Joan García has made an encouraging move for Barcelona by resuming first team training today. García had been kept out of full first team activities because of a knee injury.
Barcelona Goalkeeper Joan Garcia (Photo Credit: FC Barcelona via X)
It’s good news that he is now back to training and this indicates that the club sees him getting close to participating in games once again.
However, they are taking careful steps as the Barcelona staff want to protect him from relapse by not pushing him too hard even though he might be available for official games after the international break.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed this in his official X handle, he posted:
Joan García has returned to first team training with Barcelona today but staff doesn’t want to take any risks.
Barça GK likely to return in official games straight after the break.
To ensure that they have a fit and ready goalkeeper for their games, the club’s medical and coaching teams would need to follow a step by step plan probably by checking his reaction to stress after each training.
From there, they can now decide when he will resume match duties for sure. Barcelona clearly has ambitions in La Liga and Europe, so having goalkeeper who is in shape is very important.
If García returns to official match soon, it could add to the team’s stability. For now, the team and its supporters will keep a close eye on him.
Fujifilm celebrated the opening of two new "House of Photography" spaces in Europe this week. The first was in Barcelona, Spain, on November 5, and the second in Porto, Portugal today, November 7.
Football fans can expect a thrilling weekend across Europe and the United States, with headline fixtures set to influence title races and playoff ambitions. From the Premier League to Major League Soccer and La Liga, Softfootball coverage promises top-tier excitement.
The Black Cats have shown resilience at home, but Arsenal arrive in dominant form following a 2–0 victory over Burnley. Mikel Arteta’s men have extended their remarkable run and will look to make another statement on the road.
Chelsea welcome Wolves to Stamford Bridge in a must-win encounter. The Blues are hoping to build on their 1–0 derby victory over Tottenham, where João Pedro ended his goal drought with the decisive strike. They also defeated Wolves in a thrilling 4–3 Carabao Cup clash, highlighting their attacking depth and resilience.
The Etihad Stadium hosts a potential title-defining clash as Manchester City meet Liverpool. Pep Guardiola’s side remain dominant at home, coming off a convincing 3–1 win over Bournemouth, powered by a brace from Erling Haaland.
Liverpool, meanwhile, reclaimed their rhythm with a 2–0 victory over Aston Villa, highlighted by Mohamed Salah’s 250th career goal. Arne Slot’s dynamic Reds could provide City with their toughest test of the campaign so far, making this a crucial showdown for both title ambitions and momentum.
Following a string of fiery encounters, this matchup promises intensity as both teams fight for playoff positioning.
Celta Vigo vs Barcelona
Barcelona travel to Balaídos aiming to stay close to Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. They come off a 3–1 win over Elche. Celta Vigo, fighting to avoid relegation, will look to use home advantage to frustrate Xavi’s side in a potentially tricky encounter.
Travelers Grounded Across Spain as Vueling, Iberia, Brussels Airlines, United, Delta, and others face a wave of 41 cancellations and 311 delays, leaving passengers stranded and frustrated. Across Madrid, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, and Málaga, travelers are coping with unexpected disruptions and long waiting hours. The situation, caused by operational issues and high passenger volumes, has rippled through Spain’s busiest airports. As a result, Vueling and Iberia have struggled to maintain schedules, while Brussels Airlines, United, and Delta also face mounting pressure. Moreover, the delays have affected connecting flights and weekend travel plans. Consequently, airlines are issuing apologies and offering rebooking options. Despite these efforts, the atmosphere remains tense, and travelers are seeking clear communication.
Affected Cities and Airports
The four major Spanish cities and their corresponding airports that have been affected by flight disruptions. In Barcelona, the affected hub is Barcelona International Airport, serving as a key gateway for Vueling Airlines, Iberia, Portugalia, United, Transavia France, and Delta Air Lines. The Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport represents Madrid, Spain’s busiest airport, where Iberia, Brussels Airlines, and United experienced cancellations and delays. Meanwhile,Palma de Mallorca Airport, located in the Balearic Islands, saw multiple disruptions involving Vueling Airlines. Lastly, in Málaga, the Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport also faced operational issues, primarily affecting Vueling Airlines. Together, these airports — Barcelona International, Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, Palma de Mallorca, and Málaga-Costa del Sol — form the main air traffic network across Spain’s most visited cities, where travelers have encountered significant delays and cancellations.
