In a public statement, Real Madrid expressed the following, “Real Madrid C.F., its president, and its Board of Directors deeply regret the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Leo Messi. Our club wishes to express its condolences to Leo, his family, and all his loved ones. May he rest in peace.”

During the World Cup, it was reported that Jorge Messi was dealing with some sort of health issues. Given how much Messi means to the soccer world, teams like Barcelona, where he is the biggest legend, and Real Madrid, who had many battles on the pitch with him, are sending heartfelt messages to him.

Barcelona also made a statement. “The President and the Board of Directors of FC Barcelona express their deepest condolences on the passing of Jorge Messi, father of former Barca player and legend Lionel Messi, and, on the behalf of the entire Barca family. FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our Club, for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career. May he rest in peace.”

Real Madrid set their differences with Messi aside

There’s a saying that goes “soccer is the most important thing of the lesser things.” Real Madrid proved that. Soccer-wise, there is no love between Madrid and Messi, as the Argentine punished Madrid for years on the pitch. However, there are things bigger than soccer.

Barcelona focused on Jorge’s sacrifices

Messi arrived at Barcelona at a mere young age of 13. For a parent, and taking into consideration that Messi needed treatment to have a normal growth, it was not an easy decision to let him go.

As Barca said it, Jorge entrusted them with Messi and it’s safe to say that it all paid off. However, it required bravery and almost blind faith on the team to make a decision. Jorge, who always had Lionel’s best interest in mind, had to let him go, but it showed to be the right decision.

“Normally I don’t pay much attention to what is being written about me, the team, or the club. But recently, there’s been a lot of speculation about my injury and my situation with Barcelona,“ de Jong posted to his Instagram account.

“I injured my knee,” de Jong continued. “The doctors told me it was a minor issue and that it wouldn’t worsen if I kept playing, the only challenge was managing the pain… However, upon returning to Barcelona for further examinations, scans revealed the injury was more severe than initially diagnosed.”

De Jong’s statement sets the record straight on the timeline of his injury—a medical setback that nearly ruled him out of the World Cup altogether, which would have dealt another massive blow to the Dutch squad alongside Jurrien Timber’s absence.

De Jong reaffirms commitment to Barcelona

Despite the medical setback, de Jong confirmed the injury will not require surgery and that he will focus on his rehab program. He also took the opportunity to reaffirm his long-term dedication to the Catalan giants.

“Playing for Oranje and Barcelona is something I take incredible pride in, and my commitment to both will never waver,” de Jong added, directly responding to fan criticism regarding his recent performances.

De Jong’s 2026 World Cup numbers

Much of the post-tournament backlash stemmed from his muted output during the Netherlands’ campaign—a performance now clearly contextualized by his compromised health. As he continues his recovery, Barcelona will patiently await his return to full fitness.

Here is a look at de Jong’s overall statistical footprint from the 2026 World Cup:

• Matches Played / Started: 4 / 4
• Minutes Played: 331′
• Goals: 0
• Assists: 0
• Pass Completion: 93.1% (217 completed / 233 attempted)
• Yellow / Red Cards: 0 / 0

During a press conference before Spain’s game vs Belgium in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals, Yamal was adamant on welcoming Alvarez at the Blaugrana team. “I hope Julian joins Barça. We wait for him with open arms,” Yamal said.

And of course Yamal is keen on the move happening. Yamal is one of the brightest prospects in the world, while Julian Alvarez is one of the best strikers in the world. Given that Barcelona also lost their top striker in Robert Lewandowski, Yamal wants the Polish striker’s replacement to be a world class player.

Alvarez has not been stellar in the 2026 World Cup

Alvarez rose as a prominent star in the 2022 World Cup, and since then, he’s taken the world by storm. However, the 2026 World Cup, that only has a few games left, hasn’t been kind to the Argentina forward.

Alvarez has played in all five games so far in the 2026 World Cup, though he’s only started in two. Alvarez is yet to score or assist in the tournament. While that won’t lower his price tag, given his years of excellence in both Premier League and LaLiga, it won’t make it higher either.

Lamine Yamal is Spain’s difference-maker in the 2026 World Cup

While Spain haven’t shown their best form yet, they are still in the mix. However, they are too Lamine Yamal-dependent. Yamal has just one goal in 316 minutes of play in the 2026 World Cup, but his output goes deeper than what the box score suggests.

