Barcelona's youngest ever goalscorer Ansu Fati returned to group training on Tuesday for the first time in more than nine months after a long injury saga, the club said.

Barca said on Twitter the forward, 18, had taken part in a section of the team's main training session, while Spanish newspaper Marca said the club hoped he could return to action against Sevilla on Sept. 11.

Fati had scored four goals in six LaLiga starts last season before injuring the meniscus in his left knee in a 5-2 win over Real Betis in November 2020.

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He underwent surgery and was kept in hospital for five days, with the club initially saying he would be out for four months. But he was forced to undergo a further knee operation in June in Porto after the injury failed to heal as planned.

Fati became Barca's youngest ever goalscorer in LaLiga when he netted against Osasuna in August 2019 and a year later became Spain's youngest scorer when he struck in a 4-0 win over Ukraine in the UEFA Nations League in September 2020.

Barca were hurt by Fati's long absence last year, eventually finishing third in LaLiga, and his return will come as a relief in troubled times following Lionel Messi's departure for Paris St Germain and with players forced to take pay cuts to alleviate the club's financial woes.

Barcelona's youngest ever goalscorer Ansu Fati returned to group training on Tuesday for the first time in more than nine months after a long injury saga, the club said.

Barcelona's youngest ever goalscorer Ansu Fati returned to group training on Tuesday for the first time in more than nine months after a long injury saga, the club said. Barca said on Twitter the forward, 18, had taken part in a section of the team's main training session, while Spanish newspaper Marca said the club hoped he could return to action against Sevilla on Sept. 11. Fati had scored four goals in six LaLiga starts last season before injuring the meniscus in his left knee in a 5-2 win over Real Betis in November 2020. ALSO READ | Liverpool refuse to release Mohamed Salah for Egypt's World Cup qualifiers He underwent surgery and was kept in hospital for five days, with the club initially saying he would be out for four months. But he was forced to undergo a further knee operation in June in Porto after the injury failed to heal as planned. Fati became Barca's youngest ever goalscorer in LaLiga when he netted against Osasuna in August 2019 and a year later became Spain's youngest scorer when he struck in a 4-0 win over Ukraine in the UEFA Nations League in September 2020. Barca were hurt by Fati's long absence last year, eventually finishing third in LaLiga, and his return will come as a relief in troubled times following Lionel Messi's departure for Paris St Germain and with players forced to take pay cuts to alleviate the club's financial woes.

Barcelona forward Ansu Fati back in training after nine-month injury saga

Karim Benzema picked up where he left off last season by scoring twice to fire Real Madrid to a 4-1 win away to Alaves in their opening game of the LaLiga campaign. 
 
Real had an uninspiring first half in Carlo Ancelotti`s first league game since taking charge of the club for a second time but Benzema settled their nerves by blasting the ball into the net in the 48th minute after being teed up by Eden Hazard. 
 
Defender Nacho Fernandez added to Real`s lead eight minutes later, sliding in to stab a Luka Modric through ball into the net from close range. 
 
Benzema scored a scrappy second goal in the 62nd but moments later Alaves pulled one back when striker Joselu slotted in a penalty after a foul by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. 
 
Substitute Vinicius Jr added a final goal for the visitors in stoppage time, netting with a diving header as he met a cross from debutant David Alaba. 
 
French striker Benzema was Real`s standout player last season with 23 league strikes, more than a third of the team`s goal haul, and his form earned him a recall to the France squad for the first time in six years. 
 
Ancelotti marvelled at Benzema`s performance and said he was a better player than when he coached him at Real between 2013 and 2015, when the Frenchman was more of a support striker for Cristiano Ronaldo. 
 
"To call Benzema just a striker does not do him justice. He is a very complete player, far more complete than five years ago," the Italian coach said. 
 
"He is the one who finishes our moves off but he also reads the game so well." 
 
The Italian also criticised his side for their sluggish start but was pleased with how they improved after halftime. 
 
"The first half we were a little slow when we had the ball and when we didn`t have it, we needed to press with more intensity, the game was slow and that`s not what we wanted," he added. 
 
"But we were much better in the second half, we showed more intensity and had more quality." 
 
Real got to play in front of fans for the first time in a league game since March 2020 although fewer than 4,000 spectators were allowed into Alaves` Mendizorrotza stadium due to the local government`s coronavirus restrictions. 
 
The few supporters present were nearly given an early treat when midfielder Pere Pons pounced on a loose ball inside the area but failed to keep his shot under the crossbar. 
 
Alaves also appealed for a penalty in the first half against Real`s Lucas Vazquez when he blocked a cross although the referee correctly ruled that the ball had struck his chest rather his arm. 
 
Madrid lined up with a front three of Benzema, Hazard and Gareth Bale, who was making his LaLiga return after spending last season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur. 
 
Hazard has hardly got going in his two seasons with Real but looked sharp while Bale had a couple of attempts on goal without causing goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco too much trouble.

Karim Benzema picked up where he left off last season by scoring twice to fire Real Madrid to a 4-1 win away to Alaves in their opening game of the LaLiga campaign.

Karim Benzema picked up where he left off last season by scoring twice to fire Real Madrid to a 4-1 win away to Alaves in their opening game of the LaLiga campaign. Real had an uninspiring first half in Carlo Ancelotti`s first league game since taking charge of the club for a second time but Benzema settled their nerves by blasting the ball into the net in the 48th minute after being teed up by Eden Hazard. Defender Nacho Fernandez added to Real`s lead eight minutes later, sliding in to stab a Luka Modric through ball into the net from close range. Benzema scored a scrappy second goal in the 62nd but moments later Alaves pulled one back when striker Joselu slotted in a penalty after a foul by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Substitute Vinicius Jr added a final goal for the visitors in stoppage time, netting with a diving header as he met a cross from debutant David Alaba. French striker Benzema was Real`s standout player last season with 23 league strikes, more than a third of the team`s goal haul, and his form earned him a recall to the France squad for the first time in six years. Ancelotti marvelled at Benzema`s performance and said he was a better player than when he coached him at Real between 2013 and 2015, when the Frenchman was more of a support striker for Cristiano Ronaldo. "To call Benzema just a striker does not do him justice. He is a very complete player, far more complete than five years ago," the Italian coach said. "He is the one who finishes our moves off but he also reads the game so well." The Italian also criticised his side for their sluggish start but was pleased with how they improved after halftime. "The first half we were a little slow when we had the ball and when we didn`t have it, we needed to press with more intensity, the game was slow and that`s not what we wanted," he added. "But we were much better in the second half, we showed more intensity and had more quality." Real got to play in front of fans for the first time in a league game since March 2020 although fewer than 4,000 spectators were allowed into Alaves` Mendizorrotza stadium due to the local government`s coronavirus restrictions. The few supporters present were nearly given an early treat when midfielder Pere Pons pounced on a loose ball inside the area but failed to keep his shot under the crossbar. Alaves also appealed for a penalty in the first half against Real`s Lucas Vazquez when he blocked a cross although the referee correctly ruled that the ball had struck his chest rather his arm. Madrid lined up with a front three of Benzema, Hazard and Gareth Bale, who was making his LaLiga return after spending last season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur. Hazard has hardly got going in his two seasons with Real but looked sharp while Bale had a couple of attempts on goal without causing goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco too much trouble.

Football: Karim Benzema double helps Real Madrid to winning start at Alaves

Spain`s top league soccer clubs on Thursday approved private equity firm CVC`s proposed investment despite votes against from Real Madrid and Barcelona FC, on the condition that individual clubs can opt out of the deal, LaLiga`s president said. 
 
Facing fierce opposition from the country`s two leading clubs to the plan that initially targeted 2.7 billion euros ($3.2 billion) in investment, CVC modified its original proposal shortly before the vote, allowing clubs in LaLiga to take part on a voluntary basis. 
 
If Real Madrid, Barca and Athletic Bilbao choose not to join the deal, the investment is likely to total between 2.1 billion and 2.2 billion euros, LaLiga`s Javier Tebas told a news conference. 
 
Despite the approval by 38 clubs out of LaLiga`s 42, the deal still faces legal risks. 
 
CVC sought to pour money into LaLiga, which covers Spain`s top two soccer divisions, in exchange for nearly 11% of its revenue from television rights over 50 years. 
 
The league has argued the deal, called "Boost LaLiga", would strengthen clubs and give them funds to spend on new infrastructure and modernisation projects, as well as increasing how much they can spend on players` salaries. 
 
Real Madrid has said it is planning to launch civil and criminal lawsuits Tuesday against LaLiga`s Tebas and CVC Capital`s chief Javier de Jaime Guijarro over the planned deal.

Spain`s top league soccer clubs on Thursday approved private equity firm CVC`s proposed investment despite votes against from Real Madrid and Barcelona FC, on the condition that individual clubs can opt out of the deal, LaLiga`s president said.

Spain`s top league soccer clubs on Thursday approved private equity firm CVC`s proposed investment despite votes against from Real Madrid and Barcelona FC, on the condition that individual clubs can opt out of the deal, LaLiga`s president said. Facing fierce opposition from the country`s two leading clubs to the plan that initially targeted 2.7 billion euros ($3.2 billion) in investment, CVC modified its original proposal shortly before the vote, allowing clubs in LaLiga to take part on a voluntary basis. If Real Madrid, Barca and Athletic Bilbao choose not to join the deal, the investment is likely to total between 2.1 billion and 2.2 billion euros, LaLiga`s Javier Tebas told a news conference. Despite the approval by 38 clubs out of LaLiga`s 42, the deal still faces legal risks. CVC sought to pour money into LaLiga, which covers Spain`s top two soccer divisions, in exchange for nearly 11% of its revenue from television rights over 50 years. The league has argued the deal, called "Boost LaLiga", would strengthen clubs and give them funds to spend on new infrastructure and modernisation projects, as well as increasing how much they can spend on players` salaries. Real Madrid has said it is planning to launch civil and criminal lawsuits Tuesday against LaLiga`s Tebas and CVC Capital`s chief Javier de Jaime Guijarro over the planned deal.

Spain's LaLiga clubs approve CVC deal after opt-out concession

Following Barcelona's success over Juventus in the Gamper Trophy, manager Ronald Koeman said that the team needs to move on after Lionel Messi's departure from the club.

Following Barcelona's persuading 3-0 win over Juventus in the Joan Gamper Trophy, Koeman said there was no ideal opportunity to harp on the deficiency of Lionel Messi. He showed that the team needs to work much harder to adapt without their charm.&nbsp;

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"It's normal that when a player like Messi leaves, it's hard for everyone, but we have to move on because we can't change the situation. We have to play well, win and work even harder," he said.&nbsp;

"There are other players who can play in his position and play an important role in the team. We don't have Leo now, though. We have to move on and look forward," he added.

Lionel Messi has left Barcelona after 21 years. The six-time Ballon d'Or champ is currently on the cusp of joining PSG and re-joining companion Neymar Jr.&nbsp;

Barcelona, then again, will be taking a gander at any semblance of Sergio Agüero, Ansu Fati, and Antoine Griezmann to move forward without Lionel Messi. Barcelona's manager is attempting to stay idealistic for the new season notwithstanding losing Lionel Messi this mid-year.&nbsp;

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"We've signed Memphis Depay, who has shown today that he can be really effective. The midfielders need to score more and the squad needs to improve. The best player in the world will always be missed, but you have to accept it and get to work," he said.

The exit of Lionel Messi may have harmed Barcelona's odds for next season. Although, his departure could be a surprisingly beneficial turn of events for certain players in Barcelona.

Following Barcelona's success over Juventus in the Gamper Trophy, manager Ronald Koeman said that the team needs to move on after Lionel Messi's departure from the club.

Following Barcelona's success over Juventus in the Gamper Trophy, manager Ronald Koeman said that the team needs to move on after Lionel Messi's departure from the club. Following Barcelona's persuading 3-0 win over Juventus in the Joan Gamper Trophy, Koeman said there was no ideal opportunity to harp on the deficiency of Lionel Messi. He showed that the team needs to work much harder to adapt without their charm. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ronald Koeman (@ronaldkoeman) × ALSO READ: Football: Liverpool's Andy Robertson twists ankle in Bilbao friendly "It's normal that when a player like Messi leaves, it's hard for everyone, but we have to move on because we can't change the situation. We have to play well, win and work even harder," he said. "There are other players who can play in his position and play an important role in the team. We don't have Leo now, though. We have to move on and look forward," he added. Lionel Messi has left Barcelona after 21 years. The six-time Ballon d'Or champ is currently on the cusp of joining PSG and re-joining companion Neymar Jr. Barcelona, then again, will be taking a gander at any semblance of Sergio Agüero, Ansu Fati, and Antoine Griezmann to move forward without Lionel Messi. Barcelona's manager is attempting to stay idealistic for the new season notwithstanding losing Lionel Messi this mid-year. ALSO READ: Football: Brazil's Olympic Committee vows action in sponsor spat "We've signed Memphis Depay, who has shown today that he can be really effective. The midfielders need to score more and the squad needs to improve. The best player in the world will always be missed, but you have to accept it and get to work," he said. The exit of Lionel Messi may have harmed Barcelona's odds for next season. Although, his departure could be a surprisingly beneficial turn of events for certain players in Barcelona.

Football: 'It is hard for everyone, but we have to move on,' Ronald Koeman on Lionel Messi's departure

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has said talks over a new deal are progressing well with forward Lionel Messi.

The Argentine's contract expired at the end of June and the forward is currently a free agent.

However, Barcelona&nbsp;have reportedly offered him a new five-year deal on a reduced salary which they hope will help them meet La Liga's financial fair play (FFP) requirements.

"We're doing everything possible, and it's progressing well," Laporta told a news conference on Monday.

"It's going in the line we all believed it would, within the scope we've got. We're still in discussions.

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"Leo wants to stay at Barca and we'll do all we can. The fact his priority is to stay here, being the best player in the world, is something we should be thankful for.

"I have sweet dreams about Messi every night, and hopefully they'll continue."

Laporta added that there should not be any problems registering their new signings, however also called on the Spanish&nbsp;football&nbsp;league to be more flexible with FFP following the pandemic.

"We can register all the players we have brought in under the parameters of FFP," he said.

"We want, if possible, for La Liga to be more flexible and other European leagues have been. We want to bring in another player or two."

The Barca chief also told youngster Ilaix Moriba that if he was not willing to accept the club's current offer of a new contract then they would look to move him on.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has said talks over a new deal are progressing well with forward Lionel Messi. The Argentine's contract expired at the end of June and the forward is currently a free agent.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has said talks over a new deal are progressing well with forward Lionel Messi. The Argentine's contract expired at the end of June and the forward is currently a free agent. However, Barcelona have reportedly offered him a new five-year deal on a reduced salary which they hope will help them meet La Liga's financial fair play (FFP) requirements. "We're doing everything possible, and it's progressing well," Laporta told a news conference on Monday. "It's going in the line we all believed it would, within the scope we've got. We're still in discussions. ALSO READ: Football: England's Tyrone Mings reveals mental health issue before Euro 2020 "Leo wants to stay at Barca and we'll do all we can. The fact his priority is to stay here, being the best player in the world, is something we should be thankful for. "I have sweet dreams about Messi every night, and hopefully they'll continue." Laporta added that there should not be any problems registering their new signings, however also called on the Spanish football league to be more flexible with FFP following the pandemic. "We can register all the players we have brought in under the parameters of FFP," he said. "We want, if possible, for La Liga to be more flexible and other European leagues have been. We want to bring in another player or two." The Barca chief also told youngster Ilaix Moriba that if he was not willing to accept the club's current offer of a new contract then they would look to move him on.

Football: Lionel Messi talks progressing, while more FFP flexibility needed, says Barcelona president

Contract talks with Lionel Messi are "progressing adequately", said Barcelona President, with La Liga goliaths expecting to get his magic presence attached to new terms.&nbsp;

Messi turned into a free agent on July 1 after his agreement with FCB expired.

