Girona beat Barcelona 4-2 to occupy the top spot in the La Liga standings. Girona took the lead at the 12th minute, courtesy of&nbsp;Artem Dovbyk before&nbsp;Robert Lewandowski equalised for the hosts after seven minutes. Thereafter, it was Girona's show all over as they rode on Miguel Gutierrez, Valery Fernandez and Cristhian Stuani to end the game 4-2 in their side's favour. Likay Gundogan scored the second goal for his team&nbsp;Barca, but it was too late by then. After the impressive win over Barca, Girona coach Michel lauded his side and made a big claim, saying his side have a soul and can hurt any opponent on their day.

"This Girona side have a soul and believe they can hurt their opponents," coach Michel said after the match. "We knew that [Barca] were going to press hard but if we were able to make the first two passes, we would stand a chance," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-granada-athletic-bilbao-match-abandoned-after-fan-dies-in-stands-668300">La Liga: Granada-Athletic Bilbao match abandoned after fan dies in stands</a>

Míchel further said that his side's performance proved they can compete with anyone, however, he refused to get carried away in terms of what it meant for their title hopes this season.

In this regard, he added, "The first thing to say is we are safe [from relegation] now with 41 points. That's happened much earlier than we thought. We have made history. It was a game to be remembered, a great game between two teams looking to go for it. Any football fan watching has seen two teams that had the intention to win and I think we did LaLiga a favour with the match today, playing toe-to-toe."

Xavi, on the other hand, told, "Girona have a lot of merit in what they are doing. They are in the lead, even more so today. They've got seven points more than us and that's well deserved. It was an even game. If Barca won, we would also say it's fair. I think we shot 31 times. Maybe the errors in defence have taken their toll on us."

The loss is&nbsp; Barcelona's second league defeat of the season. They will next face&nbsp;mid-table Valencia on Saturday (Dec 17) with Girona to host the 12th placed Alaves on Dec&nbsp;18.

Girona beat Barcelona 4-2 to occupy the top spot in the La Liga standings. Girona took the lead at the 12th minute, courtesy of Artem Dovbyk before Robert Lewandowski equalised for the hosts after seven minutes.

Girona beat Barcelona 4-2 to occupy the top spot in the La Liga standings. Girona took the lead at the 12th minute, courtesy of Artem Dovbyk before Robert Lewandowski equalised for the hosts after seven minutes. Thereafter, it was Girona's show all over as they rode on Miguel Gutierrez, Valery Fernandez and Cristhian Stuani to end the game 4-2 in their side's favour. Likay Gundogan scored the second goal for his team Barca, but it was too late by then. After the impressive win over Barca, Girona coach Michel lauded his side and made a big claim, saying his side have a soul and can hurt any opponent on their day. "This Girona side have a soul and believe they can hurt their opponents," coach Michel said after the match. "We knew that [Barca] were going to press hard but if we were able to make the first two passes, we would stand a chance," he said. Also read: La Liga: Granada-Athletic Bilbao match abandoned after fan dies in stands Míchel further said that his side's performance proved they can compete with anyone, however, he refused to get carried away in terms of what it meant for their title hopes this season. In this regard, he added, "The first thing to say is we are safe [from relegation] now with 41 points. That's happened much earlier than we thought. We have made history. It was a game to be remembered, a great game between two teams looking to go for it. Any football fan watching has seen two teams that had the intention to win and I think we did LaLiga a favour with the match today, playing toe-to-toe." Xavi, on the other hand, told, "Girona have a lot of merit in what they are doing. They are in the lead, even more so today. They've got seven points more than us and that's well deserved. It was an even game. If Barca won, we would also say it's fair. I think we shot 31 times. Maybe the errors in defence have taken their toll on us." The loss is Barcelona's second league defeat of the season. They will next face mid-table Valencia on Saturday (Dec 17) with Girona to host the 12th placed Alaves on Dec 18.

‘This side have a soul and can hurt their opponents’: Coach Míchel after Girona stun Barcelona 4-2 in La Liga

Granada's match against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday in La Liga was abandoned after a supporter died in the stands at the Nuevo Los Carmenes stadium.

The match was paused after 18 minutes with visitors Athletic leading 1-0 as the Granada fan received medical attention, with La Liga confirming the match was then abandoned "because of the sad death of a fan" in a statement.

Players from both sides left the pitch 20 minutes after play was suspended, with supporters then requested to leave the stadium after the decision was eventually taken to abandon the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pl-haaland-less-manchester-city-return-to-winning-ways-with-victory-over-luton-town-668286">PL: Haaland-less Manchester City return to winning ways with victory over Luton Town</a>

Granada said in a statement the match was "suspended indefinitely after the death of a club season ticket holder" and offered their condolences to the fan's family and friends.

Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon was applauded by Granada fans after helping to inform officials of the incident in the stands.

Visitors Athletic were leading through an early Inaki Williams strike.

La Liga said they would soon announce a new date and time for the match to be resumed.

Granada's match against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday in La Liga was abandoned after a supporter died in the stands at the Nuevo Los Carmenes stadium. The match was paused after 18 minutes with visitors Athletic leading 1-0 as the Granada fan received medical attention, with La Liga confirming the match was then abandoned "because of the sad death of a fan" in a statement.

Granada's match against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday in La Liga was abandoned after a supporter died in the stands at the Nuevo Los Carmenes stadium. The match was paused after 18 minutes with visitors Athletic leading 1-0 as the Granada fan received medical attention, with La Liga confirming the match was then abandoned "because of the sad death of a fan" in a statement. Players from both sides left the pitch 20 minutes after play was suspended, with supporters then requested to leave the stadium after the decision was eventually taken to abandon the game. ALSO READ: PL: Haaland-less Manchester City return to winning ways with victory over Luton Town Granada said in a statement the match was "suspended indefinitely after the death of a club season ticket holder" and offered their condolences to the fan's family and friends. Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon was applauded by Granada fans after helping to inform officials of the incident in the stands. Visitors Athletic were leading through an early Inaki Williams strike. La Liga said they would soon announce a new date and time for the match to be resumed.

La Liga: Granada-Athletic Bilbao match abandoned after fan dies in stands

Jude Bellingham has been ruled out of England's final Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia, the Football Association announced on Tuesday (Nov 14).

Chelsea defender Levi Colwill has also been withdrawn from Gareth Southgate's squad, meaning five players are missing from the initial group announced for the match at Wembley on November 17 and the away fixture three days later.

Midfielder Bellingham, 20, who has scored 13 goals so far in a stunning debut season for Real Madrid, and Colwill both have shoulder issues.

"Jude Bellingham and Levi Colwill will play no part in England's forthcoming UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia," the FA said in a statement.

"The pair arrived at St George's Park for assessments on Monday but will now return to their clubs to continue their rehabilitation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-southgate-gives-england-call-up-to-cole-palmer-rico-lewis-and-ezri-konsa-for-2024-euro-qualifiers-658061">Also read |&nbsp;Football: Southgate gives England call-up to Cole Palmer, Rico Lewis and Ezri Konsa for 2024 Euro qualifiers</a>

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford and Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips will join the squad later this week "owing to personal matters", the FA said.

On Monday, Cole Palmer, Ezri Konsa and Rico Lewis replaced the injured James Maddison, Callum Wilson and Lewis Dunk.

England have already qualified for the Euro 2024 finals in Germany but one more point will guarantee the top spot in Group C.

Jude Bellingham has been ruled out of England's final Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia, the Football Association announced on Tuesday (Nov 14).

Jude Bellingham has been ruled out of England's final Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia, the Football Association announced on Tuesday (Nov 14). Chelsea defender Levi Colwill has also been withdrawn from Gareth Southgate's squad, meaning five players are missing from the initial group announced for the match at Wembley on November 17 and the away fixture three days later. Midfielder Bellingham, 20, who has scored 13 goals so far in a stunning debut season for Real Madrid, and Colwill both have shoulder issues. "Jude Bellingham and Levi Colwill will play no part in England's forthcoming UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia," the FA said in a statement. "The pair arrived at St George's Park for assessments on Monday but will now return to their clubs to continue their rehabilitation." Also read | Football: Southgate gives England call-up to Cole Palmer, Rico Lewis and Ezri Konsa for 2024 Euro qualifiers Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford and Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips will join the squad later this week "owing to personal matters", the FA said. On Monday, Cole Palmer, Ezri Konsa and Rico Lewis replaced the injured James Maddison, Callum Wilson and Lewis Dunk. England have already qualified for the Euro 2024 finals in Germany but one more point will guarantee the top spot in Group C.

Jude Bellingham, Levi Colwill ruled out of England Euro qualifiers. Know why

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez insisted on Saturday his club were in a dip but not falling into crisis and said president Joan Laporta had full confidence in his project. The Spanish champions have played poorly in recent weeks and fell to an embarrassing 1-0 defeat by Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday in Hamburg.

Despite the loss, Barcelona are still joint group leaders and expected to qualify for the knock-out phases, and are third in La Liga.

The Catalans lost at home to Real Madrid in the Clasico on October 28 and scraped a 1-0 win at Real Sociedad last weekend, despite a drab performance.

"I don't think this is (my worst moment) at all, my worst moment as a coach came last year," Xavi told a news conference, referring to his team's Champions League group stage elimination. "I have lived through terrible crises here, this doesn't go that far, it's a dip ... we haven't played well, we have to recover our game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-footballer-luis-diazs-father-recounts-difficult-time-of-kidnapping-657479">Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz's father recounts 'difficult time' of kidnapping</a>

"Getting that back is key -- as a coach, I feel good, this is nothing to do with the situation we had last year."

Spanish media singled out Xavi for criticism after the Shakhtar loss, but the coach said Laporta was 'calm'.

"After each game we speak with the president," explained Xavi.&nbsp;"We are very united, he's a very positive person, more than me even, and he is very calm. "He has maximum confidence in us, as staff and as a group."

Barcelona host Alaves on Sunday seeking to rebuild confidence after a tricky few weeks.

Xavi said the team needs to adhere to their traditional strategy of positional play to find their way out of their slump.

"We've played badly for two games and we have to recover, to be more faithful to our identity," he continued.

"(It's happened) because we're not well positioned on the pitch, we are sure what we can, or must, improve, and I hope from tomorrow everyone sees that."

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

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

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

Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior has signed a new contract with Real Madrid that runs until 2027, the Spanish club announced on Tuesday.

"Real Madrid and Vini Jr. have reached an agreement to extend the player's contract, linking him to the club until 30 June 2027," the club said in a statement.

Vinicius, 23, joined Madrid in 2018 from Brazilian club Flamengo and has developed into one of La Liga's standout players, scoring the winning goal in last year's Champions League final against Liverpool.

His existing contract was due to expire at the end of this season. Local media reported an extension had already been agreed last year, but it was only made official on Tuesday.

The club provided no financial details, but Spanish media reported the arrangement includes a one-billion euro ($1.06 billion) release clause -- identical to those inserted into the contract of several Barcelona youngsters.

"At the club of my dreams until 2027 and for more titles together," Vinicius wrote on his Instagram account. "The biggest and best club in the world."

Vinicius finished sixth Monday in this year's Ballon d'Or voting and also received the Socrates award, named after the Brazil icon, in recognition of his humanitarian work.

Signed by Madrid for 45 million euros as a teenager, Vinicius endured a challenging start to his time in the capital -- scoring just 14 goals in his first three years before a breakthrough 2021-22 season.

Playing alongside Karim Benzema, Vinicius struck 22 times and contributed 20 assists during that campaign as Madrid won the Liga title and a record-extending 14th European Cup.

He scored 23 goals last term, adding 21 assists, as Madrid lifted the Copa del Rey for the first time since 2014.

Following the departure of 2022 Ballon d'Or winner Benzema to Saudi Arabia in June, Vinicius has become the main man in Madrid's attack, but he was slowed by a hamstring injury that ruled him out for most of September.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-fireworks-masks-and-cake-cab-planning-to-celebrate-virat-kohlis-bday-with-a-grand-show-653477">World Cup 2023: Fireworks, masks and cake - CAB planning to celebrate Virat Kohli's b'day with a grand show</a>

His contract renewal comes a day after he was honoured at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris for his work in the community. His foundation, the Vini Jr Institute, uses technology to educate underprivileged Brazilian children.

"I'm happy to be here for this cause. We work in favelas in Brazil and I'm happy to be able to help the youngest ones," Vinicius said after collecting the Socrates award.

He has also become a leading figure in Spain in the fight against racism after being the victim of racist abuse on various occasions during his time at Madrid.

The latest incident occurred during Saturday's Clasico, a game Madrid won 2-1 away to Barcelona.

A video published by Spanish media appeared to show a home supporter calling Vinicius a "monkey", while an object that looks like a banana skin also appears to be thrown from elsewhere.

Vinicius has 24 Brazil caps and played for his country at the 2022 World Cup.

 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior has signed a new contract with Real Madrid that runs until 2027, the Spanish club announced on Tuesday. "Real Madrid and Vini Jr.

Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior has signed a new contract with Real Madrid that runs until 2027, the Spanish club announced on Tuesday. "Real Madrid and Vini Jr. have reached an agreement to extend the player's contract, linking him to the club until 30 June 2027," the club said in a statement. Vinicius, 23, joined Madrid in 2018 from Brazilian club Flamengo and has developed into one of La Liga's standout players, scoring the winning goal in last year's Champions League final against Liverpool. His existing contract was due to expire at the end of this season. Local media reported an extension had already been agreed last year, but it was only made official on Tuesday. The club provided no financial details, but Spanish media reported the arrangement includes a one-billion euro ($1.06 billion) release clause -- identical to those inserted into the contract of several Barcelona youngsters. "At the club of my dreams until 2027 and for more titles together," Vinicius wrote on his Instagram account. "The biggest and best club in the world." Vinicius finished sixth Monday in this year's Ballon d'Or voting and also received the Socrates award, named after the Brazil icon, in recognition of his humanitarian work. Signed by Madrid for 45 million euros as a teenager, Vinicius endured a challenging start to his time in the capital -- scoring just 14 goals in his first three years before a breakthrough 2021-22 season. Playing alongside Karim Benzema, Vinicius struck 22 times and contributed 20 assists during that campaign as Madrid won the Liga title and a record-extending 14th European Cup. He scored 23 goals last term, adding 21 assists, as Madrid lifted the Copa del Rey for the first time since 2014. Following the departure of 2022 Ballon d'Or winner Benzema to Saudi Arabia in June, Vinicius has become the main man in Madrid's attack, but he was slowed by a hamstring injury that ruled him out for most of September. ALSO READ | World Cup 2023: Fireworks, masks and cake - CAB planning to celebrate Virat Kohli's b'day with a grand show His contract renewal comes a day after he was honoured at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris for his work in the community. His foundation, the Vini Jr Institute, uses technology to educate underprivileged Brazilian children. "I'm happy to be here for this cause. We work in favelas in Brazil and I'm happy to be able to help the youngest ones," Vinicius said after collecting the Socrates award. He has also become a leading figure in Spain in the fight against racism after being the victim of racist abuse on various occasions during his time at Madrid. The latest incident occurred during Saturday's Clasico, a game Madrid won 2-1 away to Barcelona. A video published by Spanish media appeared to show a home supporter calling Vinicius a "monkey", while an object that looks like a banana skin also appears to be thrown from elsewhere. Vinicius has 24 Brazil caps and played for his country at the 2022 World Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Football: Vinicius Jr signs new four-year deal with Real Madrid, to stay at club until 2027

La Liga has opened an investigation into racial abuse aimed at Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior during the El Clasico match against Barcelona at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday (Oct 28).

