Barcelona FC news

Robert Lewandowski’s Barcelona career officially ended on Saturday’s La Liga finale against Valencia, and the Polish superstar scored one last time to finish his tenure with 120 goals as the leader of Barça’s frontline.

Lewandowski only needed four years to become a legend of the club, winning three La Liga titles, three Spanish Super Cups and one Copa del Rey and helping lead Barça back to the top of Europe. The Pole came to the club at a time when it wasn’t easy to be a Blaugrana and took the challenge head on, and he leaves as an icon who gave the Catalan capital a taste of his brilliance as one of the very best strikers of the 21st century — and the history of the sport.

It will be very hard to find a capable replacement in the upcoming summer transfer window, and Lewy’s name will forever be associated with the great number nines in Barça history such as Gary Lineker, Romário, Ronaldo, Patrick Kluivert, Samuel Eto’o, Luis Suárez and others.

So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is:

Where does Robert Lewandowski rank on the list of Barcelona’s greatest strikers?

Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

FC Barcelona Femení and OL Lyonnes face off in Oslo tonight for the UEFA Women’s Champions League title, a blockbuster final defined by two of the best teams in Europe – and a managerial swap. Former Barça boss Jonatan Giráldez is now leading the French champions, while his former assistant, Pere Romeu, looks to secure a domestic treble for the Catalan giants in his first season in charge.

“I see a team that is more mature than last season,” Romeu said ahead of the match, adding that his squad possesses a greater ability to alter tactics mid-game compared to the side that fell to Arsenal in last year’s final.

That was then, this is now. Now the student faces off against his former master, in a game that sees the two titans of women’s football square off. It’s not just the two coaches that share history.

The two clubs have met three times in the Champions League final before. Lyon were dominant in 2019 (winning 4-1) and 2022 (winning 3-1). But Barça roared back with a 2-0 victory in Bilbao two years ago.

In the buildup, Alexia Putellas brushed off the idea that history will dictate the present. “We can’t compare seasons and we can’t compare finals,” the two-time Ballon d’Or winner insisted.

Stylistically, this is a clash of polar opposites. Barcelona want to suffocate teams with possession and relentless passing, while Lyon lean into aggressive, high-pressing transitions.

The way to beat the Catalans, analysts say, is to pack the midfield. Not that many teams have accomplished it this season. In fact, Barcelona have only lost one match – against Real Sociedad. But they have two draws in Europe, one each against Chelsea and Bayern Munich. In those matches, opponents found joy by deploying five-man blocks to deny central space, forcing Barça wide. In fact, Bayern managed to make the blaugrana attempt 28 open-play crosses in their semifinal first leg, which was their highest mark all season.

Another question mark for Barcelona is the availability of Aitana Bonmatí. The midfielder has been building up strength after a five-month layoff with a broken leg, but she hasn’t played a full 90 minutes since November. Romeu mentioned she is improving daily, but she’s likely to be on the bench. Immense pressure falls on Patri Guijarro to control the tempo in her absence.

On the bright side, Caroline Graham Hansen and Irene Paredes both trained normally in Oslo after recent fitness scares.

Pushing full-backs high can leave Barcelona exposed on the counter, a vulnerability Lyon’s flying midfielder Melchie Dumornay is perfectly equipped to punish. But if executed properly, the high press can leave Lyon without oxygen.

Barcelona’s beautiful fluid football can leave the other side dizzy. Players making quick passes and moving in and out of spaces, alternating positions… it can be a joy to watch. Lyon will certainly have their hands full.

With that combination of pressing, passing, movement, and also, set piece efficiency, Barça just secured another domestic treble by brushing aside Atlético de Madrid 3-1 in the Copa de la Reina. Lyon are chasing their own domestic treble next week. They will be looking to re-establish their legacy as the queens of Europe.

That reputation used to put fear into other teams. That may no longer be the case. Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll said that Lyon’s fear factor was removed when they beat the eight-time champions two years ago. But Lyon remain fiercely hungry. Midfielder Lily Yohannes told UEFA that the group possesses an intense desire after a three-year European drought.

As the squad prepared to leave their hotel, they were met with a legendary reminder. Emblazoned for the players to see before boarding the team bus was Johan Cruyff’s iconic phrase: “Go out and enjoy.”

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Another successful season for Barcelona is coming to an end with two more titles and a whole lot of goals and entertainment from Hansi Flick’s side in 2025-26.