However, the club has still not given up on giving the Argentinian captain a two-year deal. Interestingly, his&nbsp;last contract was worth more than 500 million euros more than four years.&nbsp;

'Nothing is Impossible', Joan Laporta told reporters, as quoted Goal.com, adding the discussion "is progressing adequately."

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Lionel Messi ended the &nbsp;28-year-huge drought for Argentina by winning Copa America at Maracana against Brazil.&nbsp;He had a splendid Copa America 2021 as he scored four goals, had five assists to his name, and was named the Golden Boot champ.&nbsp;

"All the Catalans, Barcelona, Catalunya, and the entire football world are happy because Leo won the Copa America. It is very exciting to see the best player in football history get excited about winning a title like this and he made all of us cry with joy," said Joan Laporta.

"He is very happy, we are all happy, I am happy for Leo who has managed [to win the Copa America], together with his team-mates, and that Argentina is once again in the elite, and also happy for Aguero. I am happy for Messi's family, for Argentina, for Barcelona who is recognized, admired, and loved for having this bond with Leo," he added.&nbsp;

Concerning's contract adventure, last week, LaLiga President Javier Tebas expressed that it would be inconceivable for FC Barcelona to coordinate with the compensation Lionel Messi was on as the club is right now going through financial troubles.

Contract talks with Lionel Messi are "progressing adequately", said Barcelona President, with La Liga goliaths expecting to get his magic presence attached to new terms.

Contract talks with Lionel Messi are "progressing adequately", said Barcelona President, with La Liga goliaths expecting to get his magic presence attached to new terms. Messi turned into a free agent on July 1 after his agreement with FCB expired. However, the club has still not given up on giving the Argentinian captain a two-year deal. Interestingly, his last contract was worth more than 500 million euros more than four years. 'Nothing is Impossible', Joan Laporta told reporters, as quoted Goal.com, adding the discussion "is progressing adequately." ALSO READ: Football: Manchester United players send touching message to the racially abused England trio Lionel Messi ended the 28-year-huge drought for Argentina by winning Copa America at Maracana against Brazil. He had a splendid Copa America 2021 as he scored four goals, had five assists to his name, and was named the Golden Boot champ. "All the Catalans, Barcelona, Catalunya, and the entire football world are happy because Leo won the Copa America. It is very exciting to see the best player in football history get excited about winning a title like this and he made all of us cry with joy," said Joan Laporta. "He is very happy, we are all happy, I am happy for Leo who has managed [to win the Copa America], together with his team-mates, and that Argentina is once again in the elite, and also happy for Aguero. I am happy for Messi's family, for Argentina, for Barcelona who is recognized, admired, and loved for having this bond with Leo," he added. Concerning's contract adventure, last week, LaLiga President Javier Tebas expressed that it would be inconceivable for FC Barcelona to coordinate with the compensation Lionel Messi was on as the club is right now going through financial troubles.

Football: Lionel Messi contract talks 'progressing adequately', says Barcelona president

La Liga president Javier Tebas feels&nbsp;Lionel Messi's move to Manchester City or&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain would be 'financial doping' if the 33-year-old moves at a similar compensation as Barcelona.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi is at present a free agent after his agreement at Barcelona terminated. La Liga president Javier Tebas said Lionel Messi should take a pay cut on the off chance that he needs to remain at Barcelona. He additionally said that if any unfamiliar club consented to the 33-year-old's wage demand, it would be monetary doping.

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"He won't be able to sign on the previous conditions, that's impossible. But I don't think any European club would be able to pay that amount. If they do, it will be financial doping. It would be incredible if it happened. We need to establish limits. Financial doping is damaging football," said the LaLiga President, according to&nbsp;ESPN.&nbsp;

Javier Tebas accepts the colossal amount of cash spent by these European clubs are not created by the club and causes expansion in the football market: "It's not real money because it's not generated by the clubs. Money not from football causes bad inflation and ruins football because clubs must put in all this effort, which takes them above their financial capacity. We have to fight against this."

Javier Tebas has said that Barcelona won't be given any adaptability in enlisting Lionel Messi. He doesn't need a person to be greater than the alliance. He said:&nbsp;

"We always want the best players, but Neymar left, Cristiano Ronaldo left and we're still here, still growing. And as far as I know neither Serie A nor Ligue 1 have grown as much as they would have liked. I would be sorry if Lionel Messi left, he's the best ever, but we should not become obsessed with players."

Barcelona has a deadline until the 14th of August to enlist the entirety of their players including Lionel Messi. Nevertheless, to agree with La Liga's FFP administering, the Catalan goliaths will need to sell a portion of their periphery players. In spite of monetary issues, Tebas trusts Barcelona will escape this soon. He added:&nbsp;

"Barcelona are facing uncertain times but they will be able to solve their problems because they have the highest turnover in the world."

La Liga president Javier Tebas feels Lionel Messi's move to Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain would be 'financial doping' if the 33-year-old moves at a similar compensation as Barcelona.

La Liga president Javier Tebas feels Lionel Messi's move to Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain would be 'financial doping' if the 33-year-old moves at a similar compensation as Barcelona. Lionel Messi is at present a free agent after his agreement at Barcelona terminated. La Liga president Javier Tebas said Lionel Messi should take a pay cut on the off chance that he needs to remain at Barcelona. He additionally said that if any unfamiliar club consented to the 33-year-old's wage demand, it would be monetary doping. ALSO READ: Football: Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr. to battle in dream Copa America final for first title "He won't be able to sign on the previous conditions, that's impossible. But I don't think any European club would be able to pay that amount. If they do, it will be financial doping. It would be incredible if it happened. We need to establish limits. Financial doping is damaging football," said the LaLiga President, according to ESPN. Javier Tebas accepts the colossal amount of cash spent by these European clubs are not created by the club and causes expansion in the football market: "It's not real money because it's not generated by the clubs. Money not from football causes bad inflation and ruins football because clubs must put in all this effort, which takes them above their financial capacity. We have to fight against this." Javier Tebas has said that Barcelona won't be given any adaptability in enlisting Lionel Messi. He doesn't need a person to be greater than the alliance. He said: "We always want the best players, but Neymar left, Cristiano Ronaldo left and we're still here, still growing. And as far as I know neither Serie A nor Ligue 1 have grown as much as they would have liked. I would be sorry if Lionel Messi left, he's the best ever, but we should not become obsessed with players." Barcelona has a deadline until the 14th of August to enlist the entirety of their players including Lionel Messi. Nevertheless, to agree with La Liga's FFP administering, the Catalan goliaths will need to sell a portion of their periphery players. In spite of monetary issues, Tebas trusts Barcelona will escape this soon. He added: "Barcelona are facing uncertain times but they will be able to solve their problems because they have the highest turnover in the world."

Football: Is Lionel Messi going to Manchester City? LaLiga President reacts

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million.&nbsp;

Be that as it may, Eden Hazard is quick to show his actual potential to the Real Madrid fans whenever they are permitted back inside the Santiago Bernabeu. He likewise trusts that his time in Spain isn't finished and won't leave Madrid as a failure.&nbsp;

In a conversation with&nbsp;Het Nieuwsblad, Eden Hazard said:&nbsp; "It didn't occur to me for a second that it would be better for me to leave. I won't leave there as a failure. I only want to show that I'm made for Real Madrid. The last two years have been difficult, I've been at Madrid without really being at Madrid, you know... We've played in a stadium without fans, and I signed to play at a full Bernabeu."

Hazard has said he can possibly make the most of his football on the off chance that he is sans injury, which hasn't been the situation since joining Real Madrid. The 30-year-old has confronted a great deal of analysis in regards to his demonstrable skill from the Los Blancos devoted.

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In any case, Hazard accepts that getting back from numerous injuries is troublesome. He added:&nbsp;

"I'm only myself when I can enjoy myself on the pitch. That hasn't happened in the last two years at Madrid. If you have one or two injuries you can flip the switch, you recover to come back stronger, but if it's five, six, seven it's much more difficult mentally. But I keep going."

Eden Hazard will work under new manager Carlo Ancelotti when he gets back to Real Madrid from Euro 2020. Carlo Ancelotti has effectively lauded the Belgian&nbsp;and that he may have a more promising time to come under the new manager. At his divulging as Real Madrid supervisor, Carlo Ancelotti said:&nbsp;"He's a top player. He's had problems, the first season he had an important injury... this could be the year for him to reach his potential."

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million.

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million. Be that as it may, Eden Hazard is quick to show his actual potential to the Real Madrid fans whenever they are permitted back inside the Santiago Bernabeu. He likewise trusts that his time in Spain isn't finished and won't leave Madrid as a failure. In a conversation with Het Nieuwsblad, Eden Hazard said: "It didn't occur to me for a second that it would be better for me to leave. I won't leave there as a failure. I only want to show that I'm made for Real Madrid. The last two years have been difficult, I've been at Madrid without really being at Madrid, you know... We've played in a stadium without fans, and I signed to play at a full Bernabeu." Hazard has said he can possibly make the most of his football on the off chance that he is sans injury, which hasn't been the situation since joining Real Madrid. The 30-year-old has confronted a great deal of analysis in regards to his demonstrable skill from the Los Blancos devoted. ALSO READ: Football: 'He was gone...' - Denmark team doctor confirms Christian Eriksen suffered 'cardiac arrest' In any case, Hazard accepts that getting back from numerous injuries is troublesome. He added: "I'm only myself when I can enjoy myself on the pitch. That hasn't happened in the last two years at Madrid. If you have one or two injuries you can flip the switch, you recover to come back stronger, but if it's five, six, seven it's much more difficult mentally. But I keep going." Eden Hazard will work under new manager Carlo Ancelotti when he gets back to Real Madrid from Euro 2020. Carlo Ancelotti has effectively lauded the Belgian and that he may have a more promising time to come under the new manager. At his divulging as Real Madrid supervisor, Carlo Ancelotti said: "He's a top player. He's had problems, the first season he had an important injury... this could be the year for him to reach his potential."

Football: I won't leave Real Madrid as a 'failure' - Eden Hazard

Jordi Alba has pummelled the club's choice to sell striker Luis Suarez to Atletico Madrid the previous summer. Luis Suarez was instrumental in Atletico Madrid lifting their first La Liga title in quite a while this season.&nbsp;

Barcelona's progressive system chose to show the leave entryway to some of the club's accomplished players the previous summer after the Catalans persevered through a dreary finish to their 2019-20 mission. Arturo Vidal, Luis Suarez, and Ivan Rakitic were only a portion of the headliners that headed out in different directions from the club.&nbsp;

The offer of Luis Suarez to La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid was met with outrage and disarray from Barcelona's players and fans the same. The previous Liverpool striker went through six years with Barcelona, during which he scored an extraordinary 198 objectives in only 283 appearances for the club in all contests.&nbsp;

Suarez assisted Barcelona with winning four La Liga titles, four Copa del Rey titles, and a Champions League during his time at Camp Nou. The striker had a friendly&nbsp;relation&nbsp;with some of his Barcelona teammates, not to mention Lionel Messi.&nbsp;

In his first season with Los Colchoneros, Luis Suarez proceeded to score 21 goals for Atletico Madrid in La Liga, driving them to the title.&nbsp;

Jordi Alba pummeled the club's choice to offer Luis Suarez to Atletico Madrid and marked the offer of the Uruguayan a 'joke'.&nbsp;

"It's a joke. He is someone who gave a lot to Barcelona, and they practically gave him away for nothing, above all to a direct rival in Atletico. And look, they went on to win the league with him. I didn't like it" - he said&nbsp;

"Aside from the friendship we have, where are you going to find a striker like him? It is difficult to find one. Yes, there are some very good players, but look what Luis gave us. He won the league and shut a lot of mouths. His last year wasn't easy at Barca, and he has had the chance to shut some people up" - he added.

Jordi Alba has pummelled the club's choice to sell striker Luis Suarez to Atletico Madrid the previous summer. Luis Suarez was instrumental in Atletico Madrid lifting their first La Liga title in quite a while this season.

Jordi Alba has pummelled the club's choice to sell striker Luis Suarez to Atletico Madrid the previous summer. Luis Suarez was instrumental in Atletico Madrid lifting their first La Liga title in quite a while this season. Barcelona's progressive system chose to show the leave entryway to some of the club's accomplished players the previous summer after the Catalans persevered through a dreary finish to their 2019-20 mission. Arturo Vidal, Luis Suarez, and Ivan Rakitic were only a portion of the headliners that headed out in different directions from the club. The offer of Luis Suarez to La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid was met with outrage and disarray from Barcelona's players and fans the same. The previous Liverpool striker went through six years with Barcelona, during which he scored an extraordinary 198 objectives in only 283 appearances for the club in all contests. Suarez assisted Barcelona with winning four La Liga titles, four Copa del Rey titles, and a Champions League during his time at Camp Nou. The striker had a friendly relation with some of his Barcelona teammates, not to mention Lionel Messi. In his first season with Los Colchoneros, Luis Suarez proceeded to score 21 goals for Atletico Madrid in La Liga, driving them to the title. Jordi Alba pummeled the club's choice to offer Luis Suarez to Atletico Madrid and marked the offer of the Uruguayan a 'joke'. "It's a joke. He is someone who gave a lot to Barcelona, and they practically gave him away for nothing, above all to a direct rival in Atletico. And look, they went on to win the league with him. I didn't like it" - he said "Aside from the friendship we have, where are you going to find a striker like him? It is difficult to find one. Yes, there are some very good players, but look what Luis gave us. He won the league and shut a lot of mouths. His last year wasn't easy at Barca, and he has had the chance to shut some people up" - he added.

Football: 'It was a joke': Jordi Alba on Barcelona letting Luis Suarez go to Atletico Madrid

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window.&nbsp;

The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons. He has simply had the option to show up for Los Blancos, scoring five goals and eight assists. Subsequently, bits of gossip about a potential exit have been getting out and about.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, Eden Hazard and Real Madrid's&nbsp;colleague Thibaut Courtois believes Hazard will remain at the club. The goalkeeper likewise added that Hazard would not like to leave Real Madrid, in opposition to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him.&nbsp;

However, Hazard's Belgium and Real Madrid teammate Thibaut Courtois believes the 30-year-old will stay at the club. The goalkeeper also added that Hazard doesn't want to leave Real Madrid, contrary to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him.

In an interview with Le Soir Thibaut Courtois said: "I'm 100 per cent&nbsp;sure he's staying. He doesn't want to move. Only the Madrid press writes about the desire to leave. He wants to continue, play free of injuries and win titles" - he said.

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At Real Madrid, there is criticism all the time and for everyone. Gareth Bale was criticized, but he won the Champions League and scored a double in the final in Kyiv.

"We all know that in Madrid there is pressure and criticism from the press and the fans. But Eden can handle that. I know him well enough to say it. He can still change everything. He still wants to be an important player for Madrid and win titles" - he added.

With Carlo Ancelotti assuming control over Real Madrid's manager situation from Zinedine Zidane, Eden Hazard has one more freedom to demonstrate his qualifications at the club.&nbsp;

The winger as of late conceded that Carlo Ancelotti's arrangement is 'uplifting news' for him as he anticipates playing under the Italian strategist.&nbsp;

"Everyone at Real Madrid knows what Ancelotti has brought to the club. He won the Champions League with this group and he knows a lot of the players. We know that he is a coach with a lot of experience" - he said.

