Barcelona FC news

Argentina 2-0 Austria: Messi enters record books as Argentina reach knockouts – FIFA
Lionel Messi bounced back from missing an early penalty to become the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer as Argentina downed Austria.

France 3-0 Iraq: Centurion Mbappe fires France through – FIFA
Lionel Messi has a rival at the top of the FIFA World Cup scoring charts after another Kylian Mbappe brace sent France into the knockout stage.

Julián Álvarez bombshell: “The best thing for everyone is a transfer, I want to fulfill my dream” – Mundo Deportivo
The gesture that Barça were waiting for was made by the Atlético de Madrid forward after the Argentina-Austria match.

Vampeta stirs up controversy about Raphinha’s future, but the player’s entourage denies it – Mundo Deportivo
The former Brazilian international revealed that the striker needed to go to Saudi football due to financial problems.

Bielsa rules Araujo out for Spain-Uruguay – Mundo Deportivo
“Neither De Arrascaeta nor Araujo have a chance of playing,” the Uruguay coach stated ahead of Friday’s match.

Ajax interested in a loan deal for Jofre Torrents – Mundo Deportivo
As reported by MD, Barça’s intention is to find him a club on loan, and Míchel’s team is one of those working to secure the services of the academy graduate.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Raphinha’s wife has revealed how the Barcelona star was left in tears after suffering another injury setback while on international duty with Brazil at World Cup 2026.

The forward was forced off against Haiti with another hamstring issue and it’s not yet known if he will be able to feature again at the tournament for Brazil.

Natalia Belloli says that the couple were both initially devastated by Raphinha’s latest injury issue.

“Honestly, it was one of the first times I was speechless. He was crying, and so was I,” she told Domingão com Huck.

“We spoke on the phone; the next day he underwent medical tests and came home for a while, where we were able to talk about the situation.

“Now he’s doing well: strong and sure of his purpose. That’s what matters: maintaining the right mindset and believing that better days are coming.”

Brazil have confirmed that Raphinha will undergo “intensive treatment” and stay with the squad at the tournament, but we’ll have to wait and see if he can play any further part for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Spanish football is like a money tree. World class players never stop sprouting up.

Spain has enough talent to build three teams that could be competitive at the World Cup. Winning it, however, requires a spark of creativity that can’t be taught in academies.

In Qatar, it was the Messi vs Mbappe showdown. As good as Argentina and France are without them, in order to make it to the finish line, especially in those games when your back is against the ropes, you need a player born with genius.

By now, it should be clear that Lamine Yamal is that player for Spain. With him, La Roja seem destined for a trophy. Without him, Spain could very well be looking at an early exit.

Against Saudi Arabia, Luis de la Fuente was feeling the pressure, and knew he had to risk playing Lamine even if he wasn’t one hundred percent fit.  It took approximately ten minutes for Lamine to put the game out of reach.

It’s not just because of the goal. Mikel Oyarzabal had two goals and an assist, but he still wasn’t the MVP of the game. That accolade goes to Lamine because of the way he struck fear into the hearts of Saudi Arabia from the first whistle. Having him on the field made the job that much easier for his Spanish teammates.

Let’s remember something though. Lamine tore his hamstring in April. There are risks of Spain learning the wrong lesson from this game.

De la Fuente will have to be smart with how he manages his young superstar’s minutes going forward. Lamine will do what his coach asks him to do, but his welfare must be protected.

Spain are dependent on him, that’s for sure, but over the next couple of weeks, they have to find a way to play well without him. Lamine cannot go 90 minutes. Not now at least. When the knockouts come calling, it could be 120 minutes that Spain needs to get the job done.

So yes, it’s ok to be excited again. Spain at their best are why we love the game. To be at their best, they do need Lamine.

But they are not out of the woods. What happened against Cape Verde is an important cautionary tale.

Spain is a flawed team, and without their best player, they can get exposed.

If they are to make it to the World Cup final, the supporting cast needs to step up against Uruguay, and in the first few knockout games.

This isn’t South Africa 2010 when Spain was loaded with Ballon d’Or caliber players.

This is the Lamine Yamal show.

It’s an exciting watch, but he needs a few reliable sidekicks in order to make the magical run possible.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Lamine Yamal opens his goalscoring account in the World Cup – FC Barcelona
The Barça number 10 scores his first goal in the tournament at the age of 18 years and 343 days.

Malaga confirm final 26/27 La Liga lineup – FC Barcelona
Victory against Almeria sees Malaga back in the top flight along with Racing and Deportivo.