Spain’s best minutes in the tournament have come when Yamal is constantly with the ball at his feet. His dribbling and pace set him apart despite not scoring as much as expected, hoping to have a breakout game when Spain face Belgium on Friday.

Fabrizio Romano, a renowned journalist who specializes in the soccer transfer market, reported on Friday that Barcelona made the first move toward acquiring Julian Alvarez from Atleti. The Colchoneros did not take this report well and answered with joking bids for three of the Blaugranas’ biggest stars.

“HERE WE GO! We have sent a fax to @FCBarcelona_es with our transfer offer: 4 tickets for tomorrow’s Bad Bunny concert, an annual subscription to ABC, and a bag of sunflower seeds. We eagerly await the response to prepare the ‘announce’,” Atleti published on their official Spanish X account alongside a picture of Lamine Yamal, who recently won his third LaLiga title, wearing their jersey.

Pedri and Raphinha also included in Atleti’s troll

In their second tweet on the topic, Atletico Madrid shared a joke offer for Pedri: “HERE WE GO! For this second offer we had a problem, we ran out of tickets for tomorrow’s concert, so we are improving the previous proposal with 6 for Sunday’s concert.”

For their third post of the day, Atletico Madrid targeted Barcelona winger Raphinha, all of them starting with Romano’s phrase when he announces a signing: “HERE WE GO! And to complete the 3-for-1 deal, we went all out and are throwing the house out the window: the player arrives on loan for one season and in exchange we loan Tom Ford and Smith with no option to buy. An irresistible offer.”

Atletico Madrid send a clear message to Barcelona about Julian Alvarez

Following these three posts, Atletico Madrid concluded the interaction with a direct message aimed at Barcelona regarding the reported bid for Julian Alvarez and the persistent rumors surrounding his potential exit from the club:

“No, Atletico Madrid would never do something like that. However, over the last few months, we have been suffering a campaign of constant harassment against one of our players. Self-serving leaks, ‘fake news’, a continuous lack of respect, the Cule version of the media machinery inventing stories, phone calls right before head-to-head matches… But of course, it would also never cross our minds to have the vice president of the referees on our payroll or to resort to political favors to register players. RESPECT and VALUES.”

How to watch Valencia vs Barcelona in the USA

Viewers eager to catch this headline showdown will have an easy option to follow the action live. ESPN+ holds the exclusive streaming rights, allowing fans to watch the matchup seamlessly on multiple supported devices from virtually anywhere.

Those choosing to stream the event can access the broadcast directly through the service and experience every minute of this much-anticipated battle in real time.

Can I watch Valencia vs Barcelona for free?

Fans in the United States will be able to catch this thrilling 2025/2026 La Liga showdown only on ESPN+, which holds exclusive streaming rights for the match nationwide.

Those searching for a free viewing option, however, are out of luck, as ESPN+ currently offers no free trial, leaving no way to watch the game at no charge in the USA.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

The curtain is coming down on the La Liga season, but there’s still plenty left to decide on the final Matchday. Barcelona already wrapped up the league title weeks ago, officially sealing the crown with a statement 2-0 win over rivals Real Madrid, the only side still within striking distance at the time.

Now, the focus shifts to the battle further down the table, where Valencia remain alive in the race for a UEFA Conference League berth.

Their European hopes depend on results elsewhere, but the equation is simple: anything less than a win would end their chances of sneaking into continental competition.

Valencia vs Barcelona: Predicted Lineups

Valencia (4-4-2): Dimitrievski; Rendall, Tarrega, Nunez, Vazquez; Rioja, Ugrinic, Rodriguez, Ramazani; Guerra, Duro.

Barcelona (4-3-3): J Garcia; Araujo, Cubarsi, E Garcia, Balde; Gavi, De Jong, Pedri; Raphinha, Torres, Rashford.

What time is the Valencia vs Barcelona match?

The match kicks off today, May 23, at 3:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 3:00 PM
Central Time: 2:00 PM
Mountain Time: 1:00 PM
Pacific Time: 12:00 PM

How to watch Barcelona vs Real Betis in the USA

Fans looking forward to this marquee matchup will have multiple ways to watch live, whether through streaming platforms or traditional television coverage. Fubo remains one of the most popular options for sports fans, providing easy access to the game from nearly any device.

DirecTV Stream and ESPN+ will also offer live streaming coverage for viewers preferring online services. Meanwhile, fans who prefer traditional TV have the option of watching the game through ESPN Deportes.

Can I watch Barcelona vs Real Betis for free?