"He knows the city and the fans. I think we can do great things together. I don't know him personally, but from what I've heard of him he's a very nice person who just wants to win, and that's what we all want. We'll have the chance to work together. It's good news for me" - he added

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window. The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window. The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons. He has simply had the option to show up for Los Blancos, scoring five goals and eight assists. Subsequently, bits of gossip about a potential exit have been getting out and about. Nonetheless, Eden Hazard and Real Madrid's colleague Thibaut Courtois believes Hazard will remain at the club. The goalkeeper likewise added that Hazard would not like to leave Real Madrid, in opposition to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him. However, Hazard's Belgium and Real Madrid teammate Thibaut Courtois believes the 30-year-old will stay at the club. The goalkeeper also added that Hazard doesn't want to leave Real Madrid, contrary to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him. In an interview with Le Soir Thibaut Courtois said: "I'm 100 per cent sure he's staying. He doesn't want to move. Only the Madrid press writes about the desire to leave. He wants to continue, play free of injuries and win titles" - he said. ALSO READ: Football: N'Golo Kante deserves to win Ballon d'Or, says Paul Pogba At Real Madrid, there is criticism all the time and for everyone. Gareth Bale was criticized, but he won the Champions League and scored a double in the final in Kyiv. "We all know that in Madrid there is pressure and criticism from the press and the fans. But Eden can handle that. I know him well enough to say it. He can still change everything. He still wants to be an important player for Madrid and win titles" - he added. With Carlo Ancelotti assuming control over Real Madrid's manager situation from Zinedine Zidane, Eden Hazard has one more freedom to demonstrate his qualifications at the club. The winger as of late conceded that Carlo Ancelotti's arrangement is 'uplifting news' for him as he anticipates playing under the Italian strategist. "Everyone at Real Madrid knows what Ancelotti has brought to the club. He won the Champions League with this group and he knows a lot of the players. We know that he is a coach with a lot of experience" - he said. "He knows the city and the fans. I think we can do great things together. I don't know him personally, but from what I've heard of him he's a very nice person who just wants to win, and that's what we all want. We'll have the chance to work together. It's good news for me" - he added

Football: Eden Hazard will 100% stay at Real Madrid - Thibaut Courtois

Messi gets his eighth trophy as the top scorer in LaLiga. A look at the legends who have won LaLiga’s top scorer award in the 21st century. Many iconic players have won LaLiga’s top scorer award – often known as the ‘Pichichi’ – during their careers.

Messi gets his eighth trophy as the top scorer in LaLiga. A look at the legends who have won LaLiga’s top scorer award in the 21st century. Many iconic players have won LaLiga’s top scorer award – often known as the ‘Pichichi’ – during their careers. In recent years, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo consistently won it while battling it out for FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. But since the Portuguese left Madrid, the '10' Culé has skyrocketed in the ‘Pichichi’ historical ranking, being the only one to earn eight trophies as the top scorer in LaLiga Santander. The last one, this season. Behind the Argentine player we find many of the world game’s most iconic players, who have also taken home the award. Here are just a few of the best in recent years. ALSO READ: LaLiga: Icons between the sticks - Five standout Zamora winners from the modern age Lionel Messi What more can you say about Messi? The legendary Argentinian already has eight top scorer awards to his name, including the last five. His first came in 2009/10, starting a run of three in four seasons which included a historic fifty-goal haul in 2011/12 and a constant striking duel with Cristiano Ronaldo season after season. Messi has been such a dominant goalscoring force that only one player beyond Cristiano has beaten him to the top scorer gong in the past decade: his former FC Barcelona teammate and close friend Luis Suarez, who scored an incredible 40 goals in 2015/16. Cristiano Ronaldo When Cristiano left Real Madrid in 2018, his LaLiga goalscoring record stood at an unbelievable 311 goals in just 292 appearances. Limited to just three Pichichi awards but never dropping below 25 goals per season in Spain’s top flight, there have been few goalscorers quite as iconic as Cristiano. Raúl During his decade and a half as the spearhead of Real Madrid’s attack, Raúl scored goal after goal for Los Blancos. The Spaniard won LaLiga six times, and finished as the league’s top scorer on two occasions, in 1998/99 with 25 goals and then again in 2000/01 with 24 goals. Ronaldo Nazário Like Raúl, the current Real Valladolid president, Ronaldo Nazário, also won the Pichichi twice in his career, but he did so at two different clubs. In 1996/97 he won it with Barcelona by scoring 34 times that campaign, before he claimed the honour again in 2003/04 with 25 goals, this time in the white of Real Madrid after crossing the El Clasico divide. That was Ronaldo’s most prolific campaign in the Spanish capital. Samuel Eto’o When Samuel Eto'o joined Barcelona from RCD Mallorca in the summer of 2004, he hit the ground running by scoring 24 goals in that first season and just missing out on the Pichichi, which went to Diego Forlán. The following year, however, Eto'o upped his game even further and this time netted 26 times to ensure the award was finally his. His goals helped Barcelona win the LaLiga title in each of those campaigns. Ruud van Nistelrooy When Ruud van Nistelrooy arrived at Real Madrid from Manchester United in 2006, he touched down in the Spanish capital having previously won the Premier League’s top scorer award. Then, the Dutch striker set his sights on the Spanish equivalent and he did so with an impressive 25 goals in his debut season as Real Madrid won ‘The League of the Comebacks.’ Diego Forlán Diego Forlán is a two-time Pichichi winner, winning it once with Villarreal and then again with Atlético de Madrid. In his first season in LaLiga, the Uruguyan fired in 25 goals for Villarreal in 2004/05 to pip Eto'o to the honour, netting five goals across the final two matchdays to clinch a memorable goalscoring race. After switching yellow for red and white, Forlan won it again in 2008/09, this time with 32 goals. That made him the first player to win the award with over 30 goals since Ronaldo in 1996/97. Every Pichichi winner of the 21st century Season Winner Club Goals 2000/01 Raúl Real Madrid 24 2001/02 Diego Tristán Deportivo La Coruña 21 2002/03 Roy Makaay Deportivo La Coruña 29 2003/04 Ronaldo Real Madrid 25 2004/05 Diego Forlán Villarreal 25 2005/06 Samuel Eto'o Barcelona 26 2006/07 Ruud van Nistelrooy Real Madrid 25 2007/08 Daniel Güiza RCD Mallorca 27 2008/09 Diego Forlán Atlético Madrid 32 2009/10 Lionel Messi Barcelona 34 2010/11 Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid 41 2011/12 Lionel Messi Barcelona 50 2012/13 Lionel Messi Barcelona 46 2013/14 Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid 31 2014/15 Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid 48 2015/16 Luis Suárez Barcelona 40 2016/17 Lionel Messi Barcelona 37 2017/18 Lionel Messi Barcelona 34 2018/19 Lionel Messi Barcelona 36 2019/20 Lionel Messi Barcelona 25 2020/21 Lionel Messi Barcelona 30

LaLiga: The most iconic ‘Pichichi’ winners in recent history

After Thibaut Courtois, from Real Madrid, Jan Oblak won the trophy this season. The Atletico goalkeeper thus adds his fifth trophy and stands as the goalkeeper with the most Zamoras along with Ramallets and Víctor Valdés. We run through some of the most iconic and unique keepers from all over the world to have won this award in recent years.

<h2>Jan Oblak (Atletico de Madrid)</h2>

<img alt="Jan Oblak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59b2d6d0-bf20-4f39-9462-91ff440aac0c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Oblak.JPG" />

We start with the most recent. Atleti’s Slovenian keeper has cemented his reputation as one of the world’s premier shot stoppers in recent years, taking home five Zamora awards from the last six (2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2020-21). An almost wall-like between the sticks for Los Colchoneros since joining from Portuguese side Benfica in 2014, Oblak is a bona fide star for coach Diego Simeone’s famously defensively tight team.

<h2>Victor Valdes (FC Barcelona)</h2>

<img alt="Valdes" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="65c0641a-321e-490e-b2c2-e28ad6221966" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Valdes.JPG" />

Never recognised at international level to the extent his El Clasico rival Iker Casillas was, Victor Valdes nevertheless wrote his name into both the LaLiga and Barcelona history books by picking up five Zamora awards, including four consecutive gongs between 2008 and 2012. Comfortable with the ball at his feet and with a knack for pulling off incredible saves at big moments, Valdes was in many senses the perfect goalkeeper for the iconic and possession-based Barcelona sides of the mid-00s and 2010s. A true legend of Spanish football.

<h2>Roberto Abbondanzieri (Getafe CF)</h2>

<img alt="Roberto" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7611ccad-73ff-40a4-a347-5450c0f833cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Roberto%20Abbondanzieri.jpg" />

The long-time Argentina number one picked up the Zamora trophy in 2006/07 against all the odds as part of an unfancied but remarkable Getafe side which ended the season with the best defensive record in the whole of LaLiga Santander. El Pato – ‘The Duck’ – became a fan favourite in his three seasons at the suburban Madrid side, sandwiched between over a decade at Argentinian side Boca Juniors. It’s easy to forget just how good Abbondanzieri actually was; he was named among the top 10 goalkeepers in the world of the 2000s by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHHS).

<h2>Santiago Cañizares (RC Celta, Valencia CF)</h2>

<img alt="Santiago" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b416c6c-a049-4958-84ca-0c07ed6a5a39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Santiago%20Ca%C3%B1izares%201.jpg" />

Remembered across Europe for his bleach blond hair and fast reflexes, Cañizares won four Zamora titles with two different sides throughout his career. His first came at RC Celta in 1992/93, sharing the award with Francisco Liaño over at local rivals RC Deportivo. By the late 1990s, he’d made his way to Valencia CF via hometown club Real Madrid. At Mestalla he won three more, becoming an icon of the club’s late-90s and early 00s success: 2000/01, 2001/02 and 2003/04, the final two coming in LaLiga title-winning seasons.

<h2>Jacques Songo’o (RC Deportivo)</h2>

<img alt="Songo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="28d8e895-e72d-42a0-9c8c-1d30a0d31e35" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jacques%20Songo%27o.jpg" />

The only African to ever win the Zamora and one of the most loved foreign imports to LaLiga over the last few decades, Cameroon international Songo’o won the award in 1996/97 – his first ever season in Spanish football – as RC Deportivo finished third behind champions Real Madrid and a Ronaldo Nazario led Barcelona side. Famously a fan of playing in long trousers, the Yaoundé-born shot stopper would go on to win a LaLiga title in 1999/00 and settle in the area after retirement.&nbsp;

After Thibaut Courtois, from Real Madrid, Jan Oblak won the trophy this season. The Atletico goalkeeper thus adds his fifth trophy and stands as the goalkeeper with the most Zamoras along with Ramallets and Víctor Valdés.

After Thibaut Courtois, from Real Madrid, Jan Oblak won the trophy this season. The Atletico goalkeeper thus adds his fifth trophy and stands as the goalkeeper with the most Zamoras along with Ramallets and Víctor Valdés. We run through some of the most iconic and unique keepers from all over the world to have won this award in recent years. Jan Oblak (Atletico de Madrid) We start with the most recent. Atleti’s Slovenian keeper has cemented his reputation as one of the world’s premier shot stoppers in recent years, taking home five Zamora awards from the last six (2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2020-21). An almost wall-like between the sticks for Los Colchoneros since joining from Portuguese side Benfica in 2014, Oblak is a bona fide star for coach Diego Simeone’s famously defensively tight team. Victor Valdes (FC Barcelona) Never recognised at international level to the extent his El Clasico rival Iker Casillas was, Victor Valdes nevertheless wrote his name into both the LaLiga and Barcelona history books by picking up five Zamora awards, including four consecutive gongs between 2008 and 2012. Comfortable with the ball at his feet and with a knack for pulling off incredible saves at big moments, Valdes was in many senses the perfect goalkeeper for the iconic and possession-based Barcelona sides of the mid-00s and 2010s. A true legend of Spanish football. Roberto Abbondanzieri (Getafe CF) The long-time Argentina number one picked up the Zamora trophy in 2006/07 against all the odds as part of an unfancied but remarkable Getafe side which ended the season with the best defensive record in the whole of LaLiga Santander. El Pato – ‘The Duck’ – became a fan favourite in his three seasons at the suburban Madrid side, sandwiched between over a decade at Argentinian side Boca Juniors. It’s easy to forget just how good Abbondanzieri actually was; he was named among the top 10 goalkeepers in the world of the 2000s by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHHS). Santiago Cañizares (RC Celta, Valencia CF) Remembered across Europe for his bleach blond hair and fast reflexes, Cañizares won four Zamora titles with two different sides throughout his career. His first came at RC Celta in 1992/93, sharing the award with Francisco Liaño over at local rivals RC Deportivo. By the late 1990s, he’d made his way to Valencia CF via hometown club Real Madrid. At Mestalla he won three more, becoming an icon of the club’s late-90s and early 00s success: 2000/01, 2001/02 and 2003/04, the final two coming in LaLiga title-winning seasons. Jacques Songo’o (RC Deportivo) The only African to ever win the Zamora and one of the most loved foreign imports to LaLiga over the last few decades, Cameroon international Songo’o won the award in 1996/97 – his first ever season in Spanish football – as RC Deportivo finished third behind champions Real Madrid and a Ronaldo Nazario led Barcelona side. Famously a fan of playing in long trousers, the Yaoundé-born shot stopper would go on to win a LaLiga title in 1999/00 and settle in the area after retirement.

LaLiga: Icons between the sticks - Five standout Zamora winners from the modern age

Zinedine Zidane on Monday accused Real Madrid president Florentino Perez of lacking respect in his final season as the Los Blancos manager as he announced his departure from the club by saying: "I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need".

Zidane won three UEFA Champions League titles and two LaLiga trophies across two spells at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, the World Cup-winning former French midfielder decided to part ways again following Real Madrid’s trophyless campaign in 2020-21.

The Frenchman has now opened up on his decision to quit the top job at Real Madrid while also touching upon his relationship with president Perez.

Many reports, prior to Zidane’s open letter, suggested that the Frenchman is tired of managing and wants a break while other reports suggested that he may be signed by Paris Saint-Germain or the French national team.

Spanish publication AS on Monday published Zidane’s open letter to fans which reads: "Dear Real Madrid fans, for more than 20 years, from the first day I arrived in Madrid and wore the white shirt, you’ve shown me your love. I wanted to write this letter, to say goodbye to you and explain my decision to leave the coaching job.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-tuchel-set-for-new-deal-and-hungry-for-more-after-chelsea-champions-league-triumph-388458" hreflang="en">Football: Tuchel set for new deal and hungry for more after Chelsea Champions League triumph</a>

"I’m going, but I’m not jumping overboard, nor am I tired of coaching. In May 2018 I left because after two and a half years, with so many victories and so many trophies, I felt the team needed a new approach to stay at the very highest level. Right now, things are different. I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need, nor the support to build something in the medium or long term.”

Zidane further added that he knows the demands of managing a top club like Real Madrid as the manager will be sacked if he doesn’t win anything. However, the Frenchman said that his efforts to build a culture in the club has been forgotten. The former Real Madrid manager said that he would have wished for a better relationship with the club and president over the last few months.

"I understand football and I know the demands of a club like Real Madrid. I know when you don’t win, you have to leave. But with this a very important thing has been forgotten, everything I built day-to-day has been forgotten, what I brought to my relationships with the players, with the 150 people who work with and around the team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-acute-nose-bone-fracture-and-left-orbital-fracture-kevin-de-bruyne-reveals-extent-of-injury-picked-up-during-ucl-final-388411" hreflang="en">Football: 'Acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture' - Kevin De Bruyne reveals extent of injury picked up during UCL final</a>

"I’m a natural-born winner and I was here to win trophies, but even more important than this are the people, their feelings, life itself and I have the sensation these things have not been taken into account, that there has been a failure to understand that these things also keep the dynamics of a great club going. To some extent I have even been rebuked for it.

"I want there to be respected for what we have achieved together. I would have liked my relationship with the club and the president over the past few months to have been a little different to that of other coaches. I wasn’t asking for privileges, of course not, just a little more recollection.

"These days the life of a coach in the dugout at a big club is two seasons, little more. For it to last longer the human relationships are essential, they are more important than money, more important than fame, more important than everything. They need to be nurtured.

