Therefore, the Brazilian striker will miss the European Super Cup final on Tuesday in Tibilisi, Georgia against Sevilla and also the Spanish Super Cup final which sees Luis Enrique's team take on Athletic Club over two legs on 14 and 17 August.
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Showing posts with label La Liga. Show all posts
Showing posts with label La Liga. Show all posts
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Neymar out for two weeks with parotitis (mumps)
The first team medical staff at FC Barcelona has announced on Sunday that Neymar will be out for two weeks after being diagnosed with parotitis (mumps), despite the fact that he had previously been vaccinated against the disease.
Therefore, the Brazilian striker will miss the European Super Cup final on Tuesday in Tibilisi, Georgia against Sevilla and also the Spanish Super Cup final which sees Luis Enrique's team take on Athletic Club over two legs on 14 and 17 August.
Therefore, the Brazilian striker will miss the European Super Cup final on Tuesday in Tibilisi, Georgia against Sevilla and also the Spanish Super Cup final which sees Luis Enrique's team take on Athletic Club over two legs on 14 and 17 August.
The all-conquering Barça continue their quest
Not too long ago, most Barcelona fans wondered what disaster might befall the club should Xavi Hernández finally decide to hang up his boots, or simply jump ship to another team (Qatar).
That time has now come, but that fear appears to have subsided. Barça slowly but surely learned to live without Xavi last season. That said, even with an in-form Messi, the Catalans' playing style was difficult to understand without him. He was the man who marshaled every aspect of their midfield game: passing, possession, one-twos...
Luis Enrique made a huge decision about a year ago: to ration Xavi's first-team football. In other words, put together a Barça side in which Hernández was no longer a key player. The Catalans' starting XI would no longer be Xavi, Messi and nine others. Xavi would be reserved for key moments out on the pitch.
The Barça boss's plan went exactly according to plan. He pulled off a triple-winning season with Xavi, but also without Xavi, after the midfielder only started 19 out 31 games in the league and 2 out of 10 in the Champions League.
Xavi's departure sets the stage for this new-look Barça team as they look to continue their quest to win six titles in a single calendar year, adding the European and Spanish Super Cups, as well as the FIFA Club World Cup to their already impressive haul.
This season we should see what can finally be described as Luis Enrique's Barcelona, begging Messi's pardon. The Argentine is still the star of all the magic they do out on the pitch.
Before, all the build-up was generated with Xavi at the centre. Now, Messi has taken over some of this scaffolding work prior to the killer moment. The Argentine is more and more showing himself to be an all-fielder, a man of many talents who can show off his customary magic from the right wing but is at his most deadly in front of goal. Messi can happily play the role of a midfielder preparing his team for the attack and then often pops up as the man to finish the job off.
The team's strength is based on the same strategies as last year's. Nothing we have seen so far suggests that Luis Enrique is going to surprise us with anything new and adopt a whole new line-up. Of course, there will be the usual rotations that the manager relies on to keep his players fresh. Some may even enjoy more minutes this season, but Barça still have their core team, the starting XI that he looks to for the big games.
What is a complete enigma is how the new faces at Barça will perform after having had to sit out all the club's games for the next seven months. If what we have heard from Luis Enrique himself is anything to go by, they should be called up pretty well immediately. Arda will probably be charged with a more attacking role than he had at Atlético, especially if Pedro ends up leaving. Aleix Vidal may be fielded as a right-back or out on the right wing.
The players had a hard time of it taking on board what their new manager was asking of them. It took them almost half a season to understand what was wanted of them and finally adapt to Luis Enrique's new system. But when at last they did, the efforts were rewarded with great football and a truckload of goals. This time round, the 'Azulgranas' will know what to do from the word go.
With Suárez now fully settled into his new club, it is to be expected that the three forwards will link up even better this season and that the Uruguayan will prove to be much more effective. With Xavi gone, Messi will continue to be decisive in helping organise the moves on the rivals' goal as well as being there to finish them off.
That time has now come, but that fear appears to have subsided. Barça slowly but surely learned to live without Xavi last season. That said, even with an in-form Messi, the Catalans' playing style was difficult to understand without him. He was the man who marshaled every aspect of their midfield game: passing, possession, one-twos...
Luis Enrique made a huge decision about a year ago: to ration Xavi's first-team football. In other words, put together a Barça side in which Hernández was no longer a key player. The Catalans' starting XI would no longer be Xavi, Messi and nine others. Xavi would be reserved for key moments out on the pitch.
The Barça boss's plan went exactly according to plan. He pulled off a triple-winning season with Xavi, but also without Xavi, after the midfielder only started 19 out 31 games in the league and 2 out of 10 in the Champions League.
Xavi's departure sets the stage for this new-look Barça team as they look to continue their quest to win six titles in a single calendar year, adding the European and Spanish Super Cups, as well as the FIFA Club World Cup to their already impressive haul.
This season we should see what can finally be described as Luis Enrique's Barcelona, begging Messi's pardon. The Argentine is still the star of all the magic they do out on the pitch.
Before, all the build-up was generated with Xavi at the centre. Now, Messi has taken over some of this scaffolding work prior to the killer moment. The Argentine is more and more showing himself to be an all-fielder, a man of many talents who can show off his customary magic from the right wing but is at his most deadly in front of goal. Messi can happily play the role of a midfielder preparing his team for the attack and then often pops up as the man to finish the job off.
