Lewandowski is back in the starting XI for the match and Flick discussed his starting XI ahead of kick-off.
“It’s based on feelings. We analyze the opponent, we know how we want to play and what’s best for the match,” he said.
“It’s not easy because Ferran has also played well, but it’s a matter of feeling, and I have a good feeling today.”
Flick also looked ahead to the game as he prepares to face Barcelona’s biggest rivals once again.
“At this level it’s important to play at the highest level with the ball but also without it,” he added.
“They are very good in transitions, so if we lose possession too often it won’t be an easy match for us, but I have faith in my team. I like what I’ve seen in recent days and in recent matches.”
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Barcelona vs Real Madrid live stream: Lineups, Kickoff time, TV channel, How to watch El Clasico online
WELCOME TO THE KING ABDULLAH SPORTS CITY!!! The second largest stadium in Saudi Arabia is the site of the 2026 Spanish Super Cup Final between reigning champions Barcelona and Real Madrid in the second El Clásico of the season. The two biggest rivals in Spain will decide the Super Cup for the fourth year in a row, with Barça looking for a repeat of last year’s incredible win to secure their first trophy of the campaign. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos!
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
FC Barcelona News: 11 January 2026; Barça Femení score 12 in first game of New Year, All set for El Clasico against Real Madrid in Spanish Super Cup Final
Joan Laporta says Barcelona’s relationship with Real Madrid ‘is completely broken’
Barcelona president Joan Laporta says that the club’s relationship with Real Madrid “is completely broken” ahead of Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final between the two sides in Saudi Arabia.
Laporta and opposite number Florentino Perez have traded insults throughout the current season, and the Barca president has added more fuel to the fire ahead of Sunday’s big game.
Laporta now claims that the relationship between the two clubs is broken but says it can be repaired.
“Relations with Real Madrid are bad, they’re broken. There are several issues that have distanced us. If we were already fierce and eternal rivals, now a situation is developing that makes relations very poor,” he said, per Sport.
“This doesn’t mean there isn’t respect, which must be maintained in a civilized manner, but they are completely broken.
“Everything in football, as in life, can be resolved, but it depends on the will of the parties involved, and at the moment, a series of circumstances have led to a breakdown in relations.”
The two teams will renew hostilities on the pitch on Sunday with Barca aiming to successfully defend their title against their biggest rivals.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Dani Carvajal breaks silence on Clasico spat with Lamine Yamal ahead of Barcelona’s clash with Real Madrid
Carvajal was asked about the incident and insisted it was not a big deal.
“You guys don’t forget anything, do you?” he said with a laugh.“Lamine is young, and I think he wasn’t entirely on point in the days leading up to the Clásico. But that’s all.
“Everyone tries to defend their own interests at club level. Lamine is a great guy. Obviously, I don’t wish him the best for tomorrow. But that’s it, I’m not making a big deal out of it.”
Hansi Flick talks Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, and Eric Garcia vs Frenkie de Jong ahead of Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick spoke to the press in Saudi Arabia ahead of Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup Final against Real Madrid, as Barça look for their first El Clásico win of the season to defend their Supercopa crown against their eternal rivals.
Flick spoke about Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to play after recovering from a minor knee injury, confirmed that Lamine Yamal is ready to start on Sunday after playing only 20 minutes in the semi-final against Athletic Club due to illness, and also talked about the decision of starting either Eric Garcia or Frenkie de Jong in midfield against Los Blancos.
Here’s a summary of the best quotes from Hansi’s presser:
Kylian Mbappé “Currently, Mbappé is the best striker. He has scored a lot of goals and has world-class talent. We watched the semi-finals together, the whole team.
“How many Clásicos have we played in the last year and a half? And how many have we lost? We’ve lost one. That’s what it’s about. I know Mbappé is a fantastic player and that he’s phenomenal when he has space behind the defense. We’ll adapt some things, as we always do. But not specifically because of Mbappé. We’re focused on our philosophy, on our ideas.”
Lamine Yamal “Yes [he can start], all the players are ready to be on the team. It’s great to have everyone together. Especially Gavi and Christensen.