"That’s why it hurt me so much when I read in the press, after a defeat, that I would be sacked if I didn’t win the next game. It hurt me and the whole team because these deliberately leaked messages to the media negatively influenced the squad, they created doubts and misunderstandings.

"Luckily I had these amazing lads who were with me to the death. When things turned ugly they saved me with magnificent victories. Because they believed in me and knew I believed in them."

Zinedine Zidane on Monday accused Real Madrid president Florentino Perez of lacking respect in his final season as the Los Blancos manager as he announced his departure from the club by saying: "I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need".

Zinedine Zidane on Monday accused Real Madrid president Florentino Perez of lacking respect in his final season as the Los Blancos manager as he announced his departure from the club by saying: "I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need". Zidane won three UEFA Champions League titles and two LaLiga trophies across two spells at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, the World Cup-winning former French midfielder decided to part ways again following Real Madrid’s trophyless campaign in 2020-21. The Frenchman has now opened up on his decision to quit the top job at Real Madrid while also touching upon his relationship with president Perez. Many reports, prior to Zidane’s open letter, suggested that the Frenchman is tired of managing and wants a break while other reports suggested that he may be signed by Paris Saint-Germain or the French national team. Spanish publication AS on Monday published Zidane’s open letter to fans which reads: "Dear Real Madrid fans, for more than 20 years, from the first day I arrived in Madrid and wore the white shirt, you’ve shown me your love. I wanted to write this letter, to say goodbye to you and explain my decision to leave the coaching job. ALSO READ: Football: Tuchel set for new deal and hungry for more after Chelsea Champions League triumph "I’m going, but I’m not jumping overboard, nor am I tired of coaching. In May 2018 I left because after two and a half years, with so many victories and so many trophies, I felt the team needed a new approach to stay at the very highest level. Right now, things are different. I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need, nor the support to build something in the medium or long term.” Zidane further added that he knows the demands of managing a top club like Real Madrid as the manager will be sacked if he doesn’t win anything. However, the Frenchman said that his efforts to build a culture in the club has been forgotten. The former Real Madrid manager said that he would have wished for a better relationship with the club and president over the last few months. "I understand football and I know the demands of a club like Real Madrid. I know when you don’t win, you have to leave. But with this a very important thing has been forgotten, everything I built day-to-day has been forgotten, what I brought to my relationships with the players, with the 150 people who work with and around the team. ALSO READ: Football: 'Acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture' - Kevin De Bruyne reveals extent of injury picked up during UCL final "I’m a natural-born winner and I was here to win trophies, but even more important than this are the people, their feelings, life itself and I have the sensation these things have not been taken into account, that there has been a failure to understand that these things also keep the dynamics of a great club going. To some extent I have even been rebuked for it. "I want there to be respected for what we have achieved together. I would have liked my relationship with the club and the president over the past few months to have been a little different to that of other coaches. I wasn’t asking for privileges, of course not, just a little more recollection. "These days the life of a coach in the dugout at a big club is two seasons, little more. For it to last longer the human relationships are essential, they are more important than money, more important than fame, more important than everything. They need to be nurtured. "That’s why it hurt me so much when I read in the press, after a defeat, that I would be sacked if I didn’t win the next game. It hurt me and the whole team because these deliberately leaked messages to the media negatively influenced the squad, they created doubts and misunderstandings. "Luckily I had these amazing lads who were with me to the death. When things turned ugly they saved me with magnificent victories. Because they believed in me and knew I believed in them."

Football: 'Leaving because Real Madrid no longer has faith in me' - Zinedine Zidane pens open letter to fans

Zinedine Zidane has opened up about the club's trophyless 2020-21 season after their last La Liga match of the season against Villarreal.

Real Madrid completed second in La Liga behind rivals Atletico Madrid. They were taken out of the Copa del Rey in the round of 32 by third-division side CD Alcoyano. In the UEFA Champions League, their charge was ended by Chelsea in the elimination rounds.&nbsp;

A 2-1 success over Villarreal on Saturday was an empty achievement, given adversaries, Atletico Madrid additionally won to secure the La Liga title, and Zidane summarized his feelings a while later by saying: "My mood is screwed up."

Although, Zidane said thanks to Real Madrid fans for their help, while likewise asserting the club's chain of command is made of the way forward notwithstanding finishing the season without a trophy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-erling-haaland-double-earns-dortmund-win-over-leverkusen-in-season-finale-386842" hreflang="en">Football: Erling Haaland double earns Dortmund win over Leverkusen in season finale</a>

“I want to thank our fanbase because they have always supported the team. I think everyone can be proud of the fact that the players gave their all. We have to congratulate the whole squad. We also have to congratulate Atlético Madrid, who deserved it because whoever is top deserved it. The most important thing for us is what the players have done" - he said.

“With time and calm, I’ll speak with the club. We didn’t win anything, but we know what we have to do. As a club, we didn’t win anything this year. We know what we have to achieve, and what the fans want is the most important. We have to thank our fans because they have supported us the whole way. It’s a day to congratulate the whole squad" - he added.

He additionally assumed liability for the group's deficiencies this season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-thomas-tuchel-stressing-over-fitness-of-chelsea-players-ahead-of-aston-villa-match-386869" hreflang="en">Football: Thomas Tuchel stressing over fitness of Chelsea players ahead of Aston Villa match</a>

“We have not won anything. We know what we have to achieve, we gave everything on the pitch and I’m responsible for all of this. We’ll evaluate everything. All the players want to do is win” - he added.

Zinedine Zidane additionally gave a report on his future with Real Madrid, uncovering that chats with the club's agents will occur in the coming days.&nbsp;

"Today after the game, we have to be calm, and then in the next few days, we'll talk with the club, with the appropriate people. Soon, we'll see what happens, not just with me, but with what the club will do for next season" - he added.

Zinedine Zidane has opened up about the club's trophyless 2020-21 season after their last La Liga match of the season against Villarreal. Real Madrid completed second in La Liga behind rivals Atletico Madrid.

Zinedine Zidane has opened up about the club's trophyless 2020-21 season after their last La Liga match of the season against Villarreal. Real Madrid completed second in La Liga behind rivals Atletico Madrid. They were taken out of the Copa del Rey in the round of 32 by third-division side CD Alcoyano. In the UEFA Champions League, their charge was ended by Chelsea in the elimination rounds. A 2-1 success over Villarreal on Saturday was an empty achievement, given adversaries, Atletico Madrid additionally won to secure the La Liga title, and Zidane summarized his feelings a while later by saying: "My mood is screwed up." Although, Zidane said thanks to Real Madrid fans for their help, while likewise asserting the club's chain of command is made of the way forward notwithstanding finishing the season without a trophy. ALSO READ: Football: Erling Haaland double earns Dortmund win over Leverkusen in season finale “I want to thank our fanbase because they have always supported the team. I think everyone can be proud of the fact that the players gave their all. We have to congratulate the whole squad. We also have to congratulate Atlético Madrid, who deserved it because whoever is top deserved it. The most important thing for us is what the players have done" - he said. “With time and calm, I’ll speak with the club. We didn’t win anything, but we know what we have to do. As a club, we didn’t win anything this year. We know what we have to achieve, and what the fans want is the most important. We have to thank our fans because they have supported us the whole way. It’s a day to congratulate the whole squad" - he added. He additionally assumed liability for the group's deficiencies this season. ALSO READ: Football: Thomas Tuchel stressing over fitness of Chelsea players ahead of Aston Villa match “We have not won anything. We know what we have to achieve, we gave everything on the pitch and I’m responsible for all of this. We’ll evaluate everything. All the players want to do is win” - he added. Zinedine Zidane additionally gave a report on his future with Real Madrid, uncovering that chats with the club's agents will occur in the coming days. "Today after the game, we have to be calm, and then in the next few days, we'll talk with the club, with the appropriate people. Soon, we'll see what happens, not just with me, but with what the club will do for next season" - he added.

Football: 'We know what we have to do' - Zinedine Zidane on Real Madrid ending trophyless

Spanish fans of both&nbsp;football&nbsp;and music breathed a sigh of relief on Monday after La Liga announced a third set of fixture changes in 12 hours to ensure no matches overlap with Saturday's Eurovision Song Contest.

La Liga has now moved all games involved in the title race, the relegation struggle, and the battle for places in next season's European competitions to 6:00 p.m. (1600 GMT) on Saturday.

The Eurovision Song Contest, which usually draws a global television audience of around 200 million, starts three hours later.

In the first fixture change, La Liga brought forward Eibar's match with Barcelona from Sunday to Saturday following Eibar's relegation. Just over an hour later, the match was moved back to its original time because it transpired the result could have an impact on who else is relegated.

In a third change, La Liga said on Monday it was rescheduling several other matches, including bringing forward Villarreal's match against Real Madrid from Sunday to Saturday.

Villarreal Director Fernando Roig Negueroles had earlier accused La Liga of showing a "lack of respect" by not rearranging the match to allow his club more time to prepare for the Europa League final against Manchester United on May 26.

The match against Real, who are still in the title race, will now go ahead on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. - the same time as title rivals Atletico Madrid, who sit two points above their city rivals, travel to Valladolid.

Spanish fans of both football and music breathed a sigh of relief on Monday after La Liga announced a third set of fixture changes in 12 hours to ensure no matches overlap with Saturday's Eurovision Song Contest.

Spanish fans of both football and music breathed a sigh of relief on Monday after La Liga announced a third set of fixture changes in 12 hours to ensure no matches overlap with Saturday's Eurovision Song Contest. La Liga has now moved all games involved in the title race, the relegation struggle, and the battle for places in next season's European competitions to 6:00 p.m. (1600 GMT) on Saturday. The Eurovision Song Contest, which usually draws a global television audience of around 200 million, starts three hours later. In the first fixture change, La Liga brought forward Eibar's match with Barcelona from Sunday to Saturday following Eibar's relegation. Just over an hour later, the match was moved back to its original time because it transpired the result could have an impact on who else is relegated. In a third change, La Liga said on Monday it was rescheduling several other matches, including bringing forward Villarreal's match against Real Madrid from Sunday to Saturday. Villarreal Director Fernando Roig Negueroles had earlier accused La Liga of showing a "lack of respect" by not rearranging the match to allow his club more time to prepare for the Europa League final against Manchester United on May 26. The match against Real, who are still in the title race, will now go ahead on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. - the same time as title rivals Atletico Madrid, who sit two points above their city rivals, travel to Valladolid.

La Liga moves fixtures to avoid clash with Eurovision Song Contest

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga.&nbsp;

Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left.&nbsp;

When the final whistle blew, Diego Simeone jogged up the tunnel at the Wanda Metropolitano, punching the air as he went, fully aware how important this result could prove.&nbsp;

"We were excellent in the first half but the suffering was unnecessary when we had so many chances," Simeone said.

Outside, Atleti fans had gathered to cheer and sing throughout a nervy contest and when victory was confirmed, fireworks filled the sky.&nbsp;

"We thank all those who are outside tonight and all those who can't come because of everything that is happening," said Atletico captain Koke. "We could hear them outside when we needed them in the last 10 minutes."

Victory puts Atletico four points clear of Barcelona in the table and five ahead of Real Madrid, with Zinedine Zidane's side playing their game in hand away at Granada on Thursday.&nbsp;

It also raises the possibility of Atletico winning the title in the penultimate round on Sunday when they play at home to Osasuna.&nbsp;

Another victory this weekend would knock Barca out of the race regardless of what the Catalans do against Celta Vigo while Real Madrid would also concede if they had not taken six points from Granada and Sunday's trip to Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

Sevilla, in fourth, had earlier edged past Valencia 1-0 but they can no longer overtake Atleti, given their six-point deficit and a losing head-to-head record with the leaders.&nbsp;

Youssef En-Nesyri scored his 26th goal of the season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

The four-horse race is reduced to three and after weeks of various twists and turns, Atletico suddenly appear to have a route to the trophy.&nbsp;

In terms of the table at least, this game against fifth-placed Real Sociedad was their toughest remaining fixture, although Real Valladolid could well be fighting for survival on the final day.&nbsp;

After Granada and Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid finish against Villarreal, who will have the Europa League final three days later. Barcelona face Celta before ending away at Eibar, who could also be battling relegation.&nbsp;

Atletico were brilliant for the first half an hour and could have scored two or three times in the first 10 minutes, Luis Suarez blasting over and Marcos Llorente spurning a chance when sent clear.&nbsp;

Carrasco showed more precision when Llorente curled in a superb cross to the back post, the winger controlling with the outside of his right foot and poking in the opener.&nbsp;

Suarez teed up the second, bustling through midfield and slipping in Correa, who drove the ball inside the far corner to put Atletico in charge.&nbsp;

But they failed to add a third in the second half, Suarez and Carrasco both guilty of wasting chances, and Real Sociedad were revived in the final 30 minutes.&nbsp;

Portu drew an excellent save from Jan Oblak and then struck the post before finally, Zubeldia smashed in when a corner landed at his feet, six yards out. Atletico survived a nail-biting finish.

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga. Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left.

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga. Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left. When the final whistle blew, Diego Simeone jogged up the tunnel at the Wanda Metropolitano, punching the air as he went, fully aware how important this result could prove. "We were excellent in the first half but the suffering was unnecessary when we had so many chances," Simeone said. Outside, Atleti fans had gathered to cheer and sing throughout a nervy contest and when victory was confirmed, fireworks filled the sky. "We thank all those who are outside tonight and all those who can't come because of everything that is happening," said Atletico captain Koke. "We could hear them outside when we needed them in the last 10 minutes." Victory puts Atletico four points clear of Barcelona in the table and five ahead of Real Madrid, with Zinedine Zidane's side playing their game in hand away at Granada on Thursday. It also raises the possibility of Atletico winning the title in the penultimate round on Sunday when they play at home to Osasuna. Another victory this weekend would knock Barca out of the race regardless of what the Catalans do against Celta Vigo while Real Madrid would also concede if they had not taken six points from Granada and Sunday's trip to Athletic Bilbao. Sevilla, in fourth, had earlier edged past Valencia 1-0 but they can no longer overtake Atleti, given their six-point deficit and a losing head-to-head record with the leaders. Youssef En-Nesyri scored his 26th goal of the season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. The four-horse race is reduced to three and after weeks of various twists and turns, Atletico suddenly appear to have a route to the trophy. In terms of the table at least, this game against fifth-placed Real Sociedad was their toughest remaining fixture, although Real Valladolid could well be fighting for survival on the final day. After Granada and Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid finish against Villarreal, who will have the Europa League final three days later. Barcelona face Celta before ending away at Eibar, who could also be battling relegation. Atletico were brilliant for the first half an hour and could have scored two or three times in the first 10 minutes, Luis Suarez blasting over and Marcos Llorente spurning a chance when sent clear. Carrasco showed more precision when Llorente curled in a superb cross to the back post, the winger controlling with the outside of his right foot and poking in the opener. Suarez teed up the second, bustling through midfield and slipping in Correa, who drove the ball inside the far corner to put Atletico in charge. But they failed to add a third in the second half, Suarez and Carrasco both guilty of wasting chances, and Real Sociedad were revived in the final 30 minutes. Portu drew an excellent save from Jan Oblak and then struck the post before finally, Zubeldia smashed in when a corner landed at his feet, six yards out. Atletico survived a nail-biting finish.

Atletico edge closer to La Liga title after Real Sociedad win

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga.&nbsp;

Another slip could prove decisive given Atletico will move four points clear of Barca with two games left if they can win away at Real Sociedad on Wednesday. Real Madrid will edge two points ahead of Ronald Koeman's side if they win away on Thursday at Granada.&nbsp;

There are certainly no guarantees in what has been a frenetic and thrilling title race in recent weeks, with all of Spain's four contenders stumbling down the final stretch.&nbsp;

But with only two games left now and potentially two teams to catch, Barcelona's chances of taking the title off Real Madrid this season would appear remote.

