However, Barcelona responded swiftly, first through Eric García’s header, followed by Lamine Yamal’s brilliant curling shot to make it 2-2. The first half concluded with Raphinha scoring twice, putting Barcelona 4-2 ahead, and ultimately, Barcelona clinched a crucial victory.

Kylian Mbappé completed his hat trick in the 70th minute with a goal set up by Vinícius Júnior, keeping Madrid’s hopes alive for a dramatic finish. However, despite Madrid’s late chances and disallowed goals from both Mbappé and Fermín López, Barcelona held their ground, ensuring they extended their lead in the LaLiga title race. This victory left Barcelona seven points clear with three games remaining, positioning them well to win the title soon.

Barcelona’s Resilience Shines as They Dominate Madrid, Closing in on LaLiga Title

Barcelona displayed immense resilience after their midweek Champions League exit, bouncing back to secure an important win against Madrid. Their mental fortitude throughout the season has been evident, coming from behind in multiple games, and this victory added to their domestic success.

With LaLiga within reach, Barcelona’s clean sweep of domestic trophies — including the Spanish Supercopa and Copa del Rey — is now almost guaranteed, with a win over Espanyol potentially sealing the title.

Barcelona’s attacking play was devastating, especially during a remarkable stretch in the first half when they scored four goals in just 26 minutes. Madrid’s defense was exposed repeatedly, with Vázquez’s error allowing Raphinha to seal Barcelona’s 4-2 lead. This pattern of Barcelona tearing Madrid apart has been evident multiple times this season, showcasing their offensive dominance. The match further exposed Madrid’s defensive frailties, a recurring issue this season.

Madrid’s defense, already depleted due to injuries to key players, was thoroughly tested by Barcelona’s relentless attack. Vázquez and Fran García struggled to cope with the pressure, and their errors were punished severely. Despite having a strong start with Mbappé’s early goals, Madrid’s defensive weaknesses led to them conceding four goals in quick succession — a worrying trend for Madrid this season, especially in key encounters with Barcelona.

Barcelona’s high pressing and high defensive line have often been points of criticism this season. Despite occasional vulnerabilities, such as conceding goals due to their risky style, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

Under coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona has shown remarkable resilience, coming back from two goals down multiple times, including against strong opponents like Inter Milan and Atlético Madrid. Their high line, though risky, has contributed to their dynamic and entertaining attacking play, with the team now poised for a potential domestic treble.

Mbappé’s Goals Aren’t Enough as Barcelona Nears LaLiga Title with Impressive Dominance

Despite Mbappé’s remarkable individual performance this season, scoring 39 goals across all competitions, Real Madrid’s lack of major trophies remains a significant disappointment. Mbappé’s stellar performances, including a hat-trick in the final Clásico, have not been enough to secure silverware for Madrid.

This mirrors his time at Paris Saint-Germain, where, despite scoring heavily, he failed to win the Champions League. His season with Madrid, although impressive on a personal level, could be viewed as a letdown in terms of collective achievement.

With their win over Real Madrid, Barcelona is now on the verge of securing the LaLiga title. The team has shown exceptional character and determination throughout the season, and their offensive firepower has been unmatched.

While Madrid’s defense continues to be a major issue, Barcelona’s attacking brilliance, led by young stars like Lamine Yamal, has been central to their success. With a few more points required to seal the LaLiga crown, Barcelona’s domestic dominance this season seems almost certain.

The post Barcelona Roars Back to Beat Madrid 4-3 and Moves Within Reach of LaLiga Title appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

This article explores the legacy of Xavi, the profound impact he had on football, and how he became the embodiment of a generation’s style of play.

Xavi was born on January 25, 1980, in Terrassa, Spain. He began his youth career at Barcelona’s La Masia, the club’s famed youth academy, which has produced numerous world-class players. His potential was clear from an early age, and he quickly rose through the ranks, making his first-team debut for Barcelona in 1998.

At the time, Barcelona was struggling to reclaim its former glory, but Xavi’s presence would help shape the team into one of the most dominant forces in the history of the sport.

From the moment Xavi entered the senior squad, his exceptional passing and technical skills stood out. His ability to control the tempo of a match with precise passing, intricate movements, and a deep understanding of space was evident.

Xavi was the metronome of Barcelona’s attack, orchestrating every move and ensuring that the ball moved smoothly and swiftly across the pitch. His passing range was vast, from short, quick passes to long, sweeping balls that could change the course of a game in an instant.

But it wasn’t just his passing that made Xavi such a revolutionary player. It was his footballing intelligence. Xavi had an innate ability to read the game, anticipating the movements of his teammates and opponents alike. This ability allowed him to make split-second decisions that often seemed to be ahead of the play, giving him a unique advantage.

His understanding of space and timing was exceptional

He rarely needed to use excessive touches on the ball, always opting for the most efficient way to move it, allowing him to maintain possession under pressure and release the ball at just the right moment.

Xavi’s technical mastery was further displayed in his dribbling and close control. While he wasn’t known for blistering pace, his ability to glide past opponents with subtle touches and quick turns was remarkable. He didn’t rely on physical attributes but instead used his quick thinking and exceptional technique to outmaneuver defenders.

His low center of gravity, combined with impeccable balance, allowed him to glide through tight spaces, maintaining possession while keeping the ball close to his feet. Xavi wasn’t just a passer; he was a master at dictating the rhythm of the game and controlling the tempo of Barcelona’s build-up play.

Xavi’s playing style was central to the philosophy instilled by Barcelona’s legendary coach, Johan Cruyff. Cruyff’s emphasis on possession football, short passing, and intelligent movement laid the foundation for what would become known as the “tiki-taka” style of play.

Xavi, alongside players like Andrés Iniesta and Sergio Busquets, helped perfect this approach. Under Cruyff’s guidance and with the talents of players like Xavi, Barcelona developed a style that was characterized by relentless possession, fluid passing, and a commitment to keeping the ball on the ground.

This philosophy wasn’t limited to club football; it was a defining characteristic of the Spanish national team as well. Xavi’s influence on the Spanish team was profound. He was the leader of a midfield that dominated European and world football for several years. Alongside Iniesta, Xavi was a key figure in Spain’s historic victory at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, their first-ever win in the tournament’s history.

His ability to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game was instrumental in Spain’s triumph, and his partnership with Iniesta became the backbone of the team’s success.

He was an integral part of Spain’s victories

Xavi’s international success continued at the European Championship level in 2008 and 2012. These wins further solidified Xavi’s legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.

His contributions were not only technical but also mental. Xavi’s leadership on the pitch, his ability to maintain composure under pressure, and his unwavering commitment to his team made him a true captain, even when he wasn’t wearing the armband.

As Xavi aged and his career progressed, he remained a key figure for Barcelona, even as the team transitioned through various phases. His understanding of the game and his ability to read the match never diminished, and he continued to be the lynchpin in the midfield for years.

Xavi’s influence on the younger players in the squad was immeasurable. Players like Sergio Busquets and Thiago Alcântara learned from Xavi’s mastery of midfield play and continued his legacy long after his departure from Barcelona.

In 2015, after spending his entire professional career at Barcelona, Xavi made the decision to leave the club and continue his career in Qatar with Al Sadd. His move to Qatar marked the end of an era for both Barcelona and Spain. However, his influence on the game didn’t end there.

Xavi transitioned into a managerial role, returning to Barcelona to coach the team in 2021, where he was tasked with restoring the club to its former glory. Even in his managerial career, Xavi continued to advocate for the principles of possession-based football and the importance of controlling the game.

Xavi’s legacy is undeniable. He defined a generation of football, leaving an indelible mark on both Barcelona and the Spanish national team. His intelligence, vision, and technical brilliance revolutionized the role of the midfielder, and his influence can still be seen in the way the game is played today. Whether as a player or as a coach, Xavi’s contribution to football will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.

The post Xavi Hernández: Barcelona’s Midfield Maestro Who Shaped an Entire Football Era appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

Lewandowski’s early career began at a young age. He initially played for local clubs in Poland, including Znicz Pruszków and Lech Poznań. It was at Lech Poznań that Lewandowski made a name for himself, finishing as the top scorer of the Polish Ekstraklasa. His impressive performances earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund in 2010, where his career truly began to soar.

Under the management of Jürgen Klopp, Lewandowski became one of the most lethal strikers in Europe. His ability to find the back of the net with consistency, combined with his sharp footballing intelligence, made him a key player for the German side.

At Borussia Dortmund, Lewandowski won two Bundesliga titles and reached the final of the UEFA Champions League in 2013. It was during this time that his reputation as one of the best strikers in Europe started to solidify. His physicality, technical skills, and eye for goal were just some of the reasons he was so feared by defenders.

Lewandowski quickly became a fan-favorite

His performances were often the difference between victory and defeat for Dortmund However, it was after his move to Bayern Munich in 2014 that Lewandowski truly pumped his game to new heights. The striker’s transfer to the Bavarian giants proved to be a turning point in his career. At Bayern Munich, Lewandowski achieved everything a footballer dreams of.

He won countless domestic titles, including multiple Bundesliga titles, DFB Pokal trophies, and the coveted UEFA Champions League in 2020. His role in Bayern’s treble-winning season was crucial, with Lewandowski finishing as the top scorer in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.

Lewandowski’s goalscoring prowess is what has set him apart from his contemporaries. His ability to score in a variety of ways – whether it be with his head, left foot, right foot, or from the penalty spot – makes him a versatile forward. His positioning, awareness of space, and technical skills allow him to score from almost any situation.

Lewandowski has displayed time and again that he is a clinical finisher, rarely missing opportunities in front of goal. His ability to make the most of every chance that comes his way has led him to break several records throughout his career.

One of the most remarkable feats Lewandowski achieved was during the 2020/21 season when he broke Gerd Müller’s long-standing Bundesliga record of 40 goals in a season by scoring 41 goals. This feat not only solidified his place in the history of Bayern Munich but also in football history as a whole.

The fact that Lewandowski did this in a season impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with its disrupted schedule and empty stadiums, made his achievement even more extraordinary. It was a testament to his unwavering commitment and goal-scoring instinct.

In addition to his club success, Lewandowski has also been a vital player for the Polish national team. While Poland has not consistently been a force on the international stage, Lewandowski’s leadership and goalscoring ability have often been the driving force behind the team’s performances.