Barça defended the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup crown and clinch both titles with wins against Real Madrid which is always very, very sweet. The Catalans also made it to the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey and almost pulled off a miracle comeback against Atlético Madrid, but the major disappointment of the season was the quarter-final exit in the Champions League against the same Atlético side, even though the Catalans came very close and certainly have quite a few refereeing decisions to comlain about.

The Blaugrana won a domestic Treble and made it to the European semi-finals in Flick’s first season, but this campaign saw the rise of Lamine Yamal into true best player in the world status, Gerard Martín having a fantastic year as a center-back and perhaps becoming a defensive stalwart for the near future, and Joan Garcia becoming perhaps the best bargain signing in recent club history and already in the conversation for best goalkeeper on Earth.

Even if the trophy cabinet isn’t as full as last season and the Champions League campaign was definitely disappointing, there certainly are several reasons why this was a great year for Barça that sets them up for a bright future.

So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is:

What grade do you give Barcelona’s season and have we progressed or regressed as a team?

Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

The next Barcelona match is upon us! The La Liga champions play their final game of the season against Real Betis at Mestalla, and Hansi Flick has called up the following 23 players for Saturday’s clash:

Goalkeepers: 13. Joan Garcia, 25. Wojciech Szczesny, 31. Diego Kochen

Defenders: 2. João Cancelo, 3. Alejandro Balde, 4. Ronald Araujo, 5. Pau Cubarsí, 15. Andreas Christensen, 18. Gerard Martín, 24. Eric Garcia, 36. Álvaro Cortés, 42. Xavi Espart

Midfielders: 6. Gavi, 8. Pedri, 17. Marc Casadó, 20. Dani Olmo, 21. Frenkie de Jong, 22. Marc Bernal, 43. Tommy Marqués

Forwards: 7. Ferran Torres, 9. Robert Lewandowski, 14. Marcus Rashford, 19. Roony Bardghji

Barça will be without Fermín López for the season finale with a foot injury that will also sideline him for the World Cup, and he joins Lamine Yamal (hamstring) on the absentee list for this one. Raphinha and Jules Kounde also don’t travel to make sure they are fit for the World Cup, but there are good news as Frenkie de Jong and Ferran Torres return after missing out last week.

Predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1):

Joan; Eric, Cubarsí, Martín, Cancelo; De Jong, Pedri; Roony, Olmo, Gavi; Ferran

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The match kicks off at 9pm CET/WAT (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Sunday), and you can join us to follow and comment all the action.

VISCA EL BARÇA!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Final pre-match session of the season – FC Barcelona
Blaugranes minus Kounde prepare for the upcoming trip to the Mestalla Stadium.

Hansi Flick: ‘Winning the last game is always a good sign’ – FC Barcelona
The Barça coach weighs up the season and wishes the women’s side all the best in the Champions League Final.

Fermín López visits training – FC Barcelona
Blaugrana midfielder receives support from his teammates after training in light of his recent injury while playing against Betis.

Alexia: ‘We will give everything for the shirt’ – FC Barcelona
The midfield legend is in ambitious mood ahead of a final to be played in the home town of teammate Caroline Graham Hansen.

Pere Romeu: ‘It will take teamwork to lift the trophy’ – FC Barcelona
Ahead of Saturday’s Champions League final the Barça Women coach highlights his team’s ability to adapt this season.

Barça and Christensen have reached a full agreement to continue together – Mundo Deportivo
The Danish center-back, whose contract was set to expire on June 30, will continue for two more seasons at the Blaugrana club after reaching an agreement with the club.

Iniesta begins his coaching career! – Mundo Deportivo
The Barcelona legend will be at the helm of Gulf United, a second division team in Dubai.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Hamza Abdelkarim has had a good week. The 18-year-old striker has been named in the Egypt squad for the World Cup, and his club boss also had some good news for him today.

Abdelkarim has scored five goals in seven league matches and has impressed for the under-19s after arriving at Barça a few months ago after a long and frustrating transfer process, and he’s close to securing a permanent move to the club this summer.

Hansi Flick was asked about Hamza in a press conference on Friday and said he “could be an option” for the preseason, as the coach will bring some young La Masia talents for the summer tour.

“We have to wait. We’re planning the preseason and I’m keeping an eye on it, eager to see new faces. When I started in 2024 it was incredible to see the quality at La Masia, and that’s still happening this season. When we return, he could be an option.“

This specific preseason could be very important for youngsters such as Abdelkarim as several senior Barça stars won’t be involved due to their participation in the World Cup which will grant them extra time off during the time in which Barça will begin their preparations for the new season, so we’ll see many La Masia talents getting real minutes in preseason.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

More training ahead of final fixture – FC Barcelona
Two days before visiting Mestalla, the team gathers again at the Ciutat Esportiva.

