Ferran Torres has sent out a strong message amid speculation he will be sold by Barcelona in the summer transfer window after failing to consistently impress since arriving from Manchester City in December 2021.

The forward managed just 4 La Liga goals last season and only 14 top-flight starts under Xavi after slipping down the pecking order. Barcelona are willing to listen to offers for Torres, Ansu Fati and Raphinha this summer, according to Sport.

Torres is now on vacation following the end of the season but has sent out a strong message about his mindset in a post on Instagram. The forward has posted three photograph showing he’s been working hard in the gym during his time off and also scrubbed out the word “off” from his caption “Off-season.”

Barcelona need to sell players this summer if they are to sign new players which means Torres is one of several players facing an uncertain future. La Liga president Javier Tebas has said Barcelona need to raise €200 million before they can buy, according to The Athletic.

Xavi has already said he wants “two” new signings, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The Barcelona boss wants a replacement for Sergio Busquets and another midfielder.

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Xavi Talks Ferran Torres

Xavi has backed Torres this season after seeing the forward come in for criticism. He described Torres as a model professional back in January at a pre-match press conference and insisted he was an “example” to the rest of the squad.

Yet Xavi was a little more coy more recently when asked by reporter Gerard Romero about Torres’ future at the club, according to Football Espana.

“What Ferran needs is to feel valued and respected by people,” he said. “With him and with everyone we will have to decide what we do. We haven’t done so yet.”

Torres openly admitted he hit “rock bottom” at Barcelona following his move from Manchester City, as reported by Sport. The forward says he became “obsessed with goals” and decided to work with a psychologist in a bid to improve his form.

Yet Torres has been unable for carve out a regular place in the starting XI and remains behind the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Ousmane Dembele in the pecking order at the Camp Nou.

Barcelona To Sell Ansu Fati Or Ferran Torres?

Torres’s exit is by no means guaranteed despite his lack of goals and Barca’s perilous financial situation. Indeed the Catalans would rather sell Fati than Torres as being an academy graduate he would generate more income, according to Sport.

However, Fati has made it clear he does not want to leave the club. His agent, Jorge Mendes, has told El Chiringuito TV reporters that the youngster wants to stay and can go on to become one of the best players in the world, as reported by Goal.

“He wants to stay at Barca. He is the second top scorer at Barca. In the last two games, he has scored three goals. What more do you want?” he said. “You’ve got a phenomenon on your hands. He is one of the best young players in the world. He will win the Ballon d’Or, you will see.”

Convincing either player to leave this summer looks a difficult ask for Barcelona, particularly as the duo are tied down long-term contracts at the club. Fati signed a contract extension in 2021 that runs until 2027, while Torres penned a five-year deal when he arrived from City.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Barcelona look set to bring in another exciting young talent by landing Senegal starlet Mikayil Faye from Croatian side NK Kustosija in a deal worth 5 million euros.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the Catalan giants have already completed a deal for the 18-year-old defender. Romano adds he is viewed at the club as a “potential future top player” and the deal will be announced shortly.

Faye arrived at Croatian side NK Kustosija in 2023 from the Diambars FC academy in Senegal and has gone on to make 14 appearances for the club, scoring his  first goal for the Croatian side in a win over NK Hrvatski Dragovoljac in May.

The teenage has been nicknamed ‘The Monster’ due to his “no-nonsense defending and marauding style,” according to All Football. His performances for his club, and the Senegal Under-17 team, had already drawn interest from some of Europe’s top teams before Barcelona made their move.

Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund have both shown an interest in the teenager, according to the Daily Mail, but it seems Barcelona are set to beat both clubs to Faye’s signature in the summer transfer window

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Barcelona Focused On Youth

The arrival of Faye would add yet another talented youngster to a growing contingent at the Camp Nou currently under Xavi. The Barca boss has shown his willingness to trust in youth this season by making 19-year-old Alejandro Balde a regular.

Former Barcelona chief Ramon Planes has revealed the club were set to send Balde out on loan at the start of the season until Xavi intervened, as reported by Diario Sport. Balde stayed and fought for his place, eventually becoming Xavi’s first choice at left-back despite the presence in the squad of veterans such as Jordi Alba and Marcos Alonso.

Balde has therefore joined fellow youngsters such as Pedri, Gavi, Inaki Pena and Ansu Fati in the first-team squad. Xavi has also handed a host of academy players the chance to impress since taking charge of the club.

The Barcelona coach has given debuts to no less than seven players who have come through the academy this season, including Lamine Yamal, Pena, Chadi Riad, Angel Alarcon and Aleix Garrido.

A further six players were given a taste of first-team action in a post-season friendly against Vissel Kobe in Tokyo. Winter signing Julian Araujo make his first appearance for the club, along with Pau Prim, Marc Guiu, Hector Fort, Dani Rodriguez and Unai Hernandez.

Barcelona’s Defense in Good Shape

If Faye does indeed join Barcelona, then he will add another option to an already strong defense. Xavi’s side conceded just 20 goals in 38 league games on their way to the title, with goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen keeping a record-equaling 26 clean sheets.

Faye will not be the only defender arriving at Camp Nou this summer either. The Catalans have already sealed a deal for Inigo Martinez to join on a free transfer from Athletic Club, as reported by Romano.

Barcelona will make room for the new arrivals in their squad by offloading Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet, according to Sport. The duo have spent the season out on loan and Barca are hoping to offload the duo permanently this summer.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has been full of praise for teenage midfielder Gavi after seeing the youngster break into the first team and become a regular fixture in his starting XI.

Gavi will not celebrate his 19th birthday until August but has already won his first league title with the Catalans. The teenager has become a key player for Xavi, featuring 44 times in all competitions last season, and also playing for Spain at World Cup 2022 in Qatar.

The midfielder may not have been around for long but has already become known for his intensity and tenacity on the pitch. Xavi told Movistar just how moved he’s been by Gavi’s performances at Barcelona, as reported by AS.

“He puts passion into everything. He has even a point of unconsciousness,” he said. “When he passes me onto the field, I get goosebumps, because of how he competes. He is wonderful, dominates with both feet and has a brutal personality.”

The season may have finished for Barcelona but Gavi won’t be able to rest just yet. The teenager has been called into the Spain squad for the team’s Nations League final four fixtures in June.

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Andres Iniesta Joins Xavi In Hailing Gavi

Xavi’s former midfield partner Andres Iniesta has also made it clear how highly he regards Gavi. Iniesta’s Vissel Kobe lost 2-0 to Barcelona in a post-season friendly in Japan, with the midfielder catching up with the teenager before kick-off.

The two players shared a handshake and a hug before the match as well as a quick joke. “You’ll have to give me your jersey or my kids will kill me!” Iniesta quipped before the match, making it clear exactly whose shirt he planned to swap with after the fixture.

Gavi has actually come in for criticism of his physical style this season but has been fiercely defended by Xavi. The coach told a press conference ahead of a Copa del Rey clash with Real Sociedad that suggestions Gavi was “too rough” were “nonsense.”

Barcelona Set to Secure Gavi’s Future

Barcelona are hoping to secure Gavi’s long-term future this summer after a turbulent time. The midfielder agreed a new contract in September 2022, that runs until 2026, but the club have been unable to register the deal with La Liga because of their ongoing financial issues.

Gavi had even switched to the No. 6 shirt during the season, after Barca thought they had been able to register his new deal, before a court ruled the registration was invalid and the teenager had to return to his old No. 30 jersey.

As things stand, Barcelona risk lose Gavi at the end of the season when his contract expires.  However. Barcelona are expected to be able to register Gavi’s  extension shortly after the club’s financial viability plan was given the OK by La Liga, as reported by ESPN.

The Catalans also hope to register new contracts for Ronald Araujo, Inaki Pena and Alejandro Balde, thereby securing the long-term futures of some of their top youngsters.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has tipped Ronald Araujo to become the captain of the club at some point in the future. The Catalans will appoint a new skipper next season following the departure of Sergio Busquets.

Xavi told Movistar that he fully expects the Uruguay international to wear the armband at some point, as reported by Diario AS.

“Sooner or later he is going to be captain of Barcelona. He is a natural leader,” he said. “He takes it inside. I have already told him that he has to be captain.”

Araujo is known for his leadership skills and has previously said it would be “tremendous” to captain the Catalan giants, as reported by Diario Sport.

The center-back joined the club in 2018 from Boston River, originally joining the reserves, but has risen into the first team and become a crucial member of Xavi’s team.

The Barcelona boss has regularly praised Araujo during a stunning season where the Catalans conceded just 20 goals in 38 league games. Xavi has said Araujo is the player who has “grown the most” since he took over, as reported by Sport.

Araujo also came in for huge praise from his manager before Barcelona’s Clasico clash with Real Madrid. The game saw the defender come up against Vinicius Junior, with Xavi telling a press conference before the fixture that Araujo was “one of the best in the world,” as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

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Who Will Captain Barcelona Next Season?

Barcelona are yet to confirm who will captain the team next season, although Xavi has told a press conference there are plenty of candidates to take over the armband from Busquets.