Key player for qualifications

He is Poland’s all-time top scorer and has played a pivotal role in their qualification for major tournaments like the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup. His ability to inspire his national team with his performances and leadership is a testament to his character both on and off the pitch.

Lewandowski’s success is not solely based on his natural talent; it is his work ethic and professionalism that have played a significant role in his rise to stardom. Throughout his career, Lewandowski has always been known for his dedication to improving his game.

He has continually worked on refining his skills, fitness, and mental approach to football, which has allowed him to maintain his elite level of performance well into his 30s. This commitment to self-improvement has made him a role model for younger players looking to emulate his success.

In recognition of his incredible achievements, Lewandowski has been awarded several individual honors throughout his career, including the prestigious FIFA Best Men’s Player award in 2020. His consistency, longevity, and remarkable goal-scoring ability have earned him the respect of fans, players, and coaches alike. Despite all the accolades, Lewandowski remains grounded and focused on continuing his journey and striving for further success.

Robert Lewandowski’s journey from a young Polish footballer to one of the best strikers in the history of the sport is a testament to his relentless drive and exceptional talent. His success at both club and international levels has made him one of the most admired players in European football.

His goal-scoring feats and his ability to lead his teams to victory have earned him a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Lewandowski’s influence on the game of football is undeniable, and he will undoubtedly remain one of the sport’s greatest players for generations.

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Born in Rosario, Argentina, on June 24, 1987, Messi’s love for football was evident from a young age. However, his early years were not without challenges. At just 11 years old, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency that threatened to derail his dream of becoming a professional footballer.

Fortunately, his talent was undeniable, and after being noticed by Barcelona scouts, Messi moved to Spain to join the club’s famed La Masia academy. This decision would change his life forever.

Messi’s breakthrough into Barcelona’s first team came in 2004 when he was just 17 years old. From that moment on, his rise to superstardom was rapid. His natural talent, vision, and creativity on the ball quickly set him apart from his peers. Messi’s dribbling ability was mesmerizing, his first touch flawless, and his ability to find the back of the net was unparalleled.

It didn’t take long for him to become the face of Barcelona and, by extension, one of the most recognizable athletes on the planet.

Over the next 17 years, Messi’s achievements with Barcelona were remarkable. He won numerous La Liga titles, Copa del Rey trophies, and, most importantly, four UEFA Champions League titles. His individual accolades were just as impressive, with Messi winning the Ballon d’Or a record seven times. These honors are a testament to his consistency, brilliance, and impact on the pitch.

Messi’s greatness was not just about statistics

His playing style revolutionized how people viewed the role of a forward. While many traditional strikers relied on physicality and power, Messi combined his technical brilliance with a sense of artistry.

His low center of gravity, close control, and quick acceleration allowed him to maneuver through defenses in ways few others could replicate. Whether it was his trademark dribbles, clinical finishes, or the many assists he provided to his teammates, Messi’s playmaking abilities were second to none.

In addition to his individual prowess, Messi’s leadership qualities became more evident over the years. In 2018, he was named Barcelona’s captain, a role he embraced with great responsibility. Despite the weight of expectations, Messi remained humble and focused on achieving success for the team. Under his captaincy, Barcelona continued to dominate domestically and abroad, and his leadership on and off the field was crucial to their continued success.

However, despite all his successes, Messi’s time at Barcelona came to a heartbreaking end in 2021. Due to financial constraints and the club’s inability to comply with La Liga’s salary cap regulations, Barcelona was forced to part ways with their star player. It was a move that shocked the football world, and Messi, who had spent his entire professional career at the club, was left to seek a new challenge.

In August 2021, Messi made the decision to join Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), marking the end of an era at Barcelona and the beginning of a new chapter in his career. His arrival in Paris was met with fanfare and excitement, as PSG looked to build a team capable of challenging for the Champions League.

Despite the change in clubs, Messi’s influence on the field remained undeniable. He continued to deliver incredible performances, providing assists, scoring goals, and helping PSG in their quest for more silverware.

Messi’s legacy extends beyond his club’s success

His contributions to the Argentine national team have been just as significant. For years, he faced criticism for not replicating his Barcelona form with Argentina, but in 2021, Messi helped guide his country to victory in the Copa América, their first major international trophy in nearly three decades.

This victory silenced his doubters and cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Despite the challenges Messi has faced throughout his career, including injuries and intense scrutiny, he has always risen above and continued to perform at the highest level. His professionalism, dedication, and love for the game have made him an icon in football. His success is a combination of hard work, talent, and an unwavering desire to be the best.

Messi’s influence extends far beyond the football pitch. He is admired for his humility, commitment to giving back through his charitable foundation, and status as a role model for young athletes worldwide.

As Messi enters the twilight years of his career, his legacy is firmly entrenched in the annals of football history. He has transcended the game, becoming not just a player, but a symbol of excellence and determination. His journey from the streets of Rosario to becoming a global icon is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and love for football.

Messi’s story continues to inspire millions, and his unparalleled career will forever be remembered as one of the greatest in the history of the sport.

In the end, Lionel Messi’s career has been defined by his ability to audiences, break records, and redefine what it means to be a footballing great. Whether at Barcelona, PSG, or with the Argentine national team, Messi’s impact on the game is immeasurable. His legacy is secure, and the story of his incredible journey from a young boy with a dream to a global football icon will continue to inspire generations to come.

The post Lionel Messi: From Barcelona to Global Icon – The Unmatched Journey of Messi appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

The decision means that both players are now available for selection, including for significant fixtures like the Spanish Super Cup Final against Real Madrid. Barcelona expressed their satisfaction with this development, highlighting the immediate impact of Olmo and Victor, who have been crucial to the team’s performances since their respective arrivals. Olmo, acquired from RB Leipzig for €60 million, has contributed six goals in 15 appearances, while Victor has played 17 times following a permanent move from Girona.

The CSD justified its intervention by stating that barring the players would cause “serious economic and sports damage” to Barcelona and the athletes themselves. However, this ruling has sparked strong opposition from other LaLiga clubs. Atlético Madrid voiced concerns that the decision undermines LaLiga’s established economic control framework, which has been instrumental in maintaining financial solvency across Spanish football. They argued that government interference sets a dangerous precedent that could compromise the integrity of the competition.

Similarly, RCD Espanyol criticized the CSD’s ruling, claiming it threatens the principles of fairness and equality within the league. Espanyol emphasized their adherence to LaLiga’s financial regulations, which they believe have helped ensure the sustainability of many clubs despite the challenges posed by strict economic controls. They joined other clubs in calling for a review of the resolution to restore trust in the competition’s governance.

The controversy reflects broader tensions in Spanish football, as clubs navigate the balance between regulatory compliance and competitive ambitions. While Barcelona benefits from the temporary registration of Olmo and Victor, the backlash from rival clubs highlights deep divisions over how rules should be enforced and whether exceptions should ever be made. The case also underscores the potential conflicts between governmental bodies and football authorities over the management of the sport.

The post Barcelona Secures Registration of Summer Signings Amid Financial Struggles, Sparking LaLiga Controversy appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

Their first request to make the players eligible was denied, so the club decided to appeal. On Wednesday, the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD) allowed Barcelona to include Olmo and Víctor in their squad temporarily, until the case between the club, La Liga, and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) is decided.

WHAT ESPANYOL SAID

The CSD explained that the decision was made because not granting the precautionary measure could cause “serious economic and sports damage” to both Barcelona and the players. However, the ruling has caused anger among other La Liga teams, with Espanyol and Atletico Madrid both opposing the decision. Espanyol released a statement expressing their concerns about the possible negative effects on the fairness of the competition.

The statement said: “RCD Espanyol wishes to express its concern and worry about the situation that has arisen in Spanish football following the resolution adopted and made public by the Higher Sports Council, in the cases of FC Barcelona footballers Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor.

“The decision to grant an urgent, provisional precautionary measure until the appeal is finally resolved has created a very dangerous precedent and poses a threat to the integrity of the competition, as other clubs, as well as the RFEF and LaLiga, have denounced in various statements and communications.

“RCD Espanyol, which remains fully committed to the competition, has strictly complied with the regulations on economic control and will continue to do so, despite the tensions, limitations and difficulties that these economic rules generate.

“As has been stated in various forums, we understand that the rigorous economic control applied in recent years has ensured the sustainability of many clubs. The Sports Law itself includes and protects this economic control of LaLiga and, however, with this resolution, the norm approved and accepted by all professional clubs is put at risk.

“The main players in football in this country: LALIGA and the RFEF have maintained a common and firm position from their respective authorities throughout the process. However, the CSD has exposed and discredited both institutions with its decision. RCD Espanyol urges a review of this resolution that generates uncertainty and threatens the principles of equality and justice in the competition.”

WHAT ATLETICO MADRID SAID

Atletico Madrid also expressed their concerns. They said: “Club Atletico de Madrid wants to show its deep concern for the situation generated in Spanish football after the resolution adopted by the Consejo Superior de Deportes [“National Sports Council”] on Wednesday. We consider that this decision jeopardises the current system, questioning the rules of the game. The Ley del Deporte [‘Sports Law’] itself includes and protects La Liga’s economic control and yet, with this resolution, it is put at risk.

“LaLiga’s economic control has been the main tool that has managed to turn our football into a solvent sector, a process admired internationally. Our club, like all La Liga members until this resolution, has been complying with the rules of economic control and we will continue to respect them.

“In fact, in order to be able to compete at the level we have been competing at in recent years, we have decided to carry out various capital increases, despite the enormous effort that this entails.

“This government intervention creates a very dangerous precedent, as it opens the door to circumventing the rules and repeating the serious mistakes of the past. Atlético de Madrid remains committed to rigour and responsible management. Without clear and equal rules for all, no fair competition is possible.”

Olmo, who came from RB Leipzig for about €60 million (£50m), has been a key player in the team’s attacking midfield, scoring six goals in 15 appearances. Víctor, who made his loan move from Girona permanent, has played in 17 games for Barcelona.

WHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA?

While Barcelona have won a temporary victory, the final result of the case could influence how financial problems and regulatory rules are handled in the future. Still, this situation comes at a critical time for the club, as they are about to play Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup Final on Sunday.