The team's strength is based on the same strategies as last year's. Nothing we have seen so far suggests that Luis Enrique is going to surprise us with anything new and adopt a whole new line-up. Of course, there will be the usual rotations that the manager relies on to keep his players fresh. Some may even enjoy more minutes this season, but Barça still have their core team, the starting XI that he looks to for the big games.
What is a complete enigma is how the new faces at Barça will perform after having had to sit out all the club's games for the next seven months. If what we have heard from Luis Enrique himself is anything to go by, they should be called up pretty well immediately. Arda will probably be charged with a more attacking role than he had at Atlético, especially if Pedro ends up leaving. Aleix Vidal may be fielded as a right-back or out on the right wing.
The players had a hard time of it taking on board what their new manager was asking of them. It took them almost half a season to understand what was wanted of them and finally adapt to Luis Enrique's new system. But when at last they did, the efforts were rewarded with great football and a truckload of goals. This time round, the 'Azulgranas' will know what to do from the word go.
With Suárez now fully settled into his new club, it is to be expected that the three forwards will link up even better this season and that the Uruguayan will prove to be much more effective. With Xavi gone, Messi will continue to be decisive in helping organise the moves on the rivals' goal as well as being there to finish them off.
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez ready for Sevilla Super Cup challenge
Aiming for the sextuple, Barcelona travel to Tbilisi on Monday, where they will take on Sevilla in the European Super Cup. It's been less than a month since the team returned to work but Barcelona will be appearing in Georgia ready to start making history.
The trio of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez is the biggest threat thy have, the trio that helped them win the treble last season, and will be key as they assault the three trophies available to them in the rest of 2015 - the two Super Cups and the Club World Cup.
Georgia is an exotic location for the Super Cup, which Messi is hoping to welcome into his hands again, while Neymar and Suarez play in the competition for the first time.
They managed 122 goals last season, 58 from Messi, 39 from Neymar and 25 from Suarez. And this is with the Uruguayan only able to play from the end of October. Now he has completed a pre-season and is the only one of the trio to be able to have done that.
He didn't play the Copa America thanks to the FIFA sanction on his shoulders and from July 13 he's been training with his team-mates. Neymar and Messi, however, have only played for about an hour in the Joan Gamper trophy against Roma earlier this week.
With the three forwards back together, Barça are more Barça. Now they are going for the sextuple which they won in 2009 under Pep Guardiola, when that team beat Shakhtar in the European Super Cup, Athletic in the Spanish Super Cup and Estudiantes de la Plata in the club World Cup, giving Barcelona six titles in one year and putting them on another level. Pedro was the only player to score in all six competitions. Interestingly, the Canary Islander may well be playing his last Barcelona game in Tbilisi.
There's an element of revenge for Barcelona in this Super Cup, with Sevilla beating Frank Rijkaard's Barça 3-0 in the same competition in 2006, in Monaco. From that team only Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi remain.
The game will be special for Dani Alves too, who could equal Paolo Maldini's total of four Super Cups. The Brazilian won in 2006 with Sevilla - against Barça - in 2009 against Shakhtar and 2011 vs Porto.
Luis Enrique's line up should have few doubts. Ter Stegen is likely to start, arriving in better shape than Claudio Bravo because of his longer pre-season. In defence, the absence of Jordi Alba means Mathieu will probably be left-back, Pique and Mascherano in the middle and Alves at right-back. The strikers pick themselves - it's the trident - with Busquets, Iniesta and Rakitic the likely midfield trio.
After completing an irregula preseason and with the Gamper win as a hopeful sign, the team has now started preparing for the official season. The sextuple awaits Barcelona.
The trio of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez is the biggest threat thy have, the trio that helped them win the treble last season, and will be key as they assault the three trophies available to them in the rest of 2015 - the two Super Cups and the Club World Cup.
Georgia is an exotic location for the Super Cup, which Messi is hoping to welcome into his hands again, while Neymar and Suarez play in the competition for the first time.
They managed 122 goals last season, 58 from Messi, 39 from Neymar and 25 from Suarez. And this is with the Uruguayan only able to play from the end of October. Now he has completed a pre-season and is the only one of the trio to be able to have done that.
He didn't play the Copa America thanks to the FIFA sanction on his shoulders and from July 13 he's been training with his team-mates. Neymar and Messi, however, have only played for about an hour in the Joan Gamper trophy against Roma earlier this week.
With the three forwards back together, Barça are more Barça. Now they are going for the sextuple which they won in 2009 under Pep Guardiola, when that team beat Shakhtar in the European Super Cup, Athletic in the Spanish Super Cup and Estudiantes de la Plata in the club World Cup, giving Barcelona six titles in one year and putting them on another level. Pedro was the only player to score in all six competitions. Interestingly, the Canary Islander may well be playing his last Barcelona game in Tbilisi.
There's an element of revenge for Barcelona in this Super Cup, with Sevilla beating Frank Rijkaard's Barça 3-0 in the same competition in 2006, in Monaco. From that team only Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi remain.