Spain 4-0 Saudi Arabia: Spain send statement with Saudi success – FIFA
Oyarzabal and Yamal on target in dominant display as Luis de la Fuente’s side showed their class with a comprehensive Group H victory.

Yamal nets ‘dream’ 1st World Cup goal as Spain answer critics – ESPN
Lamine Yamal said he had realized a childhood dream after scoring in his first World Cup start against Saudi Arabia at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday.

A legend of England and Man United, in awe of Lamine – Mundo Deportivo
Wayne Rooney, who is commentating on the World Cup for the BBC, said “I love Lamine, he makes me smile.”

De Jong defends himself: “Many people don’t understand anything about football. They watch it, but they don’t understand it” – Mundo Deportivo
The Dutch footballer and Barcelona player responded to those who criticize his style of play.

Fermín, the second most valuable footballer in the world who is not at the World Cup – Mundo Deportivo
Only Georgian superstar Kvaratskhelia surpasses the Baçra midfielder in Transfermarkt’s market value.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Day 10 of World Cup 2026 brought more goals and excitement as the Netherlands and Japan both secured big wins. Elsewhere, World Cup debutants Curacao made history against Ecuador and Tunisia’s defeat ensures Herve Renard’s side will be making an early exit from the competition.

Five star Dutch destroy Sweden

Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands side destroyed Sweden 5-1 in Houston on Saturday afternoon. Brian Brobbey came into the team and struck the opener by poking home Cody Gakpo’s cross from the left after just five minutes.

NETHERLANDS FINDS THE EARLY LEAD OVER SWEDEN! 🇳🇱

Gakpo finds Brian Brobbey to make it 1-0 for the Dutch! pic.twitter.com/wzCO5Hy91R

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

An almost identical goal swiftly followed for the Netherlands. This time the move came down the right with Denzel Dumfries sliding in a cross for Brobbey to make it 2-0.

It's DOUBLE DUTCH in Houston 🇳🇱

Brian Brobbey guides this one into the back of the net for his second of the match pic.twitter.com/YguPtrLkiH

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

The Dutch extended their lead early in the second half. Dumfries was again the creator, fizzing a low ball across goal for an unmarked Gakpo to knock home at the far post.

The Liverpool star then grabbed a brace of his own, finishing off a rapid counter-attack by cutting inside his defender and lashing home a low shot.

"The Netherlands are running riot!" – @DFletcherSport🗣️

Cody Gakpo bags a brace on the clinical finish to make it 4-0 pic.twitter.com/NYujouyKDn

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

Sweden did manage to pull one back through substitute Anthony Elanga but it proved to be only a consolation goal on a sobering afternoon for Graham Potter’s side.

56' – Anthony Elanga subs on for Sweden

59' – Anthony Elanga scores for Sweden pic.twitter.com/AUbgC8RIFz

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

The Netherlands completed an emphatic win late on through substitute Crysensio Summerville. The West Ham man teased two Swedish defenders and then rifled home to complete an impressive victory.

Crysencio Summerville scores from outside the area to make it 5-1 Netherlands!

Hit the night-night celly after too 😴 pic.twitter.com/JVQa2aIjWW

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

Germany fight back to deny Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast upset Germany by taking the lead in their Group E encounter through midfielder Franck Kessie. Exciting talent Yan Diomande wreaked havoc down the left and played the ball into the penalty area where Kessie finally managed to slam home.

IVORY COAST TAKES THE LEAD OVER GERMANY! 🇨🇮

Yan Diomande sends a beautiful ball in and it's the captain Franck Kessié who cleans it up with the goal! pic.twitter.com/mRVfy6Ypkh

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

Germany were finding it tough going against Ivory Coast and needed super-sub Deniz Undav to turn things around. The Stuttgart forward equalised with a left-foot volley that flew into the roof of the net with just over 20 minutes remaining.

What a ball. What a finish.

Nadiem Amiri with a perfect ball for Deniz Undav to finish off 🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/KIn1yDvTg5

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 20, 2026

Undav then broke Ivory Coast hearts deep into stoppage time by netting the winner. The substitute latched onto a cute ball into the penalty area and simply turned and fired past the goalkeeper to secure all three points for Julian Nagelsmann’s side.