“We’ll decide [the starting XI] after the last training session. The important thing is that we have options in every position, and they’re all good. Everyone wants to play and be a starter. The key is the team. We have to make the right decision.”
Eric or Frenkie in midfield “I was very pleased with Wednesday’s performance. But we also have other options. Frenkie and Eric can play. Gerard is having a fantastic season. Today we have our final training session; we’ll see what we need. Everyone is available. We’ll decide then.”
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 10 January 2026; Preparations begin for El Clasico, Lamine Yamal wins La Liga Player of the Month for December
FC Barcelona to face Real Madrid in Super Cup Final – FC Barcelona We have our Spanish Super Cup final, and it’s another one between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. Xabi Alonso’s side booked their place by defeating Atlético Madrid 2-1 in the second semi-final, setting up a title showdown with Barça.
Raphinha enters Top 50 FC Barcelona goalscorers of all time – FC Barcelona FC Barcelona’s outstanding performance in the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals had many standout players, but none more so than Raphinha. The Brazilian shone on the pitch and his attacking impact was once again decisive. He scored twice, making it 4–0 in the 38th minute and 5–0 in the 52nd, sealing a perfect night and, unknowingly, propelling himself into a very special list in Barça history.
Roony Bardghji, new number 19 – FC Barcelona There’s good news for Roony Bardghji. The Swedish forward, one of the standout performers in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Club, has now been registered with the first team. Until now, the winger was officially listed with Barça Atlètic and wore the number 28. From this Sunday’s Super Cup final onwards, he will don the number 19 as a fully fledged first-team squad number.
Lamine Yamal, LALIGA EA SPORTS Player of the Month for December – LALIGA Lamine Yamal, who was voted LALIGA EA SPORTS Player of the Month in November, has been voted the best again in December, after playing a key role in Barça winning all four of their matches in the last month of 2025.
Munuera Montero will referee his third Clásico – Mundo Deportivo The first ended in a Real Madrid victory in the 2022 Spanish Super Cup semi-finals by 2-3 in extra time, while the second was in the first leg of the 2023 Copa del Rey semi-finals and Barcelona won 0-1 at the Bernabéu.
Cancelo is expected to be unveiled as a Barcelona player once again shortly, with Deco explaining why the Catalans have gone for the Portugal star rather than a center-back.
“Cancelo is being signed because he’s a player who improves the team’s quality. Ultimately, what matters in the winter transfer window is improvement: staying the same or declining makes no sense. It’s not about center-backs; we’re getting Ronald back, and the manager has already said that with him, we have another center-back,”
“Cancelo also allows Eric to avoid playing at full-back, a position he’s often filled. Furthermore, it allows Koundé to play centrally in difficult situations, giving us more options than before.
“He’s a quality player, and it’s a move that would have been difficult to pull off, but things have worked out perfectly: he wasn’t registered, he had an agreement to leave, and he’s always been crazy about Barça.
“Whenever he comes, he takes a pay cut because of the allure of this club.”
Cancelo’s transfer is expected to be completed over the weekend, meaning he could make his second debut for the club next week either in the Copa del Rey or Barca’s La Liga clash with Real Sociedad.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Joan Garcia outshines Unai Simon as race to be Spain’s No. 1 hots up ahead of World Cup 2026
Yet it was a different story for his opposite number. Unai Simon shipped five in the Athletic Club goal and will certainly not want to see replays of Roony Bardghji’s strike again.
Primer partit a la Supercopa 🤝 Primer gol a la Supercopa.
The game came just days after Joan Garcia put in a monstrous showing against former club Espanyol. The goalkeeper shut out all the noise to keep a clean sheet and walk off with a very deserved MVP award.
Garcia then faced the press ahead of the match against Athletic Club and was asked about his chance of being Spain’s No. 1 at World Cup 2026.
“I wouldn’t set it as a goal. My goal is to keep improving in every match with Barça. Every player wants to play for the national team. If it happens, I’ll be very proud,” was the calm and classy response from Barca’s No. 1.