The game will be special for Dani Alves too, who could equal Paolo Maldini's total of four Super Cups. The Brazilian won in 2006 with Sevilla - against Barça - in 2009 against Shakhtar and 2011 vs Porto.
Luis Enrique's line up should have few doubts. Ter Stegen is likely to start, arriving in better shape than Claudio Bravo because of his longer pre-season. In defence, the absence of Jordi Alba means Mathieu will probably be left-back, Pique and Mascherano in the middle and Alves at right-back. The strikers pick themselves - it's the trident - with Busquets, Iniesta and Rakitic the likely midfield trio.
After completing an irregula preseason and with the Gamper win as a hopeful sign, the team has now started preparing for the official season. The sextuple awaits Barcelona.
Friday, August 7, 2015
Arda: Messi would give me the number 10 shirt
During the presentation of Barça's squad at the Joan Gamper trophy game, each of Luis Enrique's players came out onto the field with a shirt number on their back.
Except Aleix Vidal and Arda Turan. The new signings, who are unable to wear the shirt in a game, friendly or not, have to wait until the January transfer window to get a number. Due to this, NTVSpor asked Turan which number he will take.
"When I got into the Turkish national team, I was wearing the number 14, because my father is a fan of Cruyff, but my shirt number is not too important to me. I will decide in January. Messi told me: 'If you want the 10, it's yours,'" Arda said while laughing, showing that it isn't a topic that he cares too much about.
Arda Turan also showed the confidence that he has: "I can play in any position and I will work for it, this is why I have signed for Barça. I came to fight and I want to be one of the cogs of the team."
Except Aleix Vidal and Arda Turan. The new signings, who are unable to wear the shirt in a game, friendly or not, have to wait until the January transfer window to get a number. Due to this, NTVSpor asked Turan which number he will take.
Arda Turan also showed the confidence that he has: "I can play in any position and I will work for it, this is why I have signed for Barça. I came to fight and I want to be one of the cogs of the team."
Messi is back with a vengeance
A month ago it seemed Leo Messi was a mere mortal. Something similar happens each time the pint-sized wizard takes off a Barça jersey and plays for Argentina, who lost the final of the Copa América on 4th July.
There was speculation about how well Messi would perform this season and whether he would lack motivation but these doubts proved to be unfounded, as was clear in the recent Gamper Trophy. With just five training sessions under his belt Messi delighted the Camp Nou fans and wowed the international press once more.
The opposition have every reason to be concerned by what Luis Enrique had to say afterwards: "Messi and Neymar are looking even more spectacular than in previous years." In the Catalan capital they are quietly confident this year will see a repeat performance of the 2010 Ballon d'Or awards ceremony, when a trio of Barça players, namely Messi, Andrés Iniesta and Xavi, were in the top three. Josep Maria Bartomeu is adamant, "Messi, Neymar and Suárez deserve to be the three Ballon d'Or finalists".
The world is at Messi's feet it would seem, with the exception of Argentina where the debate rages on. In his home country they have to contend with the fact that they have the best player on the planet, tempered by the frustration of not seeing the forward produce the same form at international level. One half of Argentina is in raptures over the star when he plays for Barça whilst the other half holds their arms up in despair when they see 'La Albiceleste' lose.
Now Messi only has one game on his mind, next Tuesday's UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla in Tbilisi. His sights are squarely on the first trophy of the new season.
There was speculation about how well Messi would perform this season and whether he would lack motivation but these doubts proved to be unfounded, as was clear in the recent Gamper Trophy. With just five training sessions under his belt Messi delighted the Camp Nou fans and wowed the international press once more.
The opposition have every reason to be concerned by what Luis Enrique had to say afterwards: "Messi and Neymar are looking even more spectacular than in previous years." In the Catalan capital they are quietly confident this year will see a repeat performance of the 2010 Ballon d'Or awards ceremony, when a trio of Barça players, namely Messi, Andrés Iniesta and Xavi, were in the top three. Josep Maria Bartomeu is adamant, "Messi, Neymar and Suárez deserve to be the three Ballon d'Or finalists".
The world is at Messi's feet it would seem, with the exception of Argentina where the debate rages on. In his home country they have to contend with the fact that they have the best player on the planet, tempered by the frustration of not seeing the forward produce the same form at international level. One half of Argentina is in raptures over the star when he plays for Barça whilst the other half holds their arms up in despair when they see 'La Albiceleste' lose.
Now Messi only has one game on his mind, next Tuesday's UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla in Tbilisi. His sights are squarely on the first trophy of the new season.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Vermaelen wins over Camp Nou!
Vermaelen settles down in Barcelona defence.
Vermaelen started the game against Roma, and did very well. If he goes on like this, he will probably be a first choice along with Piqué for the two Super Cup matches - the European one and the Spanish one.
The injury which kept him out of action throughout last season is now behind him. The Camp Nou crowd rewarded his performance in the match, and in the pre-season games, where he has been an ever-present for Luis Enrique, with a great ovation which will give him the confidence to face the new season, when he will be an important figure in the Barcelona defence.
Vermaelen started the game against Roma, and did very well. If he goes on like this, he will probably be a first choice along with Piqué for the two Super Cup matches - the European one and the Spanish one.