The post La Liga clubs raise concerns over the decision allowing Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor to play for Barcelona appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

Despite injury concerns affecting Barcelona’s squad depth, their defense is poised to play a crucial role in this matchup, especially considering Athletic Bilbao’s attacking struggles. Here are the key storylines and details for the upcoming match:

How to Watch and Betting Odds:

• Date: Sunday, Oct. 22
• Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Location: Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, Barcelona, Spain
• TV: ESPN
• Live Stream: fubo (try for free)
• Betting Odds: Barcelona -155; Draw +285; Bilbao +410 (via Caesars Sportsbook)

Key Storylines:

Barcelona: Injured players Robert Lewandowski and Pedri are in recovery, with their return expected in time for El Clasico on Oct. 28. However, the midfield remains thin, and Frenkie de Jong is uncertain due to an ankle injury. The responsibility to drive the attack forward continues to rest on Joao Felix’s shoulders, and it is unlikely to change in this match.

Athletic Club: Despite a recent 3-0 victory over Almeria, Bilbao’s struggles have primarily been against clubs in the bottom half of the table this season. They have scored ten goals and conceded two in such encounters. Conversely, facing top-half teams, they have scored four goals and allowed nine, which has proven insufficient. While playing an ailing Barcelona offers an opportunity to course-correct, their away performance does not instill much confidence.

Match Prediction:

Bilbao’s difficulties are expected to persist as Barcelona secures a much-needed victory to steady their ship. **Prediction:** Barcelona 2, Bilbao 0

The post Barcelona Aims to Close the Gap in La Liga Race Against Athletic Bilbao appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

There were speculations of Messi joining Barcelona, his former team, or Al-Hilal in the Saudi league, but when he joined Inter Miami, I doubted whether he would enjoy football here because he is used to playing for the most important trophies and with the best players in the world.

Leonel Messi has achieved every major trophy in his career

Although I believed that Messi would have an impact on the field, even at 36 years of age, he is better than most of the players playing now. I doubted that he would care about football in MLS.

After going through an emotional roller coaster, from losing to Germany in the last few minutes at the 2014 World Cup finals and getting ruled out in the league stage of the 2018 World Cup, to winning it with his magic in 2022, With seven Ballon d’Or awards and no more major trophies to win, Messi completed football.

Messi is being honest with his game

After seeing him play 11 matches with Inter Miami, I would say I was wrong. Messi does care. He took Inter Miami to victory and clashed with the opponents, both verbally and on the field. He has scolded his teammates for ill-times passes, selfish dribbling, or for failing to find him in parts of the field where he does his work the best.

Messi has an unending appetite for football, and his honesty towards football inspires the modern generation. In this last chapter of his career, he is giving his best on the pitch.

“I came here to play, to continue enjoying football, which is what I’ve loved my entire life,” Messi told the reporters during his press conference on August 17, “I was very excited when I arrived. I was very happy and motivated to continue to earn positive results, the way that I have my entire career.”

Inter Miami’s play has improved exponentially after the inclusion of Messi in the team. he has not only been a captain but also a mentor for the whole team, and he has led by example.

Jordi Alba, who played with Messi both at Barcelona and now with Miami, said, “He’s the same player. Leo is a very demanding person. He wants to win. He competes in every training session and in every match. It’s true that he just won a World Cup, but he won’t change.”

Messi is in love with football, but at the same time, he is mature enough to understand the demand that comes with being the best player on the planet. He knows that his every move is scrutinized around the world, and he can make a huge impact on MLS.

Messi is happy in Miami, and his presence on the pitch makes it clear that his magic is working.

The post Lionel Messi News: Major League Soccer hasn’t diminished Messi’s motivation to perform appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

The two clubs have maintained their level of dominance in Europe for decades. Real Madrid has won the highest number of European Championships, and Barcelona is one of the top teams. Ever since Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi became frenemies, the league’s status has just risen. For almost a decade, these two entertained us with some exciting football, probably never seen before. It brought the league to a whole new level and made it the best league in the world. Now, the likes of Karim Benzema and Lewandowski will take the league forward. For people living in the US, UK, and Australia, this article will give details about where to follow La Liga.

Also Read: UEFA Women’s Euro 2022: Quarter Final Showdown

Where To Watch La Liga: In The US

In the US, where to watch La Liga is a repeated question as it is not their league. But, the Spanish league has seen a lot of growth in the country where football is not a dominant sport. Since the league in itself has grown a lot globally, it was only natural that it comes to the US. Now, the situation is completely different. There are millions of football fans in this country willing to follow the sport religiously. When the team visits the States, thousands of supporters gather to watch them. ESPN+ has become the broadcasting of La Liga for the first time. Apart from this, there are many other platforms providing live streams. The fans can visit Fubo TV, Sling TV, and even Amazon Prime to follow the matches.

In The UK

Since La Liga gives direct competition to the premier league, the UK has to provide platforms for La Liga as well. The UK is totally a nation of sports lovers, and if the game is football, then there is no limit. La Liga or Premier League, it doesn’t matter, as long as there is football to watch. But there are a lot of fans of La Liga in this country, and it is the duty of the broadcasters to provide live telecasts. Premier Player will be providing the streams every weekend. Apart from this, Sky and Virgin TV have taken the onus to provide the matches to all the fans.

In Australia: Where To Watch La Liga

Where to watch La Liga in Australia has only one answer. Optus Sport is booming as they get the broadcasting rights of both La Liga and the Premier League. People will get the chance to watch both leagues on one single platform. Make sure all the Aussies don’t miss out on this one.

Also Read: Where To Watch English Premier League In The US, UK, And Australia?

The post Where To Watch La Liga: In The US,UK, And Australia appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

Barcelona would like to forget their last season even though they finished second in the league. The start of that season was absolutely pathetic. There were no signs of improvement, and the team went through a lot of injuries. A time came when the club was forced to play B team players in their main squad. A miraculous thing happened in the second half of the season when Xavi was appointed the manager. New players were brought to the club on loan, and it changed the dynamics. Players like Aubameyang and Adama Traore charged up the team to some extent, and injured players came back as well. The financial situation was out there in the public, which was also a major reason for their downfall.

Let us have a look at how Lewandowski made it to Barcelona.

Also Read: Top Athletes On Instagram

Robert Lewandowski: Transfer To Barcelona

This transfer was not an easy one. For months, Robert Lewandowski stated that he wanted to leave Bayern Munich after the end of last season. The transfer did not come as a surprise, but his relationship with his former club did. There were a lot of heated arguments between Lewandowski and Oliver Kahn, the former goalkeeper and current managerial head of Bayern Munich. Kahn criticized Lewandowski’s public expression of wanting to leave the club and the reasons he gave. Robert publicly stated that he doesn’t feel like staying in Bayern anymore and it is time for him to move on. According to Oliver, such statements cannot be made in public as it affects the image of the club.

Moving on, the financial condition of Barcelona is known to everybody. Sources say that they had to mortgage their TV rights in order to buy new players. That is how they got their hands on Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. Robert seems to be very happy, as he has expressed his desire to be a part of the Spanish club for a long time. Barcelona appears to be in much better shape than last season, thanks to new additions. Hopefully, they are looking at a much better season than the previous one.

Who Is He?

Robert Lewandowski is a Polish international football player. He is a superstar football and one of the best ever of his generation. He started his career in Poland and made it to Germany when he signed for Borussia Dortmund. In Dortmund, Lewandowski became a world-class striker before moving to Bayern Munich in 2014. From that season onwards, Lewandowski has turned into a goals machine and never stopped since. The 33-year-old will make his first appearance for Barcelona when the new season kicks off in August.

Also Read: Lleyton Hewitt And His Induction Into Tennis Hall Of Fame: Life, Career, And Net Worth

The post Robert Lewandowski Joins Barcelona: Big Boost For the Catalonia Club appeared first on Sports Al Dente.

The competition is very tough as European basketball is very different from American basketball. The games are more demanding in terms of defense, and the scoring looks much tougher. NBA is more about the raw talent and the showboating that comes with the league. Euroleague is about player development, and a lot of young stars try their luck in the NBA afterward. A lot of players, very amazing players, not able to get a chance to prove themselves in the NBA, come to Euroleague and become superstars.

Let us have a look at the breakdown of the Euroleague.

Also Read: Basketball Leagues: Forget NBA, Watch European Leagues

Euroleague: How Is The Breakdown

The system of basketball is pretty similar to that of football. The qualification criteria are the same for Euroleague. Leagues that have more teams get a chance to qualify more teams for the Euroleague. For example, from Spain, four teams can qualify for the Euroleague because of the number of teams in the domestic league. Similarly, in the Russian league, there are not as many teams as there are in the Spanish league, so only two-three teams qualify. Germany two, Turkey two, and Israel only one. Others factors also play a role in determining the number of teams from a domestic league. The performance of teams in the Euroleague over a period of a few years also increases or decreases the number of teams participating in the Euroleague.

For example, if Real Madrid and Barcelona consistently perform well in the competition, then the number of teams from Spain shall remain high. But if the performance of these teams is poor, then the number of teams participating could be less. This is not decided in just a single season but rather over a few seasons. If you are the champion of your domestic leagues, then you automatically qualify for the Euroleague. Recent champions are Real Madrid(Spain), CSKA Moscow(Russia), Fenerbahce(Turkey), Alba Berlin(Germany), and Olimpia Milano(Italy).

Format Of The League

Over a period of eight months, the round-robin system is applied. Every team plays each other twice over the course of eight months. The top eight teams then qualify for the playoffs. It is a rigorous eight-month period of constant traveling. Because, not like the NBA, in Europe, they have to play their domestic league matches during the weekends and then Euroleague in the mid-week. So it is a lot of sacrifices, and not easy to do the things that players do.

Also Read: Australian Basketball Leagues: A Perfect Breakdown

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For over 50 years, this competition has entertained us and has given us some best footballing action. Matches that we can always watch on repeat and still gives us goosebumps. There are fans all over the world who go to witness the action live inside the stadiums. They have been part of such historical matches that we still remember today, matches of the past. There is not a single season where fans are left disappointed. Every season something new happens, there is a new hero, a new villain in the story, and possibly a new champion. The current holders are Real Madrid, who won their fifth title in the last eight years.

Let’s have a look at some of the most iconic matches in the UEFA Champions League for the past decade.