Squad for the UWCL final – FC Barcelona
Pere Romeu announces the group that will chasing the European crown in Oslo.

We’re in Oslo! – FC Barcelona
The Blaugrana squad arrived in the Norwegian capital on Thursday ahead of the UEFA Women’s Champions League final against OL.

All eyes on Oslo for UEFA Women’s Champions League Final – FC Barcelona
Hundreds of Barça supporters are heading to the Norwegian capital for this Saturday’s game.

When and where to watch FC Barcelona v OL Lyonnes in the UWCL Final – FC Barcelona
International viewing guide to the European final in Oslo.

Aïcha Camara: ‘Winning would be a dream come true’ – FC Barcelona
Young FC Barcelona defender shares her views ahead of the UWCL Final on Saturday.

Laporta: “Flick seems really excited about what’s to come” – Mundo Deportivo
The president-elect of Barça spoke after the team dinner and hopes to continue celebrating titles next season.

Deco: “It’s almost impossible to replace Lewandowski, but now is the time to make decisions” – Mundo Deportivo
Barça’s sporting director is confident that he can strengthen the team with another top-class ‘9’ in the coming years.

Nike will pay a large bonus to Barça if they win the Women’s Champions League – Mundo Deportivo
The bonus for winning the European Cup is three million, the same for both the women’s and men’s teams since the renewal of the sponsorship contract in 2024.

Marcus Rashford backed to stay at Barcelona by Frenkie de Jong – ESPN
Marcus Rashford has proved he belongs at Barcelona and should remain at the Camp Nou beyond this summer, according to teammate Frenkie de Jong.

Transfer rumors, news: Barcelona look to land Tottenham captain – ESPN
Barcelona intend to negotiate with Tottenham Hotspur regarding a move for Argentina center-back Cristian Romero, says Sport. The La Liga champions have been keeping tabs on the 28-year-old’s situation amid Spurs’ relegation battle this season, but don’t want to meet the current transfer valuation of €60 million.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has been left out of Germany’s squad for World Cup 2026 which has been announced by manager Julian Nagelsmann.

The decision is another blow to the goalkeeper but is not a big surprise. Ter Stegen moved to Girona on loan in January in a bid to play regularly but then suffered a hamstring injury that required surgery.

Ter Stegen is yet to return to action following his operation and has therefore been left out of Germany’s squad. Nagelsmann has gone with Oliver Maumann, Manuel Neuer and Alexander Nubel as his three goalkeepers for the tournament.

Gemeinsam für Deutschland: Unser Kader für die WM 2026! 🖤❤️💛#dfbteam#fifaworldcup2026pic.twitter.com/zaxWgXsGGv

— DFB-Team (@DFB_Team) May 21, 2026

The decision comes amid uncertainty over Ter Stegen’s future. Barcelona are reportedly eager to get the stopper off the wage bill as he doesn’t look to be part of the club’s plans.

Joan Garcia is Barca’s undisputed No. 1, with Wojciech Szczęsny acting as his back-up. Barca have also have Diego Kochen coming through the ranks, while Inaki Pena and Áron Yaakobishvili are both due back from loans in the summer.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Not so long ago, it would’ve been unthinkable to have a Barcelona starting XI without Frenkie de Jong in it.

The Dutchman has often been the conduit from defence to attack, dovetailing brilliantly with his midfield colleagues in so doing.

However, injuries that have kept him out of the side for longer than he would’ve liked have opened up opportunities for others.

Hansi Flick has a plethora of midfield options to choose from depending on the opponent, and whilst De Jong could well be utilised in certain games, at the back end of this season, for example, his absence has been striking.

The notion that you don’t change a winning team is a formula that all football managers/coaches seem to live by, and that’s as true at Barcelona as anywhere else.

Club captain Ronald Araujo being kept out of the side is another example of Flick’s persistence in continuing with those players who have served him well.

That’s not to say that both Araujo and De Jong haven’t, of course, far from it in the midfielder’s case, but not wanting to upset the equilibrium is as valid a reason as any other for keeping the Dutchman on the bench.

The emergence of Marc Bernal after the injury that kept him out for the vast majority of last season has been a real plus point, whilst the return of Gavi has felt like having another new signing in the team.