Flight Cancellations
Airport
Airline
Cancelled
Delayed
Barcelona Int’l
Vueling Airlines
24
158
Barcelona Int’l
Iberia
3
12
Barcelona Int’l
Portugalia
2
4
Barcelona Int’l
United
1
1
Barcelona Int’l
Transavia France
1
4
Barcelona Int’l
Delta Air Lines
1
0
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas
Iberia
3
76
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas
Brussels Airlines
2
4
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas
United
1
2
Palma de Mallorca
Vueling Airlines
2
34
Malaga
Vueling Airlines
1
16
Affected Airlines
The several airlines operating across major Spanish airports, each experiencing varying levels of flight disruptions. Vueling Airlines stands out as the most affected carrier, with multiple cancellations and delays reported across Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, and Málaga. Iberia, Spain’s flag carrier, also faced several operational challenges, particularly at Barcelona International Airport and Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport in Madrid. International airlines such as Brussels Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines were similarly impacted, reflecting the global nature of the disruptions. Additionally, Portugalia and Transavia France encountered notable issues, further highlighting the widespread effect across European and transatlantic carriers. Overall, these airlines — Vueling Airlines, Iberia, Portugalia, United Airlines, Transavia France, Delta Air Lines, and Brussels Airlines — represent a mix of domestic and international operators affected by delays and cancellations throughout Spain’s busiest travel hubs.
Overview of Flight Cancellations
Across Spain’s busiest airports — Barcelona International, Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, Palma de Mallorca, and Málaga-Costa del Sol — a total of 41 flight cancellations were reported. These cancellations affected both domestic and international airlines, causing widespread disruption for travelers.
Barcelona International Airport
Barcelona experienced the highest number of cancellations, totaling 32 flights.
Vueling Airlines topped the list with 24 cancellations (6%), reflecting its heavy operational load.
Iberia reported 3 cancellations (8%), while Portugalia had 2 cancellations (28%).
United, Transavia France, and Delta Air Lines each canceled 1 flight, showing smaller but notable impacts. Barcelona thus accounted for roughly 78% of all cancellations nationwide, making it the hardest-hit airport.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport
Madrid recorded 6 cancellations in total.
Iberia reported 3 cancellations (1%),
Brussels Airlines had 2 (25%),
United Airlines canceled 1 (20%). Although fewer than Barcelona, Madrid’s cancellations disrupted numerous connecting flights and long-haul routes.
Palma de Mallorca Airport
At Palma de Mallorca, Vueling Airlines canceled 2 flights (3%). While the percentage was modest, the cancellations still affected hundreds of holiday travelers given the airport’s popularity with tourists.
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport
Vueling Airlines also reported 1 cancellation (1%) in Málaga. Although the disruption was limited, it added to the overall operational strain across Vueling’s Spanish network.
Vueling Airlines accounted for 27 of the 41 cancellations, making it the most affected carrier.
Iberia followed with 6, while Brussels Airlines, Portugalia, United, Transavia France, and Delta Air Lines each had between 1–2 cancellations. The pattern shows that Barcelona was the epicenter of disruptions, with cascading effects across Madrid, Palma de Mallorca, and Málaga.
What to Do if Your Flight Gets Cancelled: A Quick Guide
Flight cancellations can be frustrating, but knowing the right steps to take can help minimize stress. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:
Stay Updated Monitor your email, phone, and the airline’s app for rebooking confirmation or further announcements.
Stay Calm and Check for Updates As soon as you learn your flight is canceled, stay calm and check for updates. Many airlines will notify you via text, email, or their app. Visit the airline’s website for real-time updates on the situation.
Contact the Airline Reach out to the airline’s customer service either in person at the airport or over the phone. If you’re at the airport, head to the service desk. If you’re not, try calling or using the airline’s online chat system to avoid waiting in long queues.
Know Your Rights Familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies regarding cancellations. Many airlines offer rebooking options or compensation, especially if the cancellation is within their control. In the EU, for example, passengers are entitled to compensation under certain conditions.
Consider Alternative Flights Ask the airline about the next available flight. If you can’t find a suitable option, consider booking a new flight through another airline, or check for other forms of transport like trains or buses.