The injury which kept him out of action throughout last season is now behind him. The Camp Nou crowd rewarded his performance in the match, and in the pre-season games, where he has been an ever-present for Luis Enrique, with a great ovation which will give him the confidence to face the new season, when he will be an important figure in the Barcelona defence.
Dani Alves swaps the 22 of Abidal for the 6 of Xavi!
FC Barcelona made their shirt numbers official today, after the official exit of captain Xavi Hernandez to Qatar in order to play for Al-Sadd.
After the possibility that Arda Turan could have taken the number 6, the publication of the shirt numbers has thrown up a surprise.
It will be the Brazil international who will give up his own Blaugrana number, after two seasons wearing the number 22 in tribute to Eric Abidal.
The player explained his motives on social media, "my challenge is to defend a very special number, like 22 was, there are many people who support the career of an athlete, above all on a personal level."
He added, "What is more is the challenge, as is my desire to defend it. Nothing is too big, if people are committed."
After the possibility that Arda Turan could have taken the number 6, the publication of the shirt numbers has thrown up a surprise.
It will be the Brazil international who will give up his own Blaugrana number, after two seasons wearing the number 22 in tribute to Eric Abidal.
The player explained his motives on social media, "my challenge is to defend a very special number, like 22 was, there are many people who support the career of an athlete, above all on a personal level."
He added, "What is more is the challenge, as is my desire to defend it. Nothing is too big, if people are committed."
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Ivan Rakitic admits he's torn ahead of Sevilla Super Cup clash
FC Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic has he is torn ahead of the European Super Cup clash with Sevilla. The Croatian joined the Catalan side from their Andalusian opponents last summer.
Rakitic said: "I’ve said that I don’t like playing against Sevilla because as a Sevilla fan I want Sevilla to win, and as a professional I want to win a trophy too.
"I see they’ve changed a lot of parts and have done that well again. We’ll have to play the perfect game to beat Sevilla because I know how Emery and his technical team work."
Rakitic loved his time in the south of Spain but says last year's treble with Barcelona is tough to top.
“It's hard to beat," said Rakitic. "I’m proud of everything we achieved and my participation, because I played 51 games.
"We made history, and I scored in the Champions League final. I arrived with a lot of enthusiasm and confident that everything would work out well. Luckily it did."
Rakitic said: "I’ve said that I don’t like playing against Sevilla because as a Sevilla fan I want Sevilla to win, and as a professional I want to win a trophy too.
"I see they’ve changed a lot of parts and have done that well again. We’ll have to play the perfect game to beat Sevilla because I know how Emery and his technical team work."
Rakitic loved his time in the south of Spain but says last year's treble with Barcelona is tough to top.
“It's hard to beat," said Rakitic. "I’m proud of everything we achieved and my participation, because I played 51 games.
"We made history, and I scored in the Champions League final. I arrived with a lot of enthusiasm and confident that everything would work out well. Luckily it did."
FC Barcelona have made their first-team squad numbers public for the coming season!
FC Barcelona have made their first-team squad numbers public for the coming season. There are four changes on the list. Dani Alves, who wore the number 22 in honour of Eric Abidal, is changing his number to 6, the number of Xavi Hernandez. Meanwhile, Munir and Sandro get their own number for the first time, 17 and 16, respectively.
Summer signings Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal can't be given numbers until January.
Squad number list:
1. Ter Stegen
2. Douglas
3. Piqué
4. Rakitic
5. Sergio
6. Dani Alves
7. Pedro
8. Iniesta
9. Suárez
10. Messi
11. Neymar
12. Rafinha
13. Bravo
14. Mascherano
15. Bartra
16. Sandro
17. Munir
18. Jordi Alba
20. Sergi Roberto
21. Adriano
23. Vermaelen
24. Mathieu
25. Masip.
Summer signings Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal can't be given numbers until January.
Squad number list:
1. Ter Stegen
2. Douglas
3. Piqué
4. Rakitic
5. Sergio
6. Dani Alves
7. Pedro
8. Iniesta
9. Suárez
10. Messi
11. Neymar
12. Rafinha
13. Bravo
14. Mascherano
15. Bartra
16. Sandro
17. Munir
18. Jordi Alba
20. Sergi Roberto
21. Adriano
23. Vermaelen
24. Mathieu
25. Masip.
Messi and Neymar are back in town for Trofeo Joan Gamper against Roma!
With the defence a shambles, the squad still with members looking to leave and with the South Americans having only just returned.
This is how Barcelona go into the final stage of their pre-season. The traditional Joan Gamper game, their fifth friendly of the pre-season, arrives when the 'Azulgranas' should be putting the finishing touches to their game but are unfortunately far from being ready for the challenges of the season ahead.
With just a week to go until the European Super Cup, Roma's visit to the Camp Nou will be the first match of the pre-season for five players without whom last season's treble would have been impossible.
Leo Messi and Neymar, the team's top goalscorers and with the aim of continuing to be so, will be teaming up with the third man in Barça's attacking trio, Luis Suárez, who, thanks to not taking part in the Copa América has enjoyed a full pre-season with his club. The Roma game will also be the pre-season's first for Dani Alves, Mascherano and Bravo, three veterans who will be charged with repairing the leaks in the back row, without doubt the most worrying aspect of Barcelona's game for Luis Enrique.
