made as Mallorca's Luka Romero became the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days.

Sergio Ramos' free kick helps Real Madrid top the La Liga table

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona.&nbsp;

Barcelona's win puts the pressure back to Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid. If they beat Real Mallorca on Wednesday, they return to the top of La Liga.&nbsp;

"We knew it was going to be complicated," Setien said. "Also because of the situation, there is some anxiety because there's less and less margin for error.

"Sometimes we didn't play with that composure and that showed in the first half when were more inaccurate than usual. We gave some belief and confidence to Athletic."

Dependence on Messi was high and his performance determined the course of the match. Rakitic is among the few players who are likely to leave the club during the summer transfer window.&nbsp;

"It's a difficult period but we have to stick together," said Rakitic. "It was an important goal, it was a tough game, it was hard for us to open the game up."

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao. Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona.

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao. Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona. Barcelona's win puts the pressure back to Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid. If they beat Real Mallorca on Wednesday, they return to the top of La Liga. "We knew it was going to be complicated," Setien said. "Also because of the situation, there is some anxiety because there's less and less margin for error. "Sometimes we didn't play with that composure and that showed in the first half when were more inaccurate than usual. We gave some belief and confidence to Athletic." Dependence on Messi was high and his performance determined the course of the match. Rakitic is among the few players who are likely to leave the club during the summer transfer window. "It's a difficult period but we have to stick together," said Rakitic. "It was an important goal, it was a tough game, it was hard for us to open the game up."

La Liga: Lionel Messi's 250th assist helps Barcelona edge past Athletic Bilbao

Lionel Messi turns 33: Here are some of his records that are unlikely to be broken!

Real Madrid has toppled Barcelona and has become La Liga leaders after beating Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday.&nbsp;

Madrid's captain and defender Sergio Ramos opened the score for Real by scoring a penalty but soon was forced out after being injured. Striker Karim Benzema continued his form by scoring the second goal for the team.

Mikel Merino gave Real Sociedad a goal with seven minutes left but it wasn't enough to stop Madrid.&nbsp;

Once a contender for top four, Real Sociedad slipped to the sixth position after losing both the matches post the pandemic.&nbsp;

Ramos scored his 20th consecutive spot-kick in the 50th minute to become La Liga's highest-ever scoring defender on 68 goals, overtaking Ronald Koeman on the all-time list.

"He's the best defender in the world," said Zinedine Zidane. "What he has been doing and achieving for so many years is incredible."

However, Ramos limped off the ground just after 10 minutes. It looked like a knee injure. Losing Ramos could cost Madrid if the injure is proved serious.&nbsp;

"Right now it hurts a lot but that's just the bang I think," said Zidane afterwards. "That's the good news but we'll see."

Barcelona's failure to score against Seville has turned tables in favour of Real Madrid who was trailing by two points.&nbsp;

Real Madrid has toppled Barcelona and has become La Liga leaders after beating Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday. Madrid's captain and defender Sergio Ramos opened the score for Real by scoring a penalty but soon was forced out after being injured.

Real Madrid has toppled Barcelona and has become La Liga leaders after beating Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday. Madrid's captain and defender Sergio Ramos opened the score for Real by scoring a penalty but soon was forced out after being injured. Striker Karim Benzema continued his form by scoring the second goal for the team. Mikel Merino gave Real Sociedad a goal with seven minutes left but it wasn't enough to stop Madrid. Once a contender for top four, Real Sociedad slipped to the sixth position after losing both the matches post the pandemic. Ramos scored his 20th consecutive spot-kick in the 50th minute to become La Liga's highest-ever scoring defender on 68 goals, overtaking Ronald Koeman on the all-time list. "He's the best defender in the world," said Zinedine Zidane. "What he has been doing and achieving for so many years is incredible." However, Ramos limped off the ground just after 10 minutes. It looked like a knee injure. Losing Ramos could cost Madrid if the injure is proved serious. "Right now it hurts a lot but that's just the bang I think," said Zidane afterwards. "That's the good news but we'll see." Barcelona's failure to score against Seville has turned tables in favour of Real Madrid who was trailing by two points.