Spain’s air travel network faced significant disruptions as Vueling, Iberia, Brussels Airlines, United, Delta, and others struggled with 41 cancellations and 311 delays across Barcelona, Madrid, Palma de Mallorca, and Málaga. The widespread operational issues caused inconvenience to thousands of passengers, affecting both domestic and international routes. Vueling Airlines emerged as the most impacted carrier, followed by Iberia, highlighting the strain on Spain’s major hubs. Despite ongoing recovery efforts, the situation underscores the need for improved contingency planning, communication, and coordination among airlines to minimize traveler distress and restore smooth air operations across Spain.
Source: FlightAware
Disclaimer: The information provided is sourced from FlightAware and airport websites. We do not guarantee its accuracy and have no intention to harm or malign any airlines. If you notice any discrepancies, please contact us at pr@travelandtourworld.com
Eric García has suffered a nasal fracture and will be fitted with a protective mask as Barcelona monitor his recovery ahead of the trip to Celta Vigo. The centre-back picked up the injury during Barcelona’s dramatic 3-3 Champions League draw away to Club Brugge, a match that saw the Catalans come from behind three times but also left the squad a little more dented.
The setback is particularly unwelcome because Hansi Flick has relied on García heavily this season, the Spaniard has featured more than almost anyone in the centre of defence as Flick tries to build a settled backline. Softfootball understands that García’s availability has been vital to the coach’s plans.
Eric Garcia (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
Barcelona provided the latest update on the Center back in a statement shared via its official X handle. They posted;
𝗠𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 First-team player Eric Garcia has suffered a nasal fracture. He will be fitted with a protective mask and his recovery will determine his availability for the upcoming match against Celta. pic.twitter.com/BwJlLDJSzW
This injury piles onto Barcelona’s growing list of absentees, Pedri, Raphinha, Joan García and Andreas Christensen are already sidelined and adds fresh pressure to a squad juggling fixtures and fitness. Softfootball understands the club’s medical team will fast-track assessments, but will not rush García back until they are satisfied he can play safely.
Barcelona now face a short sprint of matches where squad depth will be tested; the priority is clear, protect the players and steady the team as Flick seeks a quick response on the pitch.
Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal continues to capture the hearts of fans across Europe with his dazzling displays, but the 18-year-old insists he’s not getting carried away by comparisons to Lionel Messi. Following his impressive performance in Barcelona’s 3-3 UEFA Champions League draw against Club Brugge, the young forward addressed the constant comparisons to the Argentine legend in typically humble fashion, Softfootball reports.
Yamal was once again crucial for Barça, scoring once and forcing an own goal in the thrilling contest that saw the Catalans come from behind three times to rescue a point away from home. Despite facing constant pressure and expectations, the teenager’s maturity on and off the pitch has stood out.
Lamine Yamal with Lionel Messi as a kid (Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano Facebook page)
According to top journalist Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, the youngster played down any direct comparisons with Messi, choosing instead to focus on personal growth and individuality. Romano posted;
Lamine Yamal: “Comparisons with Messi’s goals? No, no. Messi has scored thousands of goals like this, so I can't compare myself to him…”.
Lamine Yamal of Barcelona. (Photo Credit: Barcelona media)
In another post shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X handle, Yamal also responded to the growing noise from opposition fans, suggesting that the boos he receives are a sign of his growing importance on the pitch.
If the rival fans boo me… it’s because they know I’m an important player on the field. If I were another player, they wouldn’t boo me.
Yamal’s confidence and humility continue to define his poetic rise. With every game, he shows that while comparisons to Messi are almost inevitable for football fans, he is determined to carve his own legacy in the famous Barcelona shirt.
With every game, Yamal continues to silence doubts and win hearts, proving that Barcelona’s future may already be shining through his gifted left foot.
I’ve reported here before about Kobbie Mainoo looking likely to leave Manchester United this January, and I’ve been given further information about the clubs pursuing him.
With Mainoo continuing to struggle for regular playing time under Ruben Amorim, it is widely expected that the England international will push to leave Old Trafford this winter, even if the line from the club is that they don’t want to let him leave, having prevented him from doing so in the summer.
Having spoken further to other well-connected figures close to the agents industry, I can also reveal as many as ten clubs want Mainoo this January, with varying degrees of interest.
Napoli lead Kobbie Mainoo transfer race, but Premier League an option too
As others have reported, and as I mentioned last month, there is strong and concrete interest from Napoli. They wanted Mainoo in the summer and it’s still felt that they’re leading the race for his signature.
