Hansi Flick prompted young player Dro Fernández to leave the Barcelona locker room after the Spaniard announced his departure from the club. Flick, who had personally bet on the teenager, had started him in a match against Real Sociedad and included him against Olympiacos, demonstrating his trust in Fernández's qualities and potentially viewing him as a long-term project. However, the player's desire to join Paris Saint-Germain disrupted these plans. In response to Fernández's decision, Flick excluded him from the squad for the match against Slava Praha, meaning the player did not travel to Prague and was also not called up for the subsequent fixture against Real Sociedad. Currently, Fernández is awaiting the payment of a clause that would enable his transfer to his desired team. Rumors suggest PSG has been in contact with him, although his entourage has not yet confirmed any finalized agreement. Barcelona is concurrently dealing with several player losses due to injuries, with some also omitted from the Champions League squad for the Prague match. Other players, like Ter Stegen, have chosen to leave the club to secure more playing time elsewhere. For the 18-year-old Fernández, a primary concern was being marginalized in the project and missing out on crucial minutes and experience at a vital stage in his development, which he feared would be catastrophic for his career.

Slavia Prague defender has issued a warning to Barcelona ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash, emphasizing that the home atmosphere will be a significant advantage for his team. Barcelona have agreed a deal for a teenage striker, involving a €3 million fee with an additional €5 million loan-to-buy option. The club has reached an agreement in principle with an 18-year-old talent from La Masia, their youth academy, for a new contract. Barcelona veteran goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen has passed a medical with Girona ahead of a proposed loan move. Barcelona manager Flick discussed several players including Pedri, Ter Stegen, De Jong, Raphinha, and Bardghji in the buildup to the match against Slavia Prague. Three La Masia talents have been identified as potential replacements for the space being left by Dro at Barcelona. A possible Barcelona lineup against Racing Santander is suggested, featuring Araujo and Bardghji in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Analysis highlights how the Barcelona captain delivered his finest performance in the match against Real Madrid. Three key strategies Barcelona must implement to defeat Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final are outlined. Another potential lineup for Barcelona against Real Madrid is proposed, with Lamine and Ferran starting in a 4-2-3-1 setup. Three talking points are discussed ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Slavia Prague and Barcelona. Three main takeaways are summarized from Barcelona's 2-1 defeat to Real Sociedad. Player ratings from the Real Sociedad vs. Barcelona match are provided, with Eric Garcia receiving an 8 and Yamal an 8.5. Three talking points are previewed ahead of Barcelona's La Liga match against Real Sociedad. Three takeaways are highlighted from Barcelona's 2-0 victory over Racing Santander. An analysis explores how Joao Cancelo could potentially unlock Lamine Yamal's effectiveness in the second half of Barcelona's season.

Barcelona are currently leading La Liga by four points over Real Madrid as the 2025-26 season approaches its winter break, positioning themselves better than at the same stage last season. Despite a perception that the team under coach Hansi Flick has been less impressive, statistical analysis shows improvement. After 17 matches, Barcelona have accumulated 43 points with a +29 goal difference, compared to 38 points and a +31 goal difference at the same point in the previous campaign. This achievement is notable given a significant injury crisis that has sidelined key players including Joan Garcia, Raphinha, Gavi, Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo, and Robert Lewandowski for various periods. The team's form has notably improved following a defeat in El Clásico in October, with Barcelona winning all seven subsequent matches to reclaim the top spot. The return from injury of pivotal players Pedri and Raphinha has been crucial to this turnaround, strengthening their title defense prospects.