La Liga: Real Madrid topples Barcelona after beating Real Sociedad 2-1

Barcelona cruised past Leganes after beating them 2-0. Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati scored for the Catalan Giants on Tuesday.&nbsp;

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Lionel Messi scored his 699th goal for his country and club by a penalty after he was brought down because of a rough dive by Unai Bustinza. Messi has scored 26 goals in 33 appearances this season, in the eight matches, he has seven goals and eight assists to his name.&nbsp;

<img alt="zx" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba2ff7cf-b2e5-4cad-8f53-06fdaf1e06fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_109.jpg" />

The lead was provided by Anfu Fati, the 17-year-old continues to have a dream season after scoring five times in eight games.&nbsp;

This win has ensured a five points lead over Real Madrid. But Madrid is set to play Valencia on Thursday and win against them could reduce the gap to two points.&nbsp;

Barca defender Gerard Pique will need stitches after a nasty challenge split his shinpad.&nbsp;

<img alt="m ," data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40ef079d-19e2-4cb5-abb8-edeb1b6994cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_131.jpg" />

Leganes has become the bottom-most team in the La Liga table and fear of relegation looms at large.&nbsp;

Barcelona had 75 per cent of the possession in the game. The team had 10 shots out of which 5 were on target.&nbsp;

Barcelona cruised past Leganes after beating them 2-0. Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati scored for the Catalan Giants on Tuesday. Also read: Bayern Munich win eighth successive Bundesliga title Lionel Messi scored his 699th goal for his country and club by a penalty after he was brought down because of a rough dive by Unai Bustinza.

Barcelona cruised past Leganes after beating them 2-0. Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati scored for the Catalan Giants on Tuesday. Also read: Bayern Munich win eighth successive Bundesliga title Lionel Messi scored his 699th goal for his country and club by a penalty after he was brought down because of a rough dive by Unai Bustinza. Messi has scored 26 goals in 33 appearances this season, in the eight matches, he has seven goals and eight assists to his name. The lead was provided by Anfu Fati, the 17-year-old continues to have a dream season after scoring five times in eight games. This win has ensured a five points lead over Real Madrid. But Madrid is set to play Valencia on Thursday and win against them could reduce the gap to two points. Barca defender Gerard Pique will need stitches after a nasty challenge split his shinpad. Leganes has become the bottom-most team in the La Liga table and fear of relegation looms at large. Barcelona had 75 per cent of the possession in the game. The team had 10 shots out of which 5 were on target.

La Liga: Ansu Fati and Lionel Messi ensure easy victory for Barcelona over Leganes

Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.&nbsp;

The Brazilian star put the Spanish giants 3-0 up in just 37 minutes on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Protests broke out after George Floyd's death giving momentum to the Black Lives Matter movement. Many football clubs and players have been seen taking the knee against police injustice and racial inequality.&nbsp;

Floyd died in Minneapolis after having a knee pressed into his neck for around nine minutes while being in police custody last month.&nbsp;

Players like Jadon Sancho, Marcus Thuram and Achraf Hakimi were seen taking the knee to show solidarity to the movement.&nbsp;

In the Premier League, teams like Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal have taken the knee during their whole-squad training sessions.&nbsp;

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Premier League released a statement, which read: "We, the Players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed.

"This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether." &nbsp;

Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar. The Brazilian star put the Spanish giants 3-0 up in just 37 minutes on Sunday evening.

Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar. The Brazilian star put the Spanish giants 3-0 up in just 37 minutes on Sunday evening. Protests broke out after George Floyd's death giving momentum to the Black Lives Matter movement. Many football clubs and players have been seen taking the knee against police injustice and racial inequality. Floyd died in Minneapolis after having a knee pressed into his neck for around nine minutes while being in police custody last month. Players like Jadon Sancho, Marcus Thuram and Achraf Hakimi were seen taking the knee to show solidarity to the movement. In the Premier League, teams like Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal have taken the knee during their whole-squad training sessions. #BlackLivesMatter #PlayersTogether pic.twitter.com/aFXNw9eIVF — Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) June 12, 2020 × Premier League released a statement, which read: "We, the Players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed. "This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether."

Real Madrid star Marcelo takes a knee to show solidarity to Black Lives Matter campaign

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday.

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Toni Kroos opened for the Spanish Giants on the fourth minute and within 37 minutes they were up by three goals after Sergio Ramos and Marcelo scored.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard was making his first start since February after he injured his right ankle in November and February. He underwent surgery in March.&nbsp;

Hazard and Ramos were taken off before the start of the second half and were seen with ice packs strapped to them while sitting in the stands.