With Pedri as one of the first names on the teamsheet, the midfield three therefore seems well set.

The telepathy between Gavi and Pedri isn’t quite at the Iniesta/Xavi level yet, but the current midfield brothers-in-arms are often totally in sync with how the other plays.

That their respective skill sets are perfectly complementary, too, is an another bonus for the squad, and with Bernal keeping things simple and calm in the pivot position, Barca really do have a solid gold trio in that area of the pitch.

At 29 years of age, De Jong is fast becoming one of the elder statesmen of the blaugranes squad, and his evident experience and indeed, excellence, would arguably qualify him to be on the team sheet at almost every other club.

However, if he is to wrestle back his place in the team, he has got to show Flick that what he can deliver is not only different to the aforementioned three players, but better.

And that’s no easy task.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Return to training – FC Barcelona
After a couple of days well earned rest, the FC Barcelona first team have returned to training ahead of their final league game of the season this weekend away at the Mestalla stadium against Valencia.

When and where to watch Valencia v FC Barcelona – FC Barcelona
Our guide to the worldwide kick-off times and channels for final La Liga match of the season.

From Budapest to Oslo: Constant growth – FC Barcelona
Barça Femeni have come a long way since they first played OL Lyonnes in a Champions League Final in 2019.

Mapi León: ‘We are working hard so everything comes out how we want it’ – FC Barcelona
Mapi León looks ahead to Saturday’s Champions League final and talks of her ‘excitement’ at trying to win another European trophy.

De Jong and Ferran, with the group for the final match – Mundo Deportivo
Both have started training to be ready for the match against Valencia after overcoming their discomfort.

Fermín’s first message: “It’s cruel, but it’s part of the journey” – Mundo Deportivo
“This is a very tough moment for me and another challenge in my career that I will overcome, have no doubt about it,” wrote the Barça midfielder after undergoing surgery for an injury that will cause him to miss the World Cup.

First departure from Flick’s staff for the 2026-2027 season – Mundo Deportivo
Stephan Nopp, one of the analysts specifically hired by the German coach in October 2024, has informed the squad that he is leaving the club for personal reasons.

Al-Hilal will pressure Barça with two offers for Cancelo – Mundo Deportivo
Annoyed with the player, the Saudi club maintains its firm stance of extracting the maximum financial benefit for the defender.

Al-Ittihad wants Lewandowski for their project – Mundo Deportivo
The Saudi club is considering the Polish striker in case Moroccan Youssef En-Nesyri leaves this summer.

Araujo knows nothing about Inter despite what is being published in Italy – Mundo Deportivo
Corriere dello Sport reported interest in the Barcelona center-back, but neither Barça nor the player’s representatives are aware of this and, therefore, no figures have been discussed.

Ter Stegen, Barça’s hot potato this summer – Mundo Deportivo
With two more years on his contract and still recovering from an injury, the Barcelona club assumes it will be difficult to offload him.

Irene Paredes is doubtful three days before the Champions League Final – Mundo Deportivo
The FC Barcelona center-back continues to train separately from the group while the team prepares at the Ciutat Esportiva for the final against OL Lyonnes this Saturday in Oslo.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Raphinha has revealed how the Barcelona players aren’t afraid to call out Lamine Yamal and offer the youngster advice both on and off the pitch.

Yamal is still only 18 but is rarely out of the headlines after his stellar rise to become a key player for Barcelona and Spain.

Raphinha says he does his best to guide and nurture his young team-mate and adds that Yamal is willing to listen to advice from the locker room.

“I see him a lot as a much younger brother. He’s even younger than my little brother. That’s why I see him as a little brother. I try to give him advice as much as I can,” he told TNT Sports Brasil.

“I also try to pass on my life experience to him. Obviously, given his individual characteristics and background, I can’t really teach him. That’s not something you learn overnight. It’s a natural talent. The truth is, I always try to share a little of my experience with him.

“He’s a very good boy. He always listens, often asks for advice, and even if he does something silly, we correct him and he listens. He’s very good, and we have a very good relationship despite the 11-year age difference.”

Raphinha also reflected on the possibility of facing Yamal and Spain at World Cup 2026 and says he’d relish the opportunity.

“Neymar and Lamine Yamal agreed to a Brazil-Spain World Cup final. I’d sign up for a match like that too,” he added.

“It would be great to play a Brazil-Spain final. I don’t mind who’s defending the opponent, like Lamine. We also have many high-quality players on our side.”