La Liga has opened an investigation into racial abuse aimed at Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior during the El Clasico match against Barcelona at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday (Oct 28). The Spanish league is in contact with the Vincius camp and is working to identify the perpetrators, according to ESPN. "LaLiga has been working from the outset to identify the individuals involved in making racist insults and will file the relevant charges as is always the case," the league said in a statement, adding: "We are coordinating with the Mossos d'Esquadra [Catalan police] and FC Barcelona." Meanwhile, Barcelona, whose supporters are currently under microscope for the alleged racist act, said it will cooperate with the investigation. "Barcelona will always defend the values of football and sport such as respect for the opponent and we will investigate any racist insult that may have occurred this afternoon during the match against Real Madrid," Notably, the incident transpired at the end of the second half when Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti substituted Vinicius. After Madrid secured all three points, courtesy of a late winner from Jude Bellingham, Vinicius took his sweet time to get off the pitch, prompting Barcelona supporters to boo him. Ancelotti had to intervene as he held Vinicus' hand and dragged him out of the playing area and onto the bench. Previous history of racism against Vinicius Notably, Vinicus was abused in the same fixture last season and last week during an away game versus Sevilla as well. After the game, the Brazilian player took to social media where he revealed the racial abuse hurled his way by the Sevilla supporters, calling it the umpteenth time such an incident had taken place. Also read | Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr slams La Liga after racial abuse, Brazil President calls for end of racism Vinicius lauded Sevilla for taking prompt action against the perpetrators but expressed sadness that one of the racist persons in the crowd was a child. "Congratulations to Sevilla on the quick positioning and the penalty in another sad episode for Spanish Football," wrote the Brazilian on X, formerly known as Twitter. "The face of today's racist is plastered on websites as on many other occasions. I hope the Spanish authorities do their part and change the legislation once and for all. These people must be criminally punished too," he added." Days later, Mikel Camps, deputy spokesperson of the Barcelona board said Vinicius Junior was deserving of a slap for his on-field actions. "It's not racism, he deserves a slap for being a clown. What do these unnecessary and meaningless stepovers represent in the centre of the field?" said Camps in a now-deleted post on X. Earlier this year, after Vinicius Jr. was racially abused by Valencia fans, he wrote a lengthy post and called out the Spanish league saying "racism is normal in La Liga". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

La Liga investigating claims of racist abuse against Vinicius Jr. during Clasico win at Barcelona

Barcelona's teenage substitute Marc Guiu scored late in the second half on his debut to secure a 1-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga, sending Xavi Hernandez's side up to third, one point behind Real Madrid ahead of next week's Clasico.

The 17-year-old Barca youth product latched onto a pass on the edge of the box and beat goalkeeper Unai Simon with a low shot after only his second touch of the ball to score his first league goal quicker than any player in the club's history.

Barca climbed one place with 24 points to close on Real Madrid, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Sevilla on Saturday.

"We knew they (Bilbao) were going to put constant pressure on us," said Xavi. "They have done an extraordinary job. It has been difficult for us (but) if anyone deserved the victory, it was Barcelona."

Barca, without the injured Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Robert Lewandowski, had more possession but created fewer chances than the visitors in the first half, where their best opportunity saw Joao Felix hit the bar after 10 minutes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-aston-villa-thrash-west-ham-4-1-to-close-on-top-four-watkins-bailey-impress-650101">Premier League: Aston Villa thrash West Ham 4-1 to close on top four; Watkins, Bailey impress</a>

Bilbao could have taken the lead when Inaki Williams' effort was saved by Marc-Andre ter Stegen before the goalkeeper then denied Nico Williams in first-half stoppage time.

The visitors had lost left back Yuri Berchiche midway through the first half as he appeared to hurt his ankle.

Barca were sharper in attack after the break but their Spain keeper Simon kept out Felix twice and held firm until striker Guiu scored in the 80th, seconds after replacing Fermin Lopez.

At 17 years 291 days, Guiu became the youngest player to score for Barcelona on his debut in LaLiga this century.

"I can't believe it. I'm out of breath, enjoying the moment," he told Esports 3. "This is unimaginable. I've been working all my life to take advantage of opportunities and it's come to me.

"Joao Felix controlled the ball, I saw that there was space behind the defence, he gave it to me and I beat Unai Simon. It's an honour to have scored a goal against a goalkeeper of his calibre".

Barca host Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Wednesday before hosting Real Madrid next Saturday.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Barcelona's teenage substitute Marc Guiu scored late in the second half on his debut to secure a 1-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga, sending Xavi Hernandez's side up to third, one point behind Real Madrid ahead of next week's Clasico.

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

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

Barcelona came back from two goals down to share a thrilling 2-2 draw with Granada but lost ground in the La Liga title race on Sunday.

Bryan Zaragoza sent the hosts two goals ahead but Lamine Yamal and Sergi Roberto's goals preserved the champions' record as the only unbeaten team in La Liga.

However, the Catalans are now third and sit three points behind leaders Real Madrid, and one behind neighbours Girona, who both won on Saturday.

Zaragoza struck twice in the first half, breaking the deadlock after only 17 seconds -- the fastest goal Barcelona have conceded in the 21st century.

Yamal pulled Barcelona back into the game just before half-time, becoming La Liga's youngest ever goalscorer in the process at 16 years and 87 days. Xavi Hernandez's side levelled with three minutes remaining when substitute Sergi Roberto turned home, but they could not find a late winner in a high-octane finale.

It was the third comeback they have made in recent weeks, beating Celta Vigo from two goals down and twice falling behind at Mallorca in another 2-2 draw.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-championships-2023-flurry-of-golds-highlight-simone-biles-impressive-comeback-as-paris-olympics-loom-644301">World Championships 2023: Flurry of golds highlight Simone Biles’ impressive comeback as Paris Olympics loom</a>

"I think we totally dominated, we created chances, we deserved more, but (we drew) because of our own mistakes, we can't start off in that way," Xavi told DAZN. "We take away a point, which for us, is not enough."

Barcelona's night was also marred by a knee injury to Jules Kounde, with the Catalans already tending to Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Raphinha in the treatment room.

Xavi deployed Ferran Torres as a false nine to replace Lewandowski, while he handed Fermin Lopez his first start for the club in midfield.

The coach left Oriol Romeu on the bench, starting without a pure defensive midfielder and dividing the role up between Ilkay Gundogan and Gavi.

The latter turned into trouble immediately, with Granada stealing the ball from the young midfielder in the build-up to the first goal.

Lucas Boye fed Zaragoza, who fired across Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who might have done more to keep the shot from finding the bottom corner, although the ball appeared to bobble before passing the Barcelona goalkeeper.

Gavi forced a save at the other end and Joao Felix fired wide as Barcelona hunted for the equaliser.

Zaragoza doubled the hosts' lead at the Nuevo Los Carmenes stadium with a brilliant individual goal, leaving Kounde wobbling before finishing sublimely with the outside of his boot into the top corner.

"He's a player who is not easy to stop when he's sprinting," admitted Xavi.

<h2>- Record breaker -</h2>

Barcelona found a route back into the match in first-half stoppage time when Felix prodded the ball into Yamal's path just a couple of yards out and he rolled home to break yet another record.

However, there was no time for Spain's youngest ever player and goalscorer, to celebrate. Barcelona sought the equaliser, with Gundogan forcing a good stop from Andre Ferreira and Ronald Araujo hammering inches wide.

Eventually it came through Sergi Roberto, who turned home Alejandro Balde's low cross, while Granada complained about a collision earlier in the move they wanted called as a foul.

Zaragoza almost claimed his hat-trick as the hosts responded furiously, but he crashed a shot off the post as the game flew end-to-end.

Felix headed in what he thought was the winner and Xavi leapt for joy on the touchline, but Ferran Torres, who did not touch the ball yet was ruled to be interfering with play, was offside.

"The feeling is that just as easily as they ruled it out, they could have given it ... Ferran is not interfering with anyone," said Xavi.

Granada coach Paco Lopez said he was proud of his team and that he hoped 22-year-old winger Zaragoza would keep his feet on the ground.

"I congratulate my team and my players, I can't ask for more from them," Lopez told DAZN. "We have to keep cool heads with (Zaragoza), because he's got out of the ordinary talent but has to work hard."

The draw keeps Granada 19th, two points from safety.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Barcelona came back from two goals down to share a thrilling 2-2 draw with Granada but lost ground in the La Liga title race on Sunday. Bryan Zaragoza sent the hosts two goals ahead but Lamine Yamal and Sergi Roberto's goals preserved the champions' record as the only unbeaten team in La Liga.

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

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

Four Real Madrid youth academy players have been charged with circulating a sexual video featuring a minor, judicial sources said Friday.

Last week, the Guardia Civil police said they had arrested three players following a complaint from the mother of the 16-year-old victim linked to their "dissemination of a video with sexual content involving a minor".

Court officials later said the incident involved two alleged victims, although it was not immediately clear whether both were in the same video.

The players, who are 21 and 22, were arrested at the club's training centre.

Police questioned them and examined their mobile phones, later pressing charges against all three as well as a fourth player who was also involved, the source said.

They did not identify the players but in a statement last week, Real Madrid said it was aware that a player from its second, or B team, and three players from its C team "have made statements to the Guardia Civil concerning a complaint about the alleged circulation of a private video via WhatsApp".

Online newspaper El Confidencial, which broke the story citing sources from the investigation, said the main target was a Real Madrid C player who allegedly recorded himself having consensual sex with the 16-year-old girl in the Canary Islands in mid-June.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-pakistan-announce-final-squad-for-marquee-event-in-india-naseem-shah-ruled-out-with-injury-concerns-638467">CWC 2023: Pakistan announce final squad for marquee event in India, Naseem Shah ruled out with injury concerns</a>

He then allegedly shared the video on WhatsApp with other players without her consent, it said.

The arrests come as Spain is embroiled in a debate over sexism within sport sparked by the Women's World Cup scandal involving Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales kissing a player on the lips. He has since resigned and last week was brought before a judge on sexual assault charges.

"Spreading sexual images without consent also is sexual violence," Equality Minister Irene Montero wrote on X, formerly Twitter, after news of the arrests broke.

"We have an obligation to not to look the other way and guarantee all rights to all women. All my support to the victim and her family," she added.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Four Real Madrid youth academy players have been charged with circulating a sexual video featuring a minor, judicial sources said Friday. Last week, the Guardia Civil police said they had arrested three players following a complaint from the mother of the 16-year-old victim linked to their "dissemination of a video with sexual content involving a minor".

Four Real Madrid youth academy players have been charged with circulating a sexual video featuring a minor, judicial sources said Friday. Last week, the Guardia Civil police said they had arrested three players following a complaint from the mother of the 16-year-old victim linked to their "dissemination of a video with sexual content involving a minor". Court officials later said the incident involved two alleged victims, although it was not immediately clear whether both were in the same video. The players, who are 21 and 22, were arrested at the club's training centre. Police questioned them and examined their mobile phones, later pressing charges against all three as well as a fourth player who was also involved, the source said. They did not identify the players but in a statement last week, Real Madrid said it was aware that a player from its second, or B team, and three players from its C team "have made statements to the Guardia Civil concerning a complaint about the alleged circulation of a private video via WhatsApp". Online newspaper El Confidencial, which broke the story citing sources from the investigation, said the main target was a Real Madrid C player who allegedly recorded himself having consensual sex with the 16-year-old girl in the Canary Islands in mid-June. ALSO READ | CWC 2023: Pakistan announce final squad for marquee event in India, Naseem Shah ruled out with injury concerns He then allegedly shared the video on WhatsApp with other players without her consent, it said. The arrests come as Spain is embroiled in a debate over sexism within sport sparked by the Women's World Cup scandal involving Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales kissing a player on the lips. He has since resigned and last week was brought before a judge on sexual assault charges. "Spreading sexual images without consent also is sexual violence," Equality Minister Irene Montero wrote on X, formerly Twitter, after news of the arrests broke. "We have an obligation to not to look the other way and guarantee all rights to all women. All my support to the victim and her family," she added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Real Madrid youth players charged for circulating sex video with minor

Three unnamed Real Madrid reserve players have been arrested by the Spanish police for allegedly distributing a sexual video&nbsp;featuring a minor.&nbsp;

While&nbsp;three players were detained from the&nbsp;Real Madrid sports complex in Madrid,&nbsp;a fourth player was currently being investigated. One of those arrested is a reserve team player and two play for the third team.

The police informed that the arrested players were not minors. They were&nbsp;released following a court decision, and only after data on their mobile phones was seized.

"They were detained on suspicion of distributing a video with sexual content involving a minor," a&nbsp;Guardia Civil police spokesman was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

According to Spanish media outlets, the case came to light after the mother of the minor reported earlier this month that one of the detainees had recorded a sex tape of her daughter and distributed it. The 16-year-old girl and her mother hailed from the Canary Islands - the southernmost region of the country.&nbsp;

The club in a statement said it was aware&nbsp;that a player from Real Madrid's second team Castilla and three players from Real Madrid C -- the Spanish club's third team -- "have made statements to the Guardia Civil in relation to a complaint about the alleged circulation of a private video via WhatsApp".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-spanish-football-chief-luis-rubiales-steps-down-635026">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Spanish football Chief Luis Rubiales steps down</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-spanish-football-chief-luis-rubiales-steps-down-635026/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>Growing culture of sexism and violence against women in football&nbsp;</h2>

The arrests of the three players have once again highlighted the increasing occurrences of sexism and vile male behaviour in the footballing world, especially Spanish football.&nbsp;

Former Spanish Football Federation chief&nbsp;Luis Rubiales has been in the news headlines for the last few weeks after he kissed Spain’s World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips, without her consent.&nbsp;

Despite strong public backlash,&nbsp;Rubiales refused to resign from his position for a long time, before succumbing to the pressure, over the weekend.&nbsp;Rubiales continues to maintain the kiss was consensual.

Earlier this month, Brazil and Manchester United winger Antony came under scrutiny as well after allegations emerged that he had assaulted his partner last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-antony-granted-leave-of-absence-as-manchester-united-star-fights-abuse-allegations-in-brazil-634579">Also read |&nbsp;Premier League: Antony granted 'leave of absence' as Manchester United star fights abuse allegations in Brazil</a>

As things stand, Antony might&nbsp;sit out the upcoming Premier League and Champions League matches involving United. The Red Devils will face high-flying Brighton when they return from the international break, before travelling to&nbsp;Germany to face Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich in their Champions League opener at the Allianz Arena.&nbsp;

This is not the first time Manchester United are facing similar issues off the field as they previously had to deal with the situation surrounding Mason Greenwood who had reportedly assaulted his partner as well. Greenwood had to go to prison before the case was dropped after lengthy proceedings. Crown Prosecution Service said it was due to&nbsp;"the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light".&nbsp;

Initially, Manchester United were keen to bring back Greenwood to the first team, before facing intense criticism from the fans. Consequently, Greenwood was let go as La Liga club Getafe snapped him for the season with United paying the major part of the salary.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Three unnamed Real Madrid reserve players have been arrested by the Spanish police for allegedly distributing a sexual video featuring a minor. While three players were detained from the Real Madrid sports complex in Madrid, a fourth player was currently being investigated.