Veteran Sergi Roberto is expected to be handed the captaincy initially, with Xavi tipping the versatile star to do a “great” job next season, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

Yet Roberto is not a regular in the team and it remains to be seen how often he will actually lead the team out. The 31-year-old only started 15 La Liga games in the 2022-23 season and is certainly no longer first choice at the Camp Nou.

Ronald Araujo Talks Leadership Qualities

Araujo may have to wait a little while to wear the armband at Barcelona but will continue to be a leader on the pitch. The center-back has told EFE that it’s a role that comes naturally to him.

“I consider myself a leader because of my character,” he said. “I like to know how the team and teammates are doing, I want everyone to do well. On the pitch, I always talk as it’s a way to be focused. I know that helps my teammates a lot.”

Barcelona will need a strong leader in the new season as they begin life with veterans such as Busquets and Jordi Alba. The Catalans will also spend next season away from the Camp Nou, playing at Montjuic instead, as the famous old stadium undergoes renovation work.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Xavi Hernandez has revealed which signings he wants at Barcelona in the summer transfer window after seeing club legend Lionel Messi snub a Camp Nou return in favor of a move to MLS side Inter Miami.

The Barcelona coach told Movistar that two midfielders are at the top of his shopping list this summer, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

“I need two signings in midfield. I lack an interior and with Busquets’ departure, we also need a pivot,” he explained. “This has to be the priority.”

Captain Sergio Busquets has departed the club after a stunning career where he’s won every major honor available during his 18 years with the Catalan giants. Finding a replacement for such an iconic figure will not be easy.

Busquets has already offered the club some advice on potential replacements in an interview with RAC1. The midfielder highlighted Manchester City’s Rodri, Bayern’s Joshua Kimmich and Martin Zubimendi as possible options.

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Will Ilkay Gundogan Join Barcelona?

Barcelona’s financial situation will complicate the club’s search for midfielders this summer and could see the club look at free agents. Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has emerged as a target, as reported by Diario AS, and is coming to the end of his current deal.

Gundogan’s agent has offered an update on his future and offered Barcelona hope they could land the German. Ilhan Gundogan told Romano that his brother has not agreed to continue at City and has not yet made a final decision on his future.

“Nothing has been agreed with City or any other club,” he said.  “The recent reports are not true. Ilkay is only focused on the final.”

Gundogan will play his last game of the season on Saturday, June 10 against Inter in the Champions League final and is then expected to make a decision on where he’ll play his football next season.

Sofyan Amrabat Wants Barcelona Move

Barcelona have also been linked with a move for Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat. His brother Nordin has already admitted the Morocco international “really wanted” to join the club in the winter transfer window, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

Nordin Amrabat has now spoken to ESPN about his brother’s future and admits he wants to move to Spain but is not sure if a move to Barcelona will be possible, as reported by Romano.

“He wants to go to the top and his desire is to play in Spain,” he said. “At Barcelona, he is high on the list but you know Barça’s financial situation. There are more clubs interested in Sofyan.”

Xavi and Barcelona now face a tricky transfer window and have already suffered a blow with Messi deciding to head to MLS and Inter Miami. The Barcelona boss has made his transfer plans clear to the club but it remains to be seen if the club can fulfil his wishes.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Sergio Busquets has enjoyed a stellar career at Barcelona but has called time on his career with the Catalan giants after captaining Xavi’s side to glory in La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup during the 2022-23 season.

Xavi has secured the league title in his first season as Barcelona coach and has been praised by Busquets. The midfielder has been asked what Xavi has brought to Barca since returning to coach and spoke at length about his passion for the club.

“He is a legend as a player and has brought enthusiasm and tranquility to the club as a coach: we’re in good hands,” he told the Guardian. “He’s more agitated as a coach than he was as a player. I don’t want to imagine what it’s like for the fourth official! When you misplace a pass he gets annoyed.”

Xavi is well-know for his commitment to the Barca style, insisting on playing a possession-based game full of attacking, attractive football. Yet the coach has also shown some flexibility since returning to the club.

Barcelona have moved away from their traditional 4-3-3 system this season, often playing with four midfielders, while the team’s defense has been the foundation of their success.

Xavi’s side conceded just 20 goals in 28 La Liga games this season, while goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen equalled the league record for clean sheets and also picked up the Zamora Trophy for the first time in his career.

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Where Next For Sergio Busquets?

Busquets may have already played his last game for Barcelona, but the club legend is yet to confirm his next move. The midfielder has told Catalunya Radio that he’s received plenty of offers, as reported by Sport.

“I have three or four options that I’m evaluating and in two or three weeks I hope to have a destination and get organised,” he explained.

Yet the midfielder also confirmed he would not play in Spain or in Europe as he would not like to come up against his former team in a competitive match.

“I won’t compete against Barça. I will play outside Europe,” he added. “It is not necessary to play against Barça. Besides, I don’t know if I could fight against Barça for an important title.”

Barcelona Searching For Replacement

Busquets was a virtual ever-present for Barcelona last season, captaining the team and starting 28 La Liga games for the Catalans. Xavi has already made it clear at a press conference that his top priority this summer is to bring in a replacement for his captain.

The coach does have options in his current squad, with Eric Garcia, Franck Kessie and Frenkie de Jong all having played in Busquets’s position at times this season. Nico Gonzalez is also set to return to the club after a loan spell with Valencia.

However, Xavi appears determined to reinforce by bringing in a new signing, as long as Barcelona’s finances allow such a move. According to ESPN, Barca are working on a deal for Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves even though Xavi would prefer Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Barcelona have made a habit of signing free agents in recent transfer windows, largely due to their difficult financial situation, and will continue that theme in summer 2023.

Athletic defender Inigo Martinez will become Barcelona’s first summer signing after arriving on a free transfer from the Basque side, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Martinez has posted a farewell to Athletic on Twitter after five years with the club and will sign a two-year deal at the Camp Nou. The 32-year-old is a vastly experienced center-back who also boasts 20 international caps with Spain.

The defender has been spotted in Barcelona by La Sexta’s Josep Soldado and has already signed his contract with the club. Only the club’s official announcement is now missing.

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Why Have Barcelona Signed Inigo Martinez?

Barcelona’s decision to bring in Martinez may raise a few eyebrows given the team are coming off the back of a stellar season defensively. Xavi’s side conceded just 20 goals in La Liga in 2022-23, while goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen equalled the league record for clean sheets with 26.

Yet Barcelona do lack some experience in their backline, particularly after seeing Gerard Pique retire from football at the end of 2022. Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo  are key players but are both still only 24, while Eric Garcia only turned 22 earlier this year.

All three players, and Andreas Christensen, are also right-footed which is another reason why Martinez has been targeted. Xavi has wanted to bring in a left-footed defender after allowing Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti to leave on loan, as reported by Sport.

Barcelona Set For Busy Summer

Martinez could be the first signing of a busy summer for Barcelona. La Liga have given the green light to the club’s viability plan which means the Catalans can now get their transfer plans underway, according to ESPN.

The Catalans will first register new contracts for Ronald Araujo, Gavi, Sergi Roberto, Inaki Pena and Marcos Alonso. The club also want to reward teenager Alejandro Balde with a new deal after an impressive breakthrough campaign.

Barcelona will then turn their attentions to signings and continue to pursue a deal for Lionel Messi. The club legend’s father has admitted this week that he has met with president Joan Laporta to discuss a potential return, as reported by Sport.

Xavi has spoken about the possibility of Messi coming back following his team’s final game of the season, a post-season friendly in Japan against Vissel Kobe, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“The situation is in the hands of the president and Leo’s father, therefore, we’ll see, we’ll see how it ends, but in the end Leo has the upper hand,” he told reporters. “We are happy, for the moment we have the OK to the feasibility plan of La Liga and now, to get going, get down to work and strengthen ourselves, which we need.”

Xavi has also said previously that his top priority this summer is to bring in a replacement for Sergio Busquets. The captain announced he will leave at the end of the season after his contract expires.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

A nsu Fati’s future at Barcelona has been the subject of speculation throughout the 2022-23 campaign due to the youngster’s lack of starts at the Camp Nou under Xavi.

Barcelona also need to make sales in the summer transfer window, for financial reasons, and Fati has been warned to prepare for an exit by The Athletic’s Pol Ballus.

“Fati should prepare for the worst,” wrote Ballus. “As much as the 20-year-old has insisted he wants to stay at Barca, it would take a near-miracle for him to be playing at Montjuic next season, where the club will temporarily play while works take place on the Camp Nou.”

Xavi has become increasingly non-committal when asked about Fati’s future as the season has progressed. The coach has even pointed out how Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was sold against his wishes, because of the club’s financial situation, when asked about Fati.

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Xavi Talks Ansu Fati’s Future

Fati ended the season on something of a high. The youngster scored in Barcelona’s 2-1 defeat to Celta Vigo in the team’s final game of the campaign. His goal means Fati has now scored 10 times in all competitions this season.