Also Read: Real Madrid Vs Barcelona: Top 6 El Clasicos Of the 21st Century

Champions League: Juventus Vs Bayern Munich Quarterfinal 2015/2016( 4-6)

This is one of the most exciting round-of-8 matches probably ever witnessed in the Champions League. It was a two-legged round where the first match was played at Juventus’s home stadium. The match started off on a very positive note for Bayern Munich as they took a two-nil lead. Things were looking bad for Juventus, and it seemed they would be out of the competition. However, in the second half, they came back to make it a 2-2 draw. Goals from Paolo Dybala and Morata ensured that things will be exciting in the second leg. Bayern Munich, though still had an upper hand because of two away goals.

The second leg was even more exciting for the spectators. It followed a similar suit, but Juventus looked much better than Bayern. A fantastic solo run by Morata, passing through 5-6 Bayern players, opened up an easy chance for Cuadrado to finish. Pep Guardiola, manager of Bayern Munich at that time, couldn’t believe his eyes. Juventus were now 2-0 up in the second leg, leading the tie 4-2. In the second half, the story changed. Bayern came back and how. They equalized quickly to make it 4-4, and the match went to overtime. Maybe, it was the fatigue or what, but Bayern just overpowered Juventus. They started putting in crosses inside the box, a different approach than what Guardiola is used to. Two quick goals sealed the deal for Bayern, and they won the tie 4-6.

Champions League: PSG Vs Barcelona 2016/2017 (5-6)

This was probably the biggest comeback of recent times or even ever in the Champions League. It was a round-of-16 encounter, PSG faced Barcelona in Paris for the first leg. Things couldn’t have turned out to be more amazing for PSG because they dominated Barcelona. The worst thing was that Barcelona had only one shot in the entire match and PSG had ten. Angel Di Maria opened the scoring for the home team in the 18th minute before Draxler made it 2-0 just before the end of the first half. As soon as the second half began, Di Maria scored his second goal of the match in the 55th minute, making it 3-0. In the 71st minute, Edinson Cavani scored the fourth goal. A disastrous result for Barcelona as they had a mountain to climb on the second leg.

Barcelona fans had given up hopes that their team would be able to turn something around. They needed no less than a miracle to turn things around, doing the improbable and impossible. But would you believe what happened? The miracle came true at Camp Nou. What happened that night probably never happened before, and I can’t promise that it will ever happen again. In the third minute of the match, Suarez opened the scoring for Barcelona. You always need early goals whenever trying to make a comeback. Unfortunately for PSG, Kurzawa scored an own goal in the 40th minute of the match that put Barcelona two-nil ahead. Messi scored a penalty at the beginning of the second half, and Barcelona needed only two goals more to win the match. However, Edinson Cavani brought one back for PSG in the 71st minute.

With less than 10 minutes left on the clock, it seemed the dream for Barcelona was finally over. But then came Neymar. He was Barca’s best player in the first leg when the team did not perform well. He came to life in the dying moments, and believe you may, in the 88th minute, he scored a wonderful goal. Now needed only two goals in the final few minutes, Neymar won a penalty and converted it. It was the 91st minute, and the score was level. It meant PSG was still going through because of the crucial away goal. However, in the last seconds, probably in the last chance, Barcelona scored a goal courtesy of Sergi Roberto. The entire stadium erupted, and there were scenes in Camp Nou we had never seen before. Barcelona won the tie 5-6.

Liverpool vs Barcelona 2018/2019 (4-3)

The previous year, in the 2017/2018 season, Liverpool had lost to Real Madrid in the final of the Champions League. It was a devastating loss for the players and for Liverpool fans. Come next year, they were again in the race to qualify for the Champions League final. This time, in the semi-final, they were facing the mighty Barcelona. The first leg happening in Camp Nou, where things started on a good note for Barcelona. Luis Suarez opened the scoring in the 26th minute against his former club. The score stayed the same in the first half. The second half saw two great goals from Lionel Messi. The first one came in the 75th minute, and the third was a beauty. Probably the best free-kick Messi ever scored in his career. The match ended 3-0 in Barca’s favor, and it looked over for Liverpool.

The night arrived at Anfield. This stadium has some different energy that brings out the best in home team players. It had the same effect that night. Origi opened up the scoring in the 7th minute for Liverpool. It looked like Liverpool was off to a great start, but nothing solid happened in the coming minutes. The first half ended with Liverpool leading 1-0. It was a monumental task to make a comeback against a team like Barcelona, but some things are just meant to be. Out of nowhere, Wijnaldum scored two quick-fire goals for Liverpool, making the score 3-3 on aggregate. In the 79th minute, a smart move by Trent Alexander Arnold, taking an early corner, saw a completely free Origi scoring in an open net. The scenes at Anfield, once this goal was scored, are indescribable. It was like a tsunami of happiness inside the stadium.

The tie ended 4-3 in favor of Liverpool. These are some of the epic moments in UEFA Champions League history for the past decade.

Also Read: The Purest Football Tournament Of The Year: UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 preview!

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Ever since the arrival of Xavi as a manager in Barcelona, things have turned around for good. They were able to bring in some players on loan in the second half of the season. The likes of Aubameyang and Traore brought in some luck for the club. They outperformed most of the clubs in the second half and finished second in the league, behind their eternal rivals Real Madrid. Though it was a painful defeat, it was still a positive end to their destructive campaign. With the transfer season going on, it looks like Barcelona has made some breakthroughs.

Also Read: Football Transfers July 2022: Latest On Players

Barcelona: Welcome, Frank Kessie And Christensen

Barcelona has officially made signings now. Frank Kessie has agreed to join Barcelona on a free transfer. His contract expired with AC Milan at the end of the season, and he became a free agent. Barcelona enquired about him, and soon enough, he landed at Camp Nou. The club has made a release clause of €500 million to tackle their cash crunch situation. In a statement by the club, Kessie states, “It’s a great opportunity. “I want to begin and do my best for this team. When a great coach like Xavi [Hernandez] calls you, who has been a great player, you see that all your efforts have been worth it. I can’t wait to start working with him and my teammates.”

Kessie as a free transfer is a significant value addition. He was instrumental in Milan lifting the Serie A trophy a couple of months ago. With his experience playing in Europe, he can guide many young players trying to make their mark in Barcelona.

Christensen Joins On A Long-Term Deal

Christensen has followed Kessie and joined Barcelona on a four-year deal. The 26 -year-old is also joining Barca on a free transfer and has the same release clause of €500 million as Kessie. The wonderful thing about both deals is that Kessie and Christensen have a lot of experience playing in the top league for many years. But the good thing is they are still very young. Kessie is only 25 while Christensen is 26, and they have more to give to the club than just experience.

In the kind of situation Barcelona is, financially, it seems they have a jackpot with these free transfers.

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Talking about Manchester, Manchester United has raced their talks to sign Frankie De Jong from Barcelona. Ten Haag looks determined to sign the Dutch player from the Catalonia club. They have also contacted Feyenoord’s left-back Tyrell Malacia. This is a crucial time for the clubs as they definitely look to solidify the pace of their signings. At present, United’s situation is not pleasant, with no deals so far in the transfer market. Newcastle has completed the signing of Sven Botman from Lille. This is a £35m signing and looks really promising. Alex Murphy, Matt Targett, and Nick Pope are already in the lineup for the new season. Great transfer market so far for Newcastle.

Football Transfer: Arsenal’s New Bid For Martinez

As per reports in the Football Transfer, Mikel Arteta early on made a £29m bid for the Ajax defender. This bid was instantly rejected by the Dutch team. As sharp as Arsenal looks in this summer’s Transfer Market, they have immediately proposed a new deal. A £35 million new deal which has bonuses as well looks a bit tempting. Martinez has also expressed his desire to play in the premier league, and it looks like it might come out to be true.

Gabriel Jesus Is Having Medical At Arsenal: Football Transfers

Gabriel Jesus is set to have his medical, which means that anytime soon, he will be officially announced as an Arsenal player. Fans are really happy with the news and can’t wait for the season to start.

Also Read: Transfer Deals: Frankie De Jong Inches Closer, What Is Next For Chelsea, and Real Madrid Already Thinking Of Next Summer

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He currently plays for PSG, a French club. In 2017 he joined the French giants from Barcelona at a record transfer fee. Coming from Brazil, at a very young age he signed for his hometown club Santos. At Santos, he became a regular instantly and just in a season or two became the most important player at the club. He attracted a lot of European giants and in 2013 signed for Barcelona. In Barcelona, very famously his trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez became probably the best attacking trio in the history of football. They were called MSN.

A detailed history of Neymar’s life as a professional, his earnings, and net worth.

Also Read: Lionel Messi: All About The Rival of Cristiano Ronaldo

Neymar: Life

Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, also Neymar is a Brazilian football player born on 5 February 1992. His early childhood has been spent in a very lower-middle-class family. Not a lot of stuff happening in the house, not a lot of money. But, the passion for football was always there. Be it the streets or the ground, Neymar did not leave any opportunity to show his talent. The boy was always special, different from other boys in terms of skills. His father used to take him to different coaches, making them see his game. This is how Neymar was noticed and he signed for his club Santos. This club was his journey to stardom. We all remember his amazing solo goal in 2011, for which he even won the Puskas award. From there on he attracted a lot of European clubs.

Biggest of the biggest clubs were interested to sign him and in 2013 he moved to Barcelona. With Barcelona, he won almost everything. The La Liga, Champions League, and the Spanish Cup. 2014-2015 was the season Barcelona won the treble, thanks to the wonderful trip of Messi-Neymar-Suarez, popularly called MSN. In 2017 he joined PSG at a record transfer fee. As of now, he is still a part of the French team. Neymar has also two Olympic medals to his name. A silver medal in the 2012 London Olympics Games, and a Gold in his home country in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Earnings And Net Worth

Being the superstar he is, Neymar leads a very lavish lifestyle which he is not afraid to show. According to the famous Celebrity Net Worth, Neymar’s base salary is around $78 million. From bonuses and other endorsements, he earns an extra $20- $40 million. His net worth as of now is estimated to be around $200 million. By the time his career ends, his net worth is surely going to increase folds.

Wishing Neymar the best in all his future endeavors.

Also Read: Andy Murray And His Mega Comeback: Life, Earnings and Net Worth

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After signing Marquinhos and Fabio Vieria, Arsenal has set eyes on Raphinha as well. While the deal seems difficult, they have another option looming around. Reports suggest that Serge Gnabry looks ready to leave Bayern Munich. This could be a great opportunity for Arsenal to grab hold of the player. If Raphinha’s deal doesn’t come out, then for the same position Serge Gnabry is no less. If any of the deals become a success, then Arsenal is already ahead in the transfer market. Looks like Manchester City is about to win the race for Kalvin Philips. This could be another Englishman wearing the light blue jersey after Jack Grealish in the previous season.