Barcelona players will finish their season on Sunday against Valencia and will then switch focus to the World Cup which is due to kick off on June 11th.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Marcus Rashford’s future is in the spotlight as he heads towards the end of his season-long loan at Barcelona, with the Catalan giants reportedly keen to keep him but unwilling to pay his 30 million euro buy option.

The situation has led the rumor mill to cheekily claim that Jose Mourinho would be keen on a reunion with Rashford if he replaces Alvaro Arbeloa at Real Madrid this season.

But what does Rashford think about it? Mundo Deportivo have an update from “sources close to Rashford” and are confident that the loanee is “one hundred per cent” focused on staying at Barcelona.

Rashford isn’t even thinking about any other clubs at the moment and is desperately hoping he can continue at Camp Nou.

Quite what will happen next remains to be seen. Barcelona are hoping to negotiate another loan with United, but the Red Devils are eager to sell and believe there will be plenty of other clubs keen on Rashford this summer.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona have won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup this season under Hansi Flick in what’s been another successful campaign for the Catalan giants.

However, there have also been some disappointments along the way. Barca were knocked out of the Copa del Rey by Atletico Madrid and also saw their Champions League dreams ended by Diego Simeone’s side.

While there have been plenty of players who have starred in the current campaign not everyone has enjoyed a brilliant season.

Jules Kounde has struggled to consistently replicate his best form, while Alejandro Balde lost his place in the starting XI to January signing Joao Cancelo.

Andreas Christensen has missed most of the campaign due to injury, while Ronald Araujo, Roony Bardghji and Marc Casado have all found game time hard to come by this season.

So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is:

Which Barçelona player were you most disappointed by this season and who could replace them at Camp Nou?

Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

If memory serves me correctly, when Robert Lewandowski signed for Barcelona back in 2022, the general discourse centred on why the club had gone for a player who had, for many, seen better days.

Not only that, but at a sizeable transfer fee and a significant wage, Barca were going to be hamstrung in the transfer market if they wanted to land any other big names.

What’s often forgotten is the position the club were in at the time, and the leap of faith it would’ve also taken from the Polish international to join the Catalans.

Sure, Barca still has cachet all around the world, and will probably always have it, however, joining a club on the premise that they might somehow claw themselves back into the elite, rather than joining an outfit that was already there, takes courage.

Knowing he would have to prove himself all over again at the age of 34 would also have required absolute faith in his own ability to deliver again on the biggest of stages.

Barca needn’t have worried.

It’s difficult to put into words exactly what Lewy has meant to so many, but the show of appreciation for him at the culmination of Barca’s game against Betis said more than words ever could.

He showed that whilst form is temporary, class is indeed permanent, and Robert Lewandowski is all class.

Scoring 119 goals in all competitions shouldn’t be downplayed. After all, in the space of those four years, that output has placed him as a credible 11th on the all-time scorers list at the club.

Came as a star.
Leaves as legend.

Thank you, Robert Lewandowski, for every goal, every battle, and every magic moment wearing these colours. Culer forever. 💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/5o35b4NuF3

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 16, 2026

To give even more perspective, he’d have only needed to score another 12 goals to have placed fifth in the all-time list, so to do so at such an advanced age and in a demanding league is worthy of the biggest of hat tips.

We are all in Lewy’s debt, and he will absolutely be a big miss up front for Hansi Flick, as much for his striking nous and experience as for his goals and assists.

Of course, the club wouldn’t be letting him go without another striker in the pipeline, but as I said in an earlier post, whoever it is will have some very big shoes to fill.

Wherever Lewandowski himself ends up, he should go with the very best of wishes from all culers.

He came, he saw, and he most definitely conquered. Goodbye Robert. Go well, and thank you… for everything.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Lautaro Martinez’s name has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Robert Lewandowski as Barcelona search for a new No. 9 this summer.

Speculation about the Inter forward is nothing new, with Barcelona having been interested in the Argentina international on several occasions in the past.

Martinez has now given a new interview and has appeared to rule out a move to Barca. The striker says he’s happy at Inter and offered up the following response when asked if he’d like to see out his career in Milan.

“I definitely would like to. I don’t have the keys to Appiano yet, but almost…” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“My family and I are happy, we even have a restaurant, the kids go to school and have their friends. It’s hard for me to imagine myself anywhere else these days.

“You never know in football, but if they don’t kick me out, I’ll stay here.”

