Barcelona news

Barcelona were thumped 4-0 by Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Thursday, as Diego Simeone's side ran riot against a truly dismal Blaugrana side. Hansi Flick's high line was exposed routinely and ruthlessly throughout a night that the Metropolitano faithful could barely believe.

As is tradition, the club anthem is played during Barcelona's home games on stadium loudspeakers, with fans singing along.

How to watch the Copa del Rey match between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, as well as kick-off time and team news

Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has issued a defiant message to Barcelona, ruling out a summer exit for star forward Julian Alvarez. The Argentine World Cup winner has emerged as a top target for the Catalan giants as they hunt for Robert Lewandowski’s long-term successor, but the capital club have made it clear that their record signing is not for sale under any circumstances.

Robert Lewandowski is facing a defining moment in his illustrious career as his Barcelona contract nears its expiration. The Polish striker has reportedly received offers from Atletico Madrid and AC Milan, among others, but is holding off on a decision until the club's presidential elections are concluded in March.

Rene Meulensteen claims Marcus Rashford could still return to Manchester United despite his spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona. The former coach insists the forward remains 'Red' at heart and suggests that the changing landscape at Old Trafford could open the door for a sensational homecoming, provided honest conversations are held between the player and the club.

The Metropolitano pitch has become a major talking point ahead of Atletico Madrid's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Barcelona. "Honestly, it's not in good condition," Koke admitted after Sunday's home defeat to Real Betis. "We slip, the turf comes up. Clearly, we have to play better, so it's not an excuse, but we're expected to perform at a high level and we need a pitch of that same quality to be able to do so."

Real Madrid and UEFA have announced that they have ended their legal dispute over the proposed Super League. The Spanish giants were the only club still signed up to the failed project, as Barcelona withdrew their support last week.

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has fuelled talk that the Catalan giants could move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez in the summer transfer window. Hansi Flick's side are expected to be in the market for a new No. 9 to replace Robert Lewandowski, and Alvarez has been mentioned as a transfer target. Araujo has given his verdict on the Argentina star and thinks he's one of the best around.

Ronald Araujo has revealed his struggle with mental health, admitting he played through depression and anxiety for over a year before reaching a breaking point. The Barcelona defender, who recently returned to action after a spiritual retreat, says he has "hit rock bottom" and come back stronger, urging others to seek professional help when the pressure becomes too much to handle alone.

Barcelona have been dealt a severe injury blow ahead of their crucial Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid, with Marcus Rashford officially ruled out of the tie. The England international suffered a knock to his left knee during the weekend's La Liga victory over Mallorca and has failed to recover in time for the trip to the Spanish capital.

Barcelona presidential candidate Victor Font has launched a scathing attack on Joan Laporta, describing the broken relationship with Lionel Messi as "unforgivable" while promising a "three-pronged" offensive to bring the Inter Miami star back. The opposition leader claims to have knowledge that the Argentine legend would be open to a sensational return if the conditions were right.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been told he "doesn't have the genius" of fellow footballing greats such as Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona and Ronaldo Nazario by former Real Madrid boss Fabio Capello. The Portugal and Al-Nassr superstar is still going strong at the age of 41, and remains on track to score 1,000 career goals before he retires, but has been told he's still not one of the very best.