Only Robert Lewandowski has scored more for Barcelona in the current campaign, and Fati’s total comes during a season when he’s spent most of his time on the bench and only started 14 times for Xavi’s side.

Xavi praised Fati’s contribution after the win over Celta but then went on to explain that does not mean he is destined to stay at the Camp Nou, as reported by Ballus.

“I think his season has been good,” he explained. “He’s scored, assisted and been important in some moments. Why is he not unsellable? Well, this week we’ll know more about what we have to do.”

Lionel Messi To Replace Ansu Fati?

Fati’s future could also be impacted by the potential return of Lionel Messi. The World Cup winner’s father has admitted that the Argentina international does want to return to the Camp Nou this summer, as reported by ESPN.

“Of course, he [Messi] would love to return to Barcelona. I would like it too. We will see,” he told reporters after a meeting with club president Joan Laporta.

Messi’s departure from Paris Saint-Germain has already been confirmed, with the forward playing his last game for the club in a 3-2 Ligue 1 defeat to Clermont Foot.

Yet Barcelona still need to make sales in order to make room for Messi which is likely to be bad news for Fati. The forward remains one of the club’s most marketable assets given he is still only 20 years old and came through the club’s academy.

Both Xavi and Laporta have previously said the club want Fati to stay, but the club’s financial position means sacrifices may have to be made and some difficult decisions will need to be taken during the summer transfer window.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has warned that Ansu Fati could well end up leaving the club in the summer transfer window amid continued speculation about the forward’s future.

The club’s difficult financial situation leaves Barcelona vulnerable to offers from other sides for their top players. Barca need to trim the wage bill and cut costs this summer, for financial fair play reasons, and are expected to offload several players.

Xavi says the situation means players may have to leave, citing former striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as an example. The coach told Diario Sport he did not want Aubameyang to leave last year but could not prevent his exit.

“Here, for the moment, nobody has given up anything. That is to say, I didn’t want Aubameyang to leave the club either, but in the end we are in an economic situation that all depends on ‘fair play’,” he said. “Come on, it was against the heart. I didn’t want him to leave, but in the end he gave us an economic opportunity, it was an economic opportunity for him and that’s how all footballers are, each and every one. In the end it will depend on whether he compensates us or not. Not just Ansu, but all the footballers currently on the Barça squad.”

Fati sent out a strong message earlier this season, after making his 100th appearance for the club, insisting he wants to play many more times for Barca. The forward is wanted by Premier League side Wolves, as reported by Sport, and has been advised to leave Barcelona by his father in an interview with Cope.

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Ansu Fati Offers Reminder of His Talents

There’s no doubt it’s been a frustrating season for Fati. He’s only made 12 La Liga starts with Xavi explaining that competition for places is intense in attack with Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torre, Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha around.

Fati was back in the starting XI last time out against Real Mallorca and offered a timely reminder of his talents to Xavi. The 20-year-old scored twice in a 3-0 win in Barca’s final home game of the season.

The forward’s first goal saw him hit a landmark in La Liga. Fati struck inside the first minute of the game, the earliest Barcelona goal at the Camp Nou for over a decade, as shown by Opta.

Barcelona now have just one game left of the current campaign, a trip to Celta Vigo on Sunday, June 4, and Fati will undoubtedly be hoping his brace is enough to keep him in the starting XI and the chance to show Xavi what he can do again.

Lionel Messi’s Return Could Be Bad News For Fati

Xavi already has plenty of attacking options but has made it clear he wants to bring Lionel Messi back to the club in the summer transfer window in an interview with Sport.

“For me there is no doubt that if Messi comes back he will help us on a footballing level. That’s what I’ve let the president know,” said. “I have no doubt, no doubt that he is going to help us because he is still a decisive player, because he is still hungry, because he is a winner, because he is a leader and because he is also a differential player, differential.”

Messi’s arrival would likely be bad news for Fati. The World Cup winner’s presence would surely mean even less game time for Fati, and Messi may well demand his No. 10 shirt back from the youngster too.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Sergio Busquets is set to leave Barcelona at the end of the season when his current contract expires and has offered manager Xavi Hernandez his view on which player would be the best replacement.

Xavi has openly admitted that his top priority this summer is to bring in a replacement for Busquets in the summer transfer window, and the midfielder has told RAC1 he has a few ideas regarding replacements.

“As I know him, Rodri – Manchester City – would be my first choice, but I know it’s very complicated. Kimmich and Zubimendi? Maybe Zubimendi fits our style of play more,” he said. “Kimmich is a back-and-forth player with a lot of quality, despite the fact that he was not a centre-half. And there is also the option of Nico, who we have on loan at Valencia.”

Signing Rodri looks almost impossible for Barcelona. The Spain international signed a new five-year deal at Manchester City last summer and is currently on course to win the treble with Pep Guardiola’s side.

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Xavi Talks Busquets Replacements

Xavi has also spoken about potential Busquets replacements and agrees that Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi would be a good idea. The Barca boss told Sport that he has the perfect profile for the Catalan giants, as reported by AS.

“I don’t like to talk about players from other clubs who later get angry with me. I already said that he seems to me a great footballer,” he said. “You have to go for a profile like this, top level. An intelligent player, tactically excellent, winner of duels, who plays well in the air, who is very complete in every way. The minimum level must be 9 out of 10.”

This is not the first time that Xavi has praised Zubimendi. The coach called him an “extraordinary pivot” ahead of the meeting between the two sides at the Camp Nou in May.

Yet landing Zubimendi will not be easy for Barcelona either. The midfielder extended his contract with the Basque side last year and has a release clause set at 60 million euros.

Barcelona Warned Off Martin Zubimendi

Barcelona have also been warned off Zubimendi by Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil. The manager told Marca he is confident his midfielder wants to stay at the club, as reported by the Evening Standard.

“I know what he thinks and what he wants. And I have no doubt that Martin wants to play in the Champions League with us next year,” he said. “Zubimendi has a contract with us. It’s the best place he can be and he wants to be with us.”

Replacing a player of Busquets’ calibre was always going to be a tough ask for Barcelona and has been complicated further by the club’s difficult financial position.

Xavi will know he has his work cut out finding who can come in and take over from a true club legend who won all the major honors available during an 18-year spell at the Camp Nou.

READ NEXT: Xavi Reveals His ‘No. 1’ Summer Transfer Priority For Barca

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has hurled praise at Sergi Roberto who is expected to take over the captain’s armband from Sergio Busquets after the midfielder leaves the club at the end of the season.

Busquets has announced he will walk away from the club in the summer when his contract expires, meaning Barcelona will need a new captain. Roberto looks set to take over the role and has his manager’s full backing, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“Sergi Roberto is a fine captain, exemplary, he talks much more than people think, he is an undervalued footballer and he will be a great captain,” he told reporters.

Xavi has fiercely defended Roberto during his time as coach. The veteran has been regularly criticized by some sections of the support, but Xavi has described him as the “perfect wild card.”

The Barcelona coach has also named Roberto as one of several players capable of captaining his team next season. Xavi also mentioned a host of other stars including Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Pedri, Gavi, Ronald Araujo and Roberto Lewandowski.

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Sergio Busquets Says Farewell

Outgoing captain Busquets said goodbye to Barcelona after his team’s 3-0 win over Real Mallorca in La Liga on Sunday, May 28. The skipper told fans at the Camp Nou that he has lived the dream at Barcelona, as reported by ESPN.

“I dreamed of one day playing in this stadium,” he said “When I was a kid, I came here to watch matches, I went to away games, I watched on television. Nobody will ever take away the feeling of pride of belonging to the best club in the world“I am leaving, but the dream I had has been fulfilled — in fact, it’s been better than I ever imagined. This is also not a goodbye, it is a ‘see you soon.’”

Xavi confirmed after the win that Busquets and Jordi Alba had both played their final games for the club. Neither player will feature in the team’s final game of the season against Celta Vigo at Balaidos in a week’s time.

Sergi Roberto Proud To Be Captain

Roberto took over the captaincy in Barcelona’s final home game of the season against Real Mallorca. Busquets was substituted late on and handed over the armband to Roberto before walking off to a huge ovation.

The midfielder spoke out after the game and admitted it was a special moment for him and that he’s looking forward to taking on the responsibility, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“Sergio‘s farewell, when he given me the armband, has been a very special moment. I have gone from fourth, third, second and now first captain,” he said. “For me it is a source of pride, for now I have to be the first captain.”

Yet it’s not clear how much Robero will play next season. The versatile veteran is not guaranteed a place in Xavi’s starting XI and has only started 14 La Liga games for Barcelona in the current campaign.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Ousmane Dembele has sent out a strong message on his Barcelona future amid speculation he is wanted at French champions Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

Dembele spoke to Telefoot about his love for Barcelona and made it clear he wants to stay at the club and try to bring the European Cup back to the Camp Nou, as reported by Diario Sport.

“My big dream is to win a Champions League with Barça, winning a trophy with the club you love is the best,” he said. “I’ve been a Barça fan since I was little, I’ve always been a fan of this team. I feel very good here and I hope to become a a great player here.”