"We were always depending on other results but the objective was to win our three games and hope others dropped points," said Koeman. "Now it's very complicated."&nbsp;

Levante sit 14th in the table and had won only one of their previous eight matches but they had also prevailed in three of their last four games at home against Barca, and they turned it on again.&nbsp;

Barcelona led 2-0 from Messi's acrobatic strike and a simple Pedri finish but two goals in two minutes before the hour suddenly had Levante level, Gonzalo Melero and Jose Luis Morales giving Levante hope.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele pulled the visitors ahead again but again they squandered the advantage, Sergio Leon diverting in at the near post and this time there was no way back.&nbsp;

"We lowered our intensity from the start of the second half, lost our rhythm," said Koeman. "We weren't defensively attentive and we let Levante back in. There is no other explanation."

"Our chances are slim," added Sergio Busquets. "And that's our fault - our decisions, our concentration - we give away easy goals."

Koeman has made positive strides this season but his team's lapses of concentration and fragility in defence remain.&nbsp;

Questions around the Dutchman's future will grow louder the more the club's title chances fade, his decisions this time to start Dembele at right wing-back and to bring Sergi Roberto into the back three particularly vulnerable to scrutiny.

"Coaches will always be questioned, that isn't going to change but with that second half there will be questions asked and I understand that perfectly," said Koeman.

Barcelona had scored twice in nine minutes to take control, Jordi Alba's cross grazing the head of Miramon on its way to Messi, who adjusted his body and threw his left foot over the ball, volleying it into the bottom corner for his 37th goal of the season.&nbsp;

Messi instigated the second too, freeing the sprinting Dembele down the right, who powered past Oscar Duarte and prodded back just in time for Pedri to finish.&nbsp;

Barca were in charge but Levante always looked a threat on the break and made it pay with two goals in two minutes before the hour.&nbsp;

First, Melero nipped in front of Sergi Roberto to head in and then a sloppy Messi touch allowed Morales to bounce the ball off Roger Marti, before volleying brilliantly into the far corner.&nbsp;

Parity lasted only five minutes, though, as Barcelona came again.&nbsp;

Messi on the turn was able to slide a pass into Antoine Griezmann and while he was challenged, the ball spilled right to Dembele, who took a touch and lashed into the top corner.&nbsp;

Barca were ahead again but they always looked vulnerable and with seven minutes left, Levante struck.&nbsp;

Sergino Dest was put on the floor by Tono down the left and his cross was turned in by Sergio Leon, who beat Gerard Pique at the near post. Barca had no answer.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga. Another slip could prove decisive given Atletico will move four points clear of Barca with two games left if they can win away at Real Sociedad on Wednesday. Real Madrid will edge two points ahead of Ronald Koeman's side if they win away on Thursday at Granada. There are certainly no guarantees in what has been a frenetic and thrilling title race in recent weeks, with all of Spain's four contenders stumbling down the final stretch. But with only two games left now and potentially two teams to catch, Barcelona's chances of taking the title off Real Madrid this season would appear remote. "We were always depending on other results but the objective was to win our three games and hope others dropped points," said Koeman. "Now it's very complicated." Levante sit 14th in the table and had won only one of their previous eight matches but they had also prevailed in three of their last four games at home against Barca, and they turned it on again. Barcelona led 2-0 from Messi's acrobatic strike and a simple Pedri finish but two goals in two minutes before the hour suddenly had Levante level, Gonzalo Melero and Jose Luis Morales giving Levante hope. Ousmane Dembele pulled the visitors ahead again but again they squandered the advantage, Sergio Leon diverting in at the near post and this time there was no way back. "We lowered our intensity from the start of the second half, lost our rhythm," said Koeman. "We weren't defensively attentive and we let Levante back in. There is no other explanation." "Our chances are slim," added Sergio Busquets. "And that's our fault - our decisions, our concentration - we give away easy goals." Koeman has made positive strides this season but his team's lapses of concentration and fragility in defence remain. Questions around the Dutchman's future will grow louder the more the club's title chances fade, his decisions this time to start Dembele at right wing-back and to bring Sergi Roberto into the back three particularly vulnerable to scrutiny. "Coaches will always be questioned, that isn't going to change but with that second half there will be questions asked and I understand that perfectly," said Koeman. Barcelona had scored twice in nine minutes to take control, Jordi Alba's cross grazing the head of Miramon on its way to Messi, who adjusted his body and threw his left foot over the ball, volleying it into the bottom corner for his 37th goal of the season. Messi instigated the second too, freeing the sprinting Dembele down the right, who powered past Oscar Duarte and prodded back just in time for Pedri to finish. Barca were in charge but Levante always looked a threat on the break and made it pay with two goals in two minutes before the hour. First, Melero nipped in front of Sergi Roberto to head in and then a sloppy Messi touch allowed Morales to bounce the ball off Roger Marti, before volleying brilliantly into the far corner. Parity lasted only five minutes, though, as Barcelona came again. Messi on the turn was able to slide a pass into Antoine Griezmann and while he was challenged, the ball spilled right to Dembele, who took a touch and lashed into the top corner. Barca were ahead again but they always looked vulnerable and with seven minutes left, Levante struck. Sergino Dest was put on the floor by Tono down the left and his cross was turned in by Sergio Leon, who beat Gerard Pique at the near post. Barca had no answer.

Barca title hopes hanging by a thread after Levante draw

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain. <o:p></o:p>

On Tuesday, Elche will take on Alaves as another humdinger awaits the football fans in LaLiga’s relegation battle. While Elche are 19th in the league with 30 points in 35 matches, Alaves are sitting 16th - just outside the relegation zone - with 34 points in 35 matches in LaLiga.<o:p></o:p>

However, with not much to separate between the bottom-ranked sides in LaLiga, Elche will have both Real Valladolid and Alaves in their sights. Elche bagged a crucial win over Levante but have since lost to Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad to hover in the relegation zone.

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Elche optimistic of surviving&nbsp;relegation:&nbsp;Fran Escriba</o:p></h2>

The Fran Escriba-managed outfit was promoted to LaLiga last season and will finish their 2020-21 campaign against Cadiz and Atletico Bilbao. However, a defeat to Alaves will leave them in a spot of bother. <o:p></o:p>

“Apart from our game, the most important one, they didn’t go against us. The results didn’t go in our favour, but neither did they go against. We have the same options and we are 6 teams in there. Obviously, the ones that have some more points have better chances. But I think we are all quite even, with a match less to go. And obviously, that makes the game. Being a direct rival, who we would overtake in the table in case of winning, it makes it a “great final”, because we had already said that the games would be finals. In the end, it affects the only team that is competing with us directly,” Elche manager Fran Escriba told WION as shared by LaLiga.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spain-legend-iniesta-to-stay-with-japans-kobe-for-two-more-years-384256" hreflang="en">Spain legend Iniesta to stay with Japan's Kobe for two more years</a>

<o:p><img alt="Elche" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62ce482d-cfbc-4c53-a733-4d8fb62e7663" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_94X27T.jpg" /></o:p>

Has the defeat to Real Sociedad really dented Elche’s confidence when it comes to grinding out results to save themselves from the drop? Escriba reckons the results of other teams over the weekend have cheered the squad a little bit and the optimism is going to play a major role in defining their season.<o:p></o:p>

“The disappointment of Friday, after a game in which we couldn’t do much more than we did, play a very good game in terms of will and order and so but it got conditioned right from the start. The team was not left highly affected, but it’s a defeat, although it was a conditioned one. But it’s true that the results on Saturday and Sunday have cheered us a bit. If we kept believing on Friday, obviously after the results that have left it all more or less the same, obviously, we have that optimism that people give us. Because on the streets people transmit optimism and confidence in the team, and that’s also there among&nbsp;the group,” Escriba added.

<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Alaves will head into the much-awaited clash on the back of a 2-2 draw against Levante on Saturday. Manager Javier Calleja, who has been in charge of Alaves since the start of April, has made a mark in the LaLiga while winning two, drawing three and losing just one of his six matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zinedine-zidane-bewildered-by-handball-decision-as-real-title-hopes-slip-384006" hreflang="en">Zinedine Zidane bewildered by handball decision as Real title hopes slip</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">We only know how to play to win: Javier Calleja</h2>

El Glorioso are in their fifth straight season at this level of football and had finished ninth, 14th and 11th before ending the 2019-20 campaign in the 16th spot. However, they are currently 16th in the table and are just two clear of 18th-ranked Huesca and could be in trouble with a defeat against Elche.

<img alt="Alaves" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ff20c7ff-eb55-43ae-8a4c-2a0b03179259" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alaves.JPG" />

<o:p></o:p>

Notably, Alaves have two tough outings to close the LaLiga season as they host Granada and then face Sevilla in the final matchday.<o:p></o:p>

“It’s a really important game. We play against a direct rival, and in case of a victory, we would leave them 5 points behind with 6 left to play. So, of course, it is a fundamental game. We face it like a final, like so many others we have lived since I am here. But we know there is less time left now,” Calleja told WION as shared by LaLiga.<o:p></o:p>

“We don’t know how to play to not lose, we only know how to play to win. It’s my mindset. I don’t know how to face a game to draw. So, what I try to teach the team is not to speculate. We have to focus on the game, on what we have to do during 90 minutes and not go out and wait for it and let minutes go by and let the opponents gain terrain and feel comfortable. We have to aim for victory. We have to know how to play and be intelligent and have a cold mind. But we can’t let the minutes go by without anything happening,” the Alaves manager&nbsp;added.<o:p></o:p>

So who will bag the crucial win in the match between Elche and Alaves as the battle in the relegation zone heats up? Watch Elche CF vs Deportivo Alaves on Tuesday at 11:30 PM on Facebook Watch.<o:p></o:p>

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain.

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain. On Tuesday, Elche will take on Alaves as another humdinger awaits the football fans in LaLiga’s relegation battle. While Elche are 19th in the league with 30 points in 35 matches, Alaves are sitting 16th - just outside the relegation zone - with 34 points in 35 matches in LaLiga. However, with not much to separate between the bottom-ranked sides in LaLiga, Elche will have both Real Valladolid and Alaves in their sights. Elche bagged a crucial win over Levante but have since lost to Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad to hover in the relegation zone. Elche optimistic of surviving relegation: Fran Escriba The Fran Escriba-managed outfit was promoted to LaLiga last season and will finish their 2020-21 campaign against Cadiz and Atletico Bilbao. However, a defeat to Alaves will leave them in a spot of bother. “Apart from our game, the most important one, they didn’t go against us. The results didn’t go in our favour, but neither did they go against. We have the same options and we are 6 teams in there. Obviously, the ones that have some more points have better chances. But I think we are all quite even, with a match less to go. And obviously, that makes the game. Being a direct rival, who we would overtake in the table in case of winning, it makes it a “great final”, because we had already said that the games would be finals. In the end, it affects the only team that is competing with us directly,” Elche manager Fran Escriba told WION as shared by LaLiga. ALSO READ: Spain legend Iniesta to stay with Japan's Kobe for two more years Has the defeat to Real Sociedad really dented Elche’s confidence when it comes to grinding out results to save themselves from the drop? Escriba reckons the results of other teams over the weekend have cheered the squad a little bit and the optimism is going to play a major role in defining their season. “The disappointment of Friday, after a game in which we couldn’t do much more than we did, play a very good game in terms of will and order and so but it got conditioned right from the start. The team was not left highly affected, but it’s a defeat, although it was a conditioned one. But it’s true that the results on Saturday and Sunday have cheered us a bit. If we kept believing on Friday, obviously after the results that have left it all more or less the same, obviously, we have that optimism that people give us. Because on the streets people transmit optimism and confidence in the team, and that’s also there among the group,” Escriba added. Meanwhile, Alaves will head into the much-awaited clash on the back of a 2-2 draw against Levante on Saturday. Manager Javier Calleja, who has been in charge of Alaves since the start of April, has made a mark in the LaLiga while winning two, drawing three and losing just one of his six matches. ALSO READ: Zinedine Zidane bewildered by handball decision as Real title hopes slip We only know how to play to win: Javier Calleja El Glorioso are in their fifth straight season at this level of football and had finished ninth, 14th and 11th before ending the 2019-20 campaign in the 16th spot. However, they are currently 16th in the table and are just two clear of 18th-ranked Huesca and could be in trouble with a defeat against Elche. Notably, Alaves have two tough outings to close the LaLiga season as they host Granada and then face Sevilla in the final matchday. “It’s a really important game. We play against a direct rival, and in case of a victory, we would leave them 5 points behind with 6 left to play. So, of course, it is a fundamental game. We face it like a final, like so many others we have lived since I am here. But we know there is less time left now,” Calleja told WION as shared by LaLiga. “We don’t know how to play to not lose, we only know how to play to win. It’s my mindset. I don’t know how to face a game to draw. So, what I try to teach the team is not to speculate. We have to focus on the game, on what we have to do during 90 minutes and not go out and wait for it and let minutes go by and let the opponents gain terrain and feel comfortable. We have to aim for victory. We have to know how to play and be intelligent and have a cold mind. But we can’t let the minutes go by without anything happening,” the Alaves manager added. So who will bag the crucial win in the match between Elche and Alaves as the battle in the relegation zone heats up? Watch Elche CF vs Deportivo Alaves on Tuesday at 11:30 PM on Facebook Watch.

Elche vs Alaves: Battle for survival heats up in LaLiga as two head coaches keep calm

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid knew victory could fire them towards the La Liga title but Saturday's 0-0 draw at Camp Nou handed Real Madrid the chance to go top.

Four wins from their last four games will now be enough for Zinedine Zidane's side to retain their La Liga crown, with a crunch game at home to fourth-placed Sevilla up first on Sunday.

The first part of a blockbuster weekend in the Spanish title race pitched first against third but neither could take a decisive step forward, despite the best attempts of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, who faced each other for the first time since Suarez departed last summer.

A point each leaves Atletico three points clear of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand and also the superior head-to-head over both Atleti and Barcelona.

Barca remain two points off the top but their chances took the biggest hit, given they now need both Atletico and Real Madrid to slip up in the final stretch.

Anything can still happen because of what we've seen so far," said Gerard Pique. "If Madrid wins their four games they will be champions, but it is difficult for the big teams to be consistent. If we win all our three games, I think we'll have a chance."

Atletico will be disappointed too, given they spurned a number of chances in during a dominant first half, before Ronald Koeman's side recovered in the second.&nbsp;

Jan Oblak had to deny Messi after a vintage run forward from the Argentine, who then had a well-placed free-kick in the last minute, only for Atletico to watch the ball spin inches wide.&nbsp;

"We started better and they finished a little better," Oblak said. "Real Madrid has four games left but for sure they are going to be tought games. We have to keep going."&nbsp;

Diego Simeone said on Friday Suarez had been "vindicated" since being forced to leave Barcelona, his 19 goals making him top scorer for the team.&nbsp;

Koeman admitted it would be "strange" for everyone, including Messi, who sent a heartfelt open letter to his former team-mate, neighbour and best friend last year.&nbsp;

<h2>- Suarez 'always welcome' -</h2>

The pair shared a few words in the centre circle before kick-off after the Camp Nou stadium announcer had already beamed that Suarez "will always be welcome".