"We won't be seeing the same team as the one for the Super Cup. Now I want to share out the minutes and see what shape the players are in", explained the Barça manager, who will no doubt be wanting to rest a fair few legs with the game against Sevilla in mind. While for the Barça fans it'll be a chance to see their idols after the summer break, for Luis Enrique it will be a battery of tests for his players with the season just around the corner.
Thanks to the Copa América and their long-distance trekking, it is clear that for the 'Azulgranas' this pre-season is far too short. As is often the case, however, 'Lucho' couldn't disagree more: "The best thing about the pre-season is that it's finishing," he assures, perhaps in the hope that when the going gets tough, the tough get going...
This is how Barcelona go into the final stage of their pre-season. The traditional Joan Gamper game, their fifth friendly of the pre-season, arrives when the 'Azulgranas' should be putting the finishing touches to their game but are unfortunately far from being ready for the challenges of the season ahead.
With just a week to go until the European Super Cup, Roma's visit to the Camp Nou will be the first match of the pre-season for five players without whom last season's treble would have been impossible.
Leo Messi and Neymar, the team's top goalscorers and with the aim of continuing to be so, will be teaming up with the third man in Barça's attacking trio, Luis Suárez, who, thanks to not taking part in the Copa América has enjoyed a full pre-season with his club. The Roma game will also be the pre-season's first for Dani Alves, Mascherano and Bravo, three veterans who will be charged with repairing the leaks in the back row, without doubt the most worrying aspect of Barcelona's game for Luis Enrique.
"We won't be seeing the same team as the one for the Super Cup. Now I want to share out the minutes and see what shape the players are in", explained the Barça manager, who will no doubt be wanting to rest a fair few legs with the game against Sevilla in mind. While for the Barça fans it'll be a chance to see their idols after the summer break, for Luis Enrique it will be a battery of tests for his players with the season just around the corner.
Thanks to the Copa América and their long-distance trekking, it is clear that for the 'Azulgranas' this pre-season is far too short. As is often the case, however, 'Lucho' couldn't disagree more: "The best thing about the pre-season is that it's finishing," he assures, perhaps in the hope that when the going gets tough, the tough get going...
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Josep Maria Bartomeu welcomes back Messi, Mascherano, Neymar, Alves and Bravo
The president of FC Barcelona, Josep Maria Bartomeu, welcomed back Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano, Neymar, Dani Alves and Claudio Bravo, the five players who took part in the 2015 Copa América and therefore did not take part in the recent US tour.
Vice president Jordi Mestre was also there to greet the players on Monday at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. It was the first day of pre-season that coach Luis Enrique was able to bring together all the members of his first team squad.
After being chosen as president in the elections on 18 July, Bartomeu headed to the United States to accompany the squad on their pre-season tour. There, he coincided with the majority of the squad who last season claimed the treble and on Monday he was able to welcome back international players Messi, Mascherano, Neymar, Alves and Bravo.
Vice president Jordi Mestre was also there to greet the players on Monday at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. It was the first day of pre-season that coach Luis Enrique was able to bring together all the members of his first team squad.
After being chosen as president in the elections on 18 July, Bartomeu headed to the United States to accompany the squad on their pre-season tour. There, he coincided with the majority of the squad who last season claimed the treble and on Monday he was able to welcome back international players Messi, Mascherano, Neymar, Alves and Bravo.
This is how Javier Mascherano was picked as the fourth captain of FC Barcelona!
A mysterious piece of paper became the undisputed star of the morning at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, where FC Barcelona held a training session on Tuesday in the sweltering heat.
The third captain of the team, Sergio Busquets, jumped onto the pitch with some paper that was signed one by one all his team-mates.
Meanwhile in the stands, where the media were waiting to watch the training session, expectation grew about what was happening.
Leo Messi and Luis Suarez looked closely at the paper and smiled, then Busquets approached Bartra, Mathieu and one by one, all members of staff looked at the sheet with satisfaction.
What could be on the paper that the whole squad liked? Just before they started training the mystery was revealed.
A loud round of applause dedicated to Javier Mascherano revealed that the paper contained the results of a vote by the squad. His companions had picked 'El Jefecito' as the fourth captain, behind Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets and Leo Messi, replacing the departing Xavi.
The third captain of the team, Sergio Busquets, jumped onto the pitch with some paper that was signed one by one all his team-mates.Meanwhile in the stands, where the media were waiting to watch the training session, expectation grew about what was happening.
Leo Messi and Luis Suarez looked closely at the paper and smiled, then Busquets approached Bartra, Mathieu and one by one, all members of staff looked at the sheet with satisfaction.
What could be on the paper that the whole squad liked? Just before they started training the mystery was revealed.
A loud round of applause dedicated to Javier Mascherano revealed that the paper contained the results of a vote by the squad. His companions had picked 'El Jefecito' as the fourth captain, behind Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets and Leo Messi, replacing the departing Xavi.
Monday, August 3, 2015
VIDEO - Xavi Hernandez scores a glorious free kick goal in Qatar!
The 35-year-old Spaniard – playing in his first game since the Champions League final – made it 1-1 this afternoon with a superb free kick.