Racing de Santander has initiated a formal dispute with FC Barcelona and taken the case to La Liga over the transfer of midfielder Pablo Torre to Mallorca. The Cantabrian club alleges the transfer was structured to avoid paying a sell-on fee that Racing was entitled to from any future profit on the player. The controversy stems from Barcelona's sale of Torre to Mallorca on July 14 for a reported fee of 4.95 million euros. This figure is almost identical to the 5 million euros (plus variables) Barcelona paid Racing for the player in 2022. Because the sale price matched the original purchase price, Barcelona recorded no capital gain, meaning Racing did not receive a percentage of the profit as stipulated in their sell-on clause. Racing president Manolo Higuera publicly accused Barcelona of acting in "bad faith," claiming the operation was designed "to harm a third party." He confirmed the club is pursuing its "economic right" through La Liga but stated the aim is not to provoke a feud with Barcelona, only to claim what is owed. Racing's argument is supported by a reported buyback clause in Torre's Barcelona contract, which would allow the Catalan club to re-sign him for approximately 10 million euros. Racing contends this figure reflects Torre's true market value and should be the reference point for calculating profit, which would then trigger their sell-on payment. Barcelona sources have dismissed this reasoning, insisting only the actual sale price to Mallorca is relevant. Torre's stint at Barcelona saw him make 27 appearances, triggering a one-million-euro variable payment to Racing after he reached 10 official appearances of at least 45 minutes. He has since joined Mallorca, where he has featured in 17 matches this season.

Everton are seeking defensive reinforcements and have identified Real Betis defender Nobel Mendy, currently on loan at Rayo Vallecano, as a target. The club has made preliminary contact regarding a potential deal, though no formal offers have been submitted yet. This pursuit comes amid uncertainty over the future of current Everton defender Michael Keane, whose contract expires next summer. Keane has been a regular starter this season, but his age and contract situation have prompted the club to plan for a long-term replacement. Statistical analysis shows Mendy's playing style and performance metrics are very similar to Keane's, making him a potentially seamless fit. Key comparisons include pass completion rates and their contributions to goals per 90 minutes. Everton's defensive depth has been further impacted by Jarrad Branthwaite's injury, though he is expected to return in early 2026. Manager David Moyes has confirmed the club is looking for new signings in January, but only for the right players. Mendy's immediate future is described as "interesting," as his parent club Real Betis will ultimately decide his next move following Rayo Vallecano's upcoming match against them.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is anticipated to deliver a strong response to recent criticisms from Real Madrid's president regarding the ongoing Negreira case, highlighting escalating tensions between the two clubs. In transfer developments, Barcelona has initiated preliminary discussions with representatives of a 28-year-old defender currently playing in the Bundesliga, indicating potential defensive reinforcements. The return of Brazilian winger Raphinha to the squad is credited with positively impacting Barcelona's recent performances, showcasing his influence on the team's dynamics. A veteran Barcelona star is reportedly being considered for a transfer to Inter Miami, the MLS club associated with Lionel Messi, suggesting a possible high-profile move. An upcoming La Liga match between Espanyol and Barcelona in January has been officially categorized as a 'high-risk' fixture, likely due to heightened security concerns. Tactical analyses for upcoming matches against Osasuna, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Real Betis propose various starting lineups, frequently featuring Ferran Torres and a hypothetical inclusion of Marcus Rashford in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with key roles for players like Frenkie de Jong and Raphinha. Post-match analyses from recent games include key observations from Barcelona's 2-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt and a 2-0 win against Osasuna, with player ratings highlighting standout performances from Pedri and Raphinha. Looking ahead, discussions focus on potential player departures from Barcelona in the 2026 summer transfer window and key narratives surrounding an upcoming Copa del Rey match against Guadalajara. A reflective piece notes the impending departure of Jordi Alba, framing his final period at Barcelona and subsequent move to Miami as the conclusion of a significant era for the club's left flank.

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) has postponed the La Liga match between Levante and Villarreal scheduled for Sunday. This decision was made due to a severe weather alert, specifically a forecast of torrential rains and a red alert warning issued for the Valencia region on Spain's east coast. The federation's statement cited safety recommendations as the reason for the postponement. This action follows a precedent set last year when several matches were called off after deadly flooding in the same region resulted in over 200 fatalities. Villarreal, who are currently third in the league and have played two fewer games than leaders Barcelona, trail by eight points. In other Sunday fixtures, second-placed Real Madrid, who are seven points behind Barcelona, were set to play against Alaves.