Also Read: The Ever-Hot Transfer Window- World Of Football

Football Transfers: Ronaldo Likely To Leave Manchester United?

Strong reports are coming in regarding football transfers. Cristiano Ronaldo is set to leave Manchester United. Whether or not this is true, it is really heartbreaking for all the United fans. Ronaldo joined Manchester last summer, and the team was expected to perform really well, However, it went completely opposite, and the team could not qualify for the Champions League. Cristiano Ronaldo’s season was still decent, but there were no trophies to add to his list of achievements. Possibly, he is happy with the situation at the club, and a player of his stature has to be playing at a higher level. The current situation of United in the transfer market is also looking bad, thus further pushing Ronaldo away from the club.

Juventus has received an offer for De Legit from Chelsea. The blues are ready to offer around £40million plus Timo Werner. With Chellini already off to the MLS, Juve has to get a great price if they are set to leave the young defender. The reports of Robert Lewandowski joining Barcelona have been going on for months, and there has been no major breakthrough yet. Since a striker’s position is available at Bayern, Cristiano Ronaldo might be a very good option. Sane, Mane, and Ronaldo alongside Muller sounds like a deadly combination.

Gabriel Jesus To Arsenal: Is The Deal Done?

The latest reports suggest that Arsenal are more close than ever to signing Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City. The 25-year-old is set to join his former coach Mikel Arteta at Arsenal at a fee of £50 million. The Brazilian will bring a lot of attacking options for the gunners, and they can be a real threat in the upcoming season.

Breaking news is surfacing regarding Salah. A Liverpool legend now, Salah is wishing to end his stay at the club, and he will stay if the demands are met. The price tag of Salah is currently at £60 million, but according to sources, he has demanded £160,000 a week, more than Virgil Van Djik. If the demands are met, he will probably sign a new contract.

We will be back with more transfer updates soon.

Also Read: Football Transfers Latest Update: Mane Bids Farewell and More

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Genius and King, these words seem so synonymous with the forever number 10 (even though he is not in PSG), it doesn’t matter. I can cite more of Ray Hudson’s examples to describe this man, but I guess it is enough. We all can feel the emotions. What this superhuman does on the pitch has never been seen before. Very difficult to predict the future, but close to certain that nobody would come close to him in the years to come. 15 years of pure joy and counting, Messi has provided us. Sometimes, it becomes greater than just a sport. The players are the ones who make that happen. Fortunately for us, Leo is one of them.

Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo The Superstar Footballer- How Rich Is He?

Lionel Messi- From Barcelona With Love

Lionel Messi was very, very young when he left Argentina and came to Barcelona, Spain. He joined the famous La Masia academy and started getting noticed immediately. There was definitely something different about which coaches noticed very early on. His left foot was just magical. The control, agility, and speed with the ball reminded them of Maradona, the legendary Argentinian footballer. Messi was seen as the next big thing for Argentina. At age 17, he made his debut for Barcelona, and from there, he hasn’t looked behind. His career graph and just gone up, and to this day, he reminds us of the magic he created many years ago.

In October 2004, at 17, Messi made his debut for Barcelona. During 17 years in Barcelona, he won almost everything with the club as well as individual awards. He is the only player in history to receive seven Ballon d’ Or awards. In the summer of 2021, Messi bid an emotional farewell to Barcelona and joined PSG.

The Rivalry, The G.O.A.T.S- Lionel Messi And Cristiano Ronaldo

The last decade was total domination by these two players, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. If it was for these two personalities, then nobody would have witnessed what all can be achieved in football. When Ronaldo joined Real Madrid in 2009, it opened a new rivalry. A sporting rivalry that was just between two clubs before, Real Madrid and Barcelona, but this opened doors to Messi vs. Ronaldo. Throughout the last decade, both players pushed each other to keep getting better. Till the time Ronaldo was in Madrid, they shared 9 Ballon d’ Ors between them. This is insane. No other player has even come close to such intensity. This is something both the players will cherish forever.

His Wealth- Earnings, And Net Worth

According to Forbes, Lionel Messi’s net worth is around $400 million. His salary since joining PSG is expected to be close to €780,000 per week before taxes. He has some businesses running but is not very public about them. Other than that, his lifestyle is not flashy, and maintains a balanced life.

Let’s add another of Ray’s quotes to sum him up, “I tell you what, if Issac Newton was watching this man, he would be saying, boy was I wrong? Astonishing from Lionel. Sweeter than a mother’s kiss at bedtime.”

Also Read: Leo Messi Debuted as An Actor In ‘Los Protectores’

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Battle for Kalvin Philips is full-on as the Leeds midfielder has been in demand from two giant clubs of Europe. Earlier, Manchester City and now PSG are on the hunt to sign Philips. The star midfielder has always been a fan of the club and a player for them since the beginning. But it seems the club is willing to let him go as they have already signed two players. Brenden Aaronson from Salzburg has already landed at Leeds on a £24.7million fee. Marc Roca joined them for £10 million in fees. This leaves Philips with no choice but to leave before the start of the 2022/2023 season.

Football Transfers- End Of An Era

Football transfers have made headlines in England. In Merseyside, Mane is all set to bid goodbye to Liverpool, where he became one of the best footballers on this planet. After achieving almost everything for the club, he is looking ready for his next chapter with Bayern Munich. Bayern Munich, on the other hand, needs attacking options since Lewandowski has decided to leave the club this summer. With Mane coming in, things look promising for sure but they need a pure no 9 as well.

Financial Woes For Barca Amid De Jong Transfer Speculations- Football Transfers

Ten Haag, Manchester United’s newly appointed manager, has Frankie De Jong as his favorite target. This move could help Barcelona overcome the financial worries as they have a huge list of players to sign, including Lewandowski, Bernardo Silva, Koulibaly, and Marcos Alonso. This deal could bring some sort of relief as they aim to raise almost €600 million by 31st July. This target can certainly remove the baggage of financial difficulty that they currently face.

Hector Bellerin Ready To Give Up Millions To Stay In Betis

After having such a successful season with Real Betis, it seems like the right-back has found his home. After struggling in Arsenal towards the end of his spell and dealing with constant injuries. He played 32 games for Betis, his highest number in several years. Now, he is ready to leave the £5.7million that Arsenal was paying to stay in Spain. Wishing the 27-year-old better seasons ahead.

Football Transfer Market Rumors

Rumors are things that often come out to be true, especially in the transfer market. A recent rumor related to Chelsea, they are pushing for a deal to sign Raheem Sterling from Manchester City. Nothing is confirmed yet, but this news seems to be floating around.

PSG has expressed its interest in signing Renato Sanches from Lille. Now a free agent, Cristian Eriksen is interested if Manchester United makes him an offer. He is considering joining the Red Devils. New reports suggest that Liverpool has contacted Real Madrid to inquire about Marco Asensio. Mane’s loss has spurged new energy in Klopp to bring in new players to the club. That is it for now. We will get back with more official signings, news, and rumors from the Transfer Market.

Also Read: Klopp’s Brand New Band Member: Darwin Nunez Has Officially Joined Liverpool!

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Real Madrid has been able to make a few signings as well. Not sure right now if they are looking for more or not, but they do have two talented French Midfielders now. The addition of Rudiger from Chelsea seems perfect. He is 29 and has a lot of ‘peak’ years left in him. Lewandowski to Barcelona has circulated for a while now, but nothing has been confirmed yet. But what has been confirmed already is Erling Haaland’s signing to Manchester City. This deal is insane. The squad looks deadly, and the fans hope to see their team winning the Champions League this time. It is long due now and with such a squad. Darwin Nunez, on the other hand, has chosen Liverpool to be his guiding force. The ex-Benfica player scored 34 goals in all competition this season and looks to score even more with the reds.

Now let us take a look at what is happening at present.

Also Read: Summer Transfer Window: What Do We Know

Latest Transfers- Medical At Arsenal

The latest transfers news tells us that Arsenal has reached an agreement with the 22-year-old Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira. He was on a Greek Holiday but now has landed in London for his medical test. Arsenal can soon officially make the announcement and a 5-year deal contract.

Latest Transfers- Tottenham Is Close To Signing Third

Having already signed Ivan Perisic and Fraser Forster and Yves Bissouma is very, very close to joining, Tottenham already looks like a club on a mission. If this continues to happen under the leadership of Conte, they will be a force to reckon with. High time for Tottenham fans to cheer their team up.

Let’s Focus On Rumours

Rumors have it that Manchester United is completely after Frankie De Jong, and Barcelona is willing to load him off. The price has to be more convenient if Barcelona is to sell Frankie in order to buy their targets. Lewandowski and Bernardo Silva are primary targets for Barca, with Jules Kounde also in the line. Chelsea and PSG will most likely battle it out for Inter Milan’s midfielder Skriniar. Mane’s exit from Liverpool is closer than it ever looked before. Anytime it can become official that Mane has joined Bayern Munich after a successful 4-5 years with Liverpool.

Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Football Transfers of All Time

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According to football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, the 33-year-old has reached a verbal agreement on a three-year deal with Barcelona, who are on the lookout for a new striker in the market. However, given the financial difficulties faced by Barcelona, there still remains doubt as to where both parties may end up. With Barcelona possibly, looking to offload Frenkie De Jong to Manchester United, maybe they will cash in on that financial boost by bringing in a star player to help with the revenue as well.

Robert Lewandowski’s stand

As of right now, Lewandowski is mentally prepared to leave Bayern, only waiting for the two clubs to reach an agreement. Fabrizio Romano informed us via Twitter that “Robert Lewandowski wants to join Barcelona, no way for other clubs as of today. He knows it’s still not easy to reach an agreement with Bayern – but he’s only waiting for FCB,”. The 2021 FIFA Best Player Award winner currently has one year left on his deal with Bayern Munich. Thus it would also be a beneficial deal for Bayern considering they could lose their star man for free next season. However, as the transfer market has shown us with the Mbappe-Madrid-PSG Saga, it’s never too late to turn around a situation. 

Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer’s opinion

This is where things begin to complicate. Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer has now come out to officially weigh in on the matter and give us a perspective behind Bayern’s policy. Hainer goes on record to state that he remains “confident” that Robert Lewandowski will not secure a transfer away from the club this summer. Despite Robert Lewandowski stating otherwise in an interview during the International break. The Bayern Chief even went as far as to mildly criticize the Polish striker’s decision to disclose his future plans to the public and media. In a recent interview with BILD, Hainer was quoted saying:

“We have always said that Robert Lewandowski has a contract with FC Bayern until June 30, 2023. And a contract is a contract! Where are we going if a player can end a contract early while we as a club would have to pay him in full up to the last day of the term? That’s an inequality, it can’t be like that. I’m a bit surprised that Robert chose to go public, I wouldn’t have done it if I were him. He has been with FC Bayern for a long time, has won many titles with us: the Champions League, eight times German champion, he has twice become world footballer as a Bayern player. I think he knows very well what he has at Bayern, namely a club that treats its players very well, that does everything to enable them to perform at their best. And I have to say: Appreciation is not a one-way street!”

These are certain words that might rub the Polish striker a wrong way. However, a small detail that which Bayern President seemed to have ignored is the fact that a rule in FIFA’s regulation, specifically Article 17 rules that a player who signed a contract before the age of 28 can buy himself out of the contract three years after the deal was signed. Therefore, with a year remaining on Lewandowski’s contract, there is a possibility of Robert Lewandowski forcing his transfer through if the need arises. Of course, the decision now lies with the Bayern Munich board and Barcelona board. Lewandowski seems to have made up his mind to search for glory in another league, and a move to Barcelona seems on the horizon. However, the unpredictability of the transfer market leaves everything up in the air until the deal is confirmed officially. Nonetheless, it will be an interesting story to follow as the days pass by.

Also Read: Ballon d’Or 2022 Power Rankings

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North West Derby

(Liverpool vs. Manchester United)

Record:

Liverpool- 69 Wins

Manchester United- 81 Wins

Draws: 58

The rivalry between the two biggest and the most successful clubs in England. And two of the biggest clubs in the World. Rivalry fueled by the hatred amongst fans of the belonging regions. Their historic and economic rivalry. And fueled by the desire to win. Both of the teams have seen a period of dominance over the land of England. And the matches are as heated as they can get. And they put out a great showcase of football. With star players all over the pitch. Liverpool vs. Manchester United is box office entertainment, and the world of football is glued to their screens whenever these two teams play each other. And they rank 10th on this list of Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football.

They are going to face each other on the 20th you can watch it on Hotstar.

Cairo Derby

(Al Ahly Sc vs Zamalek)

Record:

Al Ahly- 105 Wins.

Zamalek- 58 Wins

Draws: 79

A derby between arguably the two biggest clubs in Africa and the biggest in Egypt. It tends to get very heated and violent. The fans of both clubs are very passionate about their teams and act in anger and hatred towards the other. Such as, a match in the 1971-72 season with a case of violence caused the match and ultimately the whole season to be called off. Numerous fights, injuries, and deaths have been reported before matters became more controlled due to Egypt’s authoritarian regime.

Yet many fights and riots still occur after derby matches between both sets of fans, leading the government to post even higher numbers of Central Security Forces troops in the stadium during the derby. The number of fights has increased with the increasing popularity of the “ultras” movement. The team that wins during their meeting more often than not wins the Egypt Cup, and the one with the higher aggregate score wins the Egyptian Premier League. The teams facing off is a mouth-watering prospect, and they rank 9th on this list of Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football.

Fla Flu

(Flamengo vs Fluminense)

Flamengo- 159 Wins

Fluminense- 138 Wins

Draws: 141

The most iconic rivalry in Brazil. It is played between the city rivals Flamengo and Fluminense. This match is played at the iconic Macarena stadium. It is one of the oldest rivalries in football. This rivalry consists of everything: red cards, brawls, and a whole lot of history. A fixture that recorded the highest attendance in a football match ever with a mind-blowing 194,603, a record which will never ever be broken. This ranks 8th on this list of Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football.

Also Read: Top 10 Most Expensive Football Trophies in the World

Revierderby

( Dortmund vs. Schalke)

Schalke- 60 Wins

Dortmund- 55 Wins.

Draws: 43

The fiercest one in German football. Schalke and Dortmund are neighbor clubs and are fierce rivals. The fanbases loathe each other. It is the most looked forward to derby in German Football. Schalke used to be the top dog in this derby. But they have fallen off and did get relegated last season. Dortmund has had the upper hand over the last few seasons. Schalke fans will be hoping it changes soon.

Derby della Madonnina

(AC Milan vs. Inter Milan)

Inter Wins- 84

Milan Wins- 78

Draws- 69

A legendary fixture of two teams that share a stadium. Two of the biggest teams in Italy. Clubs that have great history and pedigree. And have been so legendary. A fixture that is a hallmark in Italian Football. Furthermore, it is a worldwide anticipated fixture. A fixture where both teams give it they’re all for bragging rights. Fights, riots, and whatnot, this legendary match has seen it all. Legends wherever you look. A truly great advert of the beautiful game.

Derby of The Eternal Enemies

(Panathinaikos vs Olampiacos)

Panathinaikos wins: 52

Olympiacos Wins: 86

Draws: 72

The biggest, fiercest rivalry in Greece. It is one of the most revered games in football worldwide. And this rivalry goes way beyond football. This rivalry stems from the cultural and political differences of the people in the areas. Red cards and tackles were flying all around. It makes up for a great spectacle.

De Klassieker

Ajax vs Feyenoord

Ajax wins: 92

Feyenoord wins: 59

Draws: 48

This rivalry goes way beyond just football. It is as fierce as it can get. It transcends into the rivalry between the cities Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Since the 70s, there have been many clashes between the supporters of both clubs, of which Beverwijk in 1997 was infamous. One Ajax fan, Carlo Picornie, was beaten to death by rival supporters, triggering more strict policies from the Dutch football association KNVB to tackle hooliganism. As a result of the incident, the two Klassiekers in 1997/98 were played without away fans. And there have been many more incidents since. It tends to get very ugly.

El Clasico

Real Madrid vs Barcelona

Real Madrid wins: 100.

Barcelona wins: 97

Draws: 52

As big a game as it can get. Legends everywhere. The biggest advert of football. Although it isn’t as legendary as it was, but it’s still one of the biggest fixtures in football. Not many fixtures are bigger than this. A rivalry like no other. It has everything: red cards, tackles, fights, charisma, and some spectacular goals.

Old Firm derby

Celtic vs. Rangers

Another one from the UK. The fiercest rivalry in the area. Scotland’s two most successful clubs. It gets very intense whenever they meet. And as good as it can get. An important date in the football calendar. Both sets of supporters are very, very passionate about their clubs. It makes the fixture special. A great watch.

Superclasico

River Plate vs. Boca Juniors.

The greatest rivalry in all of football. The both teams hate each other. It is the biggest one in Argentina. It gets ugly whenever they meet. Boca vs. River Plate is the biggest rivalry in the world due to the history and football involved.

Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Football Transfers of All Time

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Xavi’s playing career salary

The Spaniard’s salary at Barca once touched an excess of $13 Million. His reported salary as a player at Al Sadd was $10.5Million. Which saw a hike after he was appointed as the manager of the club.

Apart from these, Xavi earned his money through several endorsements. He was a role model for players so it was always easy getting big brand deals. Furthermore,He was named the brand ambassador of Audi Qatar, the Qatari division of the German car manufacturer. The decorated ex-Barcelona superstar also maintains a sponsorship deal with Adidas, previously starring in numerous adverts with the likes of Robin Van Persie, Luis Suarez and Leo Messi.

Xavi’s charity work:

Xavi does some charity work. And, he is involved in making the world a better place ever since his playing days. He has helped the Red Cross foundation and several others. And, When Xavi was awarded a cheque of €100,000 by UEFA after being named captain of the UEFA.com users’ Team of the Year in 2011, he donated the money to the ICRC for the Red Cross’ physical rehabilitation program in Afghanistan.

Xavi’s Car collection

Xavi owns a few lavish cars. Mainly which are an Audi Q5, Q7, MBW S6, Range Rover, Ferrari F430, Ford. He did not need to even purchase the Audis’ as he is the brand ambassador. His fastest in the collection is his Ferrari F430. The car has a reported top speed of 200 Miles.

There isn’t much information about Xavi’s house. As, the great man likes to keep his life low-key. All we know is that he has a big beautiful house just outside of Barcelona and another house in Terrassa, Spain.

Xavi achieved everything with F.C Barcelona as a player. And now wants to get them back on their perch as a manager. And, engraving the famous Tiki-Taka and bringing it back to Camp Nou.

He has done a good job so far as they sit second in the league table. Although they were knocked out of the Europa league. And they are going trophyless this season. But, the signs of improvement are there and the core is very young. The results will be evident in Europe soon, and it will not be a long time before he brings a trophy back to the club. Xavi is a certified legend of the game.

You can read more about his trophy haul and statistics on the official F.C Barcelona website.

Also Read: KL Rahul Net Worth: How Rich Is The Indian Cricketer?

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Also Read: Top 10 Richest Players in Football Ranked in 2022

10) Kyle Walker: Top speed- 35.71 km/h

We start off our list with Manchester City’s Kyle Walker. Currently one of the fastest right-backs in world football, Walker’s speed is terrifyingly impressive. Fellow speedsters, Mbappe and Trent-Alexander Arnold have both described him as a “tank”. It is mainly owed to the sheer speed combined with the raw power he brings to the encounter. Kyle Walker has saved his team numerous times with those match-saving tackles, and he places 10th on our list of the top 10 fastest sprinters in world football today.

9) Erling Haaland: Top Speed- 36.04 km/h

The ‘machine’ Erling Haaland graces us with the 9th spot on our list. Clocking in a speed of 36.04 km/h, it is a terrifying sight for defenders to watch Haaland rampage through the defense and score past everybody. The feat is especially impressive for the fact that a player of his size, standing in at 6 ft 4 in tall, the 21-year-old finds it incredibly easy to impact the game in such a manner. Erling Haaland owing to his speed and skill is one of the most sought-after strikers in the world right now.

8) Ibrahima Konate: Top speed- 36.20 km/h

One of the fastest players in RB Leipzig, Ibrahima Konate joined Liverpool in 2021. The fact that Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool prefers a high defense line because of their “gegenpressing”, Konate’s ability and pace to track back suits the criteria perfectly. This allows the Liverpool team some sense of security, as playing a high line can often lead to blistering counterattacks. Luckily if you have a player like Konate on your side, you can rest a bit easily. Clocking in at an impressive 36.20 km/h, Ibrahima Konate is 8th on our list of top 10 fastest sprinters in football.