According, to L’Equipe, Dembele is one of the names on PSG’s summer wishlist, as reported by Sport. The forward is contracted to Barcelona until 2024 but has a release clause that drops to just 50 million euros this summer.

Dembele has played a key role in Barcelona’s title success this season. The Frenchman has 5 goals and 5 assists for the club in La Liga so far in the 2022-23 campaign, although he did miss three months of the season through injury.

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Xavi Highlights Ousmane Dembele’s Importance

Barcelona coach Xavi has highlighted Dembele’s importance to his team after welcoming the forward back from injury in April. The manager told a press conference there are few players like Dembele in the world, as reported by Goal.

“We have missed him. He is the best one-on-one player, there are few in the world like him. Ask the full-backs in La Liga who they prefer,” he told reporters. “He’s a player with tremendous speed, he’s a difference-maker. It’s logical that we’ve missed him.”

Barcelona are set to offer Dembele a new contract that runs until 2027, according to Diario Sport. Such a deal would secure the Frenchman’s long-term future and ensure he spends his peak years at the Camp Nou.

Dembele Opens Up On Favorite Camp Nou Moment

Dembele is set to return to action on Sunday, May 28 against Real Mallorca in Barcelona’s final home game of the season. It’s also the last time the Catalans will play at Camp Nou until 2024, with the famous old stadium set to undergo renovation work.

The Frenchman has been asked about his favorite moment at the Camp Nou, ahead of the game, and revealed it was when he scored his first goal for the club against Chelsea.

“For me, my best moment at Camp Nou is my first goal against Chelsea. I was coming back from injury, around three or four months, and I scored this goal which was incredible for me,” he told Barca TV. “My first at Camp Nou. It made me very happy. Messi passed me the ball and it was incredible. I am very proud of this goal.”

Barcelona will be hoping that Dembele can go on and make plenty more memories at the Camp Nou in the future, with the Frenchman’s contract extension one of the club’s top summer priorities.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has opened up on a recent conversation he had with Lionel Messi about the club at the 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards.

The two men met at the event and were pictured in deep conversation, leading many to wonder about the topic of their conversation. Lewandowski has now told Interia Sport that the two players were indeed talking about Barcelona, as reported by Diario Sport.

“Keep it a secret, but when I told him about Barcelona his eyes lit up,” he said. “And it’s not surprising, after all, he grew up here, he has a house here that he visits often. Barcelona is his home.”

Messi continues to be linked with a return to Barcelona once his contract at Paris Saint-Germain expires at the end of the season. Lewandowski has already made it clear in an interview with Mundo Deportivo that he would love to play with the World Cup winner at Barca.

Lewandowski only arrived at Barcelona in the summer but has enjoyed a superb debut season in Catalunya. The Poland international is La Liga’s top scorer on 22 goals, with his goals helping to fire Barcelona to the league title.

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Xavi Offers Update On Lionel Messi’s Future

Barcelona coach Xavi has been asked about Messi’s future recently and has offered the following update regarding a possible return to the Camp Nou for the Argentina international, as reported by Marca.

“It’s up in the air. It depends on a lot of things, there’s not much more I can say,” he told a press conference. “He’s a spectacular footballer, I’m friends with him. Let’s see if it can happen. It also depends on his intentions.”

Messi is also reportedly wanted by clubs in Saudi Arabia this summer. His father, Jorge Messi, issued a statement in response to a claim he had already agreed a move to the Middle East, saying his son would make a decision at the end of the season, as reported by 90min.

PSG still have two Ligue 1 games left to play this season. Messi’s team are currently six points clear and look set to be crowned champions of France once again. However, the Champions League remains the club’s top priority and they disappointed again in Europe’s top competition, going out in the round of 16.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is reportedly facing an uncertain future at the Camp Nou after reportedly becoming disillusioned with his role under Xavi in his debut season at the Camp Nou.

Kounde signed for Barcelona from Sevilla for a fee of €55 million in summer 2023 and has enjoyed regular football, making 44 appearances in all competitions, but has been primarily used at right-back rather than his favored position in central defense.

The France international has now told Xavi that he’s unhappy with his role at the club and is open to leaving Barca after just one season, according to reporter Toni Juanmarti.

Kounde has not asked to leave but is willing to listen to offers. Barcelona are under financial pressure to sell players this summer which means any attractive offers for Kounde could now be seriously considered.

Xavi also has a host of options in central defense, with Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia and Marcos Alonso in his squad. Barca are also set to add Inigo Martinez on a free transfer in the summer transfer window, according to ESPN.

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Why Is Kounde Playing Right-Back?

Kounde has ended up playing right-back this season, purely because of a lack of options in the position. Barca signed Hector Bellerin in the summer but the full-back left for Portuguese side Sporting in the winter after making just one start for Barca in La Liga.

Bellerin’s departure left Xavi with no recognized right-back in his first-team squad, meaning he opted to shift Kounde to the right and keep Ronald Araujo, who can also play in the position, in central defence alongside Christensen.

Sergi Roberto and Alejandro Balde have also featured at right-back at times this season, but it’s become clear as the campaign has progressed that Kounde is Xavi’s preferred choice on the right of the backline currently.

Who Will Be Barcelona’s Right-Back Next Season?

Kounde could even continue in that position next season, particularly as Araujo and Christensen have impressed in the heart of the defense and helped Barca keep an impressive 25 clean sheets in La Liga so far this season.

The performance of the duo means Kounde has slipped down the pecking order when it comes to central defenders, and he may face a real battle dislodging either Araujo or Christensen from the team next season.

Xavi has also admitted that replacing Sergio Busquets is his top transfer priority this summer, not signing a right-back, and the club’s financial problems may make any more transfers difficult.

Barca did sign Julian Araujo from LA Galaxy in the summer but there are already doubts about his suitability. According to Diario Sport, Araujo has had difficulty adapting to the team’s style of play and is yet to convince the coaching staff of his abilities.

Kounde spoke to El Pais shortly after his move to Barcelona and made it clear that center-back is his “favorite position” and “Xavi knows it,” as reported by Sport.

And now it seems his lack of minutes in central defense this season is causing the Frenchman to question his future at the club despite winning La Liga for the first time  under Xavi.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has backed captain Sergio Busquets to go on and become an “exceptional manager” after he finally decides to hang up his boots.

Busquets will leave the Camp Nou at the end of the season when his contract expires, and his next move is not year clear. Guardiola has praised the 34-year-old at a press conference and thinks he has a bright future in the dugout, as reported by the Manchester Evening News.

“He was the best, reads everything that happens, anticipated the situations. Didn’t move much from the centre, could solve all the problems with his brain,” he told reporters. “Fascinating to work with him and learn of him. I said privately, but I wish him… he will become an exceptional manager.”

Busquets is not expected to retire just yet and is expected to continue his career outside of Spain. Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal are hoping to sign Busquets as well as Jordi Alba and Lionel Messi this summer, according to El Chiringuito.

Inter Miami are also keen on Busquets and Messi. Coach Phil Neville told The Times back in February that the MLS club are interested in both players.

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Sergio Busquets Talks Management

Busquets has openly admitted he would like to move into management once his playing days are finally over. The midfielder told RAC1 that he hopes to earn his coaching badges once he has stopped playing, as reported by Barca Universal.

“I want to be a manager when I retire. I’m going to get the coaching badges soon. And I’ll try my best. I had a lot of good managers in my career,” he explained.

Busquets has worked under some of the very best managers in the business during a stellar career where he’s won all the major honors available at domestic and international level.

The midfielder is currently working with Xavi, who was his midfield partner at Barcelona, and has seen his former team-mate go on to clinch the league title in his first full season in charge of the Catalan giants.

Barcelona Set To Wave Goodbye To Busquets

Busquets now has just three league games left as a Barcelona player, starting with his team’s trip to Real Valladolid on Tuesday, May 23. The midfielder was presented with the league trophy last time out and hinted afterwards he could be back at the club soon, as reported by Football Espana.

“The foundations of a team of champions has been laid. It’s very difficult to win titles”, he said. “I wanted to leave winning an important title like La Liga. I’m very happy to leave like this. I’ve been here for many years, with records and titles, and I’m happy to go out like this. But, I will see you soon!”

Yet Barcelona must now prepare for life without their skipper. Xavi has already spoken about potential candidates to take over the armband from next season and has also admitted his top transfer priority this summer is to find a replacement for Busquets.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has opened up on his transfer plans ahead of the opening of the summer window next month. The Catalans are expected to strengthen their squad and the manager knows his top priority already.

Xavi told a pre-match press conference on Monday, May 22 that Barcelona’s top challenge is to bring in a replacement for captain Sergio Busquets. The midfielder has announced he will leave when his contract expires at the end of the season.

“Priority number one is the Busi spot, it’s logical,” he told reporters. “We need a very high-level defensive midfielder. That’s the reality. An important player is leaving, he’s the captain, he can make a lot of difference. So we need to find a replacement, the best possible. And then there will be other priorities.”