WOULD YOU BELIEVE IT? 🤯

GERMANY TAKES THE LEAD IN STOPPAGE TIME! pic.twitter.com/hVrMbRwxFx

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 20, 2026

Curaco claim first ever World Cup point

World Cup debutants Curacao made history on Saturday by claiming a first ever point at the tournament with a 0-0 draw against Ecuador. In a goalless game, it was goalkeeper Eloy Room who was the hero for the minnows as he made a record-equalling 15 saves to deny Ecuador and secure a famous result for the Blue Wave.

Japan send Tunisia packing

Saturday’s final match brought a big win for Japan that ensures Tunisia will not make it past the group stage of World Cup 2026. Herve Renard replaced Sabri Lamouchi as boss after their opening defeat against Sweden but saw his side go behind after just four minutes when Daichi Kamada finished off a swift counter-attack from close range.

JAPAN OPENS THE NIGHT WITH A 4TH MINUTE GOAL! 🇯🇵

Daichi Kamada in the scoresheet! pic.twitter.com/ZY2U6PhCCA

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 21, 2026

Japan made it 2-0 in style through Ayase Ueda just after the half hour. The Feyenoord striker rifled a shot across goal and into the far corner from the edge of the box to double Japan’s lead.

Perfectly placed into the bottom corner from Ayase Ueda 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/L7eolqwe32

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 21, 2026

Tunisia were undone again in the 69th minute when a clever flick over the defence sent Junya Ito running through on goal. He kept his composure to sidefoot the ball past the goalkeeper and effectively seal the win.

Beautiful build-up play to help set up Junya Ito's goal for Japan 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/XORfeaWuQA

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 21, 2026

Ueda then piled more misery on Tunisia late on by scoring Japan’s fourth on a looping header that sees the Samurai Blue move into second in the table ahead of a final group game against Sweden next time out.

Plenty of goals but which was your favorite? Have your say in our poll, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Andreas Christensen has agreed a two-year contract extension at Barcelona following negotiations with the club.

The Denmark international is out of contract this summer but is ready to pen a deal that runs until 2028, according to multiple reports.

🚨🔵🔴 Andreas Christensen, set to sign new deal until June 2028 at Barcelona. 🫱🏻‍🫲🏼

Agreement in place for Danish defender to stay at Barça conditions, as @QueThiJugues and @mundodeportivo reported. ✅

Two clubs (Italy and PL) approached Christensen but priority to Barça. pic.twitter.com/OmBofgoXyn

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2026

According to Mundo Deportivo, the extension includes “an option to terminate the contract if either side is not satisfied at the end of the first year.”

Christensen has also taken a pay cut and has agreed to stay on despite receiving better financial offers from Saudi Arabia , the Premier League, and the Bundesliga, per MD.

Yet the defender’s renewal doesn’t mean that he will definitely stay at Barca. Reporter Matteo Moretto says: “It’s true, he has renewed, but Barcelona wants him out. He can leave even with the renewal.”

Christensen has proven a useful player at Barcelona but his injury record is a concern and saw him start only three games last season.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona have reportedly reached a verbal agreement to sign teenage defender Josue Caicedo from LDU Quito in a transfer worth €2.5 million.

The Ecuadorian youngster will join Barcelona Atletic on loan with an option to buy this summer, according to an ‘exclusive’ from Fabrizio Romano.

🚨🔵🔴 EXCLUSIVE: Barcelona reach verbal agreement to sign 2007 born winger Josué Caicedo from LDU Quito, here we go!

Deal in place for Barcelona B team, loan with option to buy that could turn into obligation — fee around €2.5m.

Another Ecuadorian talent to Europe. 🇪🇨 pic.twitter.com/dI7cju62u1

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2026

The 19-year-old left-back is said to have caught the eye of Barcelona scouts during the last Under-20 Copa Libertadores.

He is known as a speedy full back who loves to attack and clearly has bags of potential. His versatility is also said to be a bonus as he can play higher up the pitch.

Barcelona are making a habit of snapping up young and exciting talent and Caicedo will join plenty of other prospects in Juliano Belletti’s side for next season.

Hamza Abdelkarim will be part of the squad, for instance, and there are high hopes for the Egyptian striker who is currently part of the Pharoahs’ squad at World Cup 2026.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Brazil 3-0 Haiti: Cunha double fires Brazil top and ends Haiti’s hopes – FIFA
The Manchester United forward scored a brace and Vinicius Jr added a third to set up a crucial showdown with Scotland in Miami.

De Jong a fitness doubt for Netherlands clash with Sweden – ESPN
Frenkie de Jong is a fitness doubt for the Netherlands’ Group F showdown with Sweden on Saturday, Dutch coach Ronald Koeman said.