Xavi stepped up and curled into the far corner, past the fully outstretched Al Nassr goalkeeper who could do nothing to stop it.
FC Barcelona want Marco Reus to join after transfer embargo!
Spanish newspaper Marca have claimed a new twist in the conversation of what the future of Marco Reus looks like.
Reus, currently playing for Borussia Dortmund, appears destined to leave the club in the near future, and according to the Spanish media the attacking midfielder is now at the centre of a classic Real Madrid versus Barcelona fight.
FC Barcelona are reportedly asking Reus to move to the Camp Nou as soon as the club’s transfer embargo is finished in 2016.
By contrast, Real Madrid have already opened lines of communication with the player’s agent, whilst Marca believe Reus himself is preferring a Los Blancos move.
In addition, Marca report that Real Madrid are committed to match the highest offer on the table for Reus next summer, which the conclusion being that the German looks destined to joined Cristiano Ronaldo and company at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Reus, currently playing for Borussia Dortmund, appears destined to leave the club in the near future, and according to the Spanish media the attacking midfielder is now at the centre of a classic Real Madrid versus Barcelona fight.
FC Barcelona are reportedly asking Reus to move to the Camp Nou as soon as the club’s transfer embargo is finished in 2016.
By contrast, Real Madrid have already opened lines of communication with the player’s agent, whilst Marca believe Reus himself is preferring a Los Blancos move.
In addition, Marca report that Real Madrid are committed to match the highest offer on the table for Reus next summer, which the conclusion being that the German looks destined to joined Cristiano Ronaldo and company at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Barça B star Adama Traore travels to Liverpool for medical
Adama Traore trained on Monday morning as normal with his Barça B teammates. At that point, he probably already knew that in a few hours he would take a plane to England, in order to undergo a medical with Liverpool, who are the team most interested in his services.
Adama left Prat airport at around midday, in order to take a medical to confirm his presence at a new club within the coming hours. Barça nor Liverpool have said anything about any negotiations, but the player would not travel for a medical without the permission of his club and their authorisation to do so. The big doubt remains as to whether it will be a transfer with a buy-back clause or a loan deal, or whether the English club has paid his release clause in full.
For the last few years, Adama has been considered one of the best players in Barça's academy, but this pre-season Luis Enrique hasn't called upon him, with the Segunda B not a good enough standard for the player either.
Adama left Prat airport at around midday, in order to take a medical to confirm his presence at a new club within the coming hours. Barça nor Liverpool have said anything about any negotiations, but the player would not travel for a medical without the permission of his club and their authorisation to do so. The big doubt remains as to whether it will be a transfer with a buy-back clause or a loan deal, or whether the English club has paid his release clause in full.
For the last few years, Adama has been considered one of the best players in Barça's academy, but this pre-season Luis Enrique hasn't called upon him, with the Segunda B not a good enough standard for the player either.
In few hours time today, Pedro Rodríguez future will be decided!
Pedro Rodriguez and Adriano Correia's last week at Barcelona may have started, if negotiations with Manchester United and Roma respectively go well. In the case of the Canarian, his future may be decided in matter of hours, as vice-president of the English side has made an appointment at Barcelona's offices to give the final impetus to the signing.
The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday. That's when Manchester United will put their final offer on the table, for an amount around €30million, although the final figure will be dependent on variables. United want to reduce the maximum to around €25m while Barcelona will not part with the forward for less than €30m. In any case, far from the figure that was initially agreed to be his buyout clause in his contract - €150m, signed two days before the Champions League final.
The player already knows his future lies in the Premier League, under the command of Louis van Gaal, who is trying to return his club to the elite of European football.
For Adriano the situation is different - the Brazilian has more leeway, with Roma, his most likely destination, able to wait until the end of August to close the transfer.
However, the player's agent, Paulo Affonso Neves is scheduled to meet the club tomorrow to try and accelerate the Brazilian's departure. Adriano signed a renewal in 2013, which takes him until 2016-17. That is to say, the 2016-17 season depends on playing a certain number of games in 2015-16.
Therefore, Adriano wanted a three year deal at Barcelona, but the club refused. Roma are willing to give him this deal, which should tip the balance in their favour.
The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday. That's when Manchester United will put their final offer on the table, for an amount around €30million, although the final figure will be dependent on variables. United want to reduce the maximum to around €25m while Barcelona will not part with the forward for less than €30m. In any case, far from the figure that was initially agreed to be his buyout clause in his contract - €150m, signed two days before the Champions League final.
The player already knows his future lies in the Premier League, under the command of Louis van Gaal, who is trying to return his club to the elite of European football.
For Adriano the situation is different - the Brazilian has more leeway, with Roma, his most likely destination, able to wait until the end of August to close the transfer.
However, the player's agent, Paulo Affonso Neves is scheduled to meet the club tomorrow to try and accelerate the Brazilian's departure. Adriano signed a renewal in 2013, which takes him until 2016-17. That is to say, the 2016-17 season depends on playing a certain number of games in 2015-16.
Therefore, Adriano wanted a three year deal at Barcelona, but the club refused. Roma are willing to give him this deal, which should tip the balance in their favour.