"We knew Eden would lack a bit of rhythm playing the whole game," coach Zinedine Zidane said.&nbsp;

"He played well for an hour, he took a knock which was a scare but at half-time, he said he was fine. He is happy with what he has done and we are happy with him."

Eibar tried to make a comeback after Pedro Bigas scored in the second half but it could not happen.&nbsp;

One of the biggest moments of the games was when Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.&nbsp;

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday.

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday. Also read: Real Madrid star Marcelo takes the knee to show solidarity to Black Lives Matter campaign Toni Kroos opened for the Spanish Giants on the fourth minute and within 37 minutes they were up by three goals after Sergio Ramos and Marcelo scored. Eden Hazard was making his first start since February after he injured his right ankle in November and February. He underwent surgery in March. Hazard and Ramos were taken off before the start of the second half and were seen with ice packs strapped to them while sitting in the stands. "We knew Eden would lack a bit of rhythm playing the whole game," coach Zinedine Zidane said. "He played well for an hour, he took a knock which was a scare but at half-time, he said he was fine. He is happy with what he has done and we are happy with him." Eibar tried to make a comeback after Pedro Bigas scored in the second half but it could not happen. One of the biggest moments of the games was when Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.

La Liga: Real Madrid resume its title bid after 3-1 win over Eibar

Lionel Messi returned without a beard and with a goal and two assists as Barcelona resumed their La Liga title challenge on Saturday with a thumping 4-0 victory over Real Mallorca.&nbsp;

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After three months away because of the coronavirus pandemic, Barca exploded into the lead with just 64 seconds played when Arturo Vidal headed in and Martin Braithwaite struck a second from a Messi headed assist.&nbsp;

Jordi Alba latched onto a Messi pass to add a third but not before play was briefly stopped by a pitch invader, who was able to run on, despite the match being closed to fans.&nbsp;

Messi then scored a fourth in injury time for his 25th goal of the season.&nbsp;

"I'm happy because starting like this is an enormous boost for what's to come," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien.

Victory extends Barca's advantage at the top of La Liga to five points over Real Madrid, who can reduce the gap back to two when they restart at home to Eibar on Sunday.&nbsp;

La Liga's first match back came on Thursday between Sevilla and Real Betis, with teams scheduled to each play their remaining 11 matches of the season in less than six weeks.&nbsp;

Messi will be crucial to Barcelona's hopes of holding off Madrid but their captain, who turns 33 this month, may have to pace himself, especially after an injury-interrupted season.&nbsp;

Clean shaven, and without any sign of the thigh problem that prevented him from training earlier this month, Messi played 90 minutes and looked like he had never been away.

- Suarez back - 
His goal was set up by Luis Suarez and the sight of the Uruguayan coming off the bench would have been welcome for coach Setien too.&nbsp;

Suarez has not played since undergoing knee surgery in January and was able to recover during the suspension. He could play an important part in the run-in.&nbsp;

Asked what pleased him most, Setien said: "The satisfaction of seeing Luis again on the field. You have to admire the performance he gave in those 35 minutes that he played. Starting like this is very important for him and for the team as well."

Mallorca, who sit 18th in La Liga, were never going to offer the sternest of tests but this was a useful outing for both Barcelona's fitness and morale.&nbsp;

Before matches were suspended in Spain because of coronavirus on March 12, Barca had regained top spot but only after being convincingly beaten by Madrid the week before.&nbsp;

This performance suggests time away might have done them good and it remains to be seen now how Madrid respond. Madrid's next four matches all come after their title rivals have played first.&nbsp;

Barcelona were in front after just over a minute as Frenkie de Jong did well to recover the ball from a loose touch before Alba sent a deep cross to the arriving Vidal, who headed in.&nbsp;

Mallorca were under relentless pressure as Braithwaite and Messi both went close to adding a second. Mallorca's Takefusa Kubo, on loan from Real Madrid, forced a good save out of Marc-Andre ter Stegen on the break.

But Barca scored a second before half-time as an Alba cross span up and both De Jong and then Messi feathered headers across for Braithwaite to bang in on the half-volley, his first goal for the club.&nbsp;

Both teams eased off in the second period and there were smiles on the Barcelona players' faces when a pitch invader ran on in the 52nd minute wearing an Argentina shirt. He posed for a picture with Alba before being escorted away.&nbsp;

Alba added a third after finishing off Messi's clipped ball over the top and then Messi grabbed a goal himself. Suarez fooled his marker by letting the ball run across his body and Messi weaved inside where he could unleash with his right foot.&nbsp;

Mallorca's defeat, combined with losses for Leganes and Celta Vigo, made it the perfect day for Espanyol, who made up ground on their relegation rivals by beating Alaves.

