State League 2 Qualification - Generale

Barcelona have moved decisively to secure the long-term future of Egyptian sensation Hamza Abdelkarim, handing the teenager a bumper new contract just months after his permanent arrival at Camp Nou. The 18-year-old, who has earned the lofty nickname "Haaland of the Nile," is now tied to the Catalan giants until 2030.

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has admitted he threw caution to the wind to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche on Tuesday night. Despite holding a comfortable two-goal lead, Los Blancos were pegged back, forcing the Portuguese tactician to deploy an incredibly aggressive formation to snatch the three points.

Javier Aguirre has emerged as a leading contender for the vacant Valencia job after exploratory talks opened between the two parties. Club chiefs acted swiftly to target the former Mexico boss following Carlos Corberan's dismissal, believing the veteran coach has the character and track record needed to drag the club out of early trouble.

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has defended the club's campaign to see Lamine Yamal win the Ballon d'Or. The German manager also voiced his desire for the award ceremony to arrive quickly so the squad can focus entirely on the pitch.