USA supporters can stream this 2025/2026 La Liga encounter, along with other competition’s biggest games, live on Fubo.

With a 5-day free trial available, viewers have a great chance to enjoy this game and follow the excitement of the 2025/2026 La Liga.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

With both clubs already accomplishing their main goals for the season, this showdown between longtime rivals offers one final opportunity to build momentum before the season ends.

FC Barcelona secured the La Liga title after delivering an impressive 2-0 victory over Real Madrid, while Real Betis locked up a coveted Champions League berth thanks to a 2-1 win over Elche in their last outing.

With silverware and European qualification already in hand, both sides now shift their focus toward closing the season on a high note and climbing as high as possible in the standings.

Barcelona vs Real Betis: Predicted Lineups

Barcelona (4-2-3-1): J Garcia; E Garcia, Araujo, Martin, Cancelo; Pedri, De Jong; Rashford, Gavi, Fermin; F Torres.

Real Betis (4-2-3-1): Lopez; Bellerin, Natan, Gomez, Rodriguez; Altimira, Roca; Antony, Fidalgo, Ezzalzouli; Bakambu.

What time is the Barcelona vs Real Betis match?

The match kicks off today, May 17, at 3:15 PM ET. For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 3:15 PM
Central Time: 2:15 PM
Mountain Time: 1:15 PM
Pacific Time: 12:15 PM

How to watch Alaves vs Barcelona in the USA

There are plenty of options available for fans who don’t want to miss this must-watch clash, whether through streaming platforms or traditional TV coverage. Fubo remains one of the leading choices for sports viewers, offering an easy way to watch the game live from almost any device.

The matchup will also be available to stream on ESPN+ and DirecTV Stream. On television, the game will air on ESPN Deportes.

Can I watch Alaves vs Barcelona for free?

USA supporters can stream this 2025/2026 La Liga encounter, along with other competition’s biggest games, live on Fubo.

With a 5-day free trial available, viewers have a great chance to enjoy this game and follow the excitement of the 2025/2026 La Liga.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

With the La Liga title already wrapped up after their statement win over Real Madrid, Barcelona now shift their focus toward finishing the season on a high note as they prepare for a tricky clash against a desperate Deportivo Alaves side fighting to avoid relegation.

Sitting on 37 points and currently trapped in the drop zone, Alaves received a boost after Girona were held to a draw by Rayo Vallecano, leaving LaLiga survival within reach if they can pull off a massive upset against the newly crowned champions.

Alaves vs Barcelona: Predicted Lineups

Alaves (5-3-2): Sivera; Perez, Otto, Tenaglia, Parada, Rebbach; Suarez, Blanco, Alena; Martinez, Diabate.

Barcelona (4-2-3-1): J Garcia; Kounde, E Garcia, Araujo, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Rashford, Gavi, Fermin; Lewandowski.

What time is the Alaves vs Barcelona match?

The match kicks off today, May 13, at 3:30 PM ET. For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 3:30 PM
Central Time: 2:30 PM
Mountain Time: 1:30 PM
Pacific Time: 12:30 PM

The story he posted on his social media was accompanied by a photo of much of the squad led by Hansi Flick. Although he is no longer a player at the club, Messi remains emotionally connected to the institution.

Marcus Rashford from a free kick and Ferran Torres, both in the first half, secured the title for Barcelona. This marked Barça’s seventh championship since Messi’s departure in 2021.

Lamine Yamal following in Messi’s footsteps

At just 18 years old, the young star has already surpassed the early trophy count of the greatest legends, as Lamine Yamal won another LaLiga to secure his third major title with Barcelona. While Lionel Messi had only captured one trophy by the same age, Yamal’s rapid ascent has seen him become a fundamental pillar of the squad’s success, rewriting the record books with every championship he secures.

Barcelona win second title of the year

In the early days of January this year, Barcelona secured their first title of 2026. It also came against Real Madrid after defeating their biggest rival 3–2 in the Spanish Super Cup. Following today’s victory at Camp Nou, the Catalan side lifted its second trophy of the year.

According to DAZN, Messi faced Los Merengues 45 times during his Barcelona career. The Argentine recorded 19 wins, 11 draws, and 14 defeats, giving him a positive record against Barca’s fiercest rivals in La Liga. Although Messi played a big role in cutting down Madrid’s lead in the head-to-head record, Barcelona have now evened the scales, and won another league title since Messi left while doing so. Not only that, but Lamine Yamal has conquered another La Liga at the age of 18.