7) Achraf Hakimi: Top speed- 36.48 km/h

Achraf Hakimi, who is now plying his trade at Paris Saint Germain, is a nightmare for defenders. Being a right-back himself, his marauding runs on the fringes often leave the defenders tasting dirt. His time at Borrusia Dortmund was preferably memorable since he broke his own Bundesliga speed record in a match against Union Berlin in 2020. Hakimi’s dynamic style of play and pace to outrun most players place him 7th on our list.

6) Alphonso Davies: Top speed- 36.51 km/h

The Canadian-born Alphonso Davies is no slouch when it comes to outpacing defenders and putting in a valuable cross. His explosive runs are seldom caught on and any team who lacks the proper speed is sure to fall into its speed trap. His top speed was clocked in a match against Werder Bremen on June 16, 2020. However, this turned out to be a record-breaking speed in Bundesliga, when he broke Achraf’s Hakimi’s previous record. Davies’ record-breaking speed places him just below Hakimi on our list.

5) Adama Traore: Top speed- 36.60 km/h

Adama Traore’s powerful and pacy sprints on the wings are a joy to watch. The entertaining aspects aside, his rampaging runs often strike fear in the hearts of defenders and opposing fans alike. An amazing combination of power and speed makes Adama Traore an individual to be afraid of in a football duel. His time with Wolverhampton Wanderers was nothing short of impressive owing to the blistering runs through the defenders. Now, on a loan at Barcelona and paired with Aubameyang, who is no stranger in the speed department, Barcelona has a terrifying attacking duo on their hands. Clocking in at 36.60 km/h, Adama Traore is 5th on our list of top 10 fastest sprinters in the football world today.

4) Mohamed Salah: Top speed- 36.60 km/h

The Egyptian magician, Mohamed Salah has been integral for Liverpool since the day he joined them. He is currently one of the centerpieces of the Liverpool attack. His blistering pace coupled with his impeccable footwork often leaves the defenders bamboozled. Clocking in an amazing 36.60 km/h speed, his nimble foot coupled with breakneck speed is a manager’s dream and opposition’s nightmare. Jurgen Klopp struck gold with this signing. Salah has since massively turned around his career after a shaky start with Chelsea. His pace puts him at 4th on our list of fastest sprinters in football.

3) Antonio Rudiger: Top speed- 36.70 km/h

Recently, Antonio Rudiger was recorded by Opta, with the highest speed in Premier League, beating the likes of Salah and Traore. Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea plays at the center back position. As Thomas Tuchel described his pace is one of the best assets of the defender. He clocked in a massive 36.70 km/h in a match against Brighton this season. He places 3rd on our list of top 10 fastest sprinters in football.

2) Gareth Bale: Top speed- 36.90 km/h

In his prime, Gareth Bale would leave defenders behind and by the time they reacted, he was already celebrating the goal. Bale started off his career as a left-back. However, soon transitioned to one of the best left-wingers of the generation. His maximum speed of a massive 36.90 km/h is a sight to behold. Nobody could forget his run against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey, 2014 when he left Marc Batra embarrassed. An absolute legend in the speed department, Bale comes in 2nd on our list.

1) Kylian Mbappe: Top Speed- 38.00 km/h

Kylian Mbappe is currently the fastest football player in football today. Clocking in an incredible 38 km/h, Mbappe’s superhuman speed was in full display in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His speeding run broke through Argentina’s defense and eventually helped France win the World Cup. Nobody at the time had an answer for his speed and even today. Many defenders find it incredibly difficult to defend against him. With Real Madrid supposedly looking to sign him this summer for a free transfer, Kylian Mbappe brilliantly leads our list and certainly has an exciting future to look forward to.

Also Read: Top 10 Greatest Manchester United Players of All Time

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10. Luis Suarez

61 Goals (114 Appearances)

Not to be mistaken with the other Luis Suarez, who also played for Barcelona. Suarez was a Spanish midfielder. And is widely regarded as the greatest Spanish player of all time. To this date, he is the only Spanish player to win the Ballon D’or. And was the first Barcelona player to do so. Luis scored over 60 goals for the great club. Suarez was a key figure in their domestic double in 1959 and fell just short of European glory as they lost the final to Benfica in 1961. The Spanish great ranks 10th on this list of the Top 10 Greatest Barcelona players of all time.

9. Sergio Busquets

16 Goals (670* Appearances)

“Underrated” “Underappreciated” are the sort of words you would associate with the Spaniard. Busquets doesn’t have the plaudits the other two of his midfield partners, Xavi and Iniesta, received, but Sergio was just as important to the team’s success as the other two were. One of the greatest CDM’s the game has ever seen. Sergio has won every trophy at the club level with the Catalans. Furthermore, he has won the World Cup and the Euros with Spain. He was an integral part of one of the greatest club team’s ever assembled, and one of the greatest National team’s ever assembled. You don’t walk into those teams’ if you are not ‘World Class’. As a result, he ranks 9th in the top 10 Greatest Barcelona players of all-time list.

8. Ronald Koeman

106 Goals (350 Appearances)

A goal tally that would put forwards to shame. Ronald Koeman was an integral part of the 90’s Barca dream team. The team that won their first European cup. It was his goal that won Barca their first European title and as a result, secured his legendary status at the club. He was a “sweeper” defender. Would just stay in front of the defense and clear every threat. The masterful Dutch was quite good at it as well. He was a great threat at set pieces. He was a great Penalty tacker and a great Free Kick taker as well. ‘Tin-tin’ Koeman has scored 60 Free Kicks for club and country, to put that into perspective, that is more than what Cristiano and Messi have scored throughout their careers. He also tried as a manager for the club, but that didn’t work out well for him. But, his managerial stint at the club doesn’t tarnish his legacy as a Barca legend and a great of the game.

7. Luis Suarez

210 Goals (300 Appearances).

‘El Pistolero’ is, without a shadow of a doubt, one of the greatest strikers this game has ever seen. His time at Barcelona was phenomenal, to say the least. A testament to his skill and ability is that he won a golden boot during the Cristiano and Messi era. As lethal as he is in front of the goal, he is a great passer as well as a great space creator for others to benefit from. Luis Suarez is as complete a striker as you can get. Wonder goals, tap-ins, solo goals, dribbling, passing, you name the attribute you want out of a striker, and it is a guarantee that Suarez possessed that. Suarez is the third top scorer in Barca’s rich history. And on top of that, he is also the second-highest assist maker of all time. In his prime, Luis was an absolute joy to watch. He is 34 now, and as a result, he is not the same player anymore and has slowed down a bit. But, nevertheless, he is still balling in La Liga with Atletico de Madrid.

6. Ladislao Kubala

281 Goals (357 Appearances)

His story is something straight out of a movie. In 1949 Kubala fled socialist Hungary in the back of a truck. In May 1949, he agreed to play for Torino but pulled out due to a family emergency, which in turn saved his life as the plane crashed on its way back from Lisbon, killing everyone inside it. Laszlo was the first ‘megastar’ that Barca had. And they needed that to combat against Real Madrid’s Alfredo di Stefano. He brought a magical time at the club. With him, the team won absolutely everything there was to win in 1951 season. He was an entertainer. He attracted crowds. When he played suddenly, the 60,000 seats weren’t enough. And, so they began the construction of the 93,000 seater Camp Nou. As a tribute to the great, there is Bronze statue erected outside the stadium.

5. Ronaldinho

110 Goals (250 Appearances)

Football became blessed when Ronaldinho started playing it. He always had a smile on his face. He is the greatest entertainer in the history of the game. The man with virtually zero haters across the globe. He was so good, he once received a standing ovation from the Bernabeu crowd. When Dinho was on the ball, you just had to sit back and enjoy the ride. The man that kickstarted the new Barca era. The biggest piece in the project. Ronaldinho has practically won everything there is to win in football. Scorer of some great goals, a genuine genius of the sport. There aren’t enough words to describe how mesmerizing Ronaldinho was. He won Barca their second Champions League. And he won a Ballon D’or in 2005, as a result cementing his legendary status in the sport. Ronaldinho ranks 5th on this list of Top 10 Barcelona players of all time.

4. Johan Cruyff

86 Goals (231 Appearances)

One of the greatest players of all time. Johan Cruyff put Barcelona on the world map. Football would never be the same after Johan Cruyff. Cruyff revolutionized modern football. The man that introduced ‘Total Football’, which would hone how football will be played for generations to come. To this day, Cruyff’s ideals are what governs the managerial aspect of the game. He is the one that made Pep Guardiola who he is today. Johan won three Ballon D’or throughout his stellar career.

3. Andres Iniesta

66 Goals (758 Appearances)

Andres Iniesta is one of the greatest midfielders of this generation. The magician was an absolute joy to watch on the ball. He glided on the pitch and went past players as it they weren’t there. And, he had perfected the weight of the pass. He was an absolute joy to watch on the ball. A big-game player if there ever was one. He scored in Spain’s victory against Netherlands in the final to give his country their first-ever world cup. He is currently playing in the Japanese league. Iniesta has a street named after him and a statue of his World Cup-winning goal in his hometown.

2. Xavi Hernandez

97 Goals (869 Appearances)

Xavi Hernandez read the game like no one else. He saw the pass before anyone else did. He and Iniesta formed the greatest midfield partnership of all time. The game ran through him. He was a master of the art of ‘scanning’ a pitch. Which meant knowing the positions of your players and the oppositions’ and where the space would be empty. The record appearance holder for the club. Xavi Hernandez was a brilliant football player and a genius by the definition of the word. The man won everything in a Barcelona shirt and also in a Spanish shirt. And he is currently managing Barca. Under his management, Barca are looking at a new dawn and, as a result, a brighter future for the club.

1. Lionel Messi

672 Goals (778 Appearances)

No surprises, who is on the top of the list of the top 10 greatest Barcelona Players of All time: Lionel Andres Messi. The man who is widely considered as the Greatest Player of All Time. The magician is an absolute joy to watch. Messi is the record goal scorer for the club, for La Liga, for Argentina in El Clasico’s, etc. etc., etc. Covering Messi’s records would take up all week. The man is too good. Leo has won everything there is to win at the club with Barcelona. Two trebles with the club. And a record 7 Ballon D’ors  And, he finally won the thing which eluded him the most in his career, an international trophy. As he won a Copa America with Argentina this year. Hence, cementing his place in the Argentinian history books as well. Due to the financial aspects of the game, he had to forcibly leave the club this season. It is going to be a very, very sad day when Lionel Messi announces his retirement from the beautiful game. So, enjoy him as long as you all can.