Raphinha becomes a concern for the Brazil coaching staff – ESPN
At the 37-minute mark, shortly after Matheus Cunha’s second goal, the number 11 for the national team crouched down on the pitch and spoke with some players before the medical staff entered. Images showed Raphinha placing his hand on the back of his right thigh and looking dejected.

The Barça dressing room is supportive of Julián Álvarez – Mundo Deportivo
Barcelona players point to the Atlético Madrid striker as a good signing for the 2026-2027 project. Gavi, Olmo, Cubarsí, Araujo and Bernal share the same opinion: “He’s a spectacular striker.”

Salinas prioritizes Barça but the signing is not yet finalized – Mundo Deportivo
The defender’s entourage maintains that he would like to end up at the Catalan club but that he also has other attractive offers. Racing accept his departure as inevitable and want to get the maximum return for a highly sought-after player.

Iñaki Peña heading to the Greek League – Mundo Deportivo
Jijantes reported that the Barça goalkeeper is finalizing his transfer to Panathinaikos for 3 million euros, after MD reported his departure from the Spanish League.

Héctor Fort sets aside his proposals and wants to convince Flick – Mundo Deportivo
The academy graduate, who spent last season on loan at Elche, has attracted interest from Inter, Dortmund and Leverkusen, among others, but his goal is to use the preseason to secure a place at Barça.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Inaki Pena is reportedly on the brink of leaving Barcelona and is heading to Greece to sign for Panathinaikos.

The goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Elche and is now set to leave Barcelona permanently. The move has beeen accelerated as Pena was keen for his future to be resolved quickly, per Jijantes.

The 27-year-old is now set to join Greek side Panathinaikos for a fee of just less than €3 million.

Pena’s departure comes at a time when Barca are overbooked when it comes to goalkeepers. Joan Garcia is first choice with Wojciech Szczęsny set to continue as back-up next season.

Barcelona also have Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Diego Kochen, Ander Astralaga and Áron Yaakobishvili on the books and will need to make decisions on their futures this summer.

As for Pena, he could be the first of several exits from Barca before the start of the new season. Ansu Fati and Marc Casado are also expected to leave, while Ter Stegen has been linked with a move to Ajax.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

FC Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal has been tipped to start for the Spanish national team as they hope to get their FIFA World Cup campaign back on track following a disappointing draw against Cape Verde.

Yamal did not start that match as he was still recovering from an injury sustained playing for Barça. Spain dominated possession but were unable to score as goalkeeper Vozinha had a man-of-the-match performance for Cape Verde as the match ended 0-0.

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has now been asked if Yamal can play 45 minutes and offered up the following response.

“That’s a very good question, but we’ll have to assess it,” he told Cope

“Matches are often decided in the second half, so we’ll consider whether it’s more advantageous to push the pace a bit at the beginning or take advantage of the opponents’ fatigue and Lamine’s crucial final minutes. And that’s where we’ll make the decision.

“You have an initial plan, but many things, the circumstances of the game, lead you to other situations. Lamine isn’t ready for 90 minutes, but he’s available to play. We’re not risking anyone. His optimal performance is around an hour, but it could be 60 or 53. We’ll see. There are fifty thousand details in a match that make you change.”

Pedro Porro of Tottenham Hotspur is also expected to come in for Atlético de Madrid’s Marcos Llorente at right-back. Other changes could be in order, particularly in midfield. Gavi could also swap positions or be dropped as he started the first match out of position, playing as a winger.

One player not expected to leave the starting XI is Pau Cubarsí. The 19-year-old started the first match and, though he did not have too much defending to do, was considered by pundits to have done a good job in the center of defense.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona midfielder Gavi has opened up on Marc Cucurella’s transfer to Real Madrid and criticism he’s received in a new interview while at World Cup 2026.

The Spain star a very clear idea of what kind of player he is. Known for his competitive spirt, tireless running, and prickly personality on the pitch, Gavi is known for being a thorn in the side of any team he’s up against. Equally, he’s known as a fan favorite for Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

Speaking to RAC1, he put it bluntly: “If you are on my team, you love me, if not, you will probably want to kill me.”

Gavi said it’s not something he thinks about these days as playing for the national team means going beyond club rivalries. It’s just as well because his teammate Marc Cucurella, who once played for Barcelona, will be playing for Real Madrid next season.

“We found out the day before, after training. We didn’t expect it and nobody knew, he kept it very quiet. Lamine is a bit annoyed, because now he will be the one to defend him in the classics,” he explained.