Kylian Mbappe's goal was the decisive moment in the match, setting Real Madrid on course for a victory against Alaves. The live text commentary for the game has concluded, with a summary of the match now available for readers. For a complete and detailed account of the match, viewers are directed to the full match report.

Robert Lewandowski missed a penalty described as "one of the worst in LaLiga history" during Barcelona's match against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night. With the score tied 1-1, the striker sent the ball high into the stands, leaving fans and his manager stunned. Despite this error, Barcelona went on to win the match 3-1, extending their lead at the top of LaLiga to four points. Lewandowski remains one of the league's top scorers this season with eight goals. According to LaLiga expert MisterChip, the 37-year-old has set an unwanted record by becoming the first Barcelona player to miss two penalties in a single season. Spanish newspapers AS and Marca heavily criticized the attempt, with the latter calling it one of the worst of his career. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick appeared visibly unimpressed on the sidelines, reacting with clear frustration to Lewandowski's rare mistake.

Al Jazeera Sport provided live text commentary and post-match coverage of a football game, including reactions and interviews. The page is now closed, but a summary of the match is available, with a link to a full match report. Viewers are directed to follow Al Jazeera English for further updates.

Barcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed that the club will not activate Marcus Rashford's buy option in the January transfer window, citing financial constraints, but revealed an alternate plan for that period. Rashford joined Barcelona on a one-year loan from Manchester United after losing favor under Ruben Amorim and has made a strong start in La Liga under coach Hansi Flick. Rashford's performance has been impressive, marked by his blistering pace, improved decision-making, and renewed confidence. He assisted a goal in El Clasico and scored a brace in the Champions League against Olympiacos, benefiting from Raphinha's injury to become the first-choice left winger. His connection with teammates like Ferran Torres and Fermin Lopez has been key in Flick's attacking system. Despite Rashford's resurgence, which has led to talks about activating the buy clause and a recall to the England national team, Barcelona will delay the purchase due to financial difficulties. Deco emphasized that the club is not in a healthy financial position and does not see an immediate need for the buy option, while acknowledging areas for improvement in the team's performance. Rashford expressed satisfaction with his performance but acknowledged room for improvement, highlighting the importance of team unity and fighting spirit after a recent win. Coach Flick praised Rashford's contributions, noting his potential for more goals and his importance to the team and fans. Looking ahead, Rashford is set to play for Barcelona against Celta Vigo and will then join the England squad for World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, continuing his positive form on both club and international stages.

Real Madrid has announced their starting lineup for the La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano. The starting XI consists of Courtois, Valverde, Asencio, Huijsen, Carreras, Camavinga, Güler, Bellingham, Brahim, Vinicius, and Mbappé. Rayo Vallecano's starting lineup is listed as tentative (TBC) and includes Batalla, Ratiu, Lejeune, Mendy, Chavarría, Pedro Díaz, Ciss, De Frutos, Isi, Álvaro García, and Alemao. The match is crucial for Real Madrid as they seek to recover from a previous loss against Liverpool, with a focus on securing three points at the difficult Estadio de Vallecas venue through intense and composed play. The match is scheduled for November 9, 2025, at 16:15 CET (10:15am EST) and will be held at Estadio de Vallecas in Madrid, Spain. Viewing options include television broadcasts on DAZN La Liga in Spain and ESPN Deportes in the USA, as well as streaming via ESPN+ in the USA.

Real Madrid has released their squad list for the away La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, which marks the final game before the upcoming FIFA break. The squad includes goalkeepers Courtois, Lunin, and Mestre; defenders Militão, Alaba, Trent, Asencio, Á. Carreras, Fran García, F. Mendy, and Huijsen; midfielders Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Arda Güler, and D. Ceballos; and forwards Vini Jr., Endrick, Mbappé, Rodrygo, Gonzalo, and Brahim. Tchouameni is absent from the squad due to injury and is expected to be replaced by Eduardo Camavinga in the midfield, while Alexander-Arnold may return to the starting lineup at right-back, which would shift Valverde into a midfield role. The match is scheduled for November 9, 2025, at 16:15 CET (10:15am EST) at Estadio de Vallecas in Madrid, Spain, and will be televised on DAZN La Liga in Spain and ESPN Deportes in the USA, with streaming available on ESPN+ in the USA.

