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Barcelona
Summary

Barcelona head into pre-season carrying a significant injury concern after Frenkie de Jong returned from the World Cup with a serious knee problem that could sideline him for up to six months. The club is reportedly furious with Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman and the Dutch medical staff, feeling they were misled about the midfielder's condition. Losing De Jong for such an extended period would be a major setback for Hansi Flick's squad as they prepare for the new campaign.

On the transfer front, the mood is more positive. Karim Adeyemi has completed his medical in Barcelona ahead of a €29 million move from Borussia Dortmund, with his official unveiling expected imminently. President Joan Laporta has also confirmed that Raphinha remains part of the club's plans despite Saudi Pro League interest. The pursuit of Julian Alvarez, though, has grown complicated. Atletico Madrid are refusing to sell to Barcelona directly, with Arsenal now moving aggressively to sign the Argentina forward before pre-season begins.

Off the pitch, the World Cup has kept Barcelona in the spotlight. Laporta has spoken enthusiastically about the final between Argentina and Spain, framing it as a meeting of the club's past and future, with Lionel Messi facing Lamine Yamal. The club also confirmed the loan signing of teenage Ecuadorian prospect Josue Caicedo, signalling continued investment in young talent. Barcelona finished LaLiga as champions with 94 points, eight clear of Real Madrid, and their next competitive test is a friendly against CE Europa on July 24.

Barcelona Overview

FBL-ESP-LIGA-BARCELONA-OSASUNA

Deco split between Messi and Barca stars in World Cup final

Barcelona sporting director Deco has admitted he faces a deep conflict of loyalties ahead of Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. The former midfielder has travelled to New York for the showpiece event, which will prominently feature both Catalan club icon Lionel Messi and a strong contingent of current Blaugrana players.

Lamine Yamal Lionel Messi World Cup final GFX

Yamal & Messi: From baby baths to the biggest game of all

Lamine Yamal has always looked up to Lionel Messi. The Barcelona legend was - and remains - his one and only idol. "I never had another," Yamal admitted to Tuttosport. "I once took a photo with him. I was unknown." He wasn't just unknown, though; he was still only a baby, just a few weeks old when he and his mother partook in a 2007 photoshoot organised by SPORT for a charity calendar.

England v Argentina: Semi Final - FIFA World Cup 2026

Gordon ‘devastated’ by England’s World Cup exit

Anthony Gordon has expressed his deep heartbreak following England's dramatic elimination from the World Cup at the hands of Argentina. The Barcelona winger scored the opening goal in the semi-final clash before Thomas Tuchel's side conceded twice late on, shattering the Three Lions' dreams of reaching a first final since 1966.

Julian Alvarez

Atleti chief responds to Laporta over Alvarez transfer deadline

Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has firmly responded to Barcelona counterpart Joan Laporta regarding the unfolding transfer saga surrounding Julian Alvarez. The forward publicly requested a summer departure during the World Cup, prompting the Catalan giants to launch a time-sensitive offer that has heightened tensions between the clubs.

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Standings

LaLiga crestLaLiga

PosTeamPWDLFA+/-PTSForm
1Athletic Bilbao crestAthletic Bilbao00000000
2Atletico Madrid crestAtletico Madrid00000000
3Barcelona crestBarcelona00000000
4Celta Vigo crestCelta Vigo00000000
5Deportivo Alaves crestDeportivo Alaves00000000
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