“I like him as a rival. He’s tough and intense. He’s a good signing for the Whites, I’m happy for him .”

Things are not rosy right now for the highly vaunted Spanish national team. Despite being hailed as one of the tournament favorites, they were held to a draw by the underdog Cape Verde.

Gavi said he expected the criticism after the 0-0 match.

“Since I made my debut I’ve been a player who has always received criticism, but I’ve never given up. I don’t like receiving it, but it’s something that motivates me more and more and I see it as normal in football, when you’re in the spotlight,” he said, vowing that Spain will improve in their upcoming matches.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona star Fermin Lopez has sent out a positive message on social media as he continues his recovery from a fractured metatarsal that saw him miss out on World Cup 2026 with Spain.

The midfielder sustained the injury against Real Betis and was forced to undergo surgery. Lopez admitted at the time it was a tough blow to take but is now feeling more positive.

He’s posted a compilation of some great moments from last season on Instagram and added the words: “Don’t worry, I’ll be back soon.”

View this post on Instagram

Lopez is expected to miss a couple of months with his injury, with Barcelona confirming this week that their first pre-season match will take place against Birmingham City on July 31st.

Hansi Flick’s side are due to start pre-season training on July 13th and will then travel to England and be based at St George’s Park from 27 July to 3 August.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

World Cup 2026 is in full swing and the first round of matches is now officially complete. There’s been a total of 24 games played so far and 75 goals scored in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

This year’s tournament is the biggest ever edition of the World Cup and has seen hydration breaks implemented and new rules implemented.

There’s also been plenty of highlights already. Lionel Messi wowed fans across the world yet again with a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria, while Cristiano Ronaldo had a night to forget against DRC Congo.

Pre-tournament favorites Spain found it tough going against Cape Verde, being held to a shock goalless draw, although we did see the return from injury of Lamine Yamal.

Elswhere, the USMNT impressed in their opener against Paraguay, Germany smashed seven past Curacao, Sweden bashed Tunisia and there were also good wins for France and England.

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

Drop your spiciest hot take after the first round of World Cup 2026 matches

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 statement – FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona urges LaLiga, the RFEF and the CTA to act in light of statements made by Florentino Pérez.

Barça 2026/27 to begin in Birmingham – FC Barcelona
The first friendly of next pre-season will take place at St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park against the historic Birmingham City on Friday 31 July at 7.45pm local time (8.45pm CEST).

Agreement for Pere Romeu contract extension until 2028 – FC Barcelona
The official signing of the contract will take place at the Club president’s office in the coming days.

England 4-2 Croatia: Kane double helps England overpower Croatia – FIFA
Second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford made the difference as England won an exciting opening Group L contest against Croatia.

Portugal 1-1 Congo DR: Wissa earns Congo DR historic point against Portugal – FIFA
Congo DR’s Yoane Wissa cancels out Joao Neves opener in compelling Group K draw.

Cancelo, a slow-burning negotiation – Mundo Deportivo
The Portuguese player is Barça’s other major target in the transfer market alongside a number nine, and Barça and Mendes, his agent, continue to work on it.

Barça are considering bringing Jan Virgili back to loan him to Betis – Mundo Deportivo
According to ‘Ser’, Barcelona would pay the seven million euro release clause to bring the winger back and then move him to Real Betis.

Ronald Araujo faces a difficult task in making it to the Spain-Uruguay match – Mundo Deportivo
The Barça defender is progressing in his recovery, but his possible return is not expected until a hypothetical Round of 32.

Official: Belletti renews with Barça Atlètic until 2027 – Mundo Deportivo
The reserve team coach will begin his second season with the goal of developing players and achieving promotion.

The battle for Rashford in the Premier League begins – Mundo Deportivo
According to reports in England, Manchester City and Liverpool want him, while Arsenal have reportedly lost interest.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Alessandro Bastoni from Inter after completing deals for former Barcelona defender Marc Cucurella and Bernardo Silva.

Bastoni had appeared to be Barca’s top target to bolster their defence earlier this summer but talk of a move to the Camp Nou has cooled and now appears to have been ruled out.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Bastoni could still head to Spain and end up in the capital. The two clubs met recently for a legends match which saw Florentino Perez talk Bastoni with opposite number Beppe Marotta.

Inter want €70 million for Bastoni and are now waiting to hear what new Madrid coach Jose Mourinho thinks about the Italy international.

