The race for Joao Felix's signature heats up as Aston Villa enters the picture and rivals Barcelona for the Portuguese winger's services. Despite a promising start at Atletico Madrid, Felix's relations with manager Diego Simeone have soured, leading to his potential departure from the club. With both Barcelona and Felix's former club Benfica vying for his signature, Aston Villa presents a possible destination for the 24-year-old, offering Champions League football and the opportunity to bolster their attacking options.
Spain's manager, Luis de la Fuente, was left fuming after Toni Kroos' tackle on midfielder Pedri during their European Championship match against Germany. Despite the challenge appearing to end Pedri's campaign, Kroos was not given a red card or even a yellow card. Spain's medical team is currently assessing Pedri's injury, but the manager believes that Kroos should have been sent off for the tackle. The physicality of the game surprised former European champion Ruud Gullit.
Spain came out on top in a thrilling quarterfinal match against Germany in the 2024 European Championship. With the game tied at 1-1, midfielder Dani Olmo scored a stunning goal from outside the penalty box to put Spain in the lead. Fans and pundits were left in awe of Olmo's strike, which proved to be the winning goal for Spain.
Despite reported interest from Premier League clubs, Barcelona has made a verbal offer for star player Dani Olmo with a €60m release clause present in his contract. Olmo has been in good form, contributing 8 goals and 5 assists for his club despite injury setbacks. However, his full focus is currently on representing Spain at Euro 2024, where he has already made an impact with a goal in their round of 16 win over Georgia. Barcelona's financial restrictions may mean a decision on Olmo's future will have to wait until after the tournament.
Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal headlines La Roja's 26-man squad for Euro 2024, along with his club teammates Pedri, Fermin Lopez, and Ferran Torres. The team boasts a formidable midfield with standout performers like Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, and Pedri, but their defensive options are a cause for concern with many facing fatigue from a long club season. However, with a blend of youth and experience, Spain will be looking to make a strong challenge for their third European title in the upcoming tournament.
Barcelona's financial situation has led them to seek potential sales, and the rumoured €15 million deal for Mikayil Faye to Portuguese club Porto seemed promising. However, recent reports suggest that Porto may only be willing to pay up to €5 million for the young defender due to their own financial constraints. As negotiations continue, Barcelona still hopes to keep Faye within the club and impress new coach Hansi Flick.
Rivaldo, a former FC Barcelona star, believes the Catalan club should start thinking about finding a new striker as Robert Lewandowski nears 36. He also praises 16-year-old Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal for his talent and predicts a bright future for him and his teammate Nico Williams at both club and national levels. Rivaldo hopes that Lewandowski can stay healthy and continue to excel with Barca, but also stresses the importance of always keeping an eye on the market's top players.
Despite their financial concerns, FC Barcelona have been given the opportunity to make a move for Bayern Munich's versatile player, Joshua Kimmich, after the German club revealed a price tag of €30-40 million. This news comes as a blow to other top clubs, including Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Liverpool, who were also interested in signing Kimmich. However, Barcelona may still face competition in securing the 26-year-old's services as Bayern have also expressed interest in extending his contract and potentially losing him for free next year.
Carlos Sainz's sixth place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix was overshadowed by controversy as his teammate, Charles Leclerc, accused him of ignoring team orders and causing damage to his car. Sainz defends his actions, stating that he was trying to take advantage of the new soft tires and move up in the race. However, he also acknowledges that Ferrari needs to improve on tracks like Barcelona if they want to challenge for victories.
FC Barcelona has officially appointed former Bayern Munich and Germany boss Hansi Flick as their new coach, signing a deal that will last until June 2026. Flick, who was previously sacked by the German national team, has a track record of success and is renowned for his high-pressing and daring style of play. His appointment comes after the recent departure of Xavi Hernandez as coach and is expected to bring positive changes to the team's performance.