Three unnamed Real Madrid reserve players have been arrested by the Spanish police for allegedly distributing a sexual video featuring a minor. While three players were detained from the Real Madrid sports complex in Madrid, a fourth player was currently being investigated. One of those arrested is a reserve team player and two play for the third team. The police informed that the arrested players were not minors. They were released following a court decision, and only after data on their mobile phones was seized. "They were detained on suspicion of distributing a video with sexual content involving a minor," a Guardia Civil police spokesman was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. According to Spanish media outlets, the case came to light after the mother of the minor reported earlier this month that one of the detainees had recorded a sex tape of her daughter and distributed it. The 16-year-old girl and her mother hailed from the Canary Islands - the southernmost region of the country. The club in a statement said it was aware that a player from Real Madrid's second team Castilla and three players from Real Madrid C -- the Spanish club's third team -- "have made statements to the Guardia Civil in relation to a complaint about the alleged circulation of a private video via WhatsApp". Watch | Gravitas: Spanish football Chief Luis Rubiales steps down × Growing culture of sexism and violence against women in football The arrests of the three players have once again highlighted the increasing occurrences of sexism and vile male behaviour in the footballing world, especially Spanish football. Former Spanish Football Federation chief Luis Rubiales has been in the news headlines for the last few weeks after he kissed Spain’s World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips, without her consent. Despite strong public backlash, Rubiales refused to resign from his position for a long time, before succumbing to the pressure, over the weekend. Rubiales continues to maintain the kiss was consensual. Earlier this month, Brazil and Manchester United winger Antony came under scrutiny as well after allegations emerged that he had assaulted his partner last year. Also read | Premier League: Antony granted 'leave of absence' as Manchester United star fights abuse allegations in Brazil As things stand, Antony might sit out the upcoming Premier League and Champions League matches involving United. The Red Devils will face high-flying Brighton when they return from the international break, before travelling to Germany to face Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich in their Champions League opener at the Allianz Arena. This is not the first time Manchester United are facing similar issues off the field as they previously had to deal with the situation surrounding Mason Greenwood who had reportedly assaulted his partner as well. Greenwood had to go to prison before the case was dropped after lengthy proceedings. Crown Prosecution Service said it was due to "the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light". Initially, Manchester United were keen to bring back Greenwood to the first team, before facing intense criticism from the fans. Consequently, Greenwood was let go as La Liga club Getafe snapped him for the season with United paying the major part of the salary. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Three Real Madrid players arrested over sexual video involving minor

Veteran former Spain defender Sergio&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;on Monday returned to his home-town club Sevilla after 18 years away.

"It's a very special day, returning home is always a tremendous joy,"&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;told the media.

The 37-year-old former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain player signed a one-year contract after passing the traditional medical, the club announced.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-carlos-alcaraz-enters-quarter-finals-ons-jabeur-crashes-out-in-us-open-632424">Carlos Alcaraz enters quarter finals, Ons Jabeur crashes out in US Open</a>

"Happy to return and try to contribute as soon as possible which is the important thing," the player added.

Sevilla sit bottom of La Liga without a point after three matches but as Europa League champions have qualified for the Champions League group stage. They start their campaign on September 20.

Ramos&nbsp;left Sevilla at the age of 19 to join Real Madrid for a then record fee for a Spanish defender.

In 2021,&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;signed for PSG but had been without a club since his contract with the French champions ran out in June.

According to the local press,&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;turned down a lucrative offer from Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.

"I was eager to return home. It made no sense to go anywhere else without passing through here," said&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;who was born on the outskirts of Seville.

In 16 seasons at the Bernabeu,&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;won La Liga five times and the Champions League four times.

He played 180 games for Spain, scoring 23 goals, and was part of the team that won the European Championship twice (2008 and 2012) and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Veteran former Spain defender Sergio Ramos on Monday returned to his home-town club Sevilla after 18 years away. "It's a very special day, returning home is always a tremendous joy," Ramos told the media.

Veteran former Spain defender Sergio Ramos on Monday returned to his home-town club Sevilla after 18 years away. "It's a very special day, returning home is always a tremendous joy," Ramos told the media. The 37-year-old former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain player signed a one-year contract after passing the traditional medical, the club announced. Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz enters quarter finals, Ons Jabeur crashes out in US Open "Happy to return and try to contribute as soon as possible which is the important thing," the player added. Sevilla sit bottom of La Liga without a point after three matches but as Europa League champions have qualified for the Champions League group stage. They start their campaign on September 20. Ramos left Sevilla at the age of 19 to join Real Madrid for a then record fee for a Spanish defender. In 2021, Ramos signed for PSG but had been without a club since his contract with the French champions ran out in June. According to the local press, Ramos turned down a lucrative offer from Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. "I was eager to return home. It made no sense to go anywhere else without passing through here," said Ramos who was born on the outskirts of Seville. In 16 seasons at the Bernabeu, Ramos won La Liga five times and the Champions League four times. He played 180 games for Spain, scoring 23 goals, and was part of the team that won the European Championship twice (2008 and 2012) and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Former Spain defender Sergio Ramos returns to home-town club Sevilla after 18 years

Robert Lewandowski rolled home a late penalty to earn Barcelona a hard-fought 2-1 win at Osasuna in La Liga on Sunday.

The striker won the penalty when he was tugged back in the box by Alejandro Catena, who was sent off.

Barcelona took the lead through Jules Kounde's header in the first half but Chimy Avila drilled the hosts level with less than 15 minutes remaining.

Xavi brought on new loan signings Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix in the second half as Barcelona, third, stayed on league leaders Real Madrid's tail -- they are two points behind their arch-rivals after four games.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-kylian-mbappe-scores-twice-in-psgs-ruthless-4-1-win-over-lyon-632078">Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe scores twice in PSG's ruthless 4-1 win over Lyon</a>

The coach started 16-year-old Lamine Yamal on the right wing again after his impressive display last weekend and his first call up to the Spanish national team on Friday.

However it was veteran forward Lewandowski's penalty which was crucial for Barcelona this time.

"I think we lacked some good play, some patience, and we have to generate more in attack," Barca coach Xavi told DAZN.

"The team worked hard, we really had to today, and the team suffered, but we won. We had the personality to suffer until the end and it's always difficult to win at El Sadar.

"I'm happy with the team's attitude ... they are a very intense opponent. I'm content and satisfied with the victory."

Barca should have taken the lead early on but Lewandowski fired wide with the goal gaping after Frenkie de Jong's effort rebounded off the post into his path.

Osasuna, often hard to beat at home, offered as good as they got in the first half.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen denied former Barcelona forward Jose Arnaiz at his near post and then thwarted Aimar Oroz, who should have done better when well placed.

Barcelona snatched the lead just before half-time when Kounde rose to nod Ilkay Gundogan's corner across goal and beyond the dive of Aitor Fernandez.

<h2>- New faces -</h2>

Xavi brought on new arrival Joao Cancelo just before the hour mark, with his Portuguese compatriot Joao Felix having to wait until the final stages for his debut.

By then Osasuna were level, with Avila dribbling across the face of the box without sufficient interference and firing past Ter Stegen.

Last season's top scorer in La Liga, Lewandowski, who was having another frustrating night, turned it around by winning and converting a penalty to restore Barcelona's lead.&nbsp;

The Polish forward hit the deck after Catena pulled his arm back, and the defender was sent off after a long VAR review, before the 35-year-old sent Fernandez the wrong way from the spot.

A third Barcelona debutant, centre-back Inigo Martinez, came on in stoppage time.

"We know it's always very hard to win here, they're a team with very good players and they put great intensity on," said Kounde.

"(Felix and Cancelo) are two very good players with experience at a high level.

"They will give us a boost in an attacking sense, they both have very good technical ability."

Girona climbed to second earlier Sunday after Portu's late strike earned the Catalan side a 1-0 win against promoted side Las Palmas, 18th.

The winger returned to Girona from Getafe this summer and made a swift impact after being given his second 'debut' as a substitute.

Atletico Madrid's game against Sevilla was called off because of expected torrential rain in the Spanish capital, although the predicted downpour did not materialise in the time the game was scheduled to take place.

League leaders Real Madrid beat Getafe 2-1 on Saturday with another late Jude Bellingham winner, maintaining their 100 percent start to the season.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Robert Lewandowski rolled home a late penalty to earn Barcelona a hard-fought 2-1 win at Osasuna in La Liga on Sunday. The striker won the penalty when he was tugged back in the box by Alejandro Catena, who was sent off.

Robert Lewandowski rolled home a late penalty to earn Barcelona a hard-fought 2-1 win at Osasuna in La Liga on Sunday. The striker won the penalty when he was tugged back in the box by Alejandro Catena, who was sent off. Barcelona took the lead through Jules Kounde's header in the first half but Chimy Avila drilled the hosts level with less than 15 minutes remaining. Xavi brought on new loan signings Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix in the second half as Barcelona, third, stayed on league leaders Real Madrid's tail -- they are two points behind their arch-rivals after four games. Also Read: Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe scores twice in PSG's ruthless 4-1 win over Lyon The coach started 16-year-old Lamine Yamal on the right wing again after his impressive display last weekend and his first call up to the Spanish national team on Friday. However it was veteran forward Lewandowski's penalty which was crucial for Barcelona this time. "I think we lacked some good play, some patience, and we have to generate more in attack," Barca coach Xavi told DAZN. "The team worked hard, we really had to today, and the team suffered, but we won. We had the personality to suffer until the end and it's always difficult to win at El Sadar. "I'm happy with the team's attitude ... they are a very intense opponent. I'm content and satisfied with the victory." Barca should have taken the lead early on but Lewandowski fired wide with the goal gaping after Frenkie de Jong's effort rebounded off the post into his path. Osasuna, often hard to beat at home, offered as good as they got in the first half. Marc-Andre ter Stegen denied former Barcelona forward Jose Arnaiz at his near post and then thwarted Aimar Oroz, who should have done better when well placed. Barcelona snatched the lead just before half-time when Kounde rose to nod Ilkay Gundogan's corner across goal and beyond the dive of Aitor Fernandez. - New faces - Xavi brought on new arrival Joao Cancelo just before the hour mark, with his Portuguese compatriot Joao Felix having to wait until the final stages for his debut. By then Osasuna were level, with Avila dribbling across the face of the box without sufficient interference and firing past Ter Stegen. Last season's top scorer in La Liga, Lewandowski, who was having another frustrating night, turned it around by winning and converting a penalty to restore Barcelona's lead. The Polish forward hit the deck after Catena pulled his arm back, and the defender was sent off after a long VAR review, before the 35-year-old sent Fernandez the wrong way from the spot. A third Barcelona debutant, centre-back Inigo Martinez, came on in stoppage time. "We know it's always very hard to win here, they're a team with very good players and they put great intensity on," said Kounde. "(Felix and Cancelo) are two very good players with experience at a high level. "They will give us a boost in an attacking sense, they both have very good technical ability." Girona climbed to second earlier Sunday after Portu's late strike earned the Catalan side a 1-0 win against promoted side Las Palmas, 18th. The winger returned to Girona from Getafe this summer and made a swift impact after being given his second 'debut' as a substitute. Atletico Madrid's game against Sevilla was called off because of expected torrential rain in the Spanish capital, although the predicted downpour did not materialise in the time the game was scheduled to take place. League leaders Real Madrid beat Getafe 2-1 on Saturday with another late Jude Bellingham winner, maintaining their 100 percent start to the season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Robert Lewandowski scores on penalty to help Barca win 2-1 against Osasuna

Spanish team Getafe signed striker Mason Greenwood from Manchester United on loan on Friday, they said in a statement, despite him having faced allegations of abuse involving a young woman. Greenwood had been suspended since January 2022 by the Premier League side over the allegations but prosecutors dropped charges including attempted rape and sexual assault in February.

"Getafe have reached a deal with Manchester United for the arrival of Mason Greenwood on loan for a season," said the Madrid side in a statement.

Last week United and Greenwood mutually agreed the striker would leave Old Trafford.

"The move enables Greenwood to begin to rebuild his career away from Manchester United," said the Red Devils in a statement. "The club will continue to offer its support to Mason and his family during this period of transition."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/transfer-deadline-day-man-utd-double-swoop-bayern-fail-with-three-deals-cancelo-felix-to-join-barcelona-631399">Transfer Deadline Day: Man Utd double swoop, Bayern fail with three deals; Cancelo, Felix to join Barcelona</a>

Greenwood's signing comes during a sexism storm in Spanish football, surrounding the suspended president of the Spanish football federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales.

The 46-year-old chief was provisionally suspended by FIFA for 90 days after forcibly kissing Women's World Cup star Jenny Hermoso on the lips on August 20 after Spain won the tournament in Sydney.

Getafe president Angel Torres said Rubiales could not stay "a minute more" in his post.

English prosecutors said they were dropping the charges against Greenwood after key witnesses withdrew and new evidence came to light.

Greenwood, whose contract runs until June 2025, said last week: "I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges.

"However, I fully accept I made mistakes in my relationship, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post."

He added: "The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club.

"I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United."

Greenwood was tipped for stardom at United after rising through the Old Trafford youth system and went on to score 35 goals in 129 senior appearances for the club.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Spanish team Getafe signed striker Mason Greenwood from Manchester United on loan on Friday, they said in a statement, despite him having faced allegations of abuse involving a young woman.

Spanish team Getafe signed striker Mason Greenwood from Manchester United on loan on Friday, they said in a statement, despite him having faced allegations of abuse involving a young woman. Greenwood had been suspended since January 2022 by the Premier League side over the allegations but prosecutors dropped charges including attempted rape and sexual assault in February. "Getafe have reached a deal with Manchester United for the arrival of Mason Greenwood on loan for a season," said the Madrid side in a statement. Last week United and Greenwood mutually agreed the striker would leave Old Trafford. "The move enables Greenwood to begin to rebuild his career away from Manchester United," said the Red Devils in a statement. "The club will continue to offer its support to Mason and his family during this period of transition." ALSO READ: Transfer Deadline Day: Man Utd double swoop, Bayern fail with three deals; Cancelo, Felix to join Barcelona Greenwood's signing comes during a sexism storm in Spanish football, surrounding the suspended president of the Spanish football federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales. The 46-year-old chief was provisionally suspended by FIFA for 90 days after forcibly kissing Women's World Cup star Jenny Hermoso on the lips on August 20 after Spain won the tournament in Sydney. Getafe president Angel Torres said Rubiales could not stay "a minute more" in his post. English prosecutors said they were dropping the charges against Greenwood after key witnesses withdrew and new evidence came to light. Greenwood, whose contract runs until June 2025, said last week: "I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges. "However, I fully accept I made mistakes in my relationship, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post." He added: "The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club. "I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United." Greenwood was tipped for stardom at United after rising through the Old Trafford youth system and went on to score 35 goals in 129 senior appearances for the club. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

La Liga side Getafe sign controversial Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood on loan on deadline day

Jude Bellingham continued his superb start to life in La Liga with a late header to earn Real Madrid a 1-0 win at Celta Vigo on Friday. The England international netted his fourth goal in three matches in the Spanish top flight to end Celta Vigo's stubborn resistance and disappoint the hosts in their centenary week.

Rodrygo had missed a penalty for Real Madrid, while Vinicius Junior went off in the first half after appearing to suffer a thigh problem, although early Spanish reports suggest it will not keep him out for too long.

Kepa Arrizabalaga made his debut in goal for Real Madrid on loan from Chelsea as a replacement for the injured Thibaut Courtois, while Carlo Ancelotti continued with Bellingham in the No 10 position, where he has proven lethal.

"Bellingham (was) good, he's still scoring and adding to the team," said Ancelotti. "(Vinicius) wanted to continue, so I don't think it was that serious, he tried, then it hurt a bit."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spains-world-cup-winning-womens-team-refuse-to-play-international-games-unless-luis-rubiales-resigns-629353">Spain's World Cup-winning women's team refuse to play international games unless Luis Rubiales resigns</a>

England international Bellingham continued his fine goal-scoring form against Celta, eventually finding a gap in their defensive armour as former Madrid manager Rafa Benitez lined up with a sturdy five-man defensive line.

Celta thought they had gone ahead early on but Jorgen Strand Larsen's goal was ruled out for a soft foul by the forward on Arrizabalaga.

Vinicius departed for Spanish international Joselu after 17 minutes with his thigh bandanged, a worry for Madrid given their squad is relatively light this season in attack, with Ballon d'Or holder Karim Benzema and other forwards departing.

Former Barcelona defender Oscar Mingueza came close after half an hour with a close range effort on the stretch that flew off-target, while Joselu had a goal chalked off for offside.

Madrid found it hard to get Bellingham on the ball amid Celta's suffocating defence, but Rodrygo burst through to win a penalty.

The Brazilian forward had been fortunate to win it after Celta Vigo goalkeeper Ivan Villar pushed the ball away before the pair collided.

However, Villar produced a superb save from his spot kick to keep the score level, before Bellingham intervened.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Jude Bellingham continued his superb start to life in La Liga with a late header to earn Real Madrid a 1-0 win at Celta Vigo on Friday. The England international netted his fourth goal in three matches in the Spanish top flight to end Celta Vigo's stubborn resistance and disappoint the hosts in their centenary week.