Mourinho is still settling back into life at the Santiago Bernabeu but will apparently have the final say over whether Madrid go for Bastoni or not.

Real Madrid look set for a busy summer after going trophyless again in 2025-26. Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries are also expected to complete transfers to the club in time for the new season.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria in their World Cup 2026 opener but was spotted looking emotional after the first goal went in.

The GOAT was asked about his tears after the game and said it was nothing to do with football.

“Honestly, completely unrelated to the sport, I went through some difficult, complicated days,” he told reporters after the game.

“I’m grateful to the entire delegation, to my teammates. They were always there for me, as always. They gave me a lot of strength to get through this, and that’s all.”

Messi was also asked about equaling Miroslav Klose’s record as the World Cup’s all-time goalscorer but was typically humble about his latest achievement.

“Honestly, no [if he thinks about the importance of the record], it’s an honour to be there because of what it means to be there next to Klose, Ronaldo is there too, but I don’t think it means anything,” he added.

“Mbappé is there, he scored two today. It’s a statistic and nothing more. While it’s an honour to be able to compete with all of them, it doesn’t mean anything to me.

“Ronaldo, from what I saw, was one of the greatest and he’s not in first place, so it all comes down to a statistic.”

The GOAT will now be out to break that record when Argentina play again at World Cup 2026. The defending champions go on to face Austria and then wrap up their group campaign against Jordan.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Argentina 3-0 Algeria: Record-equalling Messi inspires Argentina – FIFA
Hat-trick hero Lionel Messi made World Cup history as the defending champions ran out comfortable winners against Algeria.

France 3-1 Senegal: Mbappe’s historic double fires France to thrilling victory – FIFA
Kylian Mbappe scored twice as France powered past Senegal in the opening game of Group I.

Barcelona deadline to sign Marcus Rashford for €30m set to expire – ESPN
Barcelona’s option to sign Marcus Rashford for €30 million (£35m) is set to expire without the Spanish champions activating the clause to make the Manchester United forward’s move permanent.

Barça’s final move for Julián Alvarez – SPORT
Barcelona will launch a definitive offer of €135 million plus add-ons for the Atlético star after the World Cup.

Reports in Brazil indicate that Raphinha will speak with Al-Hilal after the World Cup – Mundo Deportivo
According to Globoesporte, Al Hilal wants to acquire the services of the Barcelona forward, who has postponed any negotiations until after the World Cup tournament.

Racing are once again pursuing Xavi Espart, whom they already approached in January – Mundo Deportivo
Racing Santander requested the loan of the right-back six months ago, but Flick and Deco saw him as having potential for the first team. The German coach likes him but has other players in the squad who can take his place.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona star Raphinha was one of four Brazil players who were given a breather on Monday as Carlo Ancelotti’s side trained ahead of their next group game against Haiti.

Brazil opened up their tournament with a 1-1 draw with Morocco but will be gunning for all three points when they return to action on Friday.

Raphinha, Gabriel, Bruno Guimaraes and Neymar were all rested ahead of match, per Globo. Neymar is injured, Gabriel and Guimaraes fatigued and Raphinha has blisters on his feet and turned up without his boots on.

Raphinha aparece descalço no campo. Galhães e Bruno Guimarães de tênis. Os demais jogadores já começaram o treino e Neymar ainda não apareceu pic.twitter.com/KxkvYttmx1

— Raisa Simplicio (@simpraisa) June 15, 2026

Brazil still have several days of training before the match, giving the players time to rest and recover ahead of their second match.

Yet Barcelona will surely be relieved to see Raphinha being handled with care, particularly after seeing him ruled out for several weeks with a hamstring injury picked on international duty earlier in the season.

Raphinha admitted at the start of the tournament that he’s still not at his best best physically but had done all he could to reach the World Cup in the best possible shape.

“I had an injury that left me out for a month and a bit, without training, without playing,” he said. “But I have always tried to give my best in the treatment, in the club, to be able to reach 100% with Brazil.”

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Real Madrid have been making waves in the transfer market already this summer. Los Blancos announced the arrival of former Barca star Marc Cucurella at the start of the week and are also expected to sign Bernardo Silva.

Both players were believed to have attracted interest from Barcelona, although neither player was seen as a priority this summer, with the Catalans focused on signing a new No.9 to replace Robert Lewandowski.

However, the transfers have provoked a response at Barca. “It seems Deco is their sporting director,” was the view from club sources, according to The Athletic.