Garcia’s words aren’t too much of a surprise either. He has taken everything in his stride since taking over from Marc-Andre ter Stegen at Barcelona and has shone throughout the campaign so far.
+10.3 – Joan García prevented 10.3 goals in 2025 across all competitions (43.3 xGoT-33 goals conceded excluding own goals), more than any other LaLiga goalkeeper this year. Sensational. pic.twitter.com/SUaI2v5kTy
His performances have led to calls for Garcia to receive his first call-up to the Spain squad, and it seems likely he will get the nod for La Finalissima in March against Argentina.
Yet Simon remains a big favorite of boss Luis de la Fuente, don’t forget the pair have worked together for a long time now, and he’s started almost every major competition since being called up in 2020.
De la Fuente also has David Raya and Alex Remiro to think about, meaning he has a really tough decision to make when it comes to selecting his No. 1.
🇪🇸 Joan García (Barcelona, 24) 🧤 vs La Liga Goalkeepers, per 90
He’s also been asked about Garcia and had the following to say just before Christmas.
“We have five or six of the best goalkeepers in the world, but no one talks about Robert Sanchez or Leo Roman either. And Joan Garcia, of course,” he told AS.
“We have fantastic goalkeepers in Spain, fantastic. It is true that we are currently betting on these three, and we are delighted with Unai, David, and Alex.
“But we will see what happens between now and March or between now and June, God only knows. Calm down. At that point, we’ll have to make the decision that needs to be made. Some people will like it more than others. I will be convinced that the decision I make is the best one.”
Certainly on current form, it’s hard to look past Garcia who is already looking a brilliant bit of business by Barcelona.
Former director Toni Freixa is certainly in no doubt and thinks De La Fuente knows as well, telling El Chiringuito: “We all know that the best is Joan Garcia, even De la Fuente. But he wants to avoid the consequences of making the change.”
The big question now is whether De la Fuente will change his No. 1 for the World Cup. Will Garcia get the nod? Tell us what you think in the comments below!
Source: barcablaugranes.com
‘Another great signing by Deco’ – Joan Laporta confirms Joao Cancelo’s Barcelona move
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed that Joao Cancelo is set to return to the club for a second stint.
Laporta is happy to have the Portugal international back and thinks it’s more great work from Deco.
“Cancelo is another great signing by Deco. It’s not easy to make signings in this market,” he told Jijantes.
“Deco has done a great job. I want to thank the player and his agent for their efforts. Cancelo is a great and very versatile player, and Hansi Flick has given his blessing to this transfer.
“He arrives tomorrow and will undergo a medical examination, and if all goes well he will be with us.”
Cancelo has been keen to return to Barcelona, despite interest from Inter, and will give Flick more options defensively for the second half of the season.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 9 January 2026; Chelsea considering new offer for Fermín López, João Cancelo set for Barça medical
Recovery session in two places – FC Barcelona Those who started against Athletic Club work out in the hotel, while the remainder of the squad train as normal on a pitch at King Abdulaziz Sports City.
Five records from a perfect semifinal against Athletic Club – FC Barcelona This wasn’t just any old victory. The five goals against Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final produced several records and provided interesting facts that will help to remember a perfect match by the blaugranes in Yeddah.
Hansi Flick hails ‘confidence and excellent mentality’ – FC Barcelona The result against Athletic (and the manner in which it was achieved) left Hansi Flick a very satisfied man. Speaking after the game, the German coach was full of praise for his players. “I’m very happy with the work we’ve done” he said. “We played with a very good mentality and a great attitude, and I really liked the Barça I saw.”
Héctor Fort, LALIGA EA SPORTS Goal of the Month for December – LALIGA Héctor Fort’s work of art against Rayo Vallecano has been voted LALIGA EA SPORTS Goal of the Month for December. This spectacular play by the young Catalan full-back opened the scoring for Elche CF in their resounding 4-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano.
Gossip: Chelsea to reignite interest in Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez as part of £150m spending spree
Premier League side Chelsea never seem to tire of splashing out to strengthen their squad and are reportedly eyeing more transfers after appointing Liam Rosenior as their new boss.
