Ruairidh Barlow

3 days ago | football-espana.net | Ruairidh Barlow

The great individual rivalry of the 21st century, and perhaps even in the history of football, if there is one battle that commands star power, it is that between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The pair defined El Clasico for nine thrilling years, and Saudi Arabia are hoping to pit the two against each other again. Both appear to be attempting to make the World Cup in 2026, and were Portugal and Argentina to face each other, that could be the final ever clash between the two.

3 days ago | yardbarker.com | Ruairidh Barlow

“I don’t understand the reactions they’re having. With all due respect, everyone should look after their own interests. I don’t understand why they’re going to talk about Barca in La Liga. I don’t think it’s right, but they’ll know what they’re doing.” Athletic were unhappy with Barcelona’s public pursuit of Williams last summer, and captain and brother Inaki Williams voiced his frustration with a number of false stories that emerged.

3 days ago | football-espana.net | Ruairidh Barlow

For weeks, speculation has surrounded Barcelona forward Ansu Fati and a potential departure this summer. It appears that move is on the verge of being done, and President Joan Laporta has confirmed that an exit is imminent – if all goes to plan. After a tough season under Hansi Flick, where Fati was fit for most of the season, but featured for just 289 minutes, the young forward has come round to Barcelona’s way of thinking.

3 days ago | football-espana.net | Ruairidh Barlow

Barcelona President Joan Laporta has told Athletic Club to mind their own business, as tensions continue over the battle for Nico Williams. The Blaugrana intend to activate his €58m release clause next week, but Athletic Club have made a move to halt their transfer plans. Williams has reportedly told Athletic that he wants to move to Barcelona this summer, although this has exclusively come from the Catalan media.

4 days ago | yardbarker.com | Ruairidh Barlow

Although it seems the headlines surrounding Barcelona are as much about finances as they are about football at times, President Joan Laporta does not seem unduly worried by the issue. After declaring last week that the Blaugrana could ‘sign as normal’, it has been revealed that he has also sanctioned additional bonuses this summer.