But, in truth, the Uruguayan was not at his ruthless best as a handful of openings went unconverted in a contest full of chances but that lacked precision when it mattered most.&nbsp;

Messi was repeatedly knocked over in the opening few minutes before Gerard Pique went through the back of Suarez, both teams scrapping for control.&nbsp;

Atletico slowly took charge, helped by the departure of Sergio Busquets, who was replaced by Ilaix Moriba after a clash of heads that meant he had to be taken to hospital for tests.&nbsp;

Without Busquets, Barcelona were rudderless for a while and the Atletico chances came thick and fast.&nbsp;

Marc-Andre ter Stegen had to palm away Marcos Llorente's shot and then stick out a foot to deny Suarez from the angle.&nbsp;

Suarez then tried to nod in the rebound after a winding run from Yannick Carrasco before claiming a penalty after feeling a flick of Ter Stegen's hand across his head.&nbsp;

Barcelona were rattled, the usually steady Ter Stegen booting one ball straight into the stands, only for Messi to give Atletico a reality check, his driving run past six chasers opening the space for a shot, but Oblak tipped it wide.&nbsp;

Felipe fired over from a well-worked Atleti short corner before half-time but Barca were better after the break, with both Ilaix and Pique going close shortly after the hour.&nbsp;

Both coaches made changes, hoping to inspire a winner. Ousmane Dembele was one of them and he should have grabbed it with six minutes left but headed over from six yards in perhaps the best chance of the game.&nbsp;

Messi could have won it at the end, standing over the ball with a free-kick placed centrally and 25 yards out. Atletico held their breath, the ball whistling just wide of Oblak's post.&nbsp;

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid knew victory could fire them towards the La Liga title but Saturday's 0-0 draw at Camp Nou handed Real Madrid the chance to go top.

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid knew victory could fire them towards the La Liga title but Saturday's 0-0 draw at Camp Nou handed Real Madrid the chance to go top. Four wins from their last four games will now be enough for Zinedine Zidane's side to retain their La Liga crown, with a crunch game at home to fourth-placed Sevilla up first on Sunday. The first part of a blockbuster weekend in the Spanish title race pitched first against third but neither could take a decisive step forward, despite the best attempts of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, who faced each other for the first time since Suarez departed last summer. A point each leaves Atletico three points clear of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand and also the superior head-to-head over both Atleti and Barcelona. Barca remain two points off the top but their chances took the biggest hit, given they now need both Atletico and Real Madrid to slip up in the final stretch. Anything can still happen because of what we've seen so far," said Gerard Pique. "If Madrid wins their four games they will be champions, but it is difficult for the big teams to be consistent. If we win all our three games, I think we'll have a chance." Atletico will be disappointed too, given they spurned a number of chances in during a dominant first half, before Ronald Koeman's side recovered in the second. Jan Oblak had to deny Messi after a vintage run forward from the Argentine, who then had a well-placed free-kick in the last minute, only for Atletico to watch the ball spin inches wide. "We started better and they finished a little better," Oblak said. "Real Madrid has four games left but for sure they are going to be tought games. We have to keep going." Diego Simeone said on Friday Suarez had been "vindicated" since being forced to leave Barcelona, his 19 goals making him top scorer for the team. Koeman admitted it would be "strange" for everyone, including Messi, who sent a heartfelt open letter to his former team-mate, neighbour and best friend last year. - Suarez 'always welcome' - The pair shared a few words in the centre circle before kick-off after the Camp Nou stadium announcer had already beamed that Suarez "will always be welcome". But, in truth, the Uruguayan was not at his ruthless best as a handful of openings went unconverted in a contest full of chances but that lacked precision when it mattered most. Messi was repeatedly knocked over in the opening few minutes before Gerard Pique went through the back of Suarez, both teams scrapping for control. Atletico slowly took charge, helped by the departure of Sergio Busquets, who was replaced by Ilaix Moriba after a clash of heads that meant he had to be taken to hospital for tests. Without Busquets, Barcelona were rudderless for a while and the Atletico chances came thick and fast. Marc-Andre ter Stegen had to palm away Marcos Llorente's shot and then stick out a foot to deny Suarez from the angle. Suarez then tried to nod in the rebound after a winding run from Yannick Carrasco before claiming a penalty after feeling a flick of Ter Stegen's hand across his head. Barcelona were rattled, the usually steady Ter Stegen booting one ball straight into the stands, only for Messi to give Atletico a reality check, his driving run past six chasers opening the space for a shot, but Oblak tipped it wide. Felipe fired over from a well-worked Atleti short corner before half-time but Barca were better after the break, with both Ilaix and Pique going close shortly after the hour. Both coaches made changes, hoping to inspire a winner. Ousmane Dembele was one of them and he should have grabbed it with six minutes left but headed over from six yards in perhaps the best chance of the game. Messi could have won it at the end, standing over the ball with a free-kick placed centrally and 25 yards out. Atletico held their breath, the ball whistling just wide of Oblak's post.

Stalemate between Atletico and Barca hands advantage to Real Madrid

The LaLiga 2020-21 title race is set to reach the pinnacle with top-four sides set to play each other in the next 48 hours as the battle for the coveted trophy heats up. Gameweek 35 will see third-placed FC Barcelona lock horns with league leaders Atletico Madrid on Saturday whereas third second-placed Real Madrid host fourth-placed Sevilla on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

Since February, Atletico Madrid have conceded a 10-point lead in the LaLiga standings and a defeat to Barcelona on Saturday will see Los Colchoneros lose out the top spot to the Lionel Messi-led outfit. With a two-point advantage, a&nbsp;draw for Diego Simeone and Co. would help them maintain their league standings over Barcelona but could open a window for Real Madrid to move atop the standings on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

Real Madrid start the weekend while trailing by two points to Atletico Madrid but the Los Blancos have a superior head-to-head goal difference, meaning they would end up winning the LaLiga if they finish level on points with either of their rivals.<o:p></o:p>

Atletico Madrid played out five draws and suffered two defeats in their last 11 LaLiga matches – and the results have dented their title aspirations massively. With one of the highest-paid managers in the world at their helm, Atletico Madrid would be desperate to close out on the league matches but face a stern challenge. But would it be called a failure if Atletico Madrid fail to lift the LaLiga?

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-jr-set-to-extend-his-contract-with-paris-saint-germain-reports-383630" hreflang="en">Neymar Jr. set to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Reports</a><o:p></o:p>

“Fair play to play to them how they have competed with Barcelona and Real Madrid. They have been top of the league for almost the entire season despite pressure from other teams in the league. Of course, the Atletico Madrid fans might feel disappointed if they don't win it, especially when they have been on top for so long. What you have done before doesn't matter now, all that matters is points per game now. Atletico Madrid need to deliver now. The way they have competed this season is commendable but I don't think it will be deemed as a failure if they don't win the LaLiga,” former Spain international and LaLiga Ambassador, Gaizka Mendieta answered WION query during a virtual press conference.

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However, former Sevilla forward Frederic Kanoute feels otherwise as he said any team or coach would have preferred to keep the 10-point league heading into the final phase of the season. <o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

“I think Atletico Madrid will be very disappointed if they fail to win the LaLiga. As a coach, more, because the advantage they had just a couple of months ago. As a coach, when you have a lead of more than 10 points, you want to keep it as you are competing against big clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Sevilla. At one point it was looking like it won't be such a dramatic end. But as they were competing with big clubs, I was pretty sure at some point, Barcelona and Real Madrid would make their job difficult. I feel, as a coach it is important to manage your team well and Simeone has done a great job and it is difficult to keep that momentum going throughout the year,” former Sevilla forward and LaLiga Ambassador, Frederic Kanoute answered a&nbsp;WION query during a virtual press conference.<o:p></o:p>

Could Atletico Madrid sack or move away from Diego Simeone if they fail to win the LaLiga?&nbsp;

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“I wouldn't say that because of this, his job would be in danger. But maybe, Atletico Madrid would want to start a new project with a new coach but it won't be due to them not winning the LaLiga (if that happens). But we hope we can keep him in LaLiga, as he is a big asset to the league,” Kanoute added.<o:p></o:p>

While Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Sevilla head into the gameweek 35 fresh, Real Madrid are coming on the back of a crushing UEFA Champions League semi-final defeat to Chelsea on Wednesday. While it would be a challenge for Zinedine Zidane to motivate the tired-legged Real Madrid players, Barcelona would be without their manager Ronald Koeman, who has been handed a touchline ban for his antics in their last game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simeone-will-not-change-gameplan-for-barca-showdown-383499" hreflang="en">Simeone will not change gameplan for Barca showdown</a>

How big a disadvantage would it be for Barcelona to be without their manager for such a monumental game in the LaLiga title-race scenario?<o:p></o:p>

“It is always important to have the manager on the touchline. It provides a certain authority in some moments of the game with guidelines and tactical awareness. I don't think it is essential at this point. The players of course know what to do on the field and how to do it, and require minimal details from the sideline. But the line of communication between Koeman and his staff going to be continued. So in that respect, although it has an impact but at this moment, it is minimal,” Gaizka Mendieta explained. <o:p></o:p>

Barcelona will lock horns with Atletico Madrid on Saturday while Real Madrid take on Sevilla on Sunday. Catch LaLiga action live and exclusive this weekend on Facebook Watch.<o:p></o:p>

The LaLiga 2020-21 title race is set to reach the pinnacle with top-four sides set to play each other in the next 48 hours as the battle for the coveted trophy heats up.

The LaLiga 2020-21 title race is set to reach the pinnacle with top-four sides set to play each other in the next 48 hours as the battle for the coveted trophy heats up. Gameweek 35 will see third-placed FC Barcelona lock horns with league leaders Atletico Madrid on Saturday whereas third second-placed Real Madrid host fourth-placed Sevilla on Sunday. Since February, Atletico Madrid have conceded a 10-point lead in the LaLiga standings and a defeat to Barcelona on Saturday will see Los Colchoneros lose out the top spot to the Lionel Messi-led outfit. With a two-point advantage, a draw for Diego Simeone and Co. would help them maintain their league standings over Barcelona but could open a window for Real Madrid to move atop the standings on Sunday. Real Madrid start the weekend while trailing by two points to Atletico Madrid but the Los Blancos have a superior head-to-head goal difference, meaning they would end up winning the LaLiga if they finish level on points with either of their rivals. Atletico Madrid played out five draws and suffered two defeats in their last 11 LaLiga matches – and the results have dented their title aspirations massively. With one of the highest-paid managers in the world at their helm, Atletico Madrid would be desperate to close out on the league matches but face a stern challenge. But would it be called a failure if Atletico Madrid fail to lift the LaLiga? ALSO READ: Neymar Jr. set to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Reports “Fair play to play to them how they have competed with Barcelona and Real Madrid. They have been top of the league for almost the entire season despite pressure from other teams in the league. Of course, the Atletico Madrid fans might feel disappointed if they don't win it, especially when they have been on top for so long. What you have done before doesn't matter now, all that matters is points per game now. Atletico Madrid need to deliver now. The way they have competed this season is commendable but I don't think it will be deemed as a failure if they don't win the LaLiga,” former Spain international and LaLiga Ambassador, Gaizka Mendieta answered WION query during a virtual press conference. × However, former Sevilla forward Frederic Kanoute feels otherwise as he said any team or coach would have preferred to keep the 10-point league heading into the final phase of the season. “I think Atletico Madrid will be very disappointed if they fail to win the LaLiga. As a coach, more, because the advantage they had just a couple of months ago. As a coach, when you have a lead of more than 10 points, you want to keep it as you are competing against big clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Sevilla. At one point it was looking like it won't be such a dramatic end. But as they were competing with big clubs, I was pretty sure at some point, Barcelona and Real Madrid would make their job difficult. I feel, as a coach it is important to manage your team well and Simeone has done a great job and it is difficult to keep that momentum going throughout the year,” former Sevilla forward and LaLiga Ambassador, Frederic Kanoute answered a WION query during a virtual press conference. Could Atletico Madrid sack or move away from Diego Simeone if they fail to win the LaLiga? × “I wouldn't say that because of this, his job would be in danger. But maybe, Atletico Madrid would want to start a new project with a new coach but it won't be due to them not winning the LaLiga (if that happens). But we hope we can keep him in LaLiga, as he is a big asset to the league,” Kanoute added. While Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Sevilla head into the gameweek 35 fresh, Real Madrid are coming on the back of a crushing UEFA Champions League semi-final defeat to Chelsea on Wednesday. While it would be a challenge for Zinedine Zidane to motivate the tired-legged Real Madrid players, Barcelona would be without their manager Ronald Koeman, who has been handed a touchline ban for his antics in their last game. ALSO READ: Simeone will not change gameplan for Barca showdown How big a disadvantage would it be for Barcelona to be without their manager for such a monumental game in the LaLiga title-race scenario? “It is always important to have the manager on the touchline. It provides a certain authority in some moments of the game with guidelines and tactical awareness. I don't think it is essential at this point. The players of course know what to do on the field and how to do it, and require minimal details from the sideline. But the line of communication between Koeman and his staff going to be continued. So in that respect, although it has an impact but at this moment, it is minimal,” Gaizka Mendieta explained. Barcelona will lock horns with Atletico Madrid on Saturday while Real Madrid take on Sevilla on Sunday. Catch LaLiga action live and exclusive this weekend on Facebook Watch.

Failure for Simeone if Atletico Madrid fail to win LaLiga? Frederic Kanoute, Gaizka Mendieta opine as title-race heats up

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez are set to come face to face this weekend for the first time since the Uruguayan left the Camp Nou for Atleti last summer. They combined for an incredible 478 goals in the six years that they played alongside each other for Barcelona.

LaLiga Special: Best friends and strike partners Messi and Suarez meet again

Lionel Messi scored a 50th freekick goal for Barcelona as he led his side to a quick-fire comeback to win 3-2 at Valencia on Sunday and keep the pressure on La Liga title rivals Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.

With coach Ronald Koeman serving a touchline ban, Barca fell behind in the 50th minute when Valencia defender Gabriel Paulista headed home from a corner after keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen had stumbled in his attempt to come for the ball.

The Catalans, who had blown the chance to go top of the league with a shock 2-1 defeat at home by Granada on Thursday, where Koeman was sent off, reacted well to going behind and soon won a penalty thanks to a handball from Valencia's Toni Lato.

Messi saw his spot-kick saved by former teammate Jasper Cillessen but Valencia failed to clear the danger and the Argentine followed up to score on the second rebound in the 57th minute.

Antoine Griezmann gave Barca the lead six minutes later, also netting on the rebound after Cillessen could only parry a header from Frenkie de Jong.

Messi looked to have clinched the points in the 69th when he fired a set-piece in off the post to score his 28th league goal of the season and bring up a half-century of freekick strikes.

Valencia got back into contention out of nowhere when midfielder Carlos Soler scored with an unstoppable strike from long range in the 83rd.

Barca are third on 74 points with four games remaining, level with second-placed Real Madrid, and two behind leaders Atletico Madrid after both sides won on Saturday. Fourth-placed Sevilla, on 70, host Athletic Bilbao on Monday.

PIQUE: NO EASY GAMES LEFT

"We know that we won't have any easy games until the end of the season but we got the job done after the unexpected defeat to Granada. We competed today and are going to keep competing," said Barca defender Gerard Pique.

"Today we showed we're still in the fight, that was what we wanted to do at the start of the season and it's to our credit that we're still in it."

Valencia were left 14th in the standings and are still not completely out of the relegation battle, sitting six points above the dropzone.

Javi Gracia's side had held Barca to a 2-2 draw at the Camp Nou in December and they kept the Catalans on their toes for the final few minutes after Soler's pile-driver, having a couple of half-chances to equalize.

But Barca clung on for the win to ensure they head into next Saturday's crunch game at home to Atletico knowing they will unseat the leaders at the top with a victory. Real then host Sevilla on Sunday to complete a huge weekend in the title race.

"We're still alive," added assistant coach Alfred Schreuder, who is taking charge of the team during Koeman's touchline ban, which will also make him miss the game with Atletico.

"We're not looking at the other teams, we're only interested in ourselves and we believe our players can go on and win the league."

Lionel Messi scored a 50th freekick goal for Barcelona as he led his side to a quick-fire comeback to win 3-2 at Valencia on Sunday and keep the pressure on La Liga title rivals Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.