As for Cristiano, the Portuguese had his fair share of success against Barcelona, but his personal record is still negative. As reported by DAZN, Ronaldo finished his time in Madrid with eight victories, eight draws, and 14 losses against the Catalan side.

Messi’s history in ‘El Clasico’

Whenever Messi’s Barcelona took on Ronaldo’s Real Madrid, it was virtually guaranteed the two stars would make an impact. Numbers reflect that to perfection. Messi is the all-time leading goal scorer in El Clasico with 26 tallies against Real Madrid, including memorable moments like his dying-minutes’ game-winner in 2017 to score his 500th goal for Barca or his unstoppable run in the semifinals of the 2010-11 UEFA Champions League.

Needless to say, the sneaky forward was a constant headache for the club in Spain’s capital city. Messi no longer plays for Barcelona, but his name still sends chills down the spine of Madridistas.

Ronaldo’s goals tally against Barcelona

As for Ronaldo, Barcelona fans don’t have much better memories, either. Ronaldo is second—only behind Messi—in goals in the history of El Clasico with 18 tallies against the Culers. Arguably, Ronaldo’s most iconic goal against Barca was in the first-leg of the Spanish Super Cup in 2017.

The Portuguese netted a heat-seeking missile from the edge of the box to give Madrid the lead. Perhaps his celebration taking off his jersey to show off his physique became even more memorable than the goal in itself.

Ronaldo and Messi’s impact

Regardless, Messi and Ronaldo gave fans all across the globe unforgettable moments that will live on forever. Neither is still playing in Spain—in fact, both are now far away in Miami and Riyadh—but they will forever remain legends at Camp Nou and the Santiago Bernabeu.

With every Clasico, their shadow still lingers over the rivalry, watching as new stars emerge and attempt to carve out their own place in a story that will forever be linked to Messi and Ronaldo.

This means Lamine Yamal has three LaLiga titles at age 18. That is more than Lionel Messi, who won his first LaLiga title at 18, which means Lamine Yamal’s legacy is arguably going at a faster pace.

Yamal has scored 16 goals so far this season, with 11 assists. Hence, he has been a key component for Barcelona this year. This means Yamal comes in good form for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

How many titles Yamal has won with Barcelona compared to Messi at age 18?

Yamal might have more league titles at age 18 than Messi, but overall, Messi had some other silverware that Yamal doesn’t have. A LaLiga, a Champions League, and a Spanish SuperCup were part of Messi’s titles.

For Yamal, he has more, with three LaLigas, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish SuperCup. However, the Champions League Messi won is arguably worth more than the titles Yamal has won.

Lamine Yamal is arguably forging a huge legacy in Barcelona

Yamal has been a star ever since he stepped up into the scene. Being so young has allowed Yamal to get more LaLiga titles from an early age. Messi however, did plenty that Yamal hasn’t done. From Champions League to Ballon D’Ors, Yamal has ways to go.

The era of the Argentine No. 10 in Catalonia undeniably marked a before and after for the club. His unexpected departure to PSG set a precedent, and from that point on, Barca slowly began to rebuild.

While these seven titles won in recent years stand on their own merit, the reality is that they have all come in domestic competitions. Barcelona’s major unfinished business since Messi’s departure has been winning the Champions League, as their last triumph in the competition came in the 2014–15 season.

Barcelona’s post-Messi titles

3 LaLiga titles, 3 Spanish Super Cups, and 1 Copa del Rey. These are the trophies Barcelona have won since 2021, when Lionel Messi left the club to take the next step in his career.

Lionel Messi’s titles with Barcelona

Lionel Messi emerged throughout his career as one of the most influential players in soccer history. Having spent almost his entire stint at Barcelona, it was there that he collected a total of 35 titles before his departure.

• LaLiga (10): 2004–05, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2017–18, 2018–19.
• Copa del Rey (7): 2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2020–21.
• Champions League (4): 2005–06, 2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15.
• Spanish Super Cup (8): 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2018.
• UEFA Super Cup (3): 2009, 2011, 2015.
• FIFA Club World Cup (3): 2009, 2011, 2015.

The day no one expected in Barcelona

On August 8, 2021, a tearful Lionel Messi officially announced his departure from FC Barcelona during a press conference at Camp Nou. His exit marked the end of a legendary 21-year tenure at the club, where he arrived as a teenager in 2000 and left as the greatest player in its history.