Luis Enrique: " I'm not worried about Fiorentina defeat"
Luis Enrique spoke at a press conference after losing to Fiorentina, the club's third defeat of the preseason. The Asturian coach said "I'm not worried about the result, instead about other things. We must improve our effectiveness and in all defensive aspects."
The coach said of his players: "We are very good if we are 100 per cent. If we're not, we're not as good."
There were positives for Lucho from the game. "There were many aspects of the play which I liked. We have created chances and had good moments. We have to correct things. These games serve as a stimulus."
With respect to the possible exit of Pedro, Enrique said: "Rumours about Pedro leaving? I have no news."
And finally he added: "We have to improve in defence. Opponents cannot have this much space. We have worked on this although we have to work harder."
There were positives for Lucho from the game. "There were many aspects of the play which I liked. We have created chances and had good moments. We have to correct things. These games serve as a stimulus."
With respect to the possible exit of Pedro, Enrique said: "Rumours about Pedro leaving? I have no news."
And finally he added: "We have to improve in defence. Opponents cannot have this much space. We have worked on this although we have to work harder."
Luis Enrique: "If we're not 100%, we're not that great"
Luis Enrique was critical of his side's performance against Fiorentina, ruing the fact that mistakes were made in areas that they have covered during pre-season.
"I can't say I'm satisfied with the match. There are defensive points we have to improve on - things that we've been working on, but it doesn't seem to have done the job. We'll have to hammer away at them", the Barça boss noted.
The Asturian was particularly disappointed with the lax defending at the beginning of the encounter. "We were up against powerful opposition and there's no way we should be letting them get shots away in the box, unmarked, twice in the first 10 minutes. There are things that can and should be put right. We're very good if we're 100%, but if we're not, we're not that great", he remarked.
The 'Azulgranas' manager equally felt that his side were not clinical enough: "I'm not concerned by the result, but by the things I've spoken about and about us not being effective enough. If we're effective, we can kill off matches considering the amount of chances we create".
Luis Enrique also revealed that Andrés Iniesta had gone off with a niggle, while playing down fears that it might be anything serious.
"I can't say I'm satisfied with the match. There are defensive points we have to improve on - things that we've been working on, but it doesn't seem to have done the job. We'll have to hammer away at them", the Barça boss noted.
The Asturian was particularly disappointed with the lax defending at the beginning of the encounter. "We were up against powerful opposition and there's no way we should be letting them get shots away in the box, unmarked, twice in the first 10 minutes. There are things that can and should be put right. We're very good if we're 100%, but if we're not, we're not that great", he remarked.
The 'Azulgranas' manager equally felt that his side were not clinical enough: "I'm not concerned by the result, but by the things I've spoken about and about us not being effective enough. If we're effective, we can kill off matches considering the amount of chances we create".
Luis Enrique also revealed that Andrés Iniesta had gone off with a niggle, while playing down fears that it might be anything serious.
Suárez is Barça's top marksman
With Messi and Neymar yet to return to the playing field, Luis Suárez has taken it upon himself to put the balls in the back of the net.
Of course, this is what he was signed for, but with the Argentine on the pitch Suárez takes on a more passing role, as he is renowned for his generosity with his teammates up in attack. For the first time in six years, the Uruguayan is having a very complete pre-season, and is delivering the goods because of it.
For now at least, he is the team's highest goalscorer. From the four games that the 'Azulgranas' have played, he has scored three times. He opened his account against Los Angeles Galaxy, then sent one home against Mourinho's Chelsea, making it square with Rooney's previous effort. This Sunday, he managed to close the gap on Fiorentina thanks to a perfect assist from Rakitic, one of Barça's most on-form players this pre-season.
After Suárez leading with three strikes, the rest of Barcelona's goals have come thanks to Sergi Roberto, Rafinha and Sandro, all with a goal apiece.
Of course, this is what he was signed for, but with the Argentine on the pitch Suárez takes on a more passing role, as he is renowned for his generosity with his teammates up in attack. For the first time in six years, the Uruguayan is having a very complete pre-season, and is delivering the goods because of it.
For now at least, he is the team's highest goalscorer. From the four games that the 'Azulgranas' have played, he has scored three times. He opened his account against Los Angeles Galaxy, then sent one home against Mourinho's Chelsea, making it square with Rooney's previous effort. This Sunday, he managed to close the gap on Fiorentina thanks to a perfect assist from Rakitic, one of Barça's most on-form players this pre-season.
After Suárez leading with three strikes, the rest of Barcelona's goals have come thanks to Sergi Roberto, Rafinha and Sandro, all with a goal apiece.
Barça are looking to close a deal for a new central defender during the coming week
Barça still aren't classing their squad as closed for business and neither are their coaches. They believe that there is room to improve, with a clear priority being the signing of a central defender with international experience who can get involved alongside Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal in January. The main candidate is Monaco's Abdennour, who Barça's staff love, but Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen is also on the cards. Next week will prove decisive for closing the signing.
The technical staff have made it clear to the board that there will be no more signings if the current squad is maintained without any departures. However, the situation has changed, with Pedro set to join Manchester United in a matter of days and Adriano moving closer to Roma. They would both be sensible exits, but they will give the opportunity for Luis Enrique to pick up one or two players. He is prioritising a central defender in order to give some competition to his starting options.