Atlético Madrid secured their sixth consecutive home win in LALIGA with a 3-1 victory over Levante UD, continuing their strong home form. This result also marks the first time since 1982 that the team has scored in their first 12 league matches of the season. The match began with an own goal from Levante's Adrián de la Fuente, giving Atlético an early lead. However, Levante equalized before halftime with a header from Manu Sánchez, who was unmarked from a corner. In the second half, Antoine Griezmann came off the bench to score two goals, securing the win in a manner similar to their recent Champions League performance. Player ratings from Into the Calderón highlighted mixed performances: Jan Oblak made a crucial late save but conceded a goal, while Marcos Llorente provided an assist and versatility by playing multiple positions. Defenders like José María Giménez and Dávid Hancko had inconsistent showings, with Giménez making a key block but also a mistimed tackle. Midfielders such as Koke and Álex Baena contributed positively, with Baena's move to central midfield leading to a goal. Attackers like Alexander Sørloth struggled with the team's strategy, and Julián Alvarez, despite not scoring, was named MVP, possibly due to popularity.

La Liga has announced a partnership with technology company Globant to implement Agentic Artificial Intelligence, aiming to enhance efficiency in league operations and improve the broadcast experience for fans. The agreement, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, makes La Liga the first elite sports organization to adopt this technology on a large scale. Objectives include accelerating innovation, optimizing internal processes in talent development, performance analysis, content creation, and workflow automation. La Liga President Javier Tebas emphasized that this AI integration will modernize the league and strengthen its connection with fans, calling it an investment expected to yield quick returns, though the exact cost was not disclosed. A key feature of the new system will enable broadcasters to instantly display comparable images of player actions, such as goals by stars like Lamine Yamal or Kylian Mbappé, in real-time during matches. Agentic AI differs from generative AI by operating autonomously to plan and execute tasks without constant human oversight, learning from experiences to achieve set goals. In La Liga's case, it will focus on streamlining internal decision-making and enhancing gameday products through better data analysis and visuals. The technology is being developed using Globant's AI Pods model, supervised by domain experts, and supported by Sportian, a joint AI division from La Liga and Globant. While the partnership aims to improve services and reduce project times, questions remain about its impact on closing the gap with the Premier League, consumer prices, technological challenges, energy consumption, and effects on individual clubs. Currently, the deal applies only to league offices, as clubs have distinct AI needs related to scouting and on-field activities. An example provided by Globant's Martin Umaran illustrates how the AI could analyze weather forecasts to advise players on cleat selection, showcasing its practical applications.

After 11 games in the current LaLiga season, both Espanyol and Elche have secured positions in the top 10, marking a significant improvement. Espanyol sits in sixth place with 18 points, while newly promoted Elche holds ninth place with 14 points, representing a turnaround from the previous season where Espanyol narrowly avoided relegation by just two points and finished 14th, only securing safety in the final game. The transformation for Espanyol is largely attributed to manager Jose Manuel 'Manolo' Gonzalez Alvarez, who has implemented a flexible team structure that makes them difficult to defeat. This approach was evident from the first matchday, where their pressing style and adaptability in changing team shapes caught opponents like Atletico Madrid off guard, showcasing their in-game versatility. Espanyol's success is driven by tactical formations tailored to different phases of play: they use an attacking 3-2-4-1 formation to overload defenses and maintain possession, while switching to a 4-2-3-1 when out of possession to emphasize solid defense and quick build-ups from the back. This has resulted in only three losses this season, with defeats against Real Madrid, Alaves, and a resurgent Real Betis, the latter made more challenging by the loss of their top goalkeeper Joan Garcia to rivals Barcelona. Key players have contributed to Espanyol's performance, including young Englishman Tyrhys Dolan, who impresses with his work rate despite limited assists, as well as standouts Javi Puado and Pere Milla in the 2025/26 season. For Elche, their respectable position is no surprise as they focus on an entertaining, possession-based style under Eder Sarabia, influenced by his time as Quique Setien's assistant, aiming to engage fans while competing effectively in the top flight.