Also Read: Top 10 Most Expensive IPL Players of All Time

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Real Madrid is currently ahead with 100 Wins, followed closely by Barca at 97. While over the past three years, this fixture has dropped a bit in quality due to the departures of some greats in Cristiano Ronaldo, followed by Luis Suarez, Ramos, and then most recently Lionel Messi, it still is one of the most-watched games of club football season. Now, here is the list of our top 10 El Clasico’s of All Time.

10. Real Madrid 4-2 Barcelona (10 April 2005)

The win that helped Real secure the first La Liga title of their Galactico era. A star-studded Real Madrid with the likes of Ronaldo de Lima, Beckham, Raul, Owen, Zidane, and Roberto Carlos dominated a Barca that featured a young Andres Iniesta, Samuel Eto, Xavi, and the magician Ronaldinho. Zidane opened the scoring through a header in the 6th minute, and then Ronaldo scored to make it 2-0. It looked like there was no way back then Eto brought one back through a brilliant solo goal. Raul and Owen scored in the second half to put it past Barcelona’s reach. Ronaldinho stole the show with a magnificent Free Kick in the 73rd minute to make it 4-2. This classic and breathtaking Clasico makes 10th on this list of top 10 El Clasico’s of all time.

9. Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid (21 April 2012)

When Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona met Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid, everyone just knew they were in for a treat. Icons of the game on either side of the pitch. Ballers wherever you looked. That season Real Madrid under Jose was an unstoppable counter-attacking machine. That team hit an unprecedented 100 points in the league that season. Pep’s Barcelona consisting of Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Dani Alves, Busquets, and prime Lionel Messi facing Mourinho’s Real that had a strike force of Ozil, Benzema, Angel di Maria led by a Cristiano Ronaldo in his prime. The game promised to be a great spectacle, and boy, did it deliver. The game began with chances at both ends, with Khedira opening the scoring after kicking home a rebound. The game went on with both sets of players creating half-chances at both ends. Alexis Sanchez finally equalized for Barca with a scrappy goal sending the home crowd into ecstasy. Their joy was soon deflated when Cristiano Ronaldo slotted home a brilliant finish to an exquisite through ball by Mesut and hitting the home supporters with the famous ‘Calma’ celebration.

8. Barcelona 5-0 Real Madrid (29 November 2010)

The biggest Clasico win in Barca’s history. A scoreline that describes utter domination. One of the most unexpected games ever played in this famous fixture. When the line-ups were announced, the general consensus was that this game would also be a nail-biter, will be a classic. As it turned out, it was a classic, just not what everyone thought and certainly not what the Madrid fans would’ve hoped for. Although Messi didn’t score in that game, he was unplayable that game. He provided two assists for Catalans. Xavi opened the scoring, and then Pedro scored the second to end a 25-pass move. El Clasico wouldn’t be an El Clasico without a fight breaking down between the players. Ronaldo pushed their manager Pep, and that enraged the Barca side erupting a fight between the players. The second half was a total onslaught by Barca, they scored three in that half to put Real Madrid out of sight and out of mind. A night the Culers will never forget.

7. Barcelona 1-3 Real Madrid ( 14 August 2017)

Barcelona invited Real Madrid to Camp Nou for the Supercopa de Espana. The game began with chances at both ends, with the first half stayed level at 0-0. Five minutes into the second half, the UCL holders take the lead through a Pique own goal. Messi leveled the scoring in the 77th minute by slotting home a penalty given against Navas by a foul on Suarez. The score didn’t stay level for too long, though, when Cristiano Ronaldo scored a wonder goal, flooring Pique and curling it into the top corner in the 80th minute. He celebrated that by removing his shirt to enrage the home supporters. He then got a red card in the 83rd minute, making the match tougher for Real. But, Marco Asensio came in clutch by sending home a thunderous strike in the 90th minute to end the game 1-3 in the favour of Madrid.

6. Real Madrid 2-1 Barcelona (16 April 2014)

Before the game, Barcelona were favorite to win the game due to the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was suffering from an injury. But Gareth Bale had other plans. Angel Di Maria opened the scoring at the end of a fiercely quick and an exquisite counterattack. The first half saw plenty of chances for either side, and Bale had himself a goal disallowed. Barcelona equalized through a Batra header in the second half. In the 85th minute, Gareth Bale switched on his engine and went on a run to slot home a brilliant solo goal and win Real Madrid the Copa Del Rey.

5. Real Madrid 0-2 Barcelona ( 27th April 2011)

A champions league semi-final first leg match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, there isn’t anything bigger that club football can promise you. Another Jose vs Pep classic encounter. Jose’s tactics to frustrate Pep didn’t work out for him on this occasion. Lionel Messi had different plans to those of Jose’s. Pepe got sent off in the 61st minute, making it a colossal task for the men in the royal white to keep a clean sheet. Messi opened the scoring in the 77th minute. But, his second goal is the one that is known throughout the world. Messi tore apart the Madrid defense skipping past 4 players to score his second. And, who can forget Peter Drury’s iconic commentary to it, “Away from two, three, four wonderful wonderful wonderful.” An aggregate advantage of 3-1 sent Barcelona in the finals.

4. Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid ( 7 October 2012)

If an example was to be given of a perfect Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo encounter, then this game would be the top contender. The two of the greatest ever and the greatest of our generation going head to head always resulted in a beautiful spectacle. Ronaldo opened the scoring by firing home a thunderbolt from his weak foot past Valdes. Messi equalized after Pepe miscued his clearance, and Messi fired home a simple finish. Messi scored a scintillating free kick in the second half to put Barca ahead. And not a long time after, Cristiano finishes his second to draw the game level through a Mesut assist. A pure exhibition of football.

3. Barcelona 3-3 Real Madrid ( 10 March 2007)

The game that announced the arrival of the great Lionel Messi to the world. A game that had stars all over the pitch. But, the headlines were stolen by a 19-year-old from Argentina. Ruud Van Nistelrooy opened the scoring for Real, Messi sent home the equalizer soon, although. Nistelrooy slotted home his penalty to give the visitors the lead. Messi equalized it again to cancel out the pen. Ramos scored to give Real the lead again. When it looked like Real were gonna win this one, Messi popped up again and sent home a brilliant goal in the 92nd minute to send the crowd into ecstasy, and the game ended at an astonishing 3-3.

2. Real Madrid 2-3 Barcelona ( 23 April 2017)

Another game where Messi haunted the Bernabeu crowd. It was a pretty equal game until Casemiro tapped in an open goal to give Real the lead. Messi then scored as beautiful goal to level the game. Rakitic scored in the second half to give Barca the lead. But Rodriguez scored in the 85th minute to equalize it for Real, and they thought that was the end of it. But, Leo Messi had different plans. He sent home a brilliant finish through his magical left foot in the dying minutes of the game to give Barca the lead and then removing his jersey and showing it to the Bernabeu folk. One of the most iconic celebrations ever in an El Clasico.

1. Real Madrid 3-4 Barcelona ( 23 March 2014)

It was an easy choice for the number 1 pick. This game had everything: Red Cards, Penalties, Hattrick. Iniesta opened the scoring by a Messi through ball. Benzema headed home the equalizer to tie the game for a while. Benzema scored soon again to give Carlo Ancelotti’s men the lead. Messi popped up to score his first and tie the game. Ronaldo slotted home the penalty to put Real in front. Ramos then brought Neymar down in the box and got himself sent off. Messi slotted that pen past Casillas to level the game at 3-3. Iniesta won Barca another penalty, and the main man sent that pen in the net as well to win the game for the Catalans.

Also Read: Dwayne Bravo’s Net Worth: How Rich Does The Trinidadian Cricketer

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A chance to revive his career

A move away from Barcelona might just be the kickstart he needs to get his career back on track. A move to Atletico might just be the best option for the defender. At the Wanda he is one of the targets on the list. Ans, it wouldn’t be difficult for them to get him since he will be on a free and Atletico have the resources to easily match the salary he is currently earning at Barcelona. In the Atleti camp they see him as a great recruitment due to his experience and versatility. He can play almost all of the positions on a football field, which makes him the perfect Simeone player out there. His career has gone through a bit of a downward trajectory in the past few years. Precisely after ‘that’ 90+6 winner against Paris Saint German to cap off one of the greatest comebacks and games in Champions League history. The 6-1 score line is astonishing enough as it is nevermind the fact that it cancelled out a 4-0 deficit. Playing under Diego Simeone might just revive his career and make him reach the heights that his potential warranted. If this deal happens it won’t be the first time a club legend from Barcelona has moved to Atletico on a free and found success there, case in point: Luis Suarez. Sergi Roberto has gone from starting in one of the greatest Barcelona teams ever to being a bench warmer at one of the worst Barcelona teams in the 21st century in the 2020-21 season.

He was asked to take a pay cut by the club last se

ason, to which he refused. He is currently earning a reported 224,000 dollars per week. Which shouldn’t be a problem for a club of Atletico Madrid’s stature and financial stability.  Barcelona are in a financial turmoil due to the dealings of their previous president and have been offloading players and are looking to further offload players to shorten their wage bill. Because if they don’t they will be unable to register any future signings they will make or they want to make due to the regulations set by La Liga and it’s president Javier Tebas. The inability to register players is the reason they had to let the great Lionel Messi go on a free to Paris Saint Germain F.C.

He is a product of Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy and has made 316 appearances for the senior team according to the official Barcelona website. Just to provide an example of his versatility, the Spanish international has made appearances for the club at seven different positions. Luis Enrique once praised him saying “In a team like ours, except in goal, he could play in any position, it’s no surprise. The most difficult thing is doing it well all over the field and Sergi Roberto does that.”

The 30 year old feels that he isn’t valued at the club anymore as Barca are building a team for the future with a young core. If the rumours are true then it will be a great move for all the parties involved as Sergi will get another chance at his career and Atleti will get an experienced presence in the dressing room. And, who knows this might be the opportunity he needs to break into Spain’s national side again.

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