Rosenior has taken over from Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge, signing a contract until 2032, and the rumor mill is already getting exited about the players he could bring in.
Ekrem Konur who humbly describes himself as a “Global Transfer News Expert” says that Chelsea want to splash out £150m on Lopez and AC Milan star Rafael Leao.
🚨🆕 #ChelseaFC
Chelsea ready to back new coach Liam Rosenior with a huge transfer budget!
“Well, in the end, my priority has always been to be at Barça. I arrived when I was 12; it was my dream to be here, to be able to reach the first team,” he said.
“It’s always a compliment when there’s interest from other clubs, but the truth is, I always had the idea of staying at Barça and being able to succeed here.”
It’s difficult to see Lopez’s mind changing any time soon either, particularly as he is contracted to the club until 2029 and has become an important part of Hansi Flick’s squad.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
‘Everyone wants a Clasico’ – Pau Cubarsi hoping to face Real Madrid in Spanish Super Cup final
Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi says he’s hoping to face Real Madrid in the final of the Spanish Super Cup after helping his team book their place in Sunday’s showpiece.
Cubarsi says Barcelona are ready for anyone but admits another Clasico would be a special game.
“Everyone wants a Clásico, but whoever comes, we are going to go for it. Tomorrow I won’t take sides, I’ll stay calm and recover,” he told Movistar.
Cubarsi also had praise for Barca’s attackers after goals from Ferran Torres, Fermin Lopez, Roony Bardghji and Raphinha secured a big win against the Basques.
“Those at the top are very plugged in. They are at a spectacular level and help the whole team. We’ve had a good run of clean sheets and it’s very important. We have to follow this path,” he added.
“When you see that you are 5-0 you see that there is a big difference, but we don’t have to put our foot down because it helps us for the final.”
Barcelona are aiming to retain their Super Cup title in Saudi Arabia and faced Real Madrid in last season’s final, running out 5-2 winners.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
‘I’m very honest with him’ – Hansi Flick issues update on Robert Lewandowski’s future
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick issued an update on Robert Lewandowski’s future after watching his team thrash Athletic Club 5-0 at the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia.
Lewandowski has lost prominence this season and is heading towards the end of his contract. Yet Flick says it’s not definite the veteran striker will leave the club on a free transfer in the summer.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen. I’m very honest with him, too; I’m very happy to have him,” he told reporters.
“He’s playing at a good level, training well, and scoring goals. We have two players in that position who can play—referring to Ferran Torres, who started and scored on Wednesday.
“I’m not going to say he’s leaving the team. Why? We’ll see what happens at the end of the season.”
Lewandowski was on the bench again for Wednesday’s win and saw Ferran Torres on target in the victory over Ernesto Valverde’s side.
Torres now has 14 goals in 24 appearances so far this season for Barca, while Lewandowski has nine from 19 in all competitions.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Barcelona vs Athletic Club live stream: Lineups, Kickoff time, TV channel, How to watch Spanish Super Cup online
WELCOME TO THE KING ABDULLAH SPORTS CITY!!! The second largest stadium in Saudi Arabia is the site of the 2026 Spanish Super Cup and hosts tonight’s semi-final between Barcelona and Athletic Club. Barça come into this one looking to defend last year’s Supercopa title and are looking for a win to book a spot in Sunday’s title match against Real or Atlético Madrid, but it won’t be easy against a talented and well-coached Athletic side. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos!
LINEUPS
To be announced.
MATCH INFO
Competition/Round: 2026 Spanish Super Cup, Semi-Final 1
Date/Time: Wednesday, January 7, 2026, 10pm AST (local time), 8pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 7pm GMT (UK), 2pm ET, 11am PT (USA), 12.30am IST (India, Thursday)
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Referee: Isidro Díaz de Mera Escuderos
VAR: Jorge Figueroa Vázquez
HOW TO WATCH
On TV: ESPN 2 (USA), TNT Sports 1 (UK), Startimes World Football (Nigeria), Movistar (Spain), others
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
Joan García’s rise at Barcelona reignites Spain’s goalkeeping debate ahead of World Cup 2026
Joan García’s recent form has reignited one of Spanish football’s most talked-about debates. His display in the Catalan derby at Cornellà, making seven crucial saves against his former club Espanyol, drew widespread praise and intensified calls for his inclusion in Luis de la Fuente’s squad as Barcelona won 2-0.