UEFA has approved, on an exceptional basis, the staging of Italian and Spanish domestic league matches abroad, despite expressing "clear opposition" to the plans. This decision was made due to regulatory gaps at the global level, with UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin describing it as "regrettable" and emphasizing that it should not set a precedent, as league matches should ideally be played on home soil. Specific matches affected include Serie A's fixture between Milan and Como, scheduled for February in Perth, Australia, and La Liga's game between Villarreal and Barcelona, planned for December in Miami, Florida. This marks the first instance of regular-season European league matches being held abroad, requiring further authorization from FIFA to proceed. UEFA delayed its decision last month to consult stakeholders, which revealed widespread lack of support from fans, other leagues, clubs, players, and European institutions for relocating domestic matches overseas. The consultation highlighted concerns about disenfranchising loyal fans and introducing distortions in competitions. Due to the unclear and insufficient FIFA regulatory framework, which is under review, UEFA reluctantly approved the requests. The organization has committed to actively collaborating with FIFA to develop future rules that safeguard the integrity of domestic competitions and the connection between clubs, supporters, and local communities. The approval followed an earlier green light from the Spanish Football Federation for the Villarreal vs. Barcelona match in Miami. Ceferin reiterated the importance of home-based matches and thanked national associations for their input, while European Commissioner for Sport Glen Micallef previously labeled such proposals as a "betrayal" of community-based clubs.

The news content announces an upcoming derby match in the world of sports, with specific details on the referees, team lineups, and statements from coaches. Carlos del Cerro Grande and Valentín Pizarro Gómez have been appointed as the VAR officials, marking the first time referees from Madrid will oversee such a derby event. The team lineups are provided for both sides. Real Madrid's squad includes players such as Andriy Lunin, Sergio Mestre, David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, Endrick, Rodrygo, Gonzalo García, Raul Ascencio, Dani Ceballos, Fran García, Brahim Diaz, and Franco Mastantuono, with Xabi Alonso serving as the coach. Atlético Madrid's lineup features Juan Musso, Matteo Ruggeri, Conor Gallagher, Antoine Griezmann, Álex Baena, Carlos Martín, Nahuel Molina, Marc Pubill, Javier Galán, Giacomo Raspadori, Ilias Kostis, and Taufyk Zanzi, under the guidance of coach Diego Simeone. Several statements are included, likely from the coaches, discussing the match dynamics. One comment highlights Atlético Madrid's evolving identity and smart changes, expressing optimism for their season aspirations. Another emphasizes the consistent preparation for the derby, noting the special atmosphere and emotional weight that could boost energy and concentration for a potential win. There is also a focus on the importance of hard work and consistency, rather than relying on past successes or team reputation, and an observation that match outcomes depend on quality and transitions, not just standings. Additionally, it is noted that coaches are not the deciding factor, with players being the key difference-makers, and that both teams are in a process of improvement with new additions to their squads. The content concludes with references to social media posts, such as tweets showing arrivals at the stadium and team-related images, indicating promotional or real-time updates related to the derby.

Atletico Madrid staged an impressive comeback to defeat previously unbeaten rivals Real Madrid 5-2 in the derby on Saturday, with Julian Alvarez emerging as the key player. The match saw Atletico start strongly, and they took an early lead in the 14th minute when Robin Le Normand headed in a cross from Giuliano Simeone. However, Real Madrid responded, with Kylian Mbappe equalizing in the 25th minute after a through-ball from Arda Guler, and Guler himself putting the visitors ahead nine minutes before halftime. Atletico managed to level the score just before the break when Alexander Sorloth headed home from Koke's cross in stoppage time. In the second half, Julian Alvarez took control of the game. He converted a penalty in the 51st minute after Guler fouled Nico Gonzalez in the box, putting Atletico back in front. Alvarez then extended the lead with a well-taken free-kick in the 64th minute, beating goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Despite Courtois making saves to deny Sorloth, Atletico sealed the victory in stoppage time when substitute Antoine Griezmann scored the fifth goal after being set up by Alex Baena, ensuring the derby win for Atletico.