Jude Bellingham continued his superb start to life in La Liga with a late header to earn Real Madrid a 1-0 win at Celta Vigo on Friday. The England international netted his fourth goal in three matches in the Spanish top flight to end Celta Vigo's stubborn resistance and disappoint the hosts in their centenary week. Rodrygo had missed a penalty for Real Madrid, while Vinicius Junior went off in the first half after appearing to suffer a thigh problem, although early Spanish reports suggest it will not keep him out for too long. Kepa Arrizabalaga made his debut in goal for Real Madrid on loan from Chelsea as a replacement for the injured Thibaut Courtois, while Carlo Ancelotti continued with Bellingham in the No 10 position, where he has proven lethal. "Bellingham (was) good, he's still scoring and adding to the team," said Ancelotti. "(Vinicius) wanted to continue, so I don't think it was that serious, he tried, then it hurt a bit." ALSO READ: Spain's World Cup-winning women's team refuse to play international games unless Luis Rubiales resigns England international Bellingham continued his fine goal-scoring form against Celta, eventually finding a gap in their defensive armour as former Madrid manager Rafa Benitez lined up with a sturdy five-man defensive line. Celta thought they had gone ahead early on but Jorgen Strand Larsen's goal was ruled out for a soft foul by the forward on Arrizabalaga. Vinicius departed for Spanish international Joselu after 17 minutes with his thigh bandanged, a worry for Madrid given their squad is relatively light this season in attack, with Ballon d'Or holder Karim Benzema and other forwards departing. Former Barcelona defender Oscar Mingueza came close after half an hour with a close range effort on the stretch that flew off-target, while Joselu had a goal chalked off for offside. Madrid found it hard to get Bellingham on the ball amid Celta's suffocating defence, but Rodrygo burst through to win a penalty. The Brazilian forward had been fortunate to win it after Celta Vigo goalkeeper Ivan Villar pushed the ball away before the pair collided. However, Villar produced a superb save from his spot kick to keep the score level, before Bellingham intervened. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

La Liga: Jude Bellingham's late header seals 1-0 win for Real Madrid over Celta Vigo

Spanish top flight LaLiga has filed a complaint with the European Commission against Paris St Germain's "spending commissions", alleging the Qatari-backed French club are distorting markets through subsidies from the Gulf state.

The practices have allowed PSG, owned by Qatar Sports Investments since 2011, to sign top players and coaches "well above its potential in a normal market situation", LaLiga alleges in the complaint filed on Saturday.

The league said in a statement that "PSG has received foreign subsidies from the State of Qatar, which has allowed it to improve its competitive position, thus generating significant distortions in several national and EU markets".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rb-leipzig-stun-bayern-munich-with-dani-olmo-hat-trick-to-spoil-harry-kanes-debut-624950">Football: RB Leipzig stun Bayern Munich with Dani Olmo hat-trick to spoil Harry Kane's debut</a>

A commission regulation on foreign subsidies that came into force last month gives it "the power to investigate financial contributions granted by non-EU countries to companies engaging in an economic activity in the EU and redress, if needed, their distortive effects".

"PSG obtains resources on non-market terms which distort several closely related markets," LaLiga said. "It is also able to secure sponsorship income which does not correspond to market values."

"This enables them to boost their sporting performance, as well as affecting the ability of rival clubs to recruit."

"Therefore, LaLiga trusts that the European Commission, thanks to this new regulatory tool, will take the necessary measures to eliminate market distortions such as those described above, which seriously damage the sporting ecosystem."

Last year, LaLiga filed a complaint with the European soccer governing body UEFA against PSG and Manchester City, alleging they violated financial fair-play regulations.

PSG have splashed out on several expensive signings in recent years, including paying a world record 222 million euros ($243 million) for Brazil forward Neymar in 2017 and 180 million euros for striker Kylian Mbappe in 2018.

The French champions also renewed Mbappe's contract last year when he was widely tipped to join Real Madrid.

Mbappe is in a contract standoff with PSG. Relations between the him and PSG have been tense since the French forward said in June, he would not renew his deal, which expires at the end of the 2023-24 season.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Spanish top flight LaLiga has filed a complaint with the European Commission against Paris St Germain's "spending commissions", alleging the Qatari-backed French club are distorting markets through subsidies from the Gulf state.

Spanish top flight LaLiga has filed a complaint with the European Commission against Paris St Germain's "spending commissions", alleging the Qatari-backed French club are distorting markets through subsidies from the Gulf state. The practices have allowed PSG, owned by Qatar Sports Investments since 2011, to sign top players and coaches "well above its potential in a normal market situation", LaLiga alleges in the complaint filed on Saturday. The league said in a statement that "PSG has received foreign subsidies from the State of Qatar, which has allowed it to improve its competitive position, thus generating significant distortions in several national and EU markets". ALSO READ: Football: RB Leipzig stun Bayern Munich with Dani Olmo hat-trick to spoil Harry Kane's debut A commission regulation on foreign subsidies that came into force last month gives it "the power to investigate financial contributions granted by non-EU countries to companies engaging in an economic activity in the EU and redress, if needed, their distortive effects". "PSG obtains resources on non-market terms which distort several closely related markets," LaLiga said. "It is also able to secure sponsorship income which does not correspond to market values." "This enables them to boost their sporting performance, as well as affecting the ability of rival clubs to recruit." "Therefore, LaLiga trusts that the European Commission, thanks to this new regulatory tool, will take the necessary measures to eliminate market distortions such as those described above, which seriously damage the sporting ecosystem." Last year, LaLiga filed a complaint with the European soccer governing body UEFA against PSG and Manchester City, alleging they violated financial fair-play regulations. PSG have splashed out on several expensive signings in recent years, including paying a world record 222 million euros ($243 million) for Brazil forward Neymar in 2017 and 180 million euros for striker Kylian Mbappe in 2018. The French champions also renewed Mbappe's contract last year when he was widely tipped to join Real Madrid. Mbappe is in a contract standoff with PSG. Relations between the him and PSG have been tense since the French forward said in June, he would not renew his deal, which expires at the end of the 2023-24 season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spanish top flight La Liga files complaint over Paris Saint Germain's 'spending commissions'

Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is among several Barcelona players who have yet to be registered with LaLiga due to the club's breach of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, raising doubts about their participation in Sunday's season opener against Getafe.

Other than former Manchester City captain Gundogan, who joined on a free transfer in June, new signings Inigo Martinez, Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu have also not been registered.

Players such as Ronald Araujo, Marcos Alonso, Sergi Roberto and Inaki Pena, who signed new contracts, also remain unregistered. That means the LaLiga champions have only 12 players available for their season debut.

Barca experienced the same situation last season, when they were blocked by the strict LaLiga financial regulations to register new signings such as Robert Lewandowski, Franck Kessie, Andreas Christensen and Raphinha. They were eventually registered on the eve of Barca's season opener after the club triggered a last minute economic operation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-tells-psg-he-is-going-nowhere-this-summer-amid-potential-move-to-real-madrid-624281">Kylian Mbappe tells PSG he is going nowhere this summer amid potential move to Real Madrid</a>

Defender Jules Kounde, however, ended up missing several games as his formalities were not completed until the end of August.

Clubs have to meet LaLiga's salary cap to register new signings as well as those who sign contract renewals.

Last year, Barcelona resorted to selling club assets as "economic levers" to create the margin they needed with LaLiga, as their debts totalled 1.35 billion Euros ($1.49 billion).

They will not be able to play at Camp Nou for the next few seasons after agreeing a financing deal worth 1.45 billion euros to renovate the iconic but outdated stadium.

The 100,000-seater venue was the club's biggest source of income and they will have to be creative to stay competitive within the restrictions of LaLiga's FFP rules for the second season in a row.

Last year, the club signed a shirt and stadium sponsorship deal with audio streaming platform Spotify in an agreement worth 280 million euros.

They also agreed to sell a 25% stake in their LaLiga TV rights for the next 25 years to U.S. private equity group Sixth Street for 607.5 million euros and approved the sale of a minority share of their audio-visual division to Socios.com and Orpheus Media for 200 million.

It has been reported that they are trying to sell another percentage of their audio-visual division to generate the margin they need to meet LaLiga's salary cap numbers.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is among several Barcelona players who have yet to be registered with LaLiga due to the club's breach of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, raising doubts about their participation in Sunday's season opener against Getafe.

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

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

Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign young striker Vitor Roque from Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, the Spanish champions said Wednesday. The 18-year-old forward will join Barca from the start of the 2024-25 season on a deal until the summer of 2031.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
FC Barcelona signs Vitor Roque! 🇧🇷
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1679087604489224192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"The release clause is fixed at 500 million euros ($551 million)," said Barcelona in a statement. Spanish reports suggest the Catalans will pay 30 million euros for the Brazil striker with another 31 million euros in potential add-ons. Barcelona have brought in Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez on free transfers this summer, with the Catalan giants still suffering from financial difficulties.

They are currently able to spend only 50 per cent of any savings or new income because of La Liga financial restrictions on clubs exceeding their spending limit, as determined by the Spanish league.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lionel-messi-arrives-in-florida-to-finalise-inter-miami-move-614598">Football: Lionel Messi arrives in Florida to finalise Inter Miami move</a>

Roque, one of the hottest prospects in Brazilian football, has scored six goals in his last six games. The forward made his debut for the Brazilian national team in March and is able to play in wider areas as well as through the middle. Roque finished as the top goalscorer at the South American Under-20 championship earlier this year with six goals as Brazil triumphed.

Barcelona are still looking for a holding midfielder to replace captain Sergio Busquets, who left the club at the end of last season to join Inter Miami.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign young striker Vitor Roque from Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, the Spanish champions said Wednesday. The 18-year-old forward will join Barca from the start of the 2024-25 season on a deal until the summer of 2031.

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

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

Getafe&nbsp;will face champions&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;without supporters at home in the first match of the new La Liga season after being punished for a pitch invasion in 2017. Spain's Supreme Court, the country's highest judicial body, overturned a decision from the National Court to annul the sanction, in a document seen by AFP on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Getafe&nbsp;supporters invaded the pitch at the Madrid club's Coliseum Alfonso Perez stadium after beating Tenerife to earn promotion to La Liga six years ago, provoking opposition supporters and forcing the match officials to run to their dressing room.

The visit of&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;is one of the most lucrative fixtures of the season for&nbsp;Getafe, but President Angel Torres said he was sad for the supporters. "If what they want is to punish our fans, we will have no choice but to accept it," Torres told AS on Monday. "I feel more sorry for our fans than for the club's finances."

Getafe&nbsp;host&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;on August 13, on the opening weekend of La Liga.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ange-postecoglou-has-no-assurances-about-harry-kane-staying-in-tottenham-614142">Football: Ange Postecoglou has no 'assurances' about Harry Kane staying in Tottenham</a>

The Supreme Court decided&nbsp;Getafe&nbsp;were not being punished twice for the same incident after the Madrid government had fined the club. This dispute contributed to the long delay in fulfilling the sanction and was the reason the National Court decided to cancel it.

Espanyol were hit with a two-game stadium closure after their fans invaded the pitch and chased away&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;players in May.

The Catalan giants clinched the 2022-23 title against their city rivals and celebrated on the pitch, with Espanyol fans storming the field in anger.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Getafe will face champions Barcelona without supporters at home in the first match of the new La Liga season after being punished for a pitch invasion in 2017. Spain's Supreme Court, the country's highest judicial body, overturned a decision from the National Court to annul the sanction, in a document seen by AFP on Tuesday.

Getafe will face champions Barcelona without supporters at home in the first match of the new La Liga season after being punished for a pitch invasion in 2017. Spain's Supreme Court, the country's highest judicial body, overturned a decision from the National Court to annul the sanction, in a document seen by AFP on Tuesday. Getafe supporters invaded the pitch at the Madrid club's Coliseum Alfonso Perez stadium after beating Tenerife to earn promotion to La Liga six years ago, provoking opposition supporters and forcing the match officials to run to their dressing room. The visit of Barcelona is one of the most lucrative fixtures of the season for Getafe, but President Angel Torres said he was sad for the supporters. "If what they want is to punish our fans, we will have no choice but to accept it," Torres told AS on Monday. "I feel more sorry for our fans than for the club's finances." Getafe host Barcelona on August 13, on the opening weekend of La Liga. Also Read: Football: Ange Postecoglou has no 'assurances' about Harry Kane staying in Tottenham The Supreme Court decided Getafe were not being punished twice for the same incident after the Madrid government had fined the club. This dispute contributed to the long delay in fulfilling the sanction and was the reason the National Court decided to cancel it. Espanyol were hit with a two-game stadium closure after their fans invaded the pitch and chased away Barcelona players in May. The Catalan giants clinched the 2022-23 title against their city rivals and celebrated on the pitch, with Espanyol fans storming the field in anger. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Champions Barcelona to start title defence against Getafe behind closed doors

Atletico Madrid have signed Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta on a one-year deal as a free agent, the LaLiga side said on Thursday following his departure from Chelsea after 11 seasons. Azpilicueta has joined Atletico after the Premier League club agreed to let him go with 12 months left on his contract. The 33-year-old returns to Spain after 13 years, where he last spent three seasons at Osasuna from 2007-2010.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🆕 ¡<a href="https://twitter.com/CesarAzpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CesarAzpi</a> es nuevo jugador rojiblanco! 🔴⚪ 
 
🖊 El internacional español ha firmado por una temporada con nuestra entidad! 
 
➡ <a href="https://t.co/gRmMAEk5xV">https://t.co/gRmMAEk5xV</a> 
 
👋 ¡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BienvenidoAzpilicueta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BienvenidoAzpilicueta</a>! 🤗 <a href="https://t.co/JSYvQCEf3j">pic.twitter.com/JSYvQCEf3j</a>
— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atleti/status/1676962396651552770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</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>

Azpilicueta was a mainstay at Chelsea after arriving from Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille in 2012, making more than 500 appearances in all competitions, scoring 17 goals, providing 56 assists and winning every major title with the club.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/vOUwNZ1y44">pic.twitter.com/vOUwNZ1y44</a>
— César Azpilicueta (@CesarAzpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/CesarAzpi/status/1676941081437429760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</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>

"Cesar leaves an everlasting mark at Chelsea, as a warrior, as a champion, and as a loyal Chelsea legend," the west London club's chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali said in a joint statement. "He has set the standards at the club for more than a decade and demonstrated to everyone what is required day in, day out to achieve success."

The Champions League, Premier League, Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup winner was linked with a move to Serie A side Inter Milan before deciding on Atletico as his next destination.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-clear-that-i-wasnt-in-chelseas-plans-says-man-uniteds-new-recruit-mason-mount-612745">It was clear that I wasn't in Chelsea's plans, says Manchester United's new recruit Mason Mount</a>

He joins a growing list of players to leave Stamford Bridge this close season after the exits of Kalidou Koulibaly, N'Golo Kante and Edouard Mendy, who all joined Saudi Pro League clubs.

Kai Havertz, Mateo Kovacic and academy product Mason Mount have signed for rivals Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United, respectively.

Chelsea have signed forwards Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson as they seek to revive their fortunes under former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino after finishing 12th last term - their worst finish to a season since 1994.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Atletico Madrid have signed Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta on a one-year deal as a free agent, the LaLiga side said on Thursday following his departure from Chelsea after 11 seasons.