Since returning from a November meniscus injury, García has been in remarkable form. He has kept seven clean sheets in 16 appearances this season, conceding 14 goals, and has been decisive in victories that have helped FC Barcelona maintain their lead in La Liga. In his last three matches, he faced 13 shots on target without letting one through.
Spain’s established goalkeeper trio – Unai Simón, David Raya, and Álex Remiro – has delivered consistently, winning the UEFA Euro 2024 and the previous Nations League. Many argue that changing the lineup so close to a major tournament would be unwise. Journalist Mónica Marchante is one such person, arguing: “It seems like a lack of respect towards Unai Simón” to suggest dropping him, because he has won so much and been reliable for the national team.
Others, however, believe García cannot be ignored. Manolo Lama, one of Spain’s biggest voices in football, described the Barça keeper as Spain’s top option, stating, “Right now he is the best goalkeeper in Spain.” He also expressed full confidence in De la Fuente, reminding audiences that “every time the coach chooses someone, he gets it right.” Another pundit, Álvaro Benito went further, highlighting García’s extraordinary level. “What Joan García is doing is so impressive,” Benito said. “If a player appears, as was the case we saw with Lamine Yamal, who became one of the best players in the world, even if you have a winger who you trust and is good… Garcia is not just simply a good goalkeeper, he is doing outrageous stuff.”
Within the squad, the message has been cautious. In October, Unai Simón acknowledged García’s talent but defended the current hierarchy. He said that the best three keepers should be called by Spain but warned against pressure which “undermines the work of David Raya and Álex Remiro.”
García himself remains grounded. Ahead of the Supercopa semifinal against Athletic Club, he focused on team goals rather than personal glory. “Every player wants to go to the national team,” he said. “If it comes, I will be happy and proud.” On his daily approach, he added, “I would not say the World Cup is an objective. My objective is to improve day by day.” Even after earning MVP in the derby, he acknowledged, “I have a lot to improve. I have to try to do things as well as possible.”
His absence from Spain’s last two call-ups – first due to injury, then because of limited rhythm post-injury – partly explains why he has yet to debut. The March international window, when Spain play Argentina in the Finalissima, will be the last opportunity to test new options before finalizing the World Cup squad. It’s becoming more likely that he at least makes the squad, but will De La Fuente really change who his #1 is?
For his part, Simón has been steady for Spain even as his form for his club waxed and waned. He had a poor showing against Barcelona a few months back, when Athletic lost 4-0, but he followed that up with four clean sheets in three games. There are those who say you can’t drop a goalkeeper who has consistently delivered for the national team regardless of club form. But it’s safe to say that if García continues his outstanding run, the debate will continue as well.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Copa del Rey draw: Barcelona set to face Racing Santander in last 16
Barcelona have been drawn to face Racing Santander in the last 16 of the 2025-26 Copa de Rey.
The draw took place on Wednesday and saw Hansi Flick’s defending champions paired against a team that have already caused a stir in the competition by dumping out high-flying Villarreal in the last round.
Seven Spanish Super Cup debutants – FC Barcelona Joan Garcia, Marc Bernal, Marcus Rashford, Roony Bardghji, Dro Fernández, Tommy Marqués and Jofre Torrents are all playing in the tournament for the first time.
Joan Garcia: ‘I still have a lot of room for improvement’ – FC Barcelona Joan Garcia is one of the standout names at the moment at FC Barcelona. His excellent form has attracted a lot of attention, but the Barça goalkeeper remains grounded and is already focusing on the upcoming challenges.
Lewandowski closes the door to Al-Hilal – Mundo Deportivo Robert Lewandowski will finish his contract with Barcelona, which ends on June 30th. Despite Al-Hilal showing considerable interest in signing the Barça striker in recent hours, taking advantage of the negotiations for João Cancelo, the Polish striker has no intention of leaving Barça now.