Atletico Madrid will host Real Madrid in a La Liga derby at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium in Madrid on Saturday, September 26, at 4:15 PM (14:15 GMT). The match will be preceded by build-up coverage on Al Jazeera Sport starting from 1:15 PM, with live text commentary available. Real Madrid, under coach Xabi Alonso, have started the season perfectly by winning all six of their league matches, conceding only three goals, and holding a two-point lead over Barcelona. Alonso cautioned against overconfidence, stressing that the team must remain focused and not assume victory based on their reputation alone. Alonso, who previously managed against Atletico while in charge of Bayer Leverkusen, highlighted the unique challenge of facing them with Real Madrid due to the historic rivalry. He expressed appreciation for the competitive nature of the derby and hopes it continues to be enjoyable. In contrast, Atletico Madrid, led by Diego Simeone, have won just two of their six league games, placing them nine points behind Real. Despite this gap, Alonso noted that Real have failed to defeat Atletico in the league over the last two seasons, suggesting that past performances could influence the outcome. Alonso downplayed the significance of the current standings, emphasizing that it is too early in the season for the table to reflect true form, making the derby an unpredictable encounter.

Julián Álvarez scored a hat trick to secure a 3-2 victory for Atlético Madrid over Rayo Vallecano at the Metropolitano, marking only their second LaLiga win of the season. Álvarez opened the scoring for Atlético in the first half with a left-footed finish from Marcos Llorente's cross, but Rayo Vallecano equalized in stoppage time through a spectacular 35-yard strike from Pep Chavarría. In the second half, Rayo Vallecano took a 2-1 lead when Álvaro García capitalized on a breakaway move, scoring from a tight angle. However, Álvarez equalized with 10 minutes remaining and completed his hat trick by firing left-footed into the top corner to clinch the win for Atlético. During the match, Atlético captain Koke was fortunate to avoid a red card after seemingly grabbing the opposing goalkeeper by the throat.

Lamine Yamal has made history by winning the Kopa Trophy for the second consecutive year, becoming the first player ever to retain this award, which recognizes the best footballer under the age of 21. He received the honor at the 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony held at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. Upon accepting the award, Yamal expressed gratitude to France Football, FC Barcelona, and the Spanish national team, acknowledging their role in his success. He also mentioned teammates Pau Cubarsí and Raphinha, who were present, and thanked his family, concluding with a commitment to continue working hard. The Kopa Trophy, first awarded in 2018, had always featured a new winner each year until Yamal's back-to-back victories. At just 18 years old, Barcelona's number 10 has established himself as a leading figure in global football, known for breaking records at a young age. Yamal's win reinforces FC Barcelona's dominance of the Kopa Trophy, with blaugrana players having won it four times in the seven editions so far. Predecessors include Pedri (2021), Gavi (2022), and Yamal himself (2024), with Pau Cubarsí also nominated for the second year running. Last season, Yamal had an extraordinary campaign under coach Hansi Flick, playing in 55 games, scoring 18 goals, and providing 21 assists. His contributions were pivotal in helping Barcelona achieve a domestic treble by winning the Liga, Copa, and Supercopa, and he also shone with the Spanish national team, aiding their reach to the Nations League final. On an individual level, Yamal accumulated numerous accolades, including the Kopa Trophy, Golden Boy award, Laureus Breakthrough of the Year prize, and a spot in the FIFPRO World XI. Despite being only 18, he has already garnered an impressive array of honors.

FC Barcelona midfielder Fermín López has sustained an iliopsoas muscle injury in his left leg, resulting in an estimated three-week absence from play. The injury happened in the dying moments of Sunday's 3-0 victory over Getafe at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, after López had been brought on as a substitute in the second half.