Atletico Madrid have signed Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta on a one-year deal as a free agent, the LaLiga side said on Thursday following his departure from Chelsea after 11 seasons. Azpilicueta has joined Atletico after the Premier League club agreed to let him go with 12 months left on his contract. The 33-year-old returns to Spain after 13 years, where he last spent three seasons at Osasuna from 2007-2010. 🆕 ¡@CesarAzpi es nuevo jugador rojiblanco! 🔴⚪ 🖊 El internacional español ha firmado por una temporada con nuestra entidad! ➡ https://t.co/gRmMAEk5xV 👋 ¡#BienvenidoAzpilicueta! 🤗 pic.twitter.com/JSYvQCEf3j — Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) July 6, 2023 × Azpilicueta was a mainstay at Chelsea after arriving from Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille in 2012, making more than 500 appearances in all competitions, scoring 17 goals, providing 56 assists and winning every major title with the club. pic.twitter.com/vOUwNZ1y44 — César Azpilicueta (@CesarAzpi) July 6, 2023 × "Cesar leaves an everlasting mark at Chelsea, as a warrior, as a champion, and as a loyal Chelsea legend," the west London club's chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali said in a joint statement. "He has set the standards at the club for more than a decade and demonstrated to everyone what is required day in, day out to achieve success." The Champions League, Premier League, Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup winner was linked with a move to Serie A side Inter Milan before deciding on Atletico as his next destination. ALSO READ: It was clear that I wasn't in Chelsea's plans, says Manchester United's new recruit Mason Mount He joins a growing list of players to leave Stamford Bridge this close season after the exits of Kalidou Koulibaly, N'Golo Kante and Edouard Mendy, who all joined Saudi Pro League clubs. Kai Havertz, Mateo Kovacic and academy product Mason Mount have signed for rivals Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United, respectively. Chelsea have signed forwards Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson as they seek to revive their fortunes under former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino after finishing 12th last term - their worst finish to a season since 1994. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chelsea legend Cesar Azpilicueta joins La Liga side Atletico Madrid as free agent

Barcelona are all set to kick off their La Liga title defence against capital side Getafe on August 12 as they try to win back-to-back titles for the first time since 2019. The Spanish champions won their first La Liga title in four seasons in May as they ended the four-year drought of domestic title silverware. On the horizon, record champions Real Madrid will play Athletic Bilbao away from home as they try to clinch glory after the 2022 title win. The first El Clasico in La Liga will take place on October 29 while Real’s first local derby against Atletico Madrid will take place on September 24.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Your club's debut, derby, last game of the season... ⚽ 
 
🗓 Make sure you know what's going on every matchday in the First Division! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LALIGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LALIGA</a>
— LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1671862874170376192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</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>

<h2>Barcelona begin title defence at Getafe</h2>

Defending champions Barcelona will look to kick start their title defence on a high as they take on Getafe away from home with fresh blood in their veins. The squad is going through a significant overhaul in the summer as they said goodbye to Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. The club will play all their home matches at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium as their traditional home Camp Nou is under construction. Barcelona are active in the transfer market and are looking to sign the likes of Joao Cancelo while İlkay Gündoğan is almost done.

<h2>First El Clasico set for October</h2>

The first La Liga El Clasico of the season will take place on October 29 at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium with the return leg scheduled for April 21 next year. The teams could also meet in the final of the Spanish Super Cup if they win their respective semifinal matches. Barcelona are scheduled to play Osasuna while Real host Atletico in January at a neutral venue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bell-claims-australia-have-more-to-work-on-despite-cummins-cos-narrow-win-in-edgbaston-607319">Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins &amp; Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston</a>

<h2>Real Madrid face tough task on opening day</h2>

Carlo Ancelotti’s side will start their campaign against Athletic Bilbao while their tough tests traditional derby affair will see them play Atletico on September 24 at the Estadio Metropolitano. The return affair between the sides will take place on February 2 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Real will look to reclaim the La Liga title for a record 36th time when the season begins.

The last of the season will see arch-rivals Real and Barcelona face Andalusians prospect as the former hosts Real Betis while the latter travels to Europa League winners Sevilla.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Barcelona are all set to kick off their La Liga title defence against capital side Getafe on August 12 as they try to win back-to-back titles for the first time since 2019.

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

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

Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema has signed for Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad for three years starting next season, a source in the Jeddah-based club told AFP on Tuesday.

"Benzema has signed a contract for his transfer to Al-Ittihad for a three-year period starting next season," the Saudi club source said.

Real Madrid announced on Sunday that the 35-year-old was leaving the club after 14 seasons, the day after coach Carlo Ancelotti had said there was "no doubt" Benzema's future lay in the Spanish capital.

<h2>New Beginning for Benzema</h2>

If the move is confirmed, Benzema will join his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in the Gulf kingdom after the five-time world player of the year moved to Al Nassr from Manchester United following last year's World Cup.

Lionel Messi, who is leaving Paris Saint-Germain after two seasons, has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.

Senior officials from another Saudi Arabian club, Al Hilal, have flown to France to try and seal a deal for Messi after the 35-year-old Argentinian played his last game for PSG at the weekend, two sources with knowledge of the matter told AFP on Sunday.

The Saudi delegation plans to meet Messi's father and agent, Jorge, with the aiming of completing the signing as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Benzema joined Madrid in 2009 from Ligue 1 side Lyon.

He made 648 appearances for Madrid and is second on Real's all-time goalscoring list with 354 -- only Ronaldo has more.

He has lifted five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles and three Copas del Rey with Madrid.

But after a stellar 2021-22 season when he led Real to Champions League glory and was rewarded with the Ballon d'Or, he was troubled by injuries in the just-completed season and had to miss France's World Cup campaign in Qatar last year with a thigh problem.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-may-pull-out-of-asia-cup-if-hybrid-model-rejected-report-601189">Pakistan may pull out of Asia Cup if hybrid model is rejected: Report</a>

<h2>Benzema's goodbye to Real</h2>

Benzema held a goodbye ceremony at Real's training ground on Tuesday.

"It hurts me, because I had a dream in my head - to sign for Madrid, and finish at Madrid," he told an audience of his teammates and club officials.

"But sometimes life gives you other opportunities," he added.

Saudi Arabia has drawn up a list of more than 10 players who have won either the Champions League or the World Cup that it wants to lure to its league, a source close to the negotiations has told AFP.

The list includes Real Madrid and Croatia midfielder Luka Modric, Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and his France teammate N'Golo Kante. All are at the tail-end of their careers.

The world's biggest oil producer has ambitions to host the World Cup in 2030 or 2034 and is betting on sport to help revamp its austere image, which has earned accusations from rights groups that it is "sportswashing."

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema has signed for Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad for three years starting next season, a source in the Jeddah-based club told AFP on Tuesday.

Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema has signed for Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad for three years starting next season, a source in the Jeddah-based club told AFP on Tuesday. "Benzema has signed a contract for his transfer to Al-Ittihad for a three-year period starting next season," the Saudi club source said. Real Madrid announced on Sunday that the 35-year-old was leaving the club after 14 seasons, the day after coach Carlo Ancelotti had said there was "no doubt" Benzema's future lay in the Spanish capital. New Beginning for Benzema If the move is confirmed, Benzema will join his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in the Gulf kingdom after the five-time world player of the year moved to Al Nassr from Manchester United following last year's World Cup. Lionel Messi, who is leaving Paris Saint-Germain after two seasons, has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. Senior officials from another Saudi Arabian club, Al Hilal, have flown to France to try and seal a deal for Messi after the 35-year-old Argentinian played his last game for PSG at the weekend, two sources with knowledge of the matter told AFP on Sunday. The Saudi delegation plans to meet Messi's father and agent, Jorge, with the aiming of completing the signing as soon as possible. Benzema joined Madrid in 2009 from Ligue 1 side Lyon. He made 648 appearances for Madrid and is second on Real's all-time goalscoring list with 354 -- only Ronaldo has more. He has lifted five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles and three Copas del Rey with Madrid. But after a stellar 2021-22 season when he led Real to Champions League glory and was rewarded with the Ballon d'Or, he was troubled by injuries in the just-completed season and had to miss France's World Cup campaign in Qatar last year with a thigh problem. ALSO READ | Pakistan may pull out of Asia Cup if hybrid model is rejected: Report Benzema's goodbye to Real Benzema held a goodbye ceremony at Real's training ground on Tuesday. "It hurts me, because I had a dream in my head - to sign for Madrid, and finish at Madrid," he told an audience of his teammates and club officials. "But sometimes life gives you other opportunities," he added. Saudi Arabia has drawn up a list of more than 10 players who have won either the Champions League or the World Cup that it wants to lure to its league, a source close to the negotiations has told AFP. The list includes Real Madrid and Croatia midfielder Luka Modric, Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and his France teammate N'Golo Kante. All are at the tail-end of their careers. The world's biggest oil producer has ambitions to host the World Cup in 2030 or 2034 and is betting on sport to help revamp its austere image, which has earned accusations from rights groups that it is "sportswashing." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Karim Benzema signs for Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad after Real Madrid exit - Reports

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr's red card in Sunday's La Liga match at Valencia, in which he was also racially abused, has been rescinded, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said on Tuesday.

The Brazilian winger was sent off in stoppage time by referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea for striking an opponent following a scuffle with Valencia players in which Vinicius appeared to be grabbed around the neck.

Vinicius had earlier been racially abused by fans at the Mestalla Stadium, which led to the game being halted for 10 minutes as the player pointed out people who were abusing him in the stands.

"The RFEF Competition Committee considers that the referee's assessment was determined by the omission of the entirety of the play that took place, which affected the refereeing decision," the federation said.

"The fact that he (the referee) was deprived of a decisive part of the facts led him to adopt an arbitrary decision. And this is because it was impossible for him to properly assess what happened."

Seven people accused of different hate crimes against Vinicius were detained by the Spanish police earlier on Tuesday.

The RFEF also announced that it had fined the club 45,000 euros ($49,536) and that the south stand of the Valencia stadium will be partially closed for five matches.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr's red card in Sunday's La Liga match at Valencia, in which he was also racially abused, has been rescinded, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said on Tuesday.

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr's red card in Sunday's La Liga match at Valencia, in which he was also racially abused, has been rescinded, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said on Tuesday. The Brazilian winger was sent off in stoppage time by referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea for striking an opponent following a scuffle with Valencia players in which Vinicius appeared to be grabbed around the neck. Vinicius had earlier been racially abused by fans at the Mestalla Stadium, which led to the game being halted for 10 minutes as the player pointed out people who were abusing him in the stands. "The RFEF Competition Committee considers that the referee's assessment was determined by the omission of the entirety of the play that took place, which affected the refereeing decision," the federation said. "The fact that he (the referee) was deprived of a decisive part of the facts led him to adopt an arbitrary decision. And this is because it was impossible for him to properly assess what happened." Seven people accused of different hate crimes against Vinicius were detained by the Spanish police earlier on Tuesday. The RFEF also announced that it had fined the club 45,000 euros ($49,536) and that the south stand of the Valencia stadium will be partially closed for five matches. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr has red card rescinded, Valencia stadium partially closed for 5 matches

Real Valladolid earned an important 3-1 victory over champions Barcelona to boost their La Liga survival hopes on Tuesday.

The hosts were good value for their victory and climbed to 17th, moving provisionally three points clear of the relegation zone.

Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen sent Valladolid on their way by heading into his own net in the second minute.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrids-vinicius-jr-has-red-card-rescinded-595763">Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr has red card rescinded</a>

Canadian striker Cyle Larin added the second from the penalty spot after Eric Garcia tripped Gonzalo Plata in the area, with the Ecuadorian winger scoring the third on the break.

La Liga's top goalscorer Robert Lewandowski pulled one back for the Catalans in the final stages.

Barcelona winger Raphinha revealed a message of support for Real Madrid winger and Brazil compatriot Vinicius Junior in the second half when he was substituted.

Vinicius was racially abused by Valencia fans on Sunday at their Mestalla stadium.

"I didn't know he was going to do it but I think it's a good message, because racism has to end," Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong told DAZN, after Raphinha took his shirt off to show the message after being substituted.

Players from both sides held up a banner reading "racists out of football" before the game, as part of a La Liga and Spanish football federation initiative following the abuse on Sunday.

Young playmaker Pablo Torre started for the first time in La Liga for Barcelona and put in a bright performance but his team were sluggish as a whole and fell to a second consecutive defeat.

"Pablo had a good game, he was good in his position, he played through a lot of good passes and linked up well with Robert," Xavi told reporters.

Goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is still chasing the La Liga clean sheet record of 26 -- he has 25 with two matches remaining.

"In the first half we were not good, we let in two goals because of our own mistakes. We had an objective, we completed it, and that has caused a dip in concentration," said Xavi.

"We have had a great season, but for our fans, and to say goodbye to (Sergio) Busquets, we have to do better."

<h2>Closing in</h2>

Real Sociedad put one foot into next season's Champions League with a 1-0 win over 10-man Almeria.

Takefusa Kubo's first-half strike gave Imanol Alguacil's side, fourth, an eight-point lead on fifth-place Villarreal, who face Cadiz on Wednesday.

Almeria striker Luis Suarez was dismissed after 36 minutes for a rough tackle on defender Robin Le Normand.&nbsp;

Japanese winger Kubo took his goal brilliantly, cutting in from the right and curling into the top left corner in first-half stoppage time.

Alexander Sorloth could have doubled La Real's lead late on but fired narrowly wide. Ander Barrenetxea hit the post.

Real Sociedad have not played in Europe's premier competition since the 2013-14 season and can qualify if Villarreal fail to win any of their last three matches or by earning two more points themselves.&nbsp;

Defeat leaves Almeria provisionally 15th, four points above the relegation zone.

Celta Vigo, 14th, were held to a 1-1 home draw by Girona and are five points above the relegation zone.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Real Valladolid earned an important 3-1 victory over champions Barcelona to boost their La Liga survival hopes on Tuesday. The hosts were good value for their victory and climbed to 17th, moving provisionally three points clear of the relegation zone.

Real Valladolid earned an important 3-1 victory over champions Barcelona to boost their La Liga survival hopes on Tuesday. The hosts were good value for their victory and climbed to 17th, moving provisionally three points clear of the relegation zone. Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen sent Valladolid on their way by heading into his own net in the second minute. Also Read: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr has red card rescinded Canadian striker Cyle Larin added the second from the penalty spot after Eric Garcia tripped Gonzalo Plata in the area, with the Ecuadorian winger scoring the third on the break. La Liga's top goalscorer Robert Lewandowski pulled one back for the Catalans in the final stages. Barcelona winger Raphinha revealed a message of support for Real Madrid winger and Brazil compatriot Vinicius Junior in the second half when he was substituted. Vinicius was racially abused by Valencia fans on Sunday at their Mestalla stadium. "I didn't know he was going to do it but I think it's a good message, because racism has to end," Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong told DAZN, after Raphinha took his shirt off to show the message after being substituted. Players from both sides held up a banner reading "racists out of football" before the game, as part of a La Liga and Spanish football federation initiative following the abuse on Sunday. Young playmaker Pablo Torre started for the first time in La Liga for Barcelona and put in a bright performance but his team were sluggish as a whole and fell to a second consecutive defeat. "Pablo had a good game, he was good in his position, he played through a lot of good passes and linked up well with Robert," Xavi told reporters. Goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is still chasing the La Liga clean sheet record of 26 -- he has 25 with two matches remaining. "In the first half we were not good, we let in two goals because of our own mistakes. We had an objective, we completed it, and that has caused a dip in concentration," said Xavi. "We have had a great season, but for our fans, and to say goodbye to (Sergio) Busquets, we have to do better." Closing in Real Sociedad put one foot into next season's Champions League with a 1-0 win over 10-man Almeria. Takefusa Kubo's first-half strike gave Imanol Alguacil's side, fourth, an eight-point lead on fifth-place Villarreal, who face Cadiz on Wednesday. Almeria striker Luis Suarez was dismissed after 36 minutes for a rough tackle on defender Robin Le Normand. Japanese winger Kubo took his goal brilliantly, cutting in from the right and curling into the top left corner in first-half stoppage time. Alexander Sorloth could have doubled La Real's lead late on but fired narrowly wide. Ander Barrenetxea hit the post. Real Sociedad have not played in Europe's premier competition since the 2013-14 season and can qualify if Villarreal fail to win any of their last three matches or by earning two more points themselves. Defeat leaves Almeria provisionally 15th, four points above the relegation zone. Celta Vigo, 14th, were held to a 1-1 home draw by Girona and are five points above the relegation zone. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Valladolid beat Barcelona 3-1 to keep survival hopes alive

Jordi Alba will leave Barcelona at the end of the season after 11 years at the club, the Catalan side said Wednesday.