Hansi Flick explains why Barcelona want to sign João Cancelo in January transfer window after Andreas Christensen injury
Hansi Flick has all but confirmed the signing of João Cancelo and explained why Barcelona decided to bring in the Portuguese full-back on loan until the end of the season.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia ahead of the Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Club, Flick said that while he preferred the signing of a center-back this month, he welcomes the addition of Cancelo due to his versatility at the full-back position, and the coach also accepted the difficulties of the market as well as the club’s financial situation.
“I spoke with my staff and we think that when Ronald [Araujo] is back we have good alternatives at center-back. João can play at both full-back positions. It’s not a done deal, but I’d be happy if it goes through. We talked about signing a center-back, but this is a good option for these six months.
“You know the situation better than I do. We are in a situation where we have to be smart in signings, it’s not like the other teams that can pay hundreds of millions for players. But it’s okay, for young players it’s good, they can develop and we trust them. Now we have the opportunity to have an experienced player for the attack, we have to work on it.”
It seems pretty clear that Flick went into this window wishing for a center-back but quickly realized there is no good deal available, and that Cancelo is the most realistic option in the market right now. Flick has more than proven his ability to get his best out of pretty much every player in the squad, and Cancelo’s arrival allows the coach to test other options, such as Jules Kounde at center-back.
This is certaintly not the ideal defensive signing in January, but this is the only one Barça can make.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Joao Cancelo posts cryptic message ahead of Barcelona return
Joao Cancelo has posted a rather cryptic message on social media ahead of an expected return to Barcelona in the January transfer window.
Cancelo has been eager to leave Al-Hilal this winter, with speculation rife about his reasons for wanting out, and has now posted a message on social media which appears to be aimed at his detractors.
“Imagine how many people dislike you because they didn’t hear your side of the story,” is the message from the Portugal star.
There have been claims that Cancelo has fallen out with Simone Inzaghi at Al-Hilal, and the defender has previously clashed with Pep Guardiola during his time at Manchester City.
However, he’s regularly made it clear he loved his time at Barcelona and is now set to link up with the Catalan giants for another stint.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Why Hansi Flick and Barcelona have decided to bring Joao Cancelo back on loan
Barcelona are set to bring Joao Cancelo back to the Camp Nou for a second stint after agreeing a loan deal with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal for the Portugal star.
The move is something of a surprise, as a center-back had appeared to be a priority after Andreas Christensen’s injury, but does add another defensive option to Hansi Flick’s squad.
So why have Barcelona gone for Cancelo again? The Catalan press has several theories about the transfer and all are in agreement that Cancelo’s strong desire to play for Barca again was key to the deal going through.
Mundo Deportivo and Diario Sport both highlight how Barca “urgently” needed a new defender in January, particularly after seeing Eric Garcia and Gerard Martin deployed in central defence at times this season.
Cancelo’s arrival – and ability to play in either full-back positions – means Martin can continue in the heart of the backline and also frees up Jules Kounde to become an option at center-back again for Flick.
The Portugal international’s experience and willingness to take a pay cut are also cited as reasons why Barca have gone for Cancelo again as well as a lack of other quality options in the winter market.
“I’m a Barca fan, it’s normal. I love Barca. I loved my time in Barca. I love the group at Barca. But now I’m at Al-Hilal and I’m very happy here,” he told reporters.
Diario Sport also explain why Cancelo wants out of Al-Hilal. The defender has had a tough time in Saudi Arabia due to injuries and a strained relationship with Simone Inzaghi.
The report also claims that legislation has been a factor, with Saudi clubs able to register 10 foreign players but only able to name eight in match-day squads. Of those eight, only two are allowed to be over the age of 22.
Cancelo has therefore lost prominence at the club and, with World Cup 2026 now just six months away, has been eager to move on in search of regular minutes.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 6 January 2026; Marc-André ter Stegen open to Girona move, Barça set to complete João Cancelo signing
Barça are on their way to Jeddah – FC Barcelona The blaugrana delegation is led by president Joan Laporta and the party left Barcelona-El Prat airport at 1pm CET on Monday. After a five and a half hour journey the plane will land at King Abdulaziz International Airport, followed by a two hour transfer to their hotel.