Lionel Messi scored a 50th freekick goal for Barcelona as he led his side to a quick-fire comeback to win 3-2 at Valencia on Sunday and keep the pressure on La Liga title rivals Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid. With coach Ronald Koeman serving a touchline ban, Barca fell behind in the 50th minute when Valencia defender Gabriel Paulista headed home from a corner after keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen had stumbled in his attempt to come for the ball. The Catalans, who had blown the chance to go top of the league with a shock 2-1 defeat at home by Granada on Thursday, where Koeman was sent off, reacted well to going behind and soon won a penalty thanks to a handball from Valencia's Toni Lato. Messi saw his spot-kick saved by former teammate Jasper Cillessen but Valencia failed to clear the danger and the Argentine followed up to score on the second rebound in the 57th minute. Antoine Griezmann gave Barca the lead six minutes later, also netting on the rebound after Cillessen could only parry a header from Frenkie de Jong. Messi looked to have clinched the points in the 69th when he fired a set-piece in off the post to score his 28th league goal of the season and bring up a half-century of freekick strikes. Valencia got back into contention out of nowhere when midfielder Carlos Soler scored with an unstoppable strike from long range in the 83rd. Barca are third on 74 points with four games remaining, level with second-placed Real Madrid, and two behind leaders Atletico Madrid after both sides won on Saturday. Fourth-placed Sevilla, on 70, host Athletic Bilbao on Monday. PIQUE: NO EASY GAMES LEFT "We know that we won't have any easy games until the end of the season but we got the job done after the unexpected defeat to Granada. We competed today and are going to keep competing," said Barca defender Gerard Pique. "Today we showed we're still in the fight, that was what we wanted to do at the start of the season and it's to our credit that we're still in it." Valencia were left 14th in the standings and are still not completely out of the relegation battle, sitting six points above the dropzone. Javi Gracia's side had held Barca to a 2-2 draw at the Camp Nou in December and they kept the Catalans on their toes for the final few minutes after Soler's pile-driver, having a couple of half-chances to equalize. But Barca clung on for the win to ensure they head into next Saturday's crunch game at home to Atletico knowing they will unseat the leaders at the top with a victory. Real then host Sevilla on Sunday to complete a huge weekend in the title race. "We're still alive," added assistant coach Alfred Schreuder, who is taking charge of the team during Koeman's touchline ban, which will also make him miss the game with Atletico. "We're not looking at the other teams, we're only interested in ourselves and we believe our players can go on and win the league."

Lionel Messi nets twice in Barcelona turnaround over Valencia

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga.

Real Madrid's draw with Real Betis on Saturday gave Atletico the chance to pull further clear but instead they ended the weekend with their lead reduced, a loss at San Mames the latest twist in Europe's most unpredictable domestic chase.

Barca had earlier beaten Villarreal by the same scoreline, with Antoine Griezmann's quick-fire double becoming all the more valuable after another Atletico slip.

Sevilla have largely been overlooked as possible champions in Spain but they are right in the mix as well now after a 2-1 win over Granada puts them just three points off the top and one behind Real Madrid.

Yet Barcelona were the biggest winners, with Ronald Koeman's team able to go top of the table if they win their game in hand at home to Granada on Thursday, even if Atletico might have a way back given they are still to play at Camp Nou on May 8.&nbsp;

Real Madrid host Sevilla a day later.&nbsp;

"There are four of us in that race and now emotionally, those who have the mental strength will be closer to winning," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone.&nbsp;

"We still know that we depend on ourselves."

Atletico have first place, for now at least, but they might be the least convincing of all the contenders.

Losing to Athletic Bilbao means they have won only six of their last 14 league games, with the momentum gained from consecutive wins over Eibar and Huesca proving short-lived.

The way some of Simeone's players dropped to their knees at the final whistle suggested this result, psychologically, could be difficult to recover from.

Alex Berengeur had already nodded in Ander Capa's cross in the eighth minute and Athletic should have doubled their advantage in the second half but Oihan Sancet fired over.

Luis Suarez, Joao Felix and Thomas Lemar all came on and Atletico grabbed a lifeline when Stefan Savic's flicked header found its way inside the back post with 13 minutes left.

Simeone pumped his fists, urging his players to seek a winner, but instead there was a sucker-punch from Athletic, Inigo Martinez darting free in the box and powering a superb header past Jan Oblak with four minutes remaining.

<h2>- Griezmann fires Barca -</h2>

Barcelona are surely now favourites to add a La Liga title to the Copa del Rey they won earlier this month.&nbsp;

Villarreal struck first through Samuel Chukwueze but Griezmann equalised with a sumptuous lob before capitalising on a misplaced backpass to make it two.

Helped by a red card for Villarreal's Manu Trigueros shortly after the hour, Barcelona held on for a crucial win.

"The players are hungry to win another trophy," said Koeman.&nbsp;

"The league is closer, I don't know how much closer, but it is. We are on a good run and if we win the six games left, we will be champions."

Griezmann started on the bench for the defeat by Real Madrid but has been recalled for the last three games in a row, repaying the faith with a goal now in each.

It remains to be seen whether Barcelona see the 30-year-old as a chance to raise funds in the summer, and also whether the offers are there, but Griezmann now has 23 goals this season, and 15 since the turn of the year.

Sevilla, meanwhile, pushed their case for the title and guaranteed their place in the top four but their win over Granada will be remembered for the bizarre way it ended.

Both teams were made to come back out and play another minute after referee Ricardo de Burgos admitted he blew too early for full-time.

Sevilla's players had already left and some of them had started to take their kit off, with midfielder Fernando pictured without his shirt on in the stands, shaking his head in disbelief.

Marcos Acuna had to put his boots, socks and shinpads back on.

"The referee stopped it because he thought time was up and then he told us he'd made a mistake," said Sevilla's Lucas Ocampos.&nbsp;

"It was finished. I've never seen anything like it. We had basically taken our kit off."

Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "The really important thing is Sevilla has achieved something historic. The effort of these players has been extraordinary."

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga.

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga. Real Madrid's draw with Real Betis on Saturday gave Atletico the chance to pull further clear but instead they ended the weekend with their lead reduced, a loss at San Mames the latest twist in Europe's most unpredictable domestic chase. Barca had earlier beaten Villarreal by the same scoreline, with Antoine Griezmann's quick-fire double becoming all the more valuable after another Atletico slip. Sevilla have largely been overlooked as possible champions in Spain but they are right in the mix as well now after a 2-1 win over Granada puts them just three points off the top and one behind Real Madrid. Yet Barcelona were the biggest winners, with Ronald Koeman's team able to go top of the table if they win their game in hand at home to Granada on Thursday, even if Atletico might have a way back given they are still to play at Camp Nou on May 8. Real Madrid host Sevilla a day later. "There are four of us in that race and now emotionally, those who have the mental strength will be closer to winning," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone. "We still know that we depend on ourselves." Atletico have first place, for now at least, but they might be the least convincing of all the contenders. Losing to Athletic Bilbao means they have won only six of their last 14 league games, with the momentum gained from consecutive wins over Eibar and Huesca proving short-lived. The way some of Simeone's players dropped to their knees at the final whistle suggested this result, psychologically, could be difficult to recover from. Alex Berengeur had already nodded in Ander Capa's cross in the eighth minute and Athletic should have doubled their advantage in the second half but Oihan Sancet fired over. Luis Suarez, Joao Felix and Thomas Lemar all came on and Atletico grabbed a lifeline when Stefan Savic's flicked header found its way inside the back post with 13 minutes left. Simeone pumped his fists, urging his players to seek a winner, but instead there was a sucker-punch from Athletic, Inigo Martinez darting free in the box and powering a superb header past Jan Oblak with four minutes remaining. - Griezmann fires Barca - Barcelona are surely now favourites to add a La Liga title to the Copa del Rey they won earlier this month. Villarreal struck first through Samuel Chukwueze but Griezmann equalised with a sumptuous lob before capitalising on a misplaced backpass to make it two. Helped by a red card for Villarreal's Manu Trigueros shortly after the hour, Barcelona held on for a crucial win. "The players are hungry to win another trophy," said Koeman. "The league is closer, I don't know how much closer, but it is. We are on a good run and if we win the six games left, we will be champions." Griezmann started on the bench for the defeat by Real Madrid but has been recalled for the last three games in a row, repaying the faith with a goal now in each. It remains to be seen whether Barcelona see the 30-year-old as a chance to raise funds in the summer, and also whether the offers are there, but Griezmann now has 23 goals this season, and 15 since the turn of the year. Sevilla, meanwhile, pushed their case for the title and guaranteed their place in the top four but their win over Granada will be remembered for the bizarre way it ended. Both teams were made to come back out and play another minute after referee Ricardo de Burgos admitted he blew too early for full-time. Sevilla's players had already left and some of them had started to take their kit off, with midfielder Fernando pictured without his shirt on in the stands, shaking his head in disbelief. Marcos Acuna had to put his boots, socks and shinpads back on. "The referee stopped it because he thought time was up and then he told us he'd made a mistake," said Sevilla's Lucas Ocampos. "It was finished. I've never seen anything like it. We had basically taken our kit off." Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "The really important thing is Sevilla has achieved something historic. The effort of these players has been extraordinary."

Atletico defeat by Athletic Bilbao hands initiative to Barcelona

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through.&nbsp;

Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.&nbsp;

Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal.&nbsp;

Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season.&nbsp;

"It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday."

They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return.

Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday.

Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January.&nbsp;

"I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him."

After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal.&nbsp;

Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf.&nbsp;

Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened.&nbsp;

Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post.&nbsp;

Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left.&nbsp;

Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.&nbsp;

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea. Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through. Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal. Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season. "It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane. "We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday." They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return. Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday. Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January. "I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane. "He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him." After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal. Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf. Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened. Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post. Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left. Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.

Below-par Real Madrid held by Betis with Chelsea test to come

Real&nbsp;Madrid coach Zinedine&nbsp;Zidane&nbsp;hailed forward Karim Benzema after the Frenchman's double in their 3-0 victory over Cadiz sent them top of La Liga.

Karim Benzema's goals also put him at level with club legend Raul Gonzalez as having scored against 35 different La Liga opponents throughout his career in Spain.

"I'm&nbsp;really pleased with what he's doing. He's such an important player for us, for our game, not only scoring goals, but he helps bring so many others into play,"&nbsp;Zidane&nbsp;said.

"We are enjoying him and I&nbsp;really hope&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid can continue enjoying him a lot longer.

"He's so important for getting in between the lines, and he can be found so easily. And then when he scores, perfect."

Karim Benzema netted the opener from the penalty spot - the first time the reigning champions have been awarded a spot-kick in La Liga since October - after VAR spotted a foul on Vinicius.

He then showed the other side to his game as his run and cross teed up Alvaro Odriozola for a maiden senior league goal.

The victory took the Real&nbsp;top of the table on 70 points, above Atletico Madrid - who have played a match fewer - due to their superior head-to-head record.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane hailed forward Karim Benzema after the Frenchman's double in their 3-0 victory over Cadiz sent them top of La Liga. Karim Benzema's goals also put him at level with club legend Raul Gonzalez as having scored against 35 different La Liga opponents throughout his career in Spain.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane hailed forward Karim Benzema after the Frenchman's double in their 3-0 victory over Cadiz sent them top of La Liga. Karim Benzema's goals also put him at level with club legend Raul Gonzalez as having scored against 35 different La Liga opponents throughout his career in Spain. "I'm really pleased with what he's doing. He's such an important player for us, for our game, not only scoring goals, but he helps bring so many others into play," Zidane said. "We are enjoying him and I really hope Real Madrid can continue enjoying him a lot longer. "He's so important for getting in between the lines, and he can be found so easily. And then when he scores, perfect." Karim Benzema netted the opener from the penalty spot - the first time the reigning champions have been awarded a spot-kick in La Liga since October - after VAR spotted a foul on Vinicius. He then showed the other side to his game as his run and cross teed up Alvaro Odriozola for a maiden senior league goal. The victory took the Real top of the table on 70 points, above Atletico Madrid - who have played a match fewer - due to their superior head-to-head record.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane lauds Benzema after beating Cadiz

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane hailed forward Karim Benzema after the Frenchman's double in their 3-0 victory over Cadiz sent them top of La LKarim Benzema's goals also put him level with club legend Raul Gonzalez as having scored against 35 different

Valencia's Mouctar Diakhaby said on Monday he will persist with his claim of being racially abused despite La Liga insisting there was no evidence.

The French player said he hoped the Spanish football federation, which has the final say, would prove him right over the incident that has received widespread coverage in Spain.

"The probe is ongoing," Diakhaby told French radio station RMC.

"Juan Cala has not been cleared yet," he said of the player he alleges abused him.

A furious Diakhaby walked off the field after being involved in a heated exchange with Cala and claimed the Spanish player had used a racist slur towards him in the first half of the game in Cadiz last Sunday.

Valencia's players left the pitch in solidarity with Diakhaby, becoming the first top-flight Spanish team to make such a protest.

The players later returned to resume the match, with the club claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to return.&nbsp;

"We still have to go before the Federation's judge," Diakhaby said Monday.

"La Liga said they found nothing, but the Federation is looking into it."

"I feel La Liga wanted to protect the image of Spanish football," he said.

La Liga said it used an external company to analyse TV pictures, sound recordings and material from social media.

Spanish radio station Cope said microphones picked up Cala telling Diakhaby "Damn it, leave me alone", then apologising by saying: "Sorry, don't get angry."

But it reported that investigators had found no evidence that Cala had used racist language.

Diakhaby, a 24-year-old former Lyon player who has been at Valencia since 2018, said on social media that he had been racially insulted, adding: "That is intolerable, I cannot allow that and you have all seen my reaction."

Cala, a 31-year-old defender insists he has been a victim of a "circus" and a "witch-hunt" and he was "astonished and embarrassed" when Valencia left the pitch.

Valencia's Mouctar Diakhaby said on Monday he will persist with his claim of being racially abused despite La Liga insisting there was no evidence. The French player said he hoped the Spanish football federation, which has the final say, would prove him right over the incident that has received widespread coverage in Spain.

Valencia's Mouctar Diakhaby said on Monday he will persist with his claim of being racially abused despite La Liga insisting there was no evidence. The French player said he hoped the Spanish football federation, which has the final say, would prove him right over the incident that has received widespread coverage in Spain. "The probe is ongoing," Diakhaby told French radio station RMC. "Juan Cala has not been cleared yet," he said of the player he alleges abused him. A furious Diakhaby walked off the field after being involved in a heated exchange with Cala and claimed the Spanish player had used a racist slur towards him in the first half of the game in Cadiz last Sunday. Valencia's players left the pitch in solidarity with Diakhaby, becoming the first top-flight Spanish team to make such a protest. The players later returned to resume the match, with the club claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to return. "We still have to go before the Federation's judge," Diakhaby said Monday. "La Liga said they found nothing, but the Federation is looking into it." "I feel La Liga wanted to protect the image of Spanish football," he said. La Liga said it used an external company to analyse TV pictures, sound recordings and material from social media. Spanish radio station Cope said microphones picked up Cala telling Diakhaby "Damn it, leave me alone", then apologising by saying: "Sorry, don't get angry." But it reported that investigators had found no evidence that Cala had used racist language. Diakhaby, a 24-year-old former Lyon player who has been at Valencia since 2018, said on social media that he had been racially insulted, adding: "That is intolerable, I cannot allow that and you have all seen my reaction." Cala, a 31-year-old defender insists he has been a victim of a "circus" and a "witch-hunt" and he was "astonished and embarrassed" when Valencia left the pitch.

Diakhaby maintains racist slur claim after La Liga says no evidence

Atletico Madrid moved back to the top of La Liga on Sunday after a 1-1 draw against Real Betis opened a one-point lead over city rivals Real.

Despite missing 19-goal striker Luis Suarez, Atletico were in front after just five minutes when Belgian international Yannick Carrasco scored into an empty net after a goal-mouth scramble.

However, Betis, who are in sixth place in the table and chasing European football next season, levelled just 15 minutes later.

Cristian Tello was on hand to score from just inside the box from a cross by Alex Moreno.