Replacing Busquets will be a tall order for Barcelona. The midfielder has spent 18 seasons at the club and won over 30 titles. He leaves after winning La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup in his final season at the Camp Nou.

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Could Frenkie de Jong Replace Sergio Busquets?

Barcelona seem to have a ready-made replacement in Busquets already. Frenkie de Jong is one player who can play in the Busquets role, although the Dutchman believes it is not the right position for him.

“I hear it ofte [that he could replace Busquets] but I think we are different players. He is a real solid ‘6’ according to the Barcelona profile. I need freedom of movement,” he told NOS.

Barcelona have been linked with several players already, including Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Xavi has talked up the midfielder by revealing he thinks he’s an “extraordinary” footballer.

Yet Zubimendi has a release clause set at 60 million euros which is likely to be out of Barca’s reach. The midfielder also signed a new contract at the club in 2022, suggesting he’s not interested in moving right now.

What About Nico Gonzalez?

Another potential replacement for Busquets is Nico Gonzalez. Xavi has been told he’s the “perfect player” to replace the captain by former B team coach Francisco Javier García Pimienta, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

Nico has spent the current season on loan at Valencia but is due back at the end of the season, and Xavi told his press conference the club will make a decision on his future at that point.

“I think he’s playing at a really good level, he played a good match yesterday. He’s growing. It’s a shame he was injured, out for three months, but we’ll evaluate it,” he explained. “Everything you are asking is going into this planning we are going through. He’s out on loan so he will come back and then we’ll see what we can do.”

Wolves midfielder is another option for Barcelona, according to ESPN. The club are pressing ahead with talks for the Portugal international even though Xavi prefers other targets.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has made it clear he has a host of leaders in his current team and is not worried about who will take over the armband from departing captain Sergio Busquets.

The midfielder has confirmed he will walk away from the Camp Nou at the end of the season when his contract with the Catalan giants expires. Xavi has been asked which players could take over the role at a press conference and had a long list of suggestions.

“It’s not something I’m worried about. I have various types of leaders. Everyone is a leader in some way,” he told reporters. “Ter Stegen is a great leader, Araujo, Kounde, Gavi could be a Barca captain, Pedri as well. Lewandowski is a captain without the armband, Sergi Roberto, Jordi Alba. There’s a lot of players who have this leadership ability and can stand up and be captain at any moment.”

Center-back Araujo has been tipped to go on and become a future Barcelona captain, by Radio Marca’s Alejandro Segur, and has said it would be “tremendous” to take over the captaincy in an interview with Diario Sport.

Barcelona name four captains at the start of every season. Busquets was named first captain at the start of the current campaign along with Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba and Sergi Roberto. Ter Stegen took over from Pique after he retired in November.

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What About Lionel Messi?

Another player who could be in the frame to be captain next season is Lionel Messi. The former skipper is out of contract at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season and has been heavily linked with a return to the Camp Nou.

Barcelona’s perilous financial situation means a move will be difficult for the Catalan giants, and Xavi offered an update on the situation regarding the club’s former No. 10.

“Everything is up in the air. It depends on a lot of things. I can’t say much else. He’s a spectacular player,” he said. “He’s someone I am good friends with. It depends on a lot of different cases and the intention of Leo.”

Messi took over the captain’s armband on a permanent basis at the start of the 2018-29 season after Andres Iniesta left the club for Vissel Kobe. The Argentina international skippered the club until his shock departure for PSG in the summer of 2021.

Robert Lewandowski Wants Lionel Messi Back

Top scorer Robert Lewandowski is also in the frame for the captain’s job and wears the armband for the Poland national team. He has spoken out about the possible return of Messi and is hoping a deal can be reached.

The striker told journalist Tomasz Wlodarczyk that he is hoping to get the chance to play with Messi for the first time in his career if the World Cup winner returns in the summer.

“I would like to play with him here. He has changed his style in recent years. It’s easier to play with players who understand football as deeply as he does,” he said. “Leo’s style of play has evolved in recent years,” Lewandowski continued. “He thinks differently, positions himself differently on the field, plays the ball differently. He has a unique sense. We would definitely use him.”

Messi’s father Jorge has put out a statement on social media on his son’s future and insisted no decision will be made until the end of the current campaign.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has praised Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has been continually linked with a move to the Catalan giants in the summer transfer window.

Xavi will come up against Zubimendi and La Real in La Liga on Saturday, May 20 at the Camp Nou and was asked about the midfielder at his pre-match press conference, as reported by Diario Sport.

“Zubimendi is an extraordinary pivot. He dominates the game, the moments with and without the ball,” he told reporters. “He wins duels, he is an extraordinary player in that position. He understands the model we like at Barça,”

Barcelona are in the market for a new pivot in the summer after captain Sergio Busquets confirmed he would leave the club at the end of the season when his contract expires.

Xavi admitted that bringing in a new midfielder to replace Busquets is now a priority for his club ahead of the 2023-24 La Liga campaign.

“Until now we didn’t know if Busquets was going to continue,” he added. “The priority for next season is the signing of a defensive midfielder.”

Xavi’s admiration for Zubimendi is clear, but the midfielder has a release clause in his contract set at 60 million euros which is problematic for Barcelona due to the club’s ongoing financial difficulties.

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Martin Zubimendi Responds To Transfer Talk

Zubimendi has also spoken about the speculation concerning his future and made it clear he’s not thinking about a move to Barcelona currently in an interview with Radio Marca Donostia, as reported by Football Espana.

“I have never said anything about wanting to leave La Real, I do nothing but see news of that and it makes me feel uneasy,” he said. “I have neither listened nor wanted to do anything. I do not know if I have been able to leave, but I have not even considered it. I have already said it several times, to say it more times it seems that they do not listen to me.”

Zubimendi demonstrated his commitment to La Real by signing a contract extension at the club in 2022. The midfielder’s current deal now runs until 2027 which is a further blow to Barca’s hopes of landing the 24-year-old.

Who Will Replace Sergio Busquets?

It remains to be seen who will replace Busquets at Barcelona. Xavi has options in his current squad, namely Frenkie de Jong, but has tried out center-back Eric Garcia as a pivot this season.

Nico Gonzalez, who has been on loan at Valencia this season, is also due back at the end of the season. The youngster has come through the club’s La Masia academy and has long been tipped to take over from Busquets at Barca.

Barcelona could still dip into the transfer market, if finances allow, with Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves a target, according to journalist Veronica Brunati.

The Portugal international has admitted he would like to play for Barcelona, as reported by Sport Witness, but Xavi is thought to have doubts over his signing. According to ESPN, Barca are continuing to work on a deal for Neves even though Xavi “prefers other targets.”

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Barcelona coach Xavi has made it clear he does not want Raphinha to leave the club in the summer transfer window and has told the Catalan giants he wants the Brazil international to stay.

The club had considered offloading Raphinha in a bid to reduce the wage bill, but Xavi has now had his say and has asked Barcelona to “abort any transfer,” according to UOL’s Bruno Andrade.

Barcelona had been willing to consider offers for 80 million euros for Raphinha this summer, according to Goal’s Ruben Uria. However, if Xavi gets his way then the winger will stay and be part of the first-team squad next season.

Raphinha has endured an inconsistent first season at Barcelona but his numbers are impressive. The Brazilian has notched 10 goals and 12 assists in 45 appearances in his debut season at the Camp Nou.

The forward has seven assists in La Liga, more than any other Barcelona player, and has played his role in the team’s title success, despite openly admitting that he has found it difficult to adapt to life at the Camp Nou.

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Raphinha Reacts To Barcelona Exit Rumors

Raphinha has already been linked with a big-money move back to the Premier League this summer even before the season has ended. Journalist Gerard Romero has reported Newcastle would be willing to splash out 80 million euros on the Brazilian, according to Sport.

The winger has reacted angrily to the transfer talk in a post on social media, as shown by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. He described a claim he had agreed to leave Barcelona after just one season as “fake news.”

Speculation has arisen about Raphinha’s future as Barcelona need to make sales this summer, particularly if they want to bring Lionel Messi back to the club.

Economic vice-president Eduardo Romeu has admitted the Argentina international could return to the Camo Nou after his PSG contract expires in the summer “if there are player sales, as the salary limit has to be lower,” as reported by AS.

Raphinha Joins Title Celebrations

Yet Raphinha made it clear he’s not thinking about a move when he joined Barcelona’s title celebrations on Monday, May 15. The Catalans embarked on an open top bus parade through the city after sealing the league title with a 4-2 win over Espanyol.

The Brazilian sent out a pretty strong message while on the bus, as reported by Romano. “I’m very happy to win this title here at Barça, it’s better than I imagined. For sure next season we will try to achieve more,” he said.

Raphinha started the win over Espanyol, ahead of fit-again Ousmane Dembele, and picked up an assist for striker Robert Lewandowski to once again highlight his effectiveness on the right of the attack.

Barcelona are expected to make sales this summer, to ease their financial situation, and Raphinha may well be in demand. However, the Brazilian has made it clear he wants to stay and appears to have his manager’s backing too.