"Barcelona and Alba have reached an agreement to release the player from the contract that he had until the end of the 2023-24 season," said Barcelona in a statement.&nbsp;

"Barcelona publicly expresses its gratitude to Jordi Alba for the professionalism, commitment, dedication and always positive and warm treatment he has always shown towards everything that makes up the Barcelona family."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
FC Barcelona and Jordi Alba have reached an agreement to terminate the latter's contract binding him to the club until the end of the 2023/24 season
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1661350666575437825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2023</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>

Alba joined Barcelona from Valencia in 2012 and won six La Liga titles and one Champions League among 19 trophies with the Catalan giants.

The 34-year-old veteran Spanish left-back lost his place in the team to teenager Alejandro Balde this season.

Alba had one more year left on his contract, which expires in 2024, and Spanish reports say he will waive a significant percentage of the money due to help the club amid financial struggles.

The Spaniard follows in the footsteps of captain Sergio Busquets, who is also leaving the club this summer.

The pair will play their final home match at Camp Nou against Real Mallorca on Sunday.

Alba has played over 450 times for Barcelona, scoring 27 goals and providing 91 assists as a vital outlet on the left flank.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-that-an-excuse-for-4-0-mitchell-starc-hits-back-at-stuart-broads-bio-bubble-remark-on-ashes-2021-595925">&nbsp;'Is that an excuse for 4-0': Mitchell Starc hits back at Stuart Broad's bio-bubble remark on Ashes 2021</a>

The defender's recent goal against Osasuna earned Barcelona a 1-0 win and took them to the brink of the title.

He also won the 2012 European Championship with Spain, scoring in the 4-0 win over Italy in the final.

One of his finest seasons came in 2015 under Luis Enrique, when he helped Barcelona win the treble.

The left-back has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia like Busquets and Lionel Messi, the former Barcelona playmaker who is leaving Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.

Alba joined Barcelona's academy as a teenager before leaving for Cornella and then Valencia, returning to Camp Nou for 14 million euros ($15 million).

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Jordi Alba will leave Barcelona at the end of the season after 11 years at the club, the Catalan side said Wednesday. "Barcelona and Alba have reached an agreement to release the player from the contract that he had until the end of the 2023-24 season," said Barcelona in a statement.

Jordi Alba will leave Barcelona at the end of the season after 11 years at the club, the Catalan side said Wednesday. "Barcelona and Alba have reached an agreement to release the player from the contract that he had until the end of the 2023-24 season," said Barcelona in a statement. "Barcelona publicly expresses its gratitude to Jordi Alba for the professionalism, commitment, dedication and always positive and warm treatment he has always shown towards everything that makes up the Barcelona family." FC Barcelona and Jordi Alba have reached an agreement to terminate the latter's contract binding him to the club until the end of the 2023/24 season — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 24, 2023 × Alba joined Barcelona from Valencia in 2012 and won six La Liga titles and one Champions League among 19 trophies with the Catalan giants. The 34-year-old veteran Spanish left-back lost his place in the team to teenager Alejandro Balde this season. Alba had one more year left on his contract, which expires in 2024, and Spanish reports say he will waive a significant percentage of the money due to help the club amid financial struggles. The Spaniard follows in the footsteps of captain Sergio Busquets, who is also leaving the club this summer. The pair will play their final home match at Camp Nou against Real Mallorca on Sunday. Alba has played over 450 times for Barcelona, scoring 27 goals and providing 91 assists as a vital outlet on the left flank. ALSO READ | 'Is that an excuse for 4-0': Mitchell Starc hits back at Stuart Broad's bio-bubble remark on Ashes 2021 The defender's recent goal against Osasuna earned Barcelona a 1-0 win and took them to the brink of the title. He also won the 2012 European Championship with Spain, scoring in the 4-0 win over Italy in the final. One of his finest seasons came in 2015 under Luis Enrique, when he helped Barcelona win the treble. The left-back has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia like Busquets and Lionel Messi, the former Barcelona playmaker who is leaving Paris Saint-Germain in the summer. Alba joined Barcelona's academy as a teenager before leaving for Cornella and then Valencia, returning to Camp Nou for 14 million euros ($15 million). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Barcelona veteran Jordi Alba to leave club after 11 years; joins Sergio Busquets in high-profile exit

Spanish police arrested seven people Tuesday over two incidents of racial abuse targeting Real Madrid's Brazilian star Vinicius Junior, including one this weekend that sparked an international outcry.

Spain's football league, La Liga, has been engulfed in a racism scandal after the 22-year-old forward was subjected to racist taunts during Sunday's 1-0 defeat at Valencia and later sent off.

The player has been taunted by opposition fans since he joined Real in 2018 but the latest incident has kicked up a storm over whether Spain is doing enough to stamp out racism in football.

Early on Tuesday, police confirmed arresting three youths in Valencia for "insults and gestures with racist overtones" towards the player that amounted to "an alleged hate crime" during Sunday's match.

The game was held up for several minutes and the referee wrote in his post-match report that shouts of "monkey" had been directed at Vinicius.

Police said the investigation remained open to identify further suspects.

In a statement, Valencia confirmed three fans had been arrested, reiterating its "strongest condemnation against racism and violence" and saying the club was acting against those involved "by banning them for life from our stadium".

Also Tuesday, Madrid police arrested another four men suspected of hanging an effigy wearing a Real Madrid shirt with Vinicius' number on it from a bridge in January.

The dummy was hung by the neck from a highway bridge near Real Madrid's training ground on January 26 ahead of their match against Atletico Madrid.

Above it was a banner in Atletico's red and white reading: "Madrid hates Real".

<h2>'Take drastic measures'</h2>

Government spokeswoman Isabel Rodriquez welcomed the arrests, saying they showed Spanish authorities had "zero tolerance" for racism in sports.

"We must clearly say we are anti-racists, Spain fights these behaviours, condemns them and does everything to eliminate them," she added.

The Brazilian government has formally protested to the Spanish ambassador and will lodge an official complaint with authorities in Madrid.

Brazil "deeply regrets that no effective measures have yet been taken to prevent the recurrence of these racist acts," it said in a statement.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Sunday's incident showed FIFA's racism protocol in football was "obsolete".

Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea activated the racism protocol after Vinicius squared off with fans, singling out one supporter whom he accused of abuse.&nbsp;

But Ancelotti said the protocol should have been "applied when the team bus reached the stadium, because the insults started there".

"It's a moment to take drastic measures. Institutions have chances, above all now, to take radical measures on this important subject," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-prepares-action-plan-of-asia-cup-hybrid-model-as-demanded-by-bcci-sources-595360">PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources</a>

<h2>'Bring more light'</h2>

Vinicius was sent off later in Sunday's game for hitting Valencia's Hugo Duro after the referee watched VAR footage of a brawl between the two teams.&nbsp;

Spain's refereeing committee on Tuesday sidelined official Ignacio Iglesias Villanueva for his upcoming matches after his involvement in awarding Vinicius a red card against Valencia.&nbsp;

During the match, Iglesias Villanueva was in charge of VAR but the video he showed the referee did not include footage of Duro grabbing the Brazilian around the neck before the incident -- which would also have been a red card offence.

Vinicius was dismissed and will likely miss the next two or three matches, meaning he may not play again for Madrid this season.

Spanish media said Iglesias Villanueva had been sacked but the Spanish football federation would not confirm that when questioned by AFP.

There is growing anger in Brazil over the incident, with the lights on the Christ the Redeemer statue&nbsp;in Rio de Janeiro turned off for one hour in solidarity with the player.

"Black and imposing," Vinicius tweeted of the darkened statue, saying he was moved and thanking followers for their support.&nbsp;

"But I want, above all, to inspire and bring more light to our fight," he added.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Spanish police arrested seven people Tuesday over two incidents of racial abuse targeting Real Madrid's Brazilian star Vinicius Junior, including one this weekend that sparked an international outcry.

Spanish police arrested seven people Tuesday over two incidents of racial abuse targeting Real Madrid's Brazilian star Vinicius Junior, including one this weekend that sparked an international outcry. Spain's football league, La Liga, has been engulfed in a racism scandal after the 22-year-old forward was subjected to racist taunts during Sunday's 1-0 defeat at Valencia and later sent off. The player has been taunted by opposition fans since he joined Real in 2018 but the latest incident has kicked up a storm over whether Spain is doing enough to stamp out racism in football. Early on Tuesday, police confirmed arresting three youths in Valencia for "insults and gestures with racist overtones" towards the player that amounted to "an alleged hate crime" during Sunday's match. The game was held up for several minutes and the referee wrote in his post-match report that shouts of "monkey" had been directed at Vinicius. Police said the investigation remained open to identify further suspects. In a statement, Valencia confirmed three fans had been arrested, reiterating its "strongest condemnation against racism and violence" and saying the club was acting against those involved "by banning them for life from our stadium". Also Tuesday, Madrid police arrested another four men suspected of hanging an effigy wearing a Real Madrid shirt with Vinicius' number on it from a bridge in January. The dummy was hung by the neck from a highway bridge near Real Madrid's training ground on January 26 ahead of their match against Atletico Madrid. Above it was a banner in Atletico's red and white reading: "Madrid hates Real". 'Take drastic measures' Government spokeswoman Isabel Rodriquez welcomed the arrests, saying they showed Spanish authorities had "zero tolerance" for racism in sports. "We must clearly say we are anti-racists, Spain fights these behaviours, condemns them and does everything to eliminate them," she added. The Brazilian government has formally protested to the Spanish ambassador and will lodge an official complaint with authorities in Madrid. Brazil "deeply regrets that no effective measures have yet been taken to prevent the recurrence of these racist acts," it said in a statement. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Sunday's incident showed FIFA's racism protocol in football was "obsolete". Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea activated the racism protocol after Vinicius squared off with fans, singling out one supporter whom he accused of abuse. But Ancelotti said the protocol should have been "applied when the team bus reached the stadium, because the insults started there". "It's a moment to take drastic measures. Institutions have chances, above all now, to take radical measures on this important subject," he added. ALSO READ | PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources 'Bring more light' Vinicius was sent off later in Sunday's game for hitting Valencia's Hugo Duro after the referee watched VAR footage of a brawl between the two teams. Spain's refereeing committee on Tuesday sidelined official Ignacio Iglesias Villanueva for his upcoming matches after his involvement in awarding Vinicius a red card against Valencia. During the match, Iglesias Villanueva was in charge of VAR but the video he showed the referee did not include footage of Duro grabbing the Brazilian around the neck before the incident -- which would also have been a red card offence. Vinicius was dismissed and will likely miss the next two or three matches, meaning he may not play again for Madrid this season. Spanish media said Iglesias Villanueva had been sacked but the Spanish football federation would not confirm that when questioned by AFP. There is growing anger in Brazil over the incident, with the lights on the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro turned off for one hour in solidarity with the player. "Black and imposing," Vinicius tweeted of the darkened statue, saying he was moved and thanking followers for their support. "But I want, above all, to inspire and bring more light to our fight," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spanish police arrest seven over Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr racism incidents

The La Liga&nbsp;contest on Sunday, May 21 saw volatile scenes as Real Madrid lost 0-1 to relegation-threatened Valencia. However, the contest will be remembered for all the wrong reasons after Madrid star Vinicius Jr was sent off while he was racially abused by a section of Valencia fans with turbulent scenes taking place after the match. Vinicius posted an emotional message on his Instagram handle to condemn the act of racism and has since been in the limelight.

&nbsp;

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CshKhcAo9K_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CshKhcAo9K_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CshKhcAo9K_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CshKhcAo9K_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Vinicius Jr. ⚡️🇧🇷 (@vinijr)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>Who is Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr?</h2>

Born on July 12, 2000, in the locality of São Gonçalo in Brazil, Vinicius started his career as a futsal player before taking football lessons. Having joined the youth academy of Flamengo in 2010, it was not until the 2017 season he made his senior debut for the Brazilian giants. While he made his debut for Flamengo on 13 May, just 10 days later he signed for Real Madrid, which technically come into effect after his 18th birthday in 2018.

He transferred for a reported fee of €46 million ($49mn approx), which was at the time&nbsp;the second-most expensive sale of a player in the history of Brazilian football (behind only Neymar), the largest amount received by a Brazilian club for a transfer, and the highest amount ever paid by a club for a footballer under the age of 19.

On 20 July 2018, he was officially presented as a Real Madrid player. He was issued squad number 28. He made his debut on 29 September, coming in as an 87th-minute substitute in a goalless draw against Atlético Madrid.

While getting into the team was a herculean task for Vinicius, his brace against Levante in La Liga in the 3-3 draw saw him earn a place ahead of Eden Hazard for the 2021-22 season. He scored the brace after coming on as a substitute and would take the spot permanently under Carlo Ancelotti. However, it was in the reverse fixture where he would lay down a marker as he scored a hat-trick against Levante in a 6-0 win for Real on 12 May 2022. Real would later capture the La Liga title, Ancelotti’s first with the club.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-prepares-action-plan-of-asia-cup-hybrid-model-as-demanded-by-bcci-sources-595360">PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources</a>

<h2>Champions League glory</h2>

In the same month, Vinicius scored a Champions League goal-of-the-season contender in a 3-4 defeat against Manchester City. While Real lost the first leg, a spectacular return for the Lo Blancos in the second leg saw them book their berth in the Champions League final. Real were losing 3-5 on aggregate in the 89th minute of the second leg, but came back to win 6-5 on the night.

Vinicius’ biggest moment though came in the 2022 Champions League final on May 28, when he nodded home the only goal of the final to clinch Real’s 14th European title.

He also represented Brazil at the 2021 Copa America and ended as runner-up while he was part of the team in the 2022 FIFA World Cup as well. Brazil were eliminated in the quarterfinal stage while Vinicius scored his first FIFA World Cup goal in a 4–1 win against South Korea in the round of 16 on 5 December, also setting up Lucas Paquetá's goal.

In the current season, Vinicius has scored 10 La Liga and seven Champions goals before his side faced elimination from the latter competition at the hands of Manchester City.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The La Liga contest on Sunday, May 21 saw volatile scenes as Real Madrid lost 0-1 to relegation-threatened Valencia. However, the contest will be remembered for all the wrong reasons after Madrid star Vinicius Jr was sent off while he was racially abused by a section of Valencia fans with turbulent scenes taking place after the match.