The report adds that while Flick liked Bernardo he is more than happy with his midfield options and felt the Portugal star’s arrival “could take playing time away from young players who need to gain more experience.”

Meanwhile, Barca had been “monitoring” Cucurella but did not want to pay his €60 million fee and also feel they have depth in that position. Balde and Gerard Martin are options, while the club are hoping to keep Joao Cancelo.

There’s been talk of a summer exit for Balde but he will only depart if he brings an offer and asks to leave, a scenario that is not expected to arise this summer.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona are being linked with a move for Manchester City center-back Vitor Reis who spent last season on loan in La Liga with Girona

Hansi Flick and Deco are reportedly both big fans and think he has the right profile to play for Barcelona, according to Diario Sport.

Barca have already made “some first moves” as they try to find out Manchester City’s plans for the 20-year-old Brazilian.

The report suggests Barcelona are thinking about a possible loan with a mandatory purchase option and highlights how Deco has a good relationship with City chief Hugo Viana.

City’s plans for next season aren’t quite clear yet, with Enzo Maresca set to replace Pep Guardiola as first-team coach.

As for Barca, they are focused on trying to sign Julian Alvarez but could move for a defender as well. The report adds that Luka Vuskovic was offered by his agent but a move is “highly complicated and has been ruled out.”

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Lamine Yamal v Oviedo wins Goal of the Season – FC Barcelona
More than 15,000 people cast votes on FC Barcelona app and this one was picked as the winner.

Spain 0-0 Cabo Verde: Heroic Cabo Verde clinch draw with Spain – FIFA
Blue Sharks produce sensational defensive performance to secure 0-0 draw against European champions in Atlanta.

Belgium 1-1 Egypt: Egypt hold Belgium in Seattle – FIFA
Emam Ashour’s first international goal had Egypt on course for a maiden FIFA World Cup win, only for Romelu Lukaku’s arrival to help Belgium rescue a point.

Barça meet with Jan Virgili’s agents – Mundo Deportivo
Representatives of the Mallorca player visited FC Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva to meet with those in charge of the Barça sporting department.

Hamza makes his World Cup debut amid a generational change – Mundo Deportivo
The Barça striker played the final stretch of the match against Belgium and took the place of Mohamed Salah, a legend of Egypt.

Cucurella’s transfer will bring money to Barça – Mundo Deportivo
The left-back spent six years in Barça’s youth academy and now the Catalan club will receive a ‘pinch’ for his sale to Real Madrid.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

WELCOME TO MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM!!! The beautiful home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons is the site of the opening match of Group H for one of the tournament favorites as Spain take on newcomers Cape Verde. La Roja have the largest Barcelona contingent and Lamine Yamal is expected to play in the second half, so this is must-see TV. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos!

LINEUPS

SPAIN

Starting XI: Simón; Llorente, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Fabián, Rodri, Pedri; Ferran, Oyarzabal, Gavi (4-3-3)

Substitutes: Raya (GK), Joan (GK), Pubill, Eric, Porro, Grimaldo, Zubimendi, Merino, Olmo, Baena, Pino, Muñoz, Yamal, Williams, Iglesias

CAPE VERDE

Starting XI: Vozinha; Moreira, Lopes, Borges, Cabral; Duarte, Pina; Cabral, Monteiro, Mendes; Livramento (4-2-3-1)

Substitutes: Dos Santos (GK), Rosa (GK), Pires, Costa, Stopira, Pina, Duarte, Paulo, Semedo, Rodrigues, Benchimol, Varela, Costa, Arcanjo, Semedo

MATCH INFO

Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Group H, Round 1

Date/Time: Monday, June 15, 2026, 6pm CET (Barcelona), 5pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 12pm ET, 9am PT (USA), 9.30pm IST (India)

Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, United States

Referee: Adham Mohammad Tumah Makhadmeh (JOR)

HOW TO WATCH

On TV: FOX (USA), ITV 1 (UK), United8 Sports 1 (India), SuperSport (Nigeria), TVE La 1 (Spain), others

Online: FuboTV (USA), ITVX (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others

Matchday Thread Rules

We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads:

Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another.

Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Let’s be clear from the get-go.

There are no substantive rumours at the moment to suggest that Harry Kane is leaving Bayern Munich, that the Bavarians would even entertain such a prospect, or indeed that the player himself actually wants to move.

However, as every supporter knows, you can never say never when it comes to football, and so many times in the past, the sport that we all know and love has continued to surprise us. We also know that Kane has still not agreed a contract extension with Bayern which means speculation about his future is likely to continue.