Hansi Flick spoke about the club’s hunt for a striker after Sunday’s win over Betis and said “Barca need to look for a 9 who fits our philosophy, but the most important thing is that he scores goals.”

Who is your preferred option to take over from Lewandowski? Tell us what you think in the comments below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

The World Cup is rapidly approaching and there will be a strong Barcelona representation as several Blaugrana stars will feature for big nations who all have dreams of winning the biggest tournament in sports.

The Catalans have quite a few stars among the favorites, including Raphinha with Brazil, Frenkie de Jong with the Netherlands, Jules Kounde with France and Marcus Rashford with England, even though his place is not quite confirmed yet.

But the biggest Barça contingent is with La Roja as Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, Fermín López, Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsí, Eric Garcia, Gerard Martín and Joan Garcia have all been named in Spain’s preliminary squad. One or two might miss out on the final list, but Barça’s presence in the Spain squad will be very strong and several of those players will be key to their success this summer.

So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is:

Which Barcelona players are you most excited to watch during the World Cup?

Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

The next Barcelona match is upon us! The La Liga champions play their final home game of the season against Real Betis at Camp Nou in what will also be Robert Lewandowski’s farewell match, and Hansi Flick has called up the following 23 players for Sunday’s clash:

Goalkeepers: 13. Joan Garcia, 25. Wojciech Szczesny, 33. Eder Aller

Defenders: 2. João Cancelo, 3. Alejandro Balde, 4. Ronald Araujo, 5. Pau Cubarsí, 15. Andreas Christensen, 18. Gerard Martín, 23. Jules Kounde, 24. Eric Garcia, 42. Xavi Espart

Midfielders: 6. Gavi, 8. Pedri, 16. Fermín López, 17. Marc Casadó, 20. Dani Olmo, 22. Marc Bernal

Forwards: 7. Ferran Torres, 9. Robert Lewandowski, 11. Raphinha, 14. Marcus Rashford, 19. Roony Bardghji

Barça get a key piece back as Raphinha returns after serving a suspension in midweek, but the Blaugrana will be without Frenkie de Jong who has been ruled out through suspension and joins Lamine Yamal (hamstring) on the absentee list for this one.

Predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1):

Joan; Eric, Cubarsí, Martín, Cancelo; Gavi, Pedri; Roony, Fermín, Raphinha; Lewandowski

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The match kicks off at 9.15pm CET/WAT (Barcelona), 8.15pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3.15pm ET, 12.15pm PT (USA), 12.45am IST (India, Monday), and you can join us to follow and comment all the action.

VISCA EL BARÇA!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Last session before Betis – FC Barcelona
Saturday morning brought the final training session of the week at the Ciutat Esportiva. The Tito Vilanova pitch was the venue as the players worked out ahead of the game against Real Betis.

Robert Lewandowski leaving FC Barcelona at the end of the season – FC Barcelona
Robert Lewandowski will bring his time as an FC Barcelona player to an end at the close of the season after announcing his departure via his own social media channels. The Polish striker is departing after four seasons in the Blaugrana jersey, having made his mark with goals, leadership and an exemplary competitive mentality.

Lewandowski: ‘Barça has been the most incredible chapter of my career’ – FC Barcelona
Alegend is saying departing. Robert Lewandowski has announced that he will leave FC Barcelona at the end of the current season and, once the final two Liga matches have been played, the Polish striker will bring a four-year chapter to a close, a period he himself describes as “the most incredible chapter” of his career.

Flick: ‘Lewandowski deserves a big farewell’ – FC Barcelona
Sunday’s Barça v Betis clash will carry extra emotion. Not only is it the final game of the season at Spotify Camp Nou, it will also mark Robert Lewandowski’s farewell to the Barça fans as a player.

Hansi Flick: “Completing all the home wins is a great objective” – Mundo Deportivo
The German coach announces a different starting eleven than the one that faced Vitoria, with Joan in goal and still without De Jong, to host Betis.

Flick: “It has been a privilege to work with Lewandowski, he is an example” – Mundo Deportivo
The German coach announced that the Polish player will start against Betis and recalled that “all my titles have been with him.”

Lewy’s essential goals that should not be forgotten – Mundo Deportivo
The Polish striker has scored 119 times for Barça across all competitions. This is just a small selection of some of his best goals.

“Barcelona has set an example of what a spectacle on the football field should be” – Mundo Deportivo
Manuel Pellegrini praises the style of play displayed by Hansi Flick’s squad and predicts a good match this Sunday between Barcelona and his Betis side, already in the Champions League: “Two teams that are dedicated to playing football and try to be creative.”