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Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed the club want forward Ansu Fati to stay at the Camp Nou amid continued speculation about the 20-year-old’s future.

Laporta told TV3 that Barcelona are counting on having Fati in the first-team squad next season but added it will be up to coach Xavi to decide how regularly he plays, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“He is a man we count on and it is the technical direction that will have to decide what happens with Ansu next season,” he explained. “He’s a Barça player, we love him and he’s a high-quality player and an integrated person, I know he wants to succeed at Barça, we’ll see how it goes.”

Fati has struggled for starts for Barcelona in the current campaign, making 32 appearances in La Liga, but being named in the starting XI just 11 times.

The youngster’s father has been critical of Xavi’s treatment of his son this season and has advised him to leave Barcelona in an interview with Cope, as reported by Eurosport.

Barcelona are reportedly willing to listen to offers of just 40 million euros for Fati, according to Javier Miguel at Diario AS. Yet Fati made it clear earlier in April, after making his 100th appearance for the club, that he wants to stay at Barcelona.

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Joan Laporta Responds To Lionel Messi Rumors

Laporta also addressed speculation that Lionel Messi could return to the club in the summer transfer window. Messi is out of contract at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season and has been linked with a Camp Nou return.

The Barcelona president told TV3 that he has tried to mend his relationship with Messi, which deteriorated after the forward’s shock exit, and has been in touch with the World Cup winner recently, as reported by ESPN.

“I have spoken with him recently to rectify the situation after I had to put the club before everything, even him, the best player in the world,” Laporta said. “It was a pleasant conversation. We have recovered the relationship we have had for many years.”

Messi is also reportedly wanted by clubs in Saudi Arabia, but Laporta believes the forward could be tempted back to the city he has called home since leaving his homeland as a 13-year-old.

“With all due respect to Saudi Arabia – where a lot of good work and investment is taking place around the league there – Barca is Barca,” he explained. “Barca is his home. Barca can compete with anyone. The history this club has and the feeling of our 400 million supporters is so strong.”

Will Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati Be Reunited?

If Messi returns to Barcelona he could be reunited with Fati. The two shared a strong relationship before Messi left for PSG. The move saw Fati take over the Argentine’s famed No. 10 shirt at Barcelona.

Fati has previously admitted that he will be “eternally grateful” to Messi for a gesture he made after the youngster’s debut against Sevilla. Messi gave Fati a hug after the game and subsequently posted a photo on social media which went viral.

The forward spoke to France Football about the moment and revealed why the gesture meant so much to him, as reported by BeSoccer.

“I received millions of notifications on my mobile phone, it was crazy. I will never forget this gesture, I will be eternally grateful to him. It was something very important to me,” he said. “I keep the photo at home forever. I remember Ronaldinho supported him a little bit in the same way when he started. He did the same with me. This was a real motivational boost for me.”

Fati’s endured a difficult campaign at Barcelona and struggled to replicate the form that made him such as top prospect when he first broke onto the scene. The return of Messi would increase competition for places in the Barca attack but would also offer Fati more time to learn from one of the best players even to grace the game.

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Sergino Dest is facing an uncertain future at Barcelona after leaving the Camp Nou in the summer transfer window to spend the season on loan with Serie A side AC Milan.

The USMNT star’s agent has now offered an update on his future and admits there is interest in the defender from three Premier League clubs, as reported by the Barca Times.

“There is still no progress with any club. Dest will return to Barcelona and then we will meet with the management and decide,” he said. “There are three clubs from the Premier League that have shown a lot of interest.”

Dest’s loan to AC Milan does include an option to sign the defender permanently, but it seems unlikely the Rossoneri will take it up. The full-back has only started two league games for Milan this season and has not really made an impact at the San Siro.

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Barcelona Still Short of Right-Back Options

Barcelona are short of right-back options currently. Central defender Jules Kounde has played in the position for the majority of the season but is surely not a long-term option.

Indeed manager Xavi told a pre-match press conference ahead of his team’s clash with Real Betis that he knows full well Kounde prefers to play in the middle rather than on the flank

“We will have time to think about next season. He is adapting well to right-back. I know he’s a center-back but circumstances are what they are. He has to adapt to play as a right-back for the team and he’s playing well,” he explained. “It’s not his best position, he’s a center-back, he prefers to play there. He is helping us a lot in defence. Incredible as a right-back or a center-back.”

Fellow center-back Ronald Araujo has also played at right-back this season, along with utility man Sergi Roberto but neither are long-term options either.

Right-back Julian Araujo has arrived from LA Galaxy but has linked up with the reserves initially and it remains to be seen if he will be part of the first-team squad next season.

Sergino Dest Sends Out Strong Message

There’s no doubt that Dest has endured a difficult time recently. He struggled to make an impact in his first season at Barcelona and has found it going at Milan as well on loan.

The American has posted a motivational video on Instagram, suggesting he is determined not to give up. The video shows Dest being put through his paces and has the caption “Adversity Builds Character.”

It would be no surprise to see Dest move on again in the summer and follow fellow USMNT stars such as Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, Matt Turner and Weston McKennie in making the move to the Premier League.

Barcelona may lack right-back options but have already made it clear that Dest is not in Xavi’s plans for the future. Thee club are also keen to raise funds and cut costs which means any attractive offers for the defender would surely be welcomed.

READ NEXT: Lewandowski Sends Barcelona ‘Nice Football’ Warning

Xavi Hernandez has sent out a message to La Liga about Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski, warning rivals that the division’s top scorer is feeling “more dynamic” after ending a recent mini-drought.

Lewandowski snapped a four-game run without a goal in Barcelona’s 2-1 defeat to Rayo Vallecano. The goalless run was Lewandowski’s longest since he moved to the Camp Nou in the summer transfer window.

The striker followed that up with another goal in the 4-0 win over Real Betis, leading Xavi to come up with the following response when asked a pre-match press conferene if Lewandowski is back to his best, as reported by Diario AS.

“Yeah. And not only for the goals. I have the feeling that he is feeling more dynamic again. He has taken a step forward,” he told reporters. “There are moments of the season when you don’t feel so good and the strikers also need goals to have a good feeling. I would say Lewandowski’s season is brilliant.”

Lewandowski remains top of the goalscoring charts in La Liga on 19, two ahead of nearest rival Karim Benzema. Both players have six games left to play and look set to battle it out for the Pichichi award, given to the top scorer in Spain’s top flight.

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Robert Lewandowski Eyeing New Landmark

Barcelona take on Osasuna next in La Liga, with Lewandowski eyeing a new landmark ahead of the match. The striker has scored 29 goals in all competitions in his debut campaign for Barca, meaning one more will see him hit 30.

Lewandowski has only made 40 appearances for Barcelona in the 2022-23 campaign and his goal return is certainly impressive. The Poland international has come in for criticism this season but few can argue with his statistics.

Xavi has backed Lewandowski all season long, even when he was going through a lean patch, and has been rewarded for keeping faith with the Bayern Munich man.

Barcelona’s defense has been imperious this season, with just 11 goals conceded from 32 games played in La Liga, but there’s no doubt that Lewandowski’s goals have also helped propel Xavi’s side to the title.

Will Osasuna Be Distracted By Copa del Rey Final?

Xavi’s side head into the match still 11 points clear at the top of the table and in a strong position to win La Liga. The Catalans face an Osasuna team that may just be distracted by the prospect of a Copa del Rey final on Saturday against Real Madrid.

The Barcelona boss admits it may be a factor but has warned his team they can’t afford to be complacent at the Camp Nou.

“They will have the final in mind because it is perhaps the most important match in the history of Osasuna,” he said. “They will want to compete well. They have their goal set in the league but they will want to compete and they could put us in trouble.”

The two teams have already met this season in La Liga in a game which Lewandowski will not remember fondly. Barca ran out 2-1 winners but Lewandowski was sent off in the first half and subsequently hit with a three-match ban.

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Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez lavished praise on 15-year-old Lamine Yamal after handing the highly-rated teenager his debut in a 4-0 La Liga win over Real Betis on Saturday, April 29 at the Camp Nou.

Yamal came on as a substitute in the latter stages of the win, replacing midfielder Gavi, to become the youngest ever player to debut for the Catalan giants at the age of 15 years and nine months.

Xavi was asked about Yamal after the win, which restores Barcelona’s 11-point lead at the top of the table in Spain, and even compared him to club legend Lionel Messi, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“He is similar to Messi and Ansu with innate talent. He is a person who doesn’t look like he is 15 years old. He is more mature than his age,” he said. “He is a special player, he has self-confidence, he can be important, you realize it in training. He can mark an era.”

Xavi has called up Yamal to the first team after seeing the youngster impress on the training ground. The Barcelona manager has also previously revealed he has a plan for the forward and expects him to have a big future at the Camp Nou.

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Xavi Talks Lamine Yamal Advice

The Barcelona boss also revealed what he told Yamal before he took to the pitch for the first time with the first team.