The La Liga contest on Sunday, May 21 saw volatile scenes as Real Madrid lost 0-1 to relegation-threatened Valencia. However, the contest will be remembered for all the wrong reasons after Madrid star Vinicius Jr was sent off while he was racially abused by a section of Valencia fans with turbulent scenes taking place after the match. Vinicius posted an emotional message on his Instagram handle to condemn the act of racism and has since been in the limelight. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vinicius Jr. ⚡️🇧🇷 (@vinijr) Who is Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr? Born on July 12, 2000, in the locality of São Gonçalo in Brazil, Vinicius started his career as a futsal player before taking football lessons. Having joined the youth academy of Flamengo in 2010, it was not until the 2017 season he made his senior debut for the Brazilian giants. While he made his debut for Flamengo on 13 May, just 10 days later he signed for Real Madrid, which technically come into effect after his 18th birthday in 2018. He transferred for a reported fee of €46 million ($49mn approx), which was at the time the second-most expensive sale of a player in the history of Brazilian football (behind only Neymar), the largest amount received by a Brazilian club for a transfer, and the highest amount ever paid by a club for a footballer under the age of 19. On 20 July 2018, he was officially presented as a Real Madrid player. He was issued squad number 28. He made his debut on 29 September, coming in as an 87th-minute substitute in a goalless draw against Atlético Madrid. While getting into the team was a herculean task for Vinicius, his brace against Levante in La Liga in the 3-3 draw saw him earn a place ahead of Eden Hazard for the 2021-22 season. He scored the brace after coming on as a substitute and would take the spot permanently under Carlo Ancelotti. However, it was in the reverse fixture where he would lay down a marker as he scored a hat-trick against Levante in a 6-0 win for Real on 12 May 2022. Real would later capture the La Liga title, Ancelotti’s first with the club. ALSO READ | PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources Champions League glory In the same month, Vinicius scored a Champions League goal-of-the-season contender in a 3-4 defeat against Manchester City. While Real lost the first leg, a spectacular return for the Lo Blancos in the second leg saw them book their berth in the Champions League final. Real were losing 3-5 on aggregate in the 89th minute of the second leg, but came back to win 6-5 on the night. Vinicius’ biggest moment though came in the 2022 Champions League final on May 28, when he nodded home the only goal of the final to clinch Real’s 14th European title. He also represented Brazil at the 2021 Copa America and ended as runner-up while he was part of the team in the 2022 FIFA World Cup as well. Brazil were eliminated in the quarterfinal stage while Vinicius scored his first FIFA World Cup goal in a 4–1 win against South Korea in the round of 16 on 5 December, also setting up Lucas Paquetá's goal. In the current season, Vinicius has scored 10 La Liga and seven Champions goals before his side faced elimination from the latter competition at the hands of Manchester City. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Vinicius Jr: All you need to know about Real Madrid star who is battling racial abuse

Spanish police detained four men on Tuesday in connection with an incident in which an effigy representing Brazilian soccer star Vinicius Jr was hung from a bridge in January, a day after a senior official said Spanish football had a racism problem.

A hate crime investigation was opened after an effigy wearing winger Vinicius Jr's No. 20 shirt was hung from a bridge in front of the training ground of Real Madrid, the player's team, along with a 16-metre red and white banner, the colours of rival team Atletico Madrid, that read "Madrid hates Real".

The arrests come a day after football federation chief Luis Rubiales said Spanish soccer has a racism problem, following a race-crime complaint lodged by Real Madrid.

After slurs were aimed at the Real Madrid player during a Spanish league match on Sunday, Vinicius Jr, in a social media post, called the racist abuse "inhuman" and asked sponsors and broadcasters to hold LaLiga accountable.

The four men could be responsible for an alleged hate crime and three of them are active members of "a radical group of fans of a Madrid club", police said. Those three members were previously identified during matches and qualified as "high risk" to help prevent violence in sport, they said.

LaLiga, the country's top football league, is under pressure to do more to combat racism after the Brazilian president, FIFA, and sporting stars such as France forward Kylian Mbappe, Rio Ferdinand and Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton voiced support for Vinicius.

However, the organisation said in a statement on Tuesday that "according to Spanish law, LaLiga can only detect and denounce, but not sanction the events that occur", and urged Spanish authorities to give it "sanctioning powers to be able to fight racism more effectively."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-prepares-action-plan-of-asia-cup-hybrid-model-as-demanded-by-bcci-sources-595360">PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources</a>

"LaLiga feels tremendous frustration at the lack of sanctions and convictions by sports disciplinary bodies, public administrations and jurisdictional bodies to which complaints are made," reads LaLiga's statement. It&nbsp;says it will file a formal request for the sports law to be modified.

The sanctions in Spanish soccer are handled by the Competition Committee of the Spanish FA (RFEF).

The effigy incident took place before Real hosted Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals in late January.

Valencia's sponsors Puma offered their support for Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr after he was racially abused during their LaLiga match in Spain on Sunday.

Vinicius called LaLiga and Spain "racist" after receiving racial slurs from fans in Sunday's game at Valencia's Mestalla Stadium.

The Brazil forward pointed out the fans who were insulting him, leading to the match being paused for 10 minutes, and then got into an altercation with Valencia's players which led to him being sent off in the second half. Real lost the game 1-0.

"At PUMA, we do not tolerate racism, we condemn discrimination in any form and stand in solidarity with Vinicius Junior and the wider football community in condemning events yesterday," Puma, which sponsors both Valencia and LaLiga, said in a statement to Reuters.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Spanish police detained four men on Tuesday in connection with an incident in which an effigy representing Brazilian soccer star Vinicius Jr was hung from a bridge in January, a day after a senior official said Spanish football had a racism problem.

Spanish police detained four men on Tuesday in connection with an incident in which an effigy representing Brazilian soccer star Vinicius Jr was hung from a bridge in January, a day after a senior official said Spanish football had a racism problem. A hate crime investigation was opened after an effigy wearing winger Vinicius Jr's No. 20 shirt was hung from a bridge in front of the training ground of Real Madrid, the player's team, along with a 16-metre red and white banner, the colours of rival team Atletico Madrid, that read "Madrid hates Real". The arrests come a day after football federation chief Luis Rubiales said Spanish soccer has a racism problem, following a race-crime complaint lodged by Real Madrid. After slurs were aimed at the Real Madrid player during a Spanish league match on Sunday, Vinicius Jr, in a social media post, called the racist abuse "inhuman" and asked sponsors and broadcasters to hold LaLiga accountable. The four men could be responsible for an alleged hate crime and three of them are active members of "a radical group of fans of a Madrid club", police said. Those three members were previously identified during matches and qualified as "high risk" to help prevent violence in sport, they said. LaLiga, the country's top football league, is under pressure to do more to combat racism after the Brazilian president, FIFA, and sporting stars such as France forward Kylian Mbappe, Rio Ferdinand and Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton voiced support for Vinicius. However, the organisation said in a statement on Tuesday that "according to Spanish law, LaLiga can only detect and denounce, but not sanction the events that occur", and urged Spanish authorities to give it "sanctioning powers to be able to fight racism more effectively." ALSO READ | PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources "LaLiga feels tremendous frustration at the lack of sanctions and convictions by sports disciplinary bodies, public administrations and jurisdictional bodies to which complaints are made," reads LaLiga's statement. It says it will file a formal request for the sports law to be modified. The sanctions in Spanish soccer are handled by the Competition Committee of the Spanish FA (RFEF). The effigy incident took place before Real hosted Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals in late January. Valencia's sponsors Puma offered their support for Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr after he was racially abused during their LaLiga match in Spain on Sunday. Vinicius called LaLiga and Spain "racist" after receiving racial slurs from fans in Sunday's game at Valencia's Mestalla Stadium. The Brazil forward pointed out the fans who were insulting him, leading to the match being paused for 10 minutes, and then got into an altercation with Valencia's players which led to him being sent off in the second half. Real lost the game 1-0. "At PUMA, we do not tolerate racism, we condemn discrimination in any form and stand in solidarity with Vinicius Junior and the wider football community in condemning events yesterday," Puma, which sponsors both Valencia and LaLiga, said in a statement to Reuters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spanish police detain four in connection with Vinicius Jr effigy hung from bridge

Spanish prosecutors have opened an investigation into the racist abuse hurled at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior as Brazil made a formal protest on Monday.&nbsp;

The 22-year-old Brazilian international has often been targeted by opposition fans in Spain's La Liga and was once more in a 1-0 loss at Valencia on Sunday.

The game was held up for several minutes and the referee wrote in his post-match report that shouts of "monkey" had been directed at Vinicius.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-deducted-10-points-after-initial-penalty-revised-595270">Juventus deducted 10 points after initial penalty revised</a>

The prosecutor's office in Valencia is investigating a possible hate crime, a judicial source told AFP.

Real Madrid said earlier it had filed a complaint "in order that the facts be investigated and those responsible be held accountable".

The club said the chants, in its view, "constitute a hate crime".

Brazil formally protested to the Spanish ambassador and will lodge an official complaint with authorities in Madrid.

There is growing anger in Brazil, where the lights of the Christ the Redeemer statue&nbsp;in Rio de Janeiro were turned off for one hour in solidarity with the player.&nbsp;

"Black and imposing," Vinicius tweeted of the darkened statue, saying he was moved and thanked followers for their support.&nbsp;

"But I want, above all, to inspire and bring more light to our fight," he added.&nbsp;

Vinicius has been racially abused at several stadiums this season in Spain. On one occasion, an effigy of him was hung from a bridge by Atletico Madrid fans.

During the Valencia match, Vinicius stood in front of home fans behind one goal and pointed to an apparent culprit. Play was delayed for several minutes in the second half.

Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea spoke to Mestalla stadium officials, who made an announcement calling for racist insults to stop before play resumed 10 minutes later.

Spain's&nbsp;government sports council is analysing crowd images to root out the fan or fans responsible.

The body has in similar incidents in the past proposed a one-year stadium ban and fine of 4,000 euros ($4,300) for those found guilty.

<h2>'Serious problem'</h2>

On a day of recriminations and soul-searching, the head of Spain's football federation said the country had a "problem" with racism.

"As long as there is just one fan, a single undesirable, or group of undesirables who hurl insults over someone's sexual orientation, or skin colour, we have a serious problem," Luis Rubiales said.

But Real Madrid heavily criticised Rubiales, saying his refusal to ensure FIFA protocols -- which suggest matches should be halted when racist abuse is heard -- are upheld in Spain is exacerbating the problem.

"His inaction has resulted in the helplessness and defencelessness of our player Vinicius," said the club, which hit out at the federation for failing to "prevent the situation".

La Liga argues it has been "proactive" in previous cases of racism against Vinicius.

Vinicius was sent off in added time at the end of the game for hitting Valencia player Hugo Duro during a brawl.

Real said the match officials "made unfair decisions based on incomplete images" when Vinicius was shown a red card.

After the match, Vinicius issued a strongly worded statement saying that "today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists".

"The league that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano (Ronaldo) and Messi now belongs to racists," Vinicius added.

<h2>Solidarity</h2>

World football and beyond have rallied around Vinicius and demanded action.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva condemned the abuse, telling a news conference at the close of the G7 summit in Hiroshima: "He was attacked. He was called a 'monkey'."

He called for the Spanish league to take "serious measures".

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Spanish football needed to be prepared to halt matches.

"The Spanish league has a problem, and Vinicius is not the problem. Vinicius is the victim," Ancelotti said on Sunday.

"What has happened today has happened before, but not like that, it's unacceptable," he told reporters.

FIFA reiterated that stopping matches is permitted as well as players walking off the pitch in their three-step approach when racist abuse takes place.&nbsp;

"Full solidarity with Vinicius," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Spanish prosecutors have opened an investigation into the racist abuse hurled at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior as Brazil made a formal protest on Monday. The 22-year-old Brazilian international has often been targeted by opposition fans in Spain's La Liga and was once more in a 1-0 loss at Valencia on Sunday.

Spanish prosecutors have opened an investigation into the racist abuse hurled at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior as Brazil made a formal protest on Monday. The 22-year-old Brazilian international has often been targeted by opposition fans in Spain's La Liga and was once more in a 1-0 loss at Valencia on Sunday. The game was held up for several minutes and the referee wrote in his post-match report that shouts of "monkey" had been directed at Vinicius. Also Read: Juventus deducted 10 points after initial penalty revised The prosecutor's office in Valencia is investigating a possible hate crime, a judicial source told AFP. Real Madrid said earlier it had filed a complaint "in order that the facts be investigated and those responsible be held accountable". The club said the chants, in its view, "constitute a hate crime". Brazil formally protested to the Spanish ambassador and will lodge an official complaint with authorities in Madrid. There is growing anger in Brazil, where the lights of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro were turned off for one hour in solidarity with the player. "Black and imposing," Vinicius tweeted of the darkened statue, saying he was moved and thanked followers for their support. "But I want, above all, to inspire and bring more light to our fight," he added. Vinicius has been racially abused at several stadiums this season in Spain. On one occasion, an effigy of him was hung from a bridge by Atletico Madrid fans. During the Valencia match, Vinicius stood in front of home fans behind one goal and pointed to an apparent culprit. Play was delayed for several minutes in the second half. Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea spoke to Mestalla stadium officials, who made an announcement calling for racist insults to stop before play resumed 10 minutes later. Spain's government sports council is analysing crowd images to root out the fan or fans responsible. The body has in similar incidents in the past proposed a one-year stadium ban and fine of 4,000 euros ($4,300) for those found guilty. 'Serious problem' On a day of recriminations and soul-searching, the head of Spain's football federation said the country had a "problem" with racism. "As long as there is just one fan, a single undesirable, or group of undesirables who hurl insults over someone's sexual orientation, or skin colour, we have a serious problem," Luis Rubiales said. But Real Madrid heavily criticised Rubiales, saying his refusal to ensure FIFA protocols -- which suggest matches should be halted when racist abuse is heard -- are upheld in Spain is exacerbating the problem. "His inaction has resulted in the helplessness and defencelessness of our player Vinicius," said the club, which hit out at the federation for failing to "prevent the situation". La Liga argues it has been "proactive" in previous cases of racism against Vinicius. Vinicius was sent off in added time at the end of the game for hitting Valencia player Hugo Duro during a brawl. Real said the match officials "made unfair decisions based on incomplete images" when Vinicius was shown a red card. After the match, Vinicius issued a strongly worded statement saying that "today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists". "The league that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano (Ronaldo) and Messi now belongs to racists," Vinicius added. Solidarity World football and beyond have rallied around Vinicius and demanded action. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva condemned the abuse, telling a news conference at the close of the G7 summit in Hiroshima: "He was attacked. He was called a 'monkey'." He called for the Spanish league to take "serious measures". Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Spanish football needed to be prepared to halt matches. "The Spanish league has a problem, and Vinicius is not the problem. Vinicius is the victim," Ancelotti said on Sunday. "What has happened today has happened before, but not like that, it's unacceptable," he told reporters. FIFA reiterated that stopping matches is permitted as well as players walking off the pitch in their three-step approach when racist abuse takes place. "Full solidarity with Vinicius," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain opens official probe in Vinicius Junior racism case after official complaint from Brazil

Real Madrid lost to Valencia 1-0 in the La Liga fixture on Sunday (May 21). After the match, Brazil and Madrid's forward Vinicius Jr. made heads turn by slamming La Liga and even labelling Spain racist after receiving racial slurs from the stands in the game&nbsp;at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium. The Brazilian forward wrote a lengthy tweet&nbsp;where he slammed the widely popular Spanish league and said 'racism is normal in La Liga'.&nbsp;

“It was not the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga. The competition considers it normal, the federation considers it normal and the rivals encourage it,” Vinicius posted on Twitter after the game. Check out his tweet:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Não foi a primeira vez, nem a segunda e nem a terceira. O racismo é o normal na La Liga. A competição acha normal, a Federação também e os adversários incentivam. Lamento muito. O campeonato que já foi de Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano e Messi hoje é dos racistas. Uma nação…
— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinijr/status/1660379570149683200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</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>

La Liga responded to Vinicius' revelations and claimed that it&nbsp;will request all available images&nbsp;to dive deep into the matter and investigate further. In a statement, it said, “If any hate crime is identified, we will take the appropriate legal action."

However, La Liga President&nbsp;Javier Tebas asked the 22-year-old Vinicius to be more informed with regard to&nbsp;what can be done in such cases.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-celebrate-third-successive-premier-league-title-triumph-with-1-0-win-over-chelsea-594848">Manchester City celebrate third successive Premier League title triumph with 1-0 win over Chelsea</a>

Tebas wrote on Twitter, “Since those who should explain to you what it is and what La Liga can do in cases of racism, we have tried to explain it ourselves, but you have not shown up for either of the two agreed dates that you requested yourself,” he said on Twitter. He added, "Before you criticise and slander La Liga you need to inform yourself properly @Vinijr. Don’t let yourself be manipulated and make sure you understand each other’s competencies and the work we have been doing together." To this, Vinicius also had a fitting reply:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Mais uma vez, em vez de criticar racistas, o presidente da LaLiga aparece nas redes sociais para me atacar. 
 
Por mais que você fale e finja não ler, a imagem do seu campeonato está abalada. Veja as respostas do seus posts e tenha uma surpresa... 
 