Six players are out of Betis’ squad for the Camp Nou match – Mundo Deportivo
Altimira, Bartra, Ruibal and Ortiz are out for the clash against FC Barcelona due to injury, and Llorente and Cucho are suspended.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Robert Lewandowski has confirmed he’s leaving Barcelona at the end of the season when his contract with the club expires.

The striker departs after winning three La Liga titles, the Copa del Rey and three Spanish Super Cups with the Catalan giants following his move from Bayern.

Lewandowski says it’s “mission accomplished” as far as Barcelona are confirmed and has thanked fans for all their support and love in a post on Instagram.

“After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on. I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. 4 seasons, 3 championships.

“I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth.

“Thank you to everyone I met along the way during these beautiful four years. A special thank you to President Laporta for giving me the chance to live the most incredible chapter of my career.

“Barça is back where it belongs. Visca el Barça. Visca Catalunya.”

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The news means that Sunday’s match against Real Betis will be a farewell of sorts for Lewandowski as it’s his last game at Camp Nou for Hansi Flick’s side.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Training with Betis match in mind – FC Barcelona
Hansi Flick’s squad in for a training session at the Ciutat Esportiva with the final match of the season at Spotify Camp Nou on the horizon.

When and where to watch FC Barcelona v Real Betis Balompié – FC Barcelona
International kick-off times and viewing guide for the final match of the season at the Spotify Camp Nou.

One match away from making more history – FC Barcelona
Barça will create a new record for home wins in La Liga with a victory against Betis.

Jules Kounde called up for the 2026 World Cup – FC Barcelona
Didier Deschamps calls up the FC Barcelona number 23, the first Blaugrana confirmed to be going to the World Cup.

Álvaro Cortés: ‘It still hasn’t sunk in’ – FC Barcelona
Center-back speaks about his debut and has the traditional photo with the jersey in front of La Masia.

Flick will hold individual meetings about the future – Mundo Deportivo
The manager plans to speak with some players to clarify their position and short-term expectations. The future of Kounde, Balde, or Roony, who have fallen out of favor, is uncertain; Rashford’s case is different.

Araujo is not considering leaving Barça – Mundo Deportivo
The center-back has barely played since his recovery, mostly as a full-back, but his intention is to fulfill his contract until 2031.

João Pedro’s agent travels to London to meet with Chelsea and Barça – Mundo Deportivo
The agent arrived in the English capital from Brazil with contacts scheduled with the London club and with Deco, given Barcelona’s interest in the Brazilian striker due to difficulties with Julián Álvarez.

The reason why Roony was left off Sweden’s World Cup squad – Mundo Deportivo
The coach didn’t like his anger and attitude after not playing in the matches that secured qualification for the World Cup.

Unai Emery will push hard for Rashford and Barça know it – Mundo Deportivo
The Aston Villa manager is prepared to make a strong bid for the English winger currently on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United; the player wants to stay at the Camp Nou.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Robert Lewandowski appears to be heading towards the exit door at Barcelona and is being tipped to head to Saudi Arabia or MLS when his contract expires.

Poland legend Jan Tomaszewski believes that Lewandowski is being pushed out of Barcelona, claiming the club will only make an “embarrassing offer” to the veteran and that the players have lost faith in striker.

“It seems Robert was forced to leave. It’s clear that Robert is, how should I put it, an unwanted player, both by the players and by the Barcelona management, ” he told Super Express.

“I’m convinced that if he receives another offer to stay at Barcelona, it will be embarrassing. A player like that shouldn’t allow himself to be dragged through that.

“The players aren’t really behind Robert when it comes to play, because they’re not passing the ball to him the way they used to play him at Bayern Munich.”

Tomaszewski has been outspoken about Lewandowski’s future throughout this season. The former goalkeeper said last month the striker should “behave like a man” and bizarrely claimed Hansi Flick had “ruined” the team.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

The Spanish Association of Football Referees (AESAF) has called for disciplinary proceedings to be opened against Real Madrid president Florentino Perez following his rants this week.

Perez went on the attack and criticised referees, the media, and Barcelona. He also claimed Los Blancos had been robbed of league titles due to match officials.

“I’ve won seven Champions Leagues and only seven LaLiga titles.It could have been 14, but they were stolen from me,” he said.

His comments have now brought a strong response from the AESAF.