“I’ve told him to try things. At 15 years old, he is a talent and a special player. He has shown what he is. He is not afraid, he has been able to score, he has assisted and when you see him in training you see that he can be very big and important from now to the future,” he added. “He has a talent from three quarters up that is difficult to find in world football. He associates well and is smart.”

Yamal saw a shot saved by Betis goalkeeper Rui Silva with minutes of replacing Gavi. He followed that up with a cute chipped ball to Ousmane Dembele which resulted in a goalscoring chance, but the Frenchman could not convert the opportunity.

Raphinha Talks Lamine Yamal

Barcelona forward Raphinha also spoke about Yamal after scoring and assisting in the victory over Betis. The Brazilian admitted that when he was 15 he was still playing for his local team, as reported by Marca.

“We were talking about this on the bench, when I was 15 years old I think I played for my neighborhood team,” he said. “And seeing him enter this stadium with all these people is incredible, it would have been better if he scored, but he will score in a better moment and it will be very important for the club”.

Yamal is one of Barca’s brightest young talents and has already beaten a club record previously held by Fati. Barcelona still have six games left to play this season, and supporters will be hoping for more glimpses of the talented teen before the end of the campaign.

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Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has hit back at recent reports regarding Pablo Torre’s attitude and has backed the teenage midfielder to be a success at the Camp Nou.

Torre signed from Racing in the summer but has struggled for game time so far this season. The teenager has made only five substitute appearances in La Liga and has admitted he’s found it hard to get minutes, as reported by Diario Sport.

Xavi was asked about the youngster at a pre-match press conference and praised his professionalism as well as explaining why he has not had regular minutes so far this season.

“I’ve read different things about Pablo Torre that is fake news. He’s an example in the locker room, a professional, he works really well, is involved, loves football. He’s loved in the locker room,” he said. “He’s a fantastic guy. The issue is that there is a lot of competition, he is playing minutes in the Barça first team and that is a lot. He is helping us. I hope he can be important and he has to be ready to participate.”

Xavi has previously told reporters that he’s not been very fair with the teenager and that Torre is in a “difficult situation” at the club because of the competition for places in midfield with Sergio Busquets, Gavi, Pedri, Franck Kessie and Frenkie de Jong in the squad.

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More Competition For Torre?

Torre may find it even harder to force his way into the team next season, with Barcelona confirming on Friday, April 28 that young midfielder Aleix Garrido has signed a new deal with the club.

Garrido made his debut this season against Elche and earned plenty of praise for his substitute appearance from Xavi after the win, as reported by Marca.

The teenager will be part of the reserve team for the 2022-23 campaign but will be hoping for more first-team call-ups. Xavi told his press conference that he believes Garrido has a big future ahead of him.

“I think he has a lot of talent,” he told reporters. “When he was in the squad a few weeks ago I told him he can have a fantastic future at the club.”

Ansu Fati Also Struggling For Minutes

Torre is not the only player who has spent more time on the bench than the pitch this season. Ansu Fati has only made 11 La Liga starts, with Xavi telling reporters his lack of game time is because Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres and Raphinha have shown better form.

“I see that Ferran and Raphinha are a little better than Ansu, also Robert,” he explained. “Ansu and the rest of the players are competing between themselves. He’s played, he’s been important, scored important goals. There is big competition for places at Barca.”

Fati’s reduced role this season has seen his father accuse Xavi of a lack of respect towards his son, as reported by Adria Albets for Cadena Ser. However, the youngster has since sent out a message suggesting he is happy at the club and wants to continue.

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Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has revealed it was his decision to bring Andreas Christensen to the club on a free transfer in the summer and he demanded the Catalans sign the center-back.

Christensen moved on a free transfer after his contract at Chelsea expired and to little fanfare. The Denmark international was not a guaranteed starter at Stamford Bridge but has gone on to shine at the Camp Nou.

Xavi spoke about Christensen ahead of his team’s La Liga clash against Real Betis. The Dane is back in the squad after injury, and Xavi told a pre-match press conference that he’s thrilled to see him back in action.

“Christensen, I asked for him, he’s my signing. We missed him a lot, playing from the back and his focus in defence,” he told reporters. “He’s always concerned about what could happen. He’s an incredible player even though people outside don’t value him as much. We missed him a lot and tomorrow he is available and 100%.”

Xavi has defended Christensen all season. The coach told a press conference in January that the Dane had been “extraordinary” since signing for the club despite the doubts that had met his arrival at the Camp Mou.

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Barcelona Set For Defensive Changes?

Christensen’s return from injury could mean that Xavi will make changes to his backline for the visit of Betis. The Dane may go straight back into the starting XI alongside Ronald Araujo in the heart of the Barca defense.

Xavi must then decide on his two full-backs. Alejandro Balde has emerged as his preferred choice this season, ahead of Jordi Alba, and could continue on the left of the backline.

Right-back remains an issue for Barcelona. Central defender Jules Kounde has been forced to play out wide for the majority of the season but Xavi also admitted that it’s not the Frenchman’s preferred position.

“We will have time to think about next season. He is adapting well to right-back. I know he’s a center-back but circumstances are what they are,” he told the press conference. “He has to adapt to play as a right-back for the team and he’s playing well. It’s not his best position, he’s a center-back, he prefers to play there. He is helping us a lot in defence. Incredible as a right-back or a center-back.”

Xavi Urges Barcelona To React

Barcelona take on Betis after suffering a third league defeat of the season last time out against Rayo Vallecano at Vallecas. Xavi spoke about his team’s recent slump in form and has called on his players to respond against Los Verdiblancos.

“If we look at the last 20 games, it’s fantastic, but if we just look at the last four, it’s not,” he said. “We have to react and regain sensations like we did against Atletico and that’s what we need to recover, our way of playing. Tomorrow is a key game to react against a really tough rival.”

Barcelona remain unbeaten at home this season in La Liga and face a Betis side without a win in their last five league games. The Catalans have also beaten Betis twice this season already. They won on penalties in the semi-finals of the Spanish Super Cup and enjoyed a 2-1 victory at the Benito Villamarin in the reverse fixture in La Liga.

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Xavi Hernandez has laughed off a new nickname given to the Barcelona manager following his complaints after his team’s recent 0-0 La Liga draw against Getafe.

The Barca chief moaned about the state of the pitch and having to play in the afternoon, rather than the evening, in Madrid. Xavi has subsequently been dubbed ‘The Gardener’ because of his comments and told a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, April 25 that he has no problem with it, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“It makes me laugh, better the gardener than something else,” he told reporters. “And that’s the way it is. I won’t stop until I get football to be fairer.”

Xavi spoke out again about the state of pitches in La Liga before his team beat Atletico Madrid 1-0 at the Camp Nou last time out. The former midfielder explained exactly why he is so annoyed by the situation as reported by ESPN.

“A dry pitch does not benefit us. It is a question for Sanchez Flores: Why not water the pitch? Why have the grass longer than usual?” he said. “I won’t stop until there is a rule in place for playing surfaces. There is in other sports. In golf, if the grass is long, they cut it. If Lebron has a wet court, they dry it. If it rains in tennis, they stop. And we could make puddles, but who does that benefit? I won’t keep quiet. It’s no wonder younger fans don’t watch entire games. If we want to put on a show, we have to take care of the sport.”

Xavi has still led his team to an 11-point lead at the top of the table despite his frustration at the playing surfaces in the Spanish top flight.

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Xavi Voices Rayo Vallecano Concerns

Barcelona’s next game is at Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday, April 26. Xavi once again voiced his concerns about playing away from home, but this time it’s the size of the ground rather than the pitch that he’s worried about, as reported by Sport.

“We have warned the players that it will be an intense game, they are aggressive, the distances are shorter,” he explained. “If you fall asleep, you will have two or three players pressing you. We have to be more precise than usual.”

Yet Barcelona head into the match on a high after an impressive win over an in-form Atletico Madrid, thanks to a single goal from Ferran Torres. The Catalans now face a home side beaten 2-1 at Real Sociedad last time out in La Liga.

Barcelona Without Some Key Players

Xavi will also have to cope without some key players at Vallecas. Ousmane Dembele and Andreas Christensen are still not ready to return from injury and have not made the squad. Xavi told his press conference the duo will return against Real Betis on Saturday, April 29.

Captain Sergio Busquets is also missing after picking up a one-match ban for yellow card accumulation. The only other absentee is Sergi Roberto, who remains on the injured list with a hamstring problem.

Barcelona will be favorites to pick up three points on Wednesday but have found it tough going against Rayo in recent fixtures. The Catalans lost 1-0 on their last visit to Vallecas in October 2021 in La Liga and were held to a goalless draw by Rayo on the opening day of the season at the Camp Nou.

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Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez could not hide his delight after seeing his team keep a 23rd clean sheet of the season in La Liga on Sunday, April 23 in a 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid at the Camp Nou.

The win restored Barcelona’s 11-point lead at the top of table and means the team have conceded just nine goals from 30 appearances in Spain’s top flight. It’s an impressive stat and one that Xavi knows is extraordinary, as reported by Barca Universal.

