Barcelona news

FIFA is redrafting its regulations concerning domestic league games played in foreign countries and seeking legal advice on potentially banning them outright, after UEFA reluctantly approved LaLiga and Serie A matches to be played overseas. The games to be played are Villarreal v Barcelona in Miami and AC Milan v Como in Perth.

FC Porto president Andre Villas-Boas has lifted the lid on a bold new plan that could reshape European football, an Iberian Super Cup featuring Spanish and Portuguese giants like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Benfica, and Sporting. The concept, still sitting in what he called “the drawer”, could see Iberian powerhouses go head-to-head in a cross-border spectacle aimed at expanding brands and global reach.

Real Madrid have been urged to give up their hopes of forming a breakaway European league and told they will be welcomed back by the “football family” after years of conflict with governing body UEFA. The proposed European Super League (ESL) of 12 clubs collapsed within hours of its announcement in 2021 and Real are now alone in continuing to pursue the idea.

Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe has launched a passionate defence of Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal. There has been increased media attention on the teenage winger, who only turned 18 in July, and Mbappe has urged critics to leave the Barca star alone as he continues his establish himself as one of the best footballers in the world.

Ansu Fati’s explosive start to life at Monaco has reignited hopes of a Spain comeback. The Barcelona loanee has rediscovered his scoring touch in Ligue 1, netting six goals in five games. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has now confirmed that the 22-year-old forward is “on their radar” ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi has praised Lamine Yamal’s meteoric rise from La Masia to the first team, revealing the winger’s potential was obvious from a young age. Despite recent injuries and criticism, Yamal continues to show maturity beyond his years as Barcelona prepare for a crucial stretch after the international break.

Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy's release clause is set to drop significantly next summer, making him a cut-price target for Europe's elite. Barcelona are reportedly monitoring the 29-year-old, who has been in incredible form since joining the German club after a spectacular spell at Stuttgart, earning much praise from current coach Niko Kovac.

Chelsea are prepared to reignite their interest in Juventus sensation Kenan Yildiz as they look to bolster their attack. The Old Lady forward is widely regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in Europe. Chelsea have reportedly already seen one €70 million (£61m/$81m) offer rejected by the Serie A giants, who are understandably keen to retain the Turkey's international's services.

Barcelona are working to repair their reputation and relationships after the controversial European Super League plan, which promised elite clubs guaranteed participation and massive revenues but quickly collapsed under widespread backlash. Under president Joan Laporta, the club is now focusing on rebuilding trust with UEFA, European Football Clubs (EFC) chief Nasser Al-Khelaifi, and the wider continental football community.

Barcelona are reportedly interested in Levante striker Etta Eyong ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window. The Cameroonian forward, who joined Levante in August, has a €30 million release clause and is under contract until 2029. Barcelona view Eyong as a potential long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, although the club are also considering several other attacking targets.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has defended the decision to stage the Villarreal vs Barcelona clash in Miami in December, calling it a move driven by fans, clubs, and players. Amid criticism from Real Madrid and others, Tebas dismissed opposition, arguing global exposure is vital for Spanish football, while insisting the match preserves competition integrity and benefits international fans.

Wojciech Szczesny has advised his team-mate and Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen against following his example amid his difficult situation at the club. The Polish goalkeeper expressed sympathy for the situation Ter Stegen finds himself in following Joan Garcia's arrival, stating that being benched for an entire season at Juventus forced him to retire from the sport in 2024. However, Szczesny feels the German still has a lot to give to the sport.

Barcelona still owe a staggering €159 million (£138m/$184m) to several clubs for past transfers, including deals for Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. Despite generating nearly €1bn (£870m/$1.16bn) in revenue, Barca’s mounting short-term debts and delayed transfer payments reveal that the club is still struggling to regain its financial footing after years of reckless spending.