Santa Iria Overview

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has called for a Spanish player to lift the Ballon d'Or this year while tipping teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to claim the individual prize before long. Speaking ahead of next month's Nations League clash against the Czech Republic, the 65-year-old also reflected on the international retirement of Marcos Llorente.

Chelsea have reportedly moved to the front of the queue in the high-stakes battle to land Barcelona starlet Marc Bernal. The Blues are eager to bolster their midfield options and view the teenage sensation as a cornerstone for their future project under Xabi Alonso.

With the 30 nominees officially revealed for the Ballon d'Or, chatter as to who might actually win it is growing.

Barcelona sporting director Deco has opened up on the club's decision to move for Anthony Gordon this summer, despite Marcus Rashford’s successful loan spell at the Camp Nou last season. The Catalan giants opted to pivot their strategy, prioritising Gordon’s specific profile to satisfy the tactical demands of new head coach Hansi Flick instead of pursuing a permanent deal for the Man Utd forward.