On Saturday, Real Madrid had taken top spot with a 2-1 Clasico win over Barcelona.

That was the first time Atletico had been knocked off the top since December when they went on to mount a run that saw them go 10 points clear with a game in hand at the start of February.&nbsp;

Barcelona are third, a point further back on 65 points.

Both goalkeepers played crucial roles in ensuring Atletico and Betis shared the points on Sunday.

Veteran keeper Claudio Bravo superbly kept out Saul Niguez's 14th-minute header and then saved from Angel Correa in the last minute of the game.

At the other end, Jan Oblak was just as reliable, denying Emerson and Diego Lainez.

Despite returning to the top of the table, Atletico coach Diego Simeone saw his team's injury worries pile up.

Joao Felix suffered an ankle injury after a tackle from Betis defender Aissa Mandi.

England international Kieran Trippier picked up a back injury late in the game and was replaced by Sime Vrsaljko.

"In the second half we suffered. But I have footballers who give everything," said Simeone who was already without Luis Suarez, Marcos Llorente, Moussa Dembele and Geoffrey Kondogbia.

"We are in a moment of resistance. Resist, that's a word that appeals to me. Resist, like all of society in these difficult times."

Atletico Madrid moved back to the top of La Liga on Sunday after a 1-1 draw against Real Betis opened a one-point lead over city rivals Real. Despite missing 19-goal striker Luis Suarez, Atletico were in front after just five minutes when Belgian international Yannick Carrasco scored into an empty net after a goal-mouth scramble.

Atletico Madrid moved back to the top of La Liga on Sunday after a 1-1 draw against Real Betis opened a one-point lead over city rivals Real. Despite missing 19-goal striker Luis Suarez, Atletico were in front after just five minutes when Belgian international Yannick Carrasco scored into an empty net after a goal-mouth scramble. However, Betis, who are in sixth place in the table and chasing European football next season, levelled just 15 minutes later. Cristian Tello was on hand to score from just inside the box from a cross by Alex Moreno. On Saturday, Real Madrid had taken top spot with a 2-1 Clasico win over Barcelona. That was the first time Atletico had been knocked off the top since December when they went on to mount a run that saw them go 10 points clear with a game in hand at the start of February. Barcelona are third, a point further back on 65 points. Both goalkeepers played crucial roles in ensuring Atletico and Betis shared the points on Sunday. Veteran keeper Claudio Bravo superbly kept out Saul Niguez's 14th-minute header and then saved from Angel Correa in the last minute of the game. At the other end, Jan Oblak was just as reliable, denying Emerson and Diego Lainez. Despite returning to the top of the table, Atletico coach Diego Simeone saw his team's injury worries pile up. Joao Felix suffered an ankle injury after a tackle from Betis defender Aissa Mandi. England international Kieran Trippier picked up a back injury late in the game and was replaced by Sime Vrsaljko. "In the second half we suffered. But I have footballers who give everything," said Simeone who was already without Luis Suarez, Marcos Llorente, Moussa Dembele and Geoffrey Kondogbia. "We are in a moment of resistance. Resist, that's a word that appeals to me. Resist, like all of society in these difficult times."

Simeone tells hobbling Atletico to 'resist' in La Liga title push

There are players who are remembered for their goals, others for their teamwork, some for both. Here is a look at eight of the top assist providers of recent years in club football’s biggest match.

Precise build-up play is key to scoring goals. Look no further than matches like ElClasico, where fine margins can determine everything. With this in mind, here’s a list of the top assist providers in ElClasico since the 1998/99 season.

<h2>Lionel Messi</h2>

The Argentine star has provided the most assists in ElClásico this century (9). He’s also the top scorer in ElClasico history, with 26 goals. This season, specifically, he sits top of the assist ranking of both sides, together with Toni Kroos, with eight assists so far.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashford-and-fernandes-ensure-united-brush-off-granada-376221" hreflang="en">Rashford and Fernandes ensure United brush off Granada</a>

<h2>Xavi</h2>

Xavi Hernández was the definition of precision when delivering the ball to his teammates. The former Barcelona midfielder is a true legend of LaLiga, playing 40 times in ElClasico. In those games he provided six assists, proving the difference on many occasions.

<h2>Sergi Roberto</h2>

Sergi Roberto is the perfect example of a multipurpose player. His versatility has allowed him to play in ElClásico de LaLiga both as a midfielder and as a right-back. The Barça youth squad has embraced the philosophy of&nbsp;La Masía&nbsp;of maintaining possession and being precise in passing to advance in attack. In ElClásico matches, Roberto sits third among the top assist providers with a total of five.

<h2>Karim Benzema</h2>

Real Madrid’s French striker, in addition to scoring goals, also knows how to link up and provide assists for teammates. Benzema ranks fourth in the assists rankings in LaLiga ElClasico fixtures in the past 23 years, providing four assists.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-gasp-slavia-leave-arsenals-europa-league-hopes-in-balance-376223" hreflang="en">Last-gasp Slavia leave Arsenal's Europa League hopes in balance</a>

<h2>Jordi Alba</h2>

The left flank is definitely an area that Barcelona will look to exploit come this weekend’s ElClasico. Left-back Jordi Alba is key to attacks from wide, and is of course among the fixture’s most prolific assist providers, with four. The Catalan has already provided four assists this season and is also key to the team’s passing game, having made 1821 passes this campaign, fourth most in the entire competition.&nbsp;

<h2>Roberto Carlos</h2>

Another left back, this time a legend for Real Madrid. Fans of&nbsp;Los Blancos&nbsp;fell in love with the Brazilian thanks to his exciting and tireless roaming down the flank in the 1990s and 2000s. His power, speed and attacking ability saw him provide four assists in LaLiga ElClasico fixtures during his career, in addition to a number of goals.

<h2>Dani Alves</h2>

Another Brazilian defender, this time a right-back, who left his mark on the history of ElClásico was Dani Alves. The Barça defender managed to make four assists against Real Madrid in LaLiga Santander.

<h2>Andres Iniesta</h2>

Like Xavi, Andrés Iniesta is a veritable legend of LaLiga. Iniesta enamoured fans the world over with his style and quality and playing in 38 ElClasico fixtures during his time at Barcelona. The former Barça midfielder and World Cup winner is one of the top assist providers of Real Madrid-FC Barcelona in LaLiga Santander over the last 23 years, with a total of three assists.

<h2>Where to watch ElClasico?</h2>

Watch ElClasico live on Sunday at 00.30 am IST on Facebook Watch.

There are players who are remembered for their goals, others for their teamwork, some for both. Here is a look at eight of the top assist providers of recent years in club football’s biggest match.

There are players who are remembered for their goals, others for their teamwork, some for both. Here is a look at eight of the top assist providers of recent years in club football’s biggest match. Precise build-up play is key to scoring goals. Look no further than matches like ElClasico, where fine margins can determine everything. With this in mind, here’s a list of the top assist providers in ElClasico since the 1998/99 season. Lionel Messi The Argentine star has provided the most assists in ElClásico this century (9). He’s also the top scorer in ElClasico history, with 26 goals. This season, specifically, he sits top of the assist ranking of both sides, together with Toni Kroos, with eight assists so far. ALSO READ: Rashford and Fernandes ensure United brush off Granada Xavi Xavi Hernández was the definition of precision when delivering the ball to his teammates. The former Barcelona midfielder is a true legend of LaLiga, playing 40 times in ElClasico. In those games he provided six assists, proving the difference on many occasions. Sergi Roberto Sergi Roberto is the perfect example of a multipurpose player. His versatility has allowed him to play in ElClásico de LaLiga both as a midfielder and as a right-back. The Barça youth squad has embraced the philosophy of La Masía of maintaining possession and being precise in passing to advance in attack. In ElClásico matches, Roberto sits third among the top assist providers with a total of five. Karim Benzema Real Madrid’s French striker, in addition to scoring goals, also knows how to link up and provide assists for teammates. Benzema ranks fourth in the assists rankings in LaLiga ElClasico fixtures in the past 23 years, providing four assists. ALSO READ: Last-gasp Slavia leave Arsenal's Europa League hopes in balance Jordi Alba The left flank is definitely an area that Barcelona will look to exploit come this weekend’s ElClasico. Left-back Jordi Alba is key to attacks from wide, and is of course among the fixture’s most prolific assist providers, with four. The Catalan has already provided four assists this season and is also key to the team’s passing game, having made 1821 passes this campaign, fourth most in the entire competition. Roberto Carlos Another left back, this time a legend for Real Madrid. Fans of Los Blancos fell in love with the Brazilian thanks to his exciting and tireless roaming down the flank in the 1990s and 2000s. His power, speed and attacking ability saw him provide four assists in LaLiga ElClasico fixtures during his career, in addition to a number of goals. Dani Alves Another Brazilian defender, this time a right-back, who left his mark on the history of ElClásico was Dani Alves. The Barça defender managed to make four assists against Real Madrid in LaLiga Santander. Andres Iniesta Like Xavi, Andrés Iniesta is a veritable legend of LaLiga. Iniesta enamoured fans the world over with his style and quality and playing in 38 ElClasico fixtures during his time at Barcelona. The former Barça midfielder and World Cup winner is one of the top assist providers of Real Madrid-FC Barcelona in LaLiga Santander over the last 23 years, with a total of three assists. Where to watch ElClasico? Watch ElClasico live on Sunday at 00.30 am IST on Facebook Watch.

LaLiga Special: The great assist providers of El Clasico

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga.&nbsp;

Barca looked set for a damaging stalemate at Camp Nou after Atletico's defeat by Sevilla on Saturday but Valladolid had Oscar Plano harshly sent off with 12 minutes left and Dembele snatched a 1-0 victory.&nbsp;

His strike could prove a crucial moment in the Spanish title race, with Barca now breathing down Atletico's necks ahead of Saturday's meeting with Real Madrid, who are three points off the top.&nbsp;

If Ronald Koeman's men win at Valdebebas, they will claim first place for 24 hours at least, before a depleted and deflated Atletico play away at Real Betis on Sunday.&nbsp;

They will have to play better after being frustrated by a determined Valladolid side, with Lionel Messi delivering some firm words to his team-mates in the tunnel at half-time.&nbsp;

"We have to step it up a gear, we have to play with more rhythm," Messi said. "If not it's going to get complicated for us."&nbsp;

It might have been more complicated had Plano not been shown a red card in the 78th minute, his hack on Dembele from behind giving Barca a crucial advantage for the final stages.&nbsp;

"We struggled in the first half, to create scoring opportunities in attack, and also at the back, our pressing was not very good," said Koeman. "I saw a Barca that was a little slow, tired, we did not have control of the game.

"In the second half we have improved. We have shown that without playing well, we are capable of winning games."

Victory makes it six in a row for them in La Liga, another win - particularly after an unconvincing performance - enhancing the sense that momentum now lies with Atletico's rivals.

Defeat also compounded what Valladolid coach Sergio admitted on Sunday had already been a "sh**ty week" after five of his players tested positive for Covid-19, leaving him without 12 players, with six others injured and one more suspended.&nbsp;

To mark Messi breaking Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for the club, he was presented with a framed shirt before kick-off, which he accepted with his family on the pitch. Messi passed Xavi's previous record of 767 appearances last month, with this his 769th.&nbsp;

Valladolid were not just able to compete in the first half, they were probably the better side and could have led when Kenan Kodro's early header struck the bar.&nbsp;

Dembele broke through and dragged back for Messi, whose shot was blocked, while Pedri's long-range effort fizzed through and came back off the post.&nbsp;

But Barcelona were flat, their passing predictable and there was concern in Messi's voice when he told his team-mates to find a different gear in the second half.&nbsp;

Valladolid were almost undone by a Messi through ball for Dembele, who held his run but could not finish before the leaping Antoine Griezmann headed the rebound wide.&nbsp;

Barcelona looked more dangerous on the break than in possession and they were lucky to escape a penalty when Oscar Plano poked the ball onto the outstetched hand of Jordi Alba.&nbsp;

Koeman made three changes shortly after, Martin Braithwaite, Francisco Trincao and Ronald Araujo replacing Griezmann, Sergio Busquets and Oscar Mingueza.&nbsp;

But Barca's biggest boost came 12 minutes from the end, when Plano was sent off for chasing Dembele back and tripping the Frenchman from behind. A yellow card seemed the more obvious decision.

Trincao went close and the winner came in the last minute as Frenkie de Jong's cross was flicked to the back post by Ronald Aruajo. Dembele was free and lashed into the corner.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga.

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga. Barca looked set for a damaging stalemate at Camp Nou after Atletico's defeat by Sevilla on Saturday but Valladolid had Oscar Plano harshly sent off with 12 minutes left and Dembele snatched a 1-0 victory. His strike could prove a crucial moment in the Spanish title race, with Barca now breathing down Atletico's necks ahead of Saturday's meeting with Real Madrid, who are three points off the top. If Ronald Koeman's men win at Valdebebas, they will claim first place for 24 hours at least, before a depleted and deflated Atletico play away at Real Betis on Sunday. They will have to play better after being frustrated by a determined Valladolid side, with Lionel Messi delivering some firm words to his team-mates in the tunnel at half-time. "We have to step it up a gear, we have to play with more rhythm," Messi said. "If not it's going to get complicated for us." It might have been more complicated had Plano not been shown a red card in the 78th minute, his hack on Dembele from behind giving Barca a crucial advantage for the final stages. "We struggled in the first half, to create scoring opportunities in attack, and also at the back, our pressing was not very good," said Koeman. "I saw a Barca that was a little slow, tired, we did not have control of the game. "In the second half we have improved. We have shown that without playing well, we are capable of winning games." Victory makes it six in a row for them in La Liga, another win - particularly after an unconvincing performance - enhancing the sense that momentum now lies with Atletico's rivals. Defeat also compounded what Valladolid coach Sergio admitted on Sunday had already been a "sh**ty week" after five of his players tested positive for Covid-19, leaving him without 12 players, with six others injured and one more suspended. To mark Messi breaking Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for the club, he was presented with a framed shirt before kick-off, which he accepted with his family on the pitch. Messi passed Xavi's previous record of 767 appearances last month, with this his 769th. Valladolid were not just able to compete in the first half, they were probably the better side and could have led when Kenan Kodro's early header struck the bar. Dembele broke through and dragged back for Messi, whose shot was blocked, while Pedri's long-range effort fizzed through and came back off the post. But Barcelona were flat, their passing predictable and there was concern in Messi's voice when he told his team-mates to find a different gear in the second half. Valladolid were almost undone by a Messi through ball for Dembele, who held his run but could not finish before the leaping Antoine Griezmann headed the rebound wide. Barcelona looked more dangerous on the break than in possession and they were lucky to escape a penalty when Oscar Plano poked the ball onto the outstetched hand of Jordi Alba. Koeman made three changes shortly after, Martin Braithwaite, Francisco Trincao and Ronald Araujo replacing Griezmann, Sergio Busquets and Oscar Mingueza. But Barca's biggest boost came 12 minutes from the end, when Plano was sent off for chasing Dembele back and tripping the Frenchman from behind. A yellow card seemed the more obvious decision. Trincao went close and the winner came in the last minute as Frenkie de Jong's cross was flicked to the back post by Ronald Aruajo. Dembele was free and lashed into the corner.

Barca edge closer to Atletico after late Dembele winner against Valladolid

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.&nbsp;

Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner.&nbsp;

"He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us."

Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time.&nbsp;

But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid.

Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals.&nbsp;

"He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra."

Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form.

They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May.&nbsp;

Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself.&nbsp;

"You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona."

"We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar.&nbsp;

Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in.&nbsp;

Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in.&nbsp;

Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out.&nbsp;

De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake.&nbsp;

Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday. Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner. "He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us." Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time. But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid. Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals. "He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra." Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form. They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May. Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself. "You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona." "We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar. Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in. Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in. Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out. De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake. Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Messi celebrates levelling Xavi record with double against Huesca

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