Xabi Alonso expressed confidence and focus ahead of the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, emphasizing the emotional and footballing elements of the game, the importance of preparation, and the team's readiness to compete for the title, while also discussing player fitness, strategy, and the support from fans in Jeddah.
Audi's new F1 car, the R26, made its first track appearance during a filming day at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, marking a significant milestone ahead of their 2026 season debut, with official launch events scheduled in Berlin and upcoming pre-season tests.
Barcelona's first team resumed training after the Christmas break with an open session at Estadi Johan Cruyff, featuring returning players Ronald Araujo and Dani Olmo, as they prepare for the upcoming Catalan derby against Espanyol on January 3rd. The session was attended by over 5,500 fans and included warm-ups, ball work, and fan interactions, with coach Hansi Flick overseeing the preparations.
Hansi Flick expressed his satisfaction with Barcelona's 3-1 victory over Atletico Madrid, praising the team's performance and control, and highlighting the importance of new players and the fitness of key players like Raphinha and Pedri. The win boosts Barcelona's confidence ahead of their upcoming match against Real Betis.
Barcelona drew 3-3 with Club Brugge in a match marked by defensive errors and strong individual performances, notably from Yamal and de Jong, with Barcelona dropping two points after a late blunder was overturned by VAR.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick emphasized the importance of sticking to their philosophy despite a 3-3 draw with Club Brugge, acknowledging defensive issues and the need for increased intensity and better midfield control to improve performance in the Champions League.
Eric Garcia acknowledged that Barcelona needs to improve its defensive performance after a 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in the Champions League, citing frequent dangerous attacks and possession issues as key problems. The team showed resilience by fighting back multiple times, but defensive lapses remain a concern as they prepare for their next La Liga match against Celta Vigo.
The Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona has become the world's tallest church, surpassing Ulm Münster with a height of 162.91 meters, and is expected to reach 172 meters upon completion of its central tower next year, marking nearly 140 years of ongoing construction since 1882.
Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Barcelona, highlighted by standout performances from Eder Militao and Jude Bellingham, with tactical mastery from coach Xabi Alonso, and a rare sync of key attacking players Mbappe, Jude, and Vinicius, suggesting a promising future if consistency is maintained.
Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 at the Bernabéu, with Jude Bellingham scoring the winning goal and delivering an outstanding performance, while key players from both teams showcased strong individual efforts in a fiery match.
Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clásico under Xabi Alonso, leading La Liga and showcasing tactical strength despite injuries and absences. Key players like Mbappé and Bellingham performed well, while Alonso's management and team dynamics remain focal points for future matches.
Robert Lewandowski is not playing in the Barcelona vs Real Madrid match due to a muscle tear in his thigh, ruling him out for several weeks. Despite his good form and history of scoring in El Clásico, he was omitted from the squad because of injury, and his absence has significantly impacted Barcelona's attacking lineup.
Real Madrid and Barcelona have announced their starting lineups for the 2025 El Clasico at Santiago Bernabéu, with key players like Courtois, Vinicius, Mbappé for Madrid and Szczesny, Rashford for Barcelona, set to compete on October 26, 2025, at 16:15 CET, available on DAZN La Liga, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are set to face off in an upcoming El Clásico, with both teams having strong seasons so far. The match will be available to watch on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes in the US, Premier Sports 1 in the UK, and various channels in Canada and Mexico. This rivalry is highly anticipated as both teams aim to secure their position at the top of La Liga.
Marcus Rashford hopes to extend his stay at Barcelona beyond his loan agreement, with the club having an option to sign him permanently for £28m, which he prefers over returning to Manchester United, where his future seems uncertain under the current coaching situation.