Blackpool Academy Overview

Atletico Madrid midfielder Alex Baena has tipped international team-mate Lamine Yamal to capture the 2026 Ballon d'Or ahead of Rodri and Lionel Messi. The Spaniard heaped praise on the Barcelona prodigy ahead of the Madrid derby, insisting the teenager possesses unique qualities that have not been seen since Messi's prime years.

Alex Baena has heaped incredible praise on Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal, claiming the teenager is now the primary reason he tunes in to watch the Catalan giants. Atletico Madrid midfielder compared the youngster's impact to that of Lionel Messi, suggesting that Yamal has reached a level of individual brilliance that sets him apart from every other professional in the game.

Julian Alvarez is preparing to overhaul his management team following a summer transfer window that failed to deliver a move away from the Metropolitano. The Argentina international remains a primary target for several European heavyweights, and a change in representation could be the catalyst for a future exit.

Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel has travelled to Barcelona to hold discussions regarding a potential transfer, having recently informed the Premier League side of his desire to terminate his current registration immediately. The highly rated forward is attracting heavy interest from top European teams ahead of his 16th birthday early next month.