If the circumstances and the money are right, then the wheels get oiled, pockets get lined, and the deal gets done. Simple as that.

With Robert Lewandowski having left the club, and with a brilliant legacy to boot, it’s still worth posing the question as to whether Kane would be the ideal successor to the Poland international at Camp Nou. And there’s plenty of parallels between the two.

Like Lewy, the England captain is the consummate professional and is a shining example both to his club and international teammates, as well as to those who look to him as being the exemplar.

Kane is, by some distance I would suggest, the most complete striker in world football at present, and is capable of scoring every type of goal.

He would be the same age as Lewy was when he joined the club if he were to swap the Bayern for Barca this summer, and Kane is also in the goalscoring form of his life. His elite-level game intelligence only adds to the completeness in his all-round game.

There are still fiscal issues that continue to hamper Barca’s ability in the transfer market, and whilst Julian Alvarez may still be regarded as the dream signing, the likelihood of landing him at this stage is in doubt.

Kane, whilst unlikely to be cheap, is almost certainly more of an achievable target financially than the Argentinian World Cup winner.

Given that Hansi Flick’s Barca have played exceptionally well with a target man to date, too, landing Kane ahead of Alvarez also makes some sense in this regard, even if one could contend that Barca have done well in the past with a more diminutive centre-forward.

Of course, were Kane to lead England to World Cup glory in the USA, that could make him football’s hottest property, add a few extra euros to his transfer fee and make any deal hugely difficult for Barca.

We can still dream though… can’t we?

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

Is Harry Kane the perfect successor to Robert Lewandowski at Barcelona?

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

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Egypt boss Hossam Hassan has talked up Barcelona striker Hamza Abdelkarim after including the 18-year-old in his squad for World Cup 2026.

Barcelona have since activated their option to sign Abdelkarim permanently, and Hassan thinks he will surprise many people.

“We have seen many things [we like with Hamza], his personality, technical capabilities, ambition, what the player wants to achieve,” he told reporters.

“We can see it when we’re recruiting, and in the matches with the young players. He was playing at such a high level and was already overqualified for youth football.

“I saw the positive influence he had on the group at the 2025 U-17 World Cup, and I’ve followed all of his matches for Barcelona.

“When he’s come to work with us, I can see that he’s a very good player for Egyptian football. It may be a surprise for some, but he has all of the qualities of a strong player.

“He’s proved it at Barcelona, and when a player is performing for one of the biggest clubs in the world, he can have a very positive influence on Egyptian football, maybe even very soon.”

Hassan also talked up Abdelkarim as the future of Egyptian football and a potential successor to legend Mohamed Salah.

“The new players are the future of the squad, the country, Egypt’s football,” he added. “Abdelkarim is a great player who will surprise the fans, alongside Salah, alongside Marmoush of course.

“They are talents who will add to the country’s football in the long run. We can’t just look at the squad who are there, but there are other young talents in the country as well.

“I hope we can find more talent in the near future and maybe even recruit them. This is the heritage, the legacy for the Egyptian fans, and the Egyptian football family are going to witness it in the future.”

Salah has reportedly emerged as a mentor for Abdelkarim while on international duty. Egypt kick off their tournament later today against Belgium.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Netherlands 2-2 Japan: Japan rescue point with late Kamada leveller – FIFA
In a thrilling clash in Dallas, Japan denied the Netherlands with Daichi Kamada’s last-gasp deflection from a corner.

Lamine Yamal in ‘perfect condition’ at World Cup but could start opener on bench – Spain boss – ESPN
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that Lamine Yamal is “in perfect condition” but said the star forward is set to start on the bench in the country’s World Cup debut against Cape Verde.

Barcelona’s Ferran Torres on PSG links: ‘Don’t know and don’t care’ – ESPN
Ferran Torres refused to discuss speculation about his future at Barcelona — and links with Paris Saint-Germain — ahead of Spain’s World Cup debut against Cape Verde.

Cucurella is now a Real Madrid player – Mundo Deportivo
The Catalan full-back signed all the necessary paperwork with Real Madrid at midnight last night, and the club plans to officially announce his signing on Monday morning.

The most candid Szczesny: “Each training session is harder, it’s harder for me to get up” – Mundo Deportivo
The Barcelona goalkeeper admitted in an interview on ‘Oko w oko’ that it’s becoming increasingly difficult for him to go to training, but that he still feels strong enough to continue playing.

Source: barcablaugranes.com