FC Barcelona squad for the Spanish Super Cup – FC Barcelona The Spanish Super Cup is upon us. On Monday Hansi Flick named his squad for the competition in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, which begins on Wednesday with the Blaugranes facing Athletic Club de Bilbao in the first semi-final, kick off 8pm CET.
Lewandowski: “I’m not afraid to end my career” – Mundo Deportivo The 37-year-old Polish striker, in an interview on the High Performance podcast, spoke about his future and revealed that Barça asked him when he arrived to instill discipline in the youngsters, although he ended up “learning” from them as well.
Robert Lewandowski makes retirement admission amid uncertain future at Barcelona
Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has admitted that he is starting to prepare for life after retirement as he faces an uncertain future.
The 37-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and is not expected to be offered a new contract at Barcelona as things stand.
There has been talk of interest from MLS clubs, but Lewandowski says he has already thought about what he might do once his playing days are over.
“I’m not afraid of ending my career because I’m starting to prepare for it, to prepare things I can do after football,” he told the High Performance podcast.
“Football is a very important part of my life, but it’s not my whole life, especially now. When I was young, I didn’t think about this because all I had in my head was football, football, and football, but now I know I’m very close to finishing my career, I don’t know, in one, two, three years… maybe four, I don’t know, but I’m not under any pressure.
“If one day I listen to my body and feel that something has changed, then I will be ready to end my career.”
He’ll now head to the Spanish Super Cup and has a good record in the competition with Barca, having scored five goals and bagged two assists in six games in the tournament so far.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Ronald Araujo named in Barcelona’s Spanish Super Cup squad
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has named Ronald Araujo in his squad for the 2026 Spanish Super Cup ahead of a semi-final tie with Athletic Club.
Araujo will jet out with the rest of the squad but it’s still not known when he will make his return to first-team action. Flick said before Saturday’s win over Espanyol that “it depends on him. He’s not 100% physically, but he’s doing well.”
The defender is part of a travelling squad that also includes exciting youngsters Jofre Torrents, Dro Fernandez and Tommy Marques. Andreas Christensen and Gavi miss out as they continue to recover from injury.
Barcelona’s first game is against Athletic Club on Wednesday night. The team will fly out later today and train in Jeddah on Tuesday before taking on Ernesto Valverde’s side.
Flick’s side are expected to debut their new fourth kit at the Super Cup which was released at the end of last year and features a design based on the team’s famous Ronaldinho-inspired Clasico win from 2005.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Joao Cancelo wants quick decision from Barcelona on January transfer
Joao Cancelo has reportedly urged Barcelona to make up their minds about a possible January transfer as he seeks to find a new club this winter.
Barcelona and Inter have both been linked with the full back, with Nerazzurri chief Beppe Marotta having revealed his club have been in talks but that the defender’s salary is an issue.
Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Cancelo is still waiting for Barca to make up their minds and that Inter remain in the race to land the Portugal star.
🚨🇵🇹 Crucial hours ahead for João Cancelo deal, 100% leaving Al Hilal.
Inter told Al Hilal they only let De Vrij or Acerbi join them… if Cancelo is joining Inter on loan.
❗️ Cancelo, still waiting for Barça but club decision must now be made soon.
Diario Sport also have an update and say that Cancelo “has asked Barça for guarantees that the signing will be viable and expects an immediate response from the Blaugrana club.”
The full-back is eager to come back to Catalunya for a second spell, but it’s thought that Barcelona aren’t quite convinced about the move.
Hansi Flick’s focus for January has been on bringing in a center-back, to replace the injured Andreas Christensen, but signing Cancelo could see Jules Kounde move back into the heart of the defence.
Al-Hilal are thought to be willing to pay part of Cancelo’s move to help facilitate a loan exit, but it’s still not clear if Barcelona will give the move the green light.