Logic would suggest that they should look for a left-back after the departure of Adriano, but the manager wants to have more central options, in order to play with a back three if required. Due to this, Barça are looking for quick central defenders who can come forward with the ball, in order to compete with Mascherano, Pique, Vermaelen, Bartra and Mathieu. The latter can also play as a left-back, despite it not being his preferred position, but circumstances could force the player to do so despite any discomfort. Everything depends on the final decision of the coaches, but Barça are taking steps to bring in a left-footed central defender during August.
Number one on the list is Tunisia defender Abdennour. Luis Enrique has great reports on the player, who has done well at Monaco. He likes him for his technical ability, his speed, but above all, his character. He is a natural winner and has transformed into one of Monaco's leaders, both on and off the pitch.
Abdennour is on the market. Monaco has already sold one of its most expensive players, Kondogbia to Inter, and wants to negotiate with Barça. His price tag is 25 million euros, but the Blaugrana are convinced that the deal can be done for less. The footballer himself has expressed his desire to play for Barça and is waiting for the deal to complete his dream.
The reality is that negotiations with Abdennour are on the table and there is no problem with paying for his signature. Barça know the conditions and favourable ways to close the deal, but the club will not speak with Monaco until next week, when everything becomes clear with Pedro's transfer. They will then have the funds available and the possibility of doing business. The player's agents, who have travelled this week to Barcelona, want to keep pressing forward with the operation, but they aren't pressuring Barça. There is no point, as the situation is clear.
Barça have also looked into Tottenham's central defender Vertonghen. If they want a more uesful player, he can already play at left-back. The Belgian has also been on the club's list of targets in the past, but the Blaugrana pulled out of signing him as the English club were poor to negotiate with. Tottenham have no need to sell and would have problems with the player leaving. The option remains as he is a safe bet and is able to develop further. His international experience is important, despite him not having playing in the Champions League.
Next week will be decisive in completing Barça's squad, although players must first leave for agreeable fees. Barcelona do not want to sell Pedro for less than 30 million euros, and Adriano should go for a fee of more than six million. In this case, the club would aim for Abdennour and try to get it done quickly.
If Luis Enrique gets his man, Barça would have a new option at centre-back and would not allow any further players to leave ahead of January. The coach is weighing up the performances of players in order to take final decisions on possible departures, and furthermore, it has to be seen how Vermaelen fares physically during the coming months. The arrival of a central defender would make a lot of sense from a sporting perspective.
The technical staff have made it clear to the board that there will be no more signings if the current squad is maintained without any departures. However, the situation has changed, with Pedro set to join Manchester United in a matter of days and Adriano moving closer to Roma. They would both be sensible exits, but they will give the opportunity for Luis Enrique to pick up one or two players. He is prioritising a central defender in order to give some competition to his starting options.
Logic would suggest that they should look for a left-back after the departure of Adriano, but the manager wants to have more central options, in order to play with a back three if required. Due to this, Barça are looking for quick central defenders who can come forward with the ball, in order to compete with Mascherano, Pique, Vermaelen, Bartra and Mathieu. The latter can also play as a left-back, despite it not being his preferred position, but circumstances could force the player to do so despite any discomfort. Everything depends on the final decision of the coaches, but Barça are taking steps to bring in a left-footed central defender during August.
Number one on the list is Tunisia defender Abdennour. Luis Enrique has great reports on the player, who has done well at Monaco. He likes him for his technical ability, his speed, but above all, his character. He is a natural winner and has transformed into one of Monaco's leaders, both on and off the pitch.
Abdennour is on the market. Monaco has already sold one of its most expensive players, Kondogbia to Inter, and wants to negotiate with Barça. His price tag is 25 million euros, but the Blaugrana are convinced that the deal can be done for less. The footballer himself has expressed his desire to play for Barça and is waiting for the deal to complete his dream.
The reality is that negotiations with Abdennour are on the table and there is no problem with paying for his signature. Barça know the conditions and favourable ways to close the deal, but the club will not speak with Monaco until next week, when everything becomes clear with Pedro's transfer. They will then have the funds available and the possibility of doing business. The player's agents, who have travelled this week to Barcelona, want to keep pressing forward with the operation, but they aren't pressuring Barça. There is no point, as the situation is clear.
Barça have also looked into Tottenham's central defender Vertonghen. If they want a more uesful player, he can already play at left-back. The Belgian has also been on the club's list of targets in the past, but the Blaugrana pulled out of signing him as the English club were poor to negotiate with. Tottenham have no need to sell and would have problems with the player leaving. The option remains as he is a safe bet and is able to develop further. His international experience is important, despite him not having playing in the Champions League.
Next week will be decisive in completing Barça's squad, although players must first leave for agreeable fees. Barcelona do not want to sell Pedro for less than 30 million euros, and Adriano should go for a fee of more than six million. In this case, the club would aim for Abdennour and try to get it done quickly.
If Luis Enrique gets his man, Barça would have a new option at centre-back and would not allow any further players to leave ahead of January. The coach is weighing up the performances of players in order to take final decisions on possible departures, and furthermore, it has to be seen how Vermaelen fares physically during the coming months. The arrival of a central defender would make a lot of sense from a sporting perspective.
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