Omitir-se só faz com que você se… <a href="https://t.co/RGO9AZ24IA">https://t.co/RGO9AZ24IA</a>
— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinijr/status/1660414706962636803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</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>

<h2>BRAZILIAN PRESIDENT REACTS, CALLS FOR END OF RACISM IN FOOTBALL</h2>

Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also took note of Vinicius' allegations and joined in to express&nbsp;his support for the player, calling for an end to racism in the sport altogether.&nbsp;

In a press conference, he said, “I would like to express my solidarity with our Brazilian player, a poor boy who succeeded in life and is potentially becoming one of the best players in the world, certainly the best at Real Madrid. And he is attacked in every stadium he plays in. I think it is important that FIFA, the Spanish league and leagues in other countries take real action, because we cannot allow fascism and racism to dominate football stadiums.”

It will be interesting to see what actions are taken in the Spanish league to counter the racism issue. Speaking of Real Madrid, the club lost to Valencia 1-0 with Diego Lopez finding the back of the net in the 33rd minute. Real never looked at their usual best and failed to level scores.

Vinicius Jr. complained regarding the racial abuse he faced during the face-off, leading to a halt to proceedings by ten minutes, before getting into an altercation with the Valencia player. This led to his send-off during the second half of the encounter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Real Madrid lost to Valencia 1-0 in the La Liga fixture on Sunday (May 21). After the match, Brazil and Madrid's forward Vinicius Jr. made heads turn by slamming La Liga and even labelling Spain racist after receiving racial slurs from the stands in the game at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium.

Real Madrid lost to Valencia 1-0 in the La Liga fixture on Sunday (May 21). After the match, Brazil and Madrid's forward Vinicius Jr. made heads turn by slamming La Liga and even labelling Spain racist after receiving racial slurs from the stands in the game at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium. The Brazilian forward wrote a lengthy tweet where he slammed the widely popular Spanish league and said 'racism is normal in La Liga'. “It was not the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga. The competition considers it normal, the federation considers it normal and the rivals encourage it,” Vinicius posted on Twitter after the game. Check out his tweet: Não foi a primeira vez, nem a segunda e nem a terceira. O racismo é o normal na La Liga. A competição acha normal, a Federação também e os adversários incentivam. Lamento muito. O campeonato que já foi de Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano e Messi hoje é dos racistas. Uma nação… — Vini Jr. (@vinijr) May 21, 2023 × La Liga responded to Vinicius' revelations and claimed that it will request all available images to dive deep into the matter and investigate further. In a statement, it said, “If any hate crime is identified, we will take the appropriate legal action." However, La Liga President Javier Tebas asked the 22-year-old Vinicius to be more informed with regard to what can be done in such cases. Also Read: Manchester City celebrate third successive Premier League title triumph with 1-0 win over Chelsea Tebas wrote on Twitter, “Since those who should explain to you what it is and what La Liga can do in cases of racism, we have tried to explain it ourselves, but you have not shown up for either of the two agreed dates that you requested yourself,” he said on Twitter. He added, "Before you criticise and slander La Liga you need to inform yourself properly @Vinijr. Don’t let yourself be manipulated and make sure you understand each other’s competencies and the work we have been doing together." To this, Vinicius also had a fitting reply: Mais uma vez, em vez de criticar racistas, o presidente da LaLiga aparece nas redes sociais para me atacar. Por mais que você fale e finja não ler, a imagem do seu campeonato está abalada. Veja as respostas do seus posts e tenha uma surpresa... Omitir-se só faz com que você se… https://t.co/RGO9AZ24IA — Vini Jr. (@vinijr) May 21, 2023 × BRAZILIAN PRESIDENT REACTS, CALLS FOR END OF RACISM IN FOOTBALL Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also took note of Vinicius' allegations and joined in to express his support for the player, calling for an end to racism in the sport altogether. In a press conference, he said, “I would like to express my solidarity with our Brazilian player, a poor boy who succeeded in life and is potentially becoming one of the best players in the world, certainly the best at Real Madrid. And he is attacked in every stadium he plays in. I think it is important that FIFA, the Spanish league and leagues in other countries take real action, because we cannot allow fascism and racism to dominate football stadiums.” It will be interesting to see what actions are taken in the Spanish league to counter the racism issue. Speaking of Real Madrid, the club lost to Valencia 1-0 with Diego Lopez finding the back of the net in the 33rd minute. Real never looked at their usual best and failed to level scores. Vinicius Jr. complained regarding the racial abuse he faced during the face-off, leading to a halt to proceedings by ten minutes, before getting into an altercation with the Valencia player. This led to his send-off during the second half of the encounter. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr slams La Liga after racial abuse, Brazil President calls for end of racism

Barcelona won La Liga for the first time since 2019 by thrashing Espanyol 4-2 on Sunday, wrestling the title back from rivals Real Madrid.

The Catalan giants clinched their 27th Spanish championship at the home of their neighbours, with scenes turning ugly at full time as celebrating Barcelona players were chased from the field by pitch invaders.

Robert Lewandowski struck twice for Barcelona, along with goals for Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, while Javi Puado and Joselu pulled two back late on for the hosts.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sam-kerrs-goal-guides-chelsea-to-third-successive-womens-fa-cup-win-in-front-of-record-crowd-in-wembley-592409">Sam Kerr's goal guides Chelsea to third successive women's FA Cup win in front of record crowd in Wembley</a>

Barcelona have endured a troubled period on and off the pitch in recent years but their triumph signals significant improvement, with coach Xavi Hernandez winning his first major trophy since taking over in November 2021.

President Joan Laporta's rebuild&nbsp;was widely criticised last summer in light of the club's perilous financial situation.&nbsp;

Early Champions League elimination was a blow, but the club won the Spanish Super Cup in January, before sealing La Liga glory with four games to spare.

"It was a very emotional moment, a moment very hard not to celebrate after so many months of work," said Xavi.

"We didn't celebrate just because it was Espanyol's stadium."

The coach said that the victory was proof that the club was heading in the right direction.

"(It brings) a lot of calm, a lot of hope for the future," said Xavi.

"I am very happy. We did a great job, a league won with four games remaining, that's to the absolute merit of the team."

Xavi did not spring any surprises with his line-up and Barcelona's first team took to the pitch with one goal firmly in mind, the end finally in sight.

They conjured an electric display, one of their finest this season, to seal their triumph and leave their city rivals 19th, four points from safety with four matches remaining.

Barcelona took the lead through Lewandowski, finishing from close range after a fine Alejandro Balde assist.

The left-back scored the second himself, with Pedri scooping a cross to the back post for him to pounce.

Barca grabbed the third before half-time when Raphinha put the ball on a plate for Lewandowski to roll home.

The Polish striker's arrival from Bayern Munich was a key part of last summer's rebuild and despite a dip in the second half of the season, has paid the Catalans back in goals.

Raphinha, who joined from Leeds, played superbly against Espanyol and has been an important figure in the second half of the season with Ousmane Dembele sidelined for a long stretch.

"I am very happy and not just for myself, the whole team worked so hard," said Raphinha.

"Only a few of us had won the league, it's the first for a lot of players, it's special. We worked so hard for this."

<h2>Angry fans</h2>

Kounde headed home the fourth early in the second half from Frenkie de Jong's perfect chipped pass as Espanyol's defence crumbled yet again.

Some Espanyol fans headed for the exits early while others demanded the board resign, including aiming one unsavoury chant at the club's Chinese owners.&nbsp;

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen denied Puado when through on goal, determined to earn a La Liga record-equalling 26th clean sheet of the season in the top flight.

However moments later the Espanyol forward found himself through on goal once more and this time scored with a sublime lob -- small consolation in the face of Espanyol's defeat and Barcelona's glory.

Joselu pulled another goal back in stoppage time, but it was too little, too late.

Xavi's side celebrated at full-time, to the anger of Espanyol fans, who invaded the pitch, with Barcelona players sprinting down the tunnel to escape.

"I haven't seen the images, I always go in at the end of a game and from what I've been told, it's something that should not happen and should be condemned," said Espanyol coach Luis Garcia.

"Measures were in place to avoid it, but it was not possible."

Earlier Atletico Madrid fell to a surprise 1-0 defeat at relegated Elche.

Valencia snatched an important late victory at Celta Vigo to climb provisionally to 14th, three points above the relegation zone.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Barcelona won La Liga for the first time since 2019 by thrashing Espanyol 4-2 on Sunday, wrestling the title back from rivals Real Madrid. The Catalan giants clinched their 27th Spanish championship at the home of their neighbours, with scenes turning ugly at full time as celebrating Barcelona players were chased from the field by pitch invaders.

Barcelona won La Liga for the first time since 2019 by thrashing Espanyol 4-2 on Sunday, wrestling the title back from rivals Real Madrid. The Catalan giants clinched their 27th Spanish championship at the home of their neighbours, with scenes turning ugly at full time as celebrating Barcelona players were chased from the field by pitch invaders. Robert Lewandowski struck twice for Barcelona, along with goals for Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, while Javi Puado and Joselu pulled two back late on for the hosts. Also Read: Sam Kerr's goal guides Chelsea to third successive women's FA Cup win in front of record crowd in Wembley Barcelona have endured a troubled period on and off the pitch in recent years but their triumph signals significant improvement, with coach Xavi Hernandez winning his first major trophy since taking over in November 2021. President Joan Laporta's rebuild was widely criticised last summer in light of the club's perilous financial situation. Early Champions League elimination was a blow, but the club won the Spanish Super Cup in January, before sealing La Liga glory with four games to spare. "It was a very emotional moment, a moment very hard not to celebrate after so many months of work," said Xavi. "We didn't celebrate just because it was Espanyol's stadium." The coach said that the victory was proof that the club was heading in the right direction. "(It brings) a lot of calm, a lot of hope for the future," said Xavi. "I am very happy. We did a great job, a league won with four games remaining, that's to the absolute merit of the team." Xavi did not spring any surprises with his line-up and Barcelona's first team took to the pitch with one goal firmly in mind, the end finally in sight. They conjured an electric display, one of their finest this season, to seal their triumph and leave their city rivals 19th, four points from safety with four matches remaining. Barcelona took the lead through Lewandowski, finishing from close range after a fine Alejandro Balde assist. The left-back scored the second himself, with Pedri scooping a cross to the back post for him to pounce. Barca grabbed the third before half-time when Raphinha put the ball on a plate for Lewandowski to roll home. The Polish striker's arrival from Bayern Munich was a key part of last summer's rebuild and despite a dip in the second half of the season, has paid the Catalans back in goals. Raphinha, who joined from Leeds, played superbly against Espanyol and has been an important figure in the second half of the season with Ousmane Dembele sidelined for a long stretch. "I am very happy and not just for myself, the whole team worked so hard," said Raphinha. "Only a few of us had won the league, it's the first for a lot of players, it's special. We worked so hard for this." Angry fans Kounde headed home the fourth early in the second half from Frenkie de Jong's perfect chipped pass as Espanyol's defence crumbled yet again. Some Espanyol fans headed for the exits early while others demanded the board resign, including aiming one unsavoury chant at the club's Chinese owners. Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen denied Puado when through on goal, determined to earn a La Liga record-equalling 26th clean sheet of the season in the top flight. However moments later the Espanyol forward found himself through on goal once more and this time scored with a sublime lob -- small consolation in the face of Espanyol's defeat and Barcelona's glory. Joselu pulled another goal back in stoppage time, but it was too little, too late. Xavi's side celebrated at full-time, to the anger of Espanyol fans, who invaded the pitch, with Barcelona players sprinting down the tunnel to escape. "I haven't seen the images, I always go in at the end of a game and from what I've been told, it's something that should not happen and should be condemned," said Espanyol coach Luis Garcia. "Measures were in place to avoid it, but it was not possible." Earlier Atletico Madrid fell to a surprise 1-0 defeat at relegated Elche. Valencia snatched an important late victory at Celta Vigo to climb provisionally to 14th, three points above the relegation zone. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Barcelona thrash Espanyol 4-2 to win first title since 2019

Sergio Busquets will leave&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;in June at the end of his contract, the midfielder confirmed Wednesday, ending a highly successful era at the club.

"The moment has arrived to announce this is my last season at&nbsp;Barcelona," said Busquets on Instagram.

"It has been an unforgettable journey."

Busquets has won the Champions League three times with&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;and La Liga on eight occasions before this season, with the Catalans set to triumph again for the first time in four years.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-joel-embiid-shines-as-philadelphia-76ers-sink-boston-celtics-denver-nuggets-rout-phoenix-suns-590931">NBA: Joel Embiid shines as Philadelphia 76ers sink Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets rout Phoenix Suns</a>

The 34-year-old has been a key player for Barca since breaking into the first team under their former coach Pep Guardiola in 2008, making over 700 appearances to date.

He did not say where he might go next, with Spanish reports suggesting he may move to a team in Saudi Arabia.

"It has been an honour, a dream, a pride. It has been everything to be able to defend and represent this badge for so many years, but everything has a beginning and an end," continued Busquets.

"Although it has not been an easy decision, I think the time has come."

Barcelona&nbsp;coach Xavi Hernandez, who played with Busquets in the team's midfield for several years, wanted the midfielder to stay next season, but said the decision was up to him.

The veteran has long been thought to favour a move to Major League Soccer in the United States at the end of his&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;contract, with Inter Miami one of the teams mentioned.

However in recent days the player has been linked in Spanish media with a move to the Saudi Arabian top flight.

Former&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;forward Lionel Messi, a close friend of Busquets, is another player who may end up in the oil-rich kingdom after sources close to negotiations told AFP it was a "done deal" for the Argentine forward to move to the Middle East.

However Messi's father and agent Jorge Messi said Tuesday that the World Cup winner's future would only be decided at the end of the season.

Busquets won the World Cup with Spain in 2010 and the European Championship in 2012, a key fixture in the national team for nearly 15 years until he retired from international duty in December.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Sergio Busquets will leave Barcelona in June at the end of his contract, the midfielder confirmed Wednesday, ending a highly successful era at the club. "The moment has arrived to announce this is my last season at Barcelona," said Busquets on Instagram.

Sergio Busquets will leave Barcelona in June at the end of his contract, the midfielder confirmed Wednesday, ending a highly successful era at the club. "The moment has arrived to announce this is my last season at Barcelona," said Busquets on Instagram. "It has been an unforgettable journey." Busquets has won the Champions League three times with Barcelona and La Liga on eight occasions before this season, with the Catalans set to triumph again for the first time in four years. Also Read: NBA: Joel Embiid shines as Philadelphia 76ers sink Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets rout Phoenix Suns The 34-year-old has been a key player for Barca since breaking into the first team under their former coach Pep Guardiola in 2008, making over 700 appearances to date. He did not say where he might go next, with Spanish reports suggesting he may move to a team in Saudi Arabia. "It has been an honour, a dream, a pride. It has been everything to be able to defend and represent this badge for so many years, but everything has a beginning and an end," continued Busquets. "Although it has not been an easy decision, I think the time has come." Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez, who played with Busquets in the team's midfield for several years, wanted the midfielder to stay next season, but said the decision was up to him. The veteran has long been thought to favour a move to Major League Soccer in the United States at the end of his Barcelona contract, with Inter Miami one of the teams mentioned. However in recent days the player has been linked in Spanish media with a move to the Saudi Arabian top flight. Former Barcelona forward Lionel Messi, a close friend of Busquets, is another player who may end up in the oil-rich kingdom after sources close to negotiations told AFP it was a "done deal" for the Argentine forward to move to the Middle East. However Messi's father and agent Jorge Messi said Tuesday that the World Cup winner's future would only be decided at the end of the season. Busquets won the World Cup with Spain in 2010 and the European Championship in 2012, a key fixture in the national team for nearly 15 years until he retired from international duty in December. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets set to leave club after ongoing season

la-liga

La Liga, News on La Liga, stories on La Liga, articles on La Liga, La Liga stories at Wion, La Liga news, La Liga latest news

la liga