“It’s not normal to concede 9 goals in 30 games,” he told reporters. “But I’m very happy with the way the team works, that they work hard until the last second, it’s something that gives us a lot now and in the future.”

Barcelona now have just eight league games left to play but face two matches in the space of four days next week. First up is a trip to Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday, April 26, followed by a visit from Real Betis.

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Praise For Ter Stegen

Xavi also singled out goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen for praise after another shut-out by the Germany international. Ter Stegen made two important stops from Antoine Griezmann to preserve his clean sheet and prevent the Frenchman netting against his former team.

The Barcelona manager made it clear just how highly he rates Ter Stegen and how he feels he is the perfect goalkeeper for his team because of his ability on the ball, as reported by Sport.

“He is one of the three best goalkeepers in the world. And for the way we want to play, he is the best,” he explained. “He is decisive with his footwork and extraordinary in goal. He is a guarantee. The defence has improved a lot, with a high line. The high pressure after losses has been important.”

Ter Stegen has returned to his best form this season after taking a rest during the summer. The goalkeeper opted not to join up with German national team for international duty and the break appears to have helped him enormously.

The 30-year-old looks destined to win the Zamora Trophy this season, handed to the goalkeeper with the lowest goals-to-game ratio, for the first time in his career.

Ter Stegen Matches Club Record

Sunday’s clean sheet also means that Ter Stegen has matched a club record previously set by Claudio Bravo. The stopper also kept 23 clean sheets, during the 2014-15 campaign, although he did concede 19 goals.

Ter Stegen now has the chance to break that record and own it outright. With eight games of the campaign still to play, the stopper will be optimistic he can extend his run of clean sheets further.

Barcelona head to Rayo Vallecano next and face a team on a poor run of form. Rayo have just one win in their last 10 league matches, meaning Xavi’s side will be big favourites to take all three points at Vallecas.

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Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has offered an update on injured forward Ousmane Dembele, who has not featured for the Catalans giants since January 2023.

Dembele is once again not included in the matchday squad for Sunday’s clash with Atletico Madrid in La Liga at the Camp Nou, but Xavi has confirmed he will return to action next week.

Barcelona face games against Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday, April 26 and then head to Real Betis on Saturday, April 29. Xavi told a pre-match press conference that Dembele will be back in action in at least one of those fixtures.

“He [Dembele] is just one step away. He’s not quite ready but he almost is. If it’s not Wednesday it will be Saturday,” he said. “Everyone who is in the squad is 100%. We’ll see tomorrow who will play. Chrisensen is the same, he’s almost there. The good news is that we have recovered almost the entire squad, apart from Sergi Roberto.”

Dembele’s return will be a big boost for the Catalan giants ahead of the final weeks of the league season. The forward has 8 goals and 7 assists for Xavi’s side in 29 appearances in all competitions so far this season.

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Barca’s Injury Problems Easing

Xavi has received some good news ahead of Barcelona’s clash against Atletico. Midfield duo Pedri and Frenkie de Jong have both been passed fit for the match and included in the squad.

The return of the two players should provide Barca with a much-needed boost against an in-form Atletico. Barca have failed to score in their last three matches in all competitions and have been held to goalless draws in their two last two games.

Pedri’s creativity and ability to supply the final ball has been missing, as Barca’s lack of goals shows, and Xavi will be hoping the Spain international’s return can help his team rediscover their goalscoring touch.

Xavi Talks Barcelona’s Lack of Goals

Xavi addressed Barcelona’s lack of recent goals before the match and tipped top score Robert Lewandowski to end his mini-drought. The Poland international has not scored in his last three games but Xavi continues to back his summer signing.

“He’s motivated, he’s trained really well, he’s always looks for answers to improve, for the team to improve,” he explained. “We are really happy with him. He’s not had the numbers of the first half of the season but will be scoring again, he’ll keep being important.”

Lewandowski missed Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Atletico earlier in the season at the Wanda Metropolitano due to suspension. Dembele scored the only goal of the game on that day, but Barca will need to find a new match-winner on Sunday with the Frenchman still sidelined for now.

Yet Barca possess an excellent recent record against the Rojiblancos and have not lost any of their last 16 home matches against Atletico in La Liga, winning 11 and drawing five times.

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Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has raised a few eyebrows by including 15-year-old Lamine Yamal in his matchday squad for his team’s La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid on Sunday, April 23.

Yamal is one of the most highly-rated talents in Barcelona’s La Masia academy but this is the first time that he has been included in the senior squad. Xavi told a pre-match press conference that the teenager has a big future ahead of him.

“Everyone who has been called up has the option of participating. He can help us, he has good talent, he is young, has a lot of personality,” he said. “One on one, he’s strong, he’s a player that can mark an era and be really important for the club. He’s not afraid, we’ve put him on the list. we’ve spoken to him, he’s ready. I think he can help us.”

Yamal has been training with the first team this week and has clearly caught Xavi’s eye. The teenager also impressed on his last outing for the team’s Juvenil A side, scoring twice and picking up an assist in a 4-3 win over Mallorca.

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Lamine Yamal Set For Debut?

Xavi has been unafraid to blood youngsters since taking charge of the club which will offer Yamal hope he can debut soon. The first-team coach has already handed debuts to a host of starlets including Ilias Akhomach, Estanis Pedrola, Chadi Riad, Marc Casado and Angel Alarcon.

Yamal will be hoping to gain some valuable first-team minutes in what is a crunch match for Barcelona. The Catalans are 11 points clear at the top of the table in Spain but have been held to goalless draws in their last two fixtures.

Meanwhile, Atletico are in a rich vein of form and head to the Camp Nou on a run of six straight wins. Another victory for the Rojiblancos would be another setback for Barcelona as they chase a first league title since 2019.

Xavi Talks Lamine Yamal’s Future

Xavi also spoke about Yamal’s future and denied the call-up was anything to do with the fact the teenager is close to the end of his contract. Yamal will be able to sign professional terms when he turns 16 in July, but Xavi said the teenager’s been called up simply because he deserves it.

“We will focus on the present, what we have ahead of us. He’s done really well. I’ve liked what I’ve seen and that’s why he’s been called up,” he added. “The fact that his contract is ending is nothing to do with the call-up. He’s training well, has great footballing talent and can play well for the first team despite his age.”

Yamal has already beaten a record at Barcelona previously held by Ansu Fati, scoring for the club’s Under-19 side at the age of 15 years, one month and 28 days. He’s also shone by scoring some eye-catching goals throughout his time at the club.

Xavi has previously said the club “have a project for” Yamal and are clearly hoping he stays at the Camp Nou and can make the breakthrough into the first-team. A call-up at the tender age of 15 demonstrates exactly how highly he’s rated by Xavi and his staff.

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Barcelona forward Ansu Fati has sent out a strong message about his future amid speculation the club could look to cash in on the 21-year-old in the summer transfer window.

Fati celebrated reaching 100 appearances for Barcelona in Sunday’s goalless draw with Getafe and says he is looking forward to making many more for the Catalan giants, in a post on Instagram.

“Proud to reach the 100 games with this shirt,” he wrote on April 18. “Thank you very much to all who have made it possible, it’s time to keep working and improving!! Let’s go for more! Long live Barça!!”

Fati has been advised to quit Barcelona by his father after struggling for game time in 2022-23. His father, Bori Fati, has also claimed manager Xavi has been unfair toward his son by keeping him on the bench for the majority of the campaign, according to Cadena SER.

Ansu Fati has only started 11 league games for Barcelona this season, scoring just four times in the Spanish top flight. It’s a disappointing return for the youngster who broke on to the scene in such sensational style back in 2019 but has seen his career disrupted by injury.

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Ansu Fati Looking Forward to League Title

Despite Fati’s difficulties, he is on course to be crowned a league champion with Barca this season. Xavi’s side are 11 points clear at the top of the table with just nine games left to play.

Fati told Barca TV that he’s excited at the prospect of finishing top of the pile and collecting his first La Liga winner’s medal.

“We’ve very close to winning the league. There are only nine games left to play. We need to continue to work to win, what in my case, would be my first league title,” he said. “I’ve been with the first team now for three seasons, so it would be a unique achievement. It’s merit to what we’ve done all seasons. There’s very little to go, we need to give a 100%.”

Will Ansu Fati Leave This Summer?

Fati’s lack of game time and failure to rediscover his best form, coupled with Barca’s financial problems, has led to speculation the club may sell in the summer if an acceptable offer arrives.

The Catalan giants are thought to be willing to listen to offers of over 40 million euros for Fati, according to Diario AS. The attacker is contracted to the club until 2027, and his contract contains a release clause set at 1 billion euros.

Barcelona are thought to want to bring in a new attacker in the summer which could mean departures. Brazilian starlet Vitor Roque has been linked, according to Diario Sport, along with the Rasmus Hojlund who has been dubbed the “new Erling Haaland.”

President Joan Laporta has admitted the club want to sign a new striker and warned in a March 2023 interview with Mundo Deportiva that if a new player does arrive then “someone will have to leave” to make room in the squad and on the wage bill for the new arrival.

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