Chinese striker Wu Lei, who tested positive for coronavirus in March, scored on his first game back to seal a 2-0 victory and put Espanyol within three points of safety.&nbsp;

They are now level on points with Leganes, who lost 2-1 at home to Real Valladolid, and three behind Celta, who conceded in the 91st minute for a 1-0 defeat by Villarreal.

Lionel Messi returned without a beard and with a goal and two assists as Barcelona resumed their La Liga title challenge on Saturday with a thumping 4-0 victory over Real Mallorca.

Lionel Messi returned without a beard and with a goal and two assists as Barcelona resumed their La Liga title challenge on Saturday with a thumping 4-0 victory over Real Mallorca. Also read: Ronaldo misses penalty as Juve squeeze into final with Milan draw After three months away because of the coronavirus pandemic, Barca exploded into the lead with just 64 seconds played when Arturo Vidal headed in and Martin Braithwaite struck a second from a Messi headed assist. Jordi Alba latched onto a Messi pass to add a third but not before play was briefly stopped by a pitch invader, who was able to run on, despite the match being closed to fans. Messi then scored a fourth in injury time for his 25th goal of the season. "I'm happy because starting like this is an enormous boost for what's to come," said Barcelona coach Quique Setien. Victory extends Barca's advantage at the top of La Liga to five points over Real Madrid, who can reduce the gap back to two when they restart at home to Eibar on Sunday. La Liga's first match back came on Thursday between Sevilla and Real Betis, with teams scheduled to each play their remaining 11 matches of the season in less than six weeks. Messi will be crucial to Barcelona's hopes of holding off Madrid but their captain, who turns 33 this month, may have to pace himself, especially after an injury-interrupted season. Clean shaven, and without any sign of the thigh problem that prevented him from training earlier this month, Messi played 90 minutes and looked like he had never been away. - Suarez back - His goal was set up by Luis Suarez and the sight of the Uruguayan coming off the bench would have been welcome for coach Setien too. Suarez has not played since undergoing knee surgery in January and was able to recover during the suspension. He could play an important part in the run-in. Asked what pleased him most, Setien said: "The satisfaction of seeing Luis again on the field. You have to admire the performance he gave in those 35 minutes that he played. Starting like this is very important for him and for the team as well." Mallorca, who sit 18th in La Liga, were never going to offer the sternest of tests but this was a useful outing for both Barcelona's fitness and morale. Before matches were suspended in Spain because of coronavirus on March 12, Barca had regained top spot but only after being convincingly beaten by Madrid the week before. This performance suggests time away might have done them good and it remains to be seen now how Madrid respond. Madrid's next four matches all come after their title rivals have played first. Barcelona were in front after just over a minute as Frenkie de Jong did well to recover the ball from a loose touch before Alba sent a deep cross to the arriving Vidal, who headed in. Mallorca were under relentless pressure as Braithwaite and Messi both went close to adding a second. Mallorca's Takefusa Kubo, on loan from Real Madrid, forced a good save out of Marc-Andre ter Stegen on the break. But Barca scored a second before half-time as an Alba cross span up and both De Jong and then Messi feathered headers across for Braithwaite to bang in on the half-volley, his first goal for the club. Both teams eased off in the second period and there were smiles on the Barcelona players' faces when a pitch invader ran on in the 52nd minute wearing an Argentina shirt. He posed for a picture with Alba before being escorted away. Alba added a third after finishing off Messi's clipped ball over the top and then Messi grabbed a goal himself. Suarez fooled his marker by letting the ball run across his body and Messi weaved inside where he could unleash with his right foot. Mallorca's defeat, combined with losses for Leganes and Celta Vigo, made it the perfect day for Espanyol, who made up ground on their relegation rivals by beating Alaves. Chinese striker Wu Lei, who tested positive for coronavirus in March, scored on his first game back to seal a 2-0 victory and put Espanyol within three points of safety. They are now level on points with Leganes, who lost 2-1 at home to Real Valladolid, and three behind Celta, who conceded in the 91st minute for a 1-0 defeat by Villarreal.

Lionel Messi caps Barcelona win over Real Mallorca on La Liga return

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