“The Spanish Association of Football Referees denounces the statements made by the president of Real Madrid in the press conference of May 12 and in the interview broadcast on La Sexta on May 13, 2026, in which he accused the refereeing establishment of systemic corruption, theft of titles and illicit enrichment.

“AESAF believes that these statements cannot be justified under the legitimate exercise of freedom of expression or sports criticism, given that Mr. Pérez does not merely point out isolated refereeing errors, but rather accuses the refereeing body of perpetrating a continuous crime of corruption over two decades. Furthermore, AESAF emphasizes that the president of Real Madrid acts at all times as the highest institutional representative of one of the world’s most high-profile clubs, which amplifies the damaging impact of his words and increases his responsibility.

“AESAF also requests that the Competition Committee, as a precautionary and urgent measure, order Mr. Pérez to cease issuing similar statements while the proceedings are underway; that he be required to compensate the Refereeing Association for the moral, reputational, and professional damage caused; and that Real Madrid CF be required to issue a public statement of rectification and apology.

“In the opinion of AESAF, Mr. Pérez’s statements constitute a serious, unjustified, and systematic attack on the professional and institutional honor of the Refereeing Association, without any basis in a final judicial ruling. AESAF, in fulfilling its statutory function of defending the refereeing profession, has acted with the utmost diligence to protect the dignity and moral integrity of football referees in Spain.”

Barcelona have already issued a statement to confirm they are considering legal action which led to a swift response from Perez. “Barça would do very well to sue me. If they think they have to do it, let them do it,” he told La Sexta.

Perez was then met by angry fans when Real Madrid returned to action against Real Oviedo on Thursday. Two banners criticising the club president were removed by security in a game which saw Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr booed by supporters.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona have reportedly switched fous from Julian Alvarez to Joao Pedro as they hunt for a replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

It’s looking increasingly like Lewandowski will wave goodbye to Barcelona once his contract expires at the end of the season.

According to Mundo Deportivo and Globo, Deco has now decided that Pedro is his No. 1 attacking target. The club have switched focus after learning of PSG’s interest in Alvarez.

The Ligue 1 champions are believed to be willing to offer Atletico more than €100 million for the Argentine, a fee that Barcelona know they can’t match.

The Catalans also believe that if Atletico do decide to sell Alvarez, they would rather see him move to France than strengthen a rival in Spain.

Barcelona also think that Pedro is a far cheaper option and could be signed from Chelsea for €70m, particularly if – as looks likely – the Premier League side miss out on European football.

Pedro only signed for Chelsea last summer but has enjoyed a good season despite the club’s difficulties, scoring 20 goals in all competitions.

This summer promises more changes at Stamford Bridge as a new manager will be appointed to replace Liam Rosenior.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Robert Lewandowski looks increasingly like he’s set to leave Barcelona at the end of the season when his contract with the club expires.

The striker has insisted he hasn’t made a decision yet but there’s growing speculation that a move to the Saudi Pro League is on the cards.

Al-Hilal appear to be in pole position for his signature, according to WP SportoweFakty. The club are willing to offer Lewandowski a deal worth €90 million a season and he’s said to be “close” to accepting.

Lewandowski is thought to now be open to a move to Saudi Arabia as it would offer him regular playing time but “lighter training” which he feels could help prolong his international career and is the right step as he heads towards the end of his career.

Al-Hilal are the defending Saudi Pro League champions and are currently battling it out at the top of the table with Al-Nassr.

The club boast plenty of big names in their squad such as Karim Benzema, Ruben Neves and Darwin Nunez, while Joao Cancelo is also on their books but currently on loan at Barca

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Ronald Araujo appears to be facing an uncertain future at Barcelona heading into the summer transfer window due to a lack of playing time at Camp Nou.

A new report from AS claims that a source close to the player says his future is “up in the air” and that he has hinted at having doubts about his place at the club to friends and family.

The Uruguay international has accepted being a substitute this season but “believes he should play more” and feels he could even be a starter in Hansi Flick’s team.

Yet Flick has only used Araujo sparingly since he returned from a mental health break. He’s only made three starts since then and didn’t feature at all against Real Madrid or Alaves.

Indeed Flick opted to use Alvaro Cortes on Wednesday night instead of handing Araujo a rare start.

AS says that Araujo still loves being at Barcelona and has the backing of the manager and the dressing room. However, his role as a substitute is now “fuelling doubts” about his future as Barca head to the end of their season.

Does Araujo deserve more game time at Barcelona? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com