However, I can also add nine names to that list. They are as follows:
Chelsea
Tottenham
Manchester City
Newcastle United
Leeds United
Everton
Barcelona
Real Madrid
Atletico Madrid
Chelsea are also long-time admirers of Mainoo and we’ve seen them raid United in recent times for the likes of Jadon Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho. I can’t confirm this for now, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Mainoo’s name has come up in previous contacts between the two teams.
Leeds showed an interest in a loan in the summer, but it never got to an advanced stage, while some of my sources also indicated that the likes of Manchester City and Newcastle have cooled their interest.
The interest from La Liga’s big three is genuine, with Atletico understood to be showing the strongest interest, though Real and Barca are also aware of Mainoo’s situation and keeping an eye on how it develops.
With Conor Gallagher possibly being set to leave Atletico, there could be room for Mainoo to come in as a replacement, but rivals Real are widely reported as prioritising another profile of midfielder.
Kobbie Mainoo in the pre-match warm-up for Man United (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Will United regret letting Mainoo go?
United fans may well be concerned by the prospect of a talented homegrown player being allowed to leave, but it would most likely just be a loan for now.
The Portuguese tactician has defended and praised Mainoo publicly, but the player is understood to be “baffled” by the fact that this has not led to more chances to show what he can do.
Casemiro’s improved recent form will undoubtedly have helped his cause, but there’s arguably still room for Mainoo to play ahead of someone like Manuel Ugarte from time to time.
If Mainoo leaves permanently and ends up shining for another major European club it’s going to look rather embarrassing again for the Red Devils, who have seen the likes of Scott McTominay, Rasmus Hojlund and Antony improve a great deal after leaving.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has reaffirmed his commitment to the club’s famous attacking philosophy after a thrilling 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League last night. Despite the chaotic scoreline, Flick praised his players’ resilience and reiterated that he has no plans to abandon the principles that define Barça’s footballing DNA, Softfootball reports.
It was a rollercoaster of a night at the Jan Breydel stadium as Barcelona found themselves trailing three times before clawing back into the game, with Lamine Yamal once again playing a starring role. The 18-year-old wonderkid was involved in two of Barcelona’s goals, showcasing his confidence and brilliance in key moments.
Hansi Flick of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Flick made it clear after the draw that while results are important, maintaining Barcelona’s traditional identity remains his top priority. Romano posted;
Hansi Flick: “We can talk about changing everything… but I’m not the kind of coach to do that. We want to play true to Barça DNA”.
“I do not want to sit deep and win 1-0 on a counterattack. 3-3 isn’t the ideal result, but we came back after every goal”. pic.twitter.com/uxtGZvNoUW
Flick’s words underline a long-term vision rooted in creativity and control, rather than pragmatism. Though the team has adapted to his methods, the German tactician seems determined to blend results with the artistry that has defined Barcelona for decades.
Barcelona’s next step will be to turn their trademark attacking flair into consistent victories as they prepare for their upcoming La Liga fixture against Celta Vigo this weekend, with Yamal once again expected to play a key role in Flick’s vibrant, forward-thinking system.
Softfootball reports that Barcelona’s unbeaten run on the road in the UEFA Champions League came to a dramatic end on Wednesday night, November 5, 2025, as they were held to a thrilling 3–3 draw by Club Brugge at the Jan Breydel Stadium. It was a match filled with chaos, brilliance, and defensive lapses that once again exposed Hansi Flick’s men at the back. something in the opposite direction of the pregame predictions,, as Barcelona were expected to have it easy.
The Catalans, who had won all four of their previous away fixtures in the competition, were rocked early when Nicolò Tresoldi opened the scoring in just the 6th minute, finishing off a quick counter from Carlos Forbs, who tore through Barcelona’s high line with ease. But Barça responded immediately through Ferran Torres, who calmly slotted home to level things two minutes later.
Fermin Lopez of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
Still, the defensive cracks remained. Forbs who was a constant menace throughout, struck again in the 17th minute, cutting inside and curling a superb left-footed finish past Wojciech Szczęsny to restore Brugge’s lead. Despite controlling the game with 76% possession and 23 attempts on goal, Barcelona struggled to make it count. Jules Koundé rattled the crossbar, and Marcus Rashford saw a fine effort tipped over before the break.
After halftime, the game continued at a frantic pace. Brugge nearly made it 3–1 through Joaquin Seys, but the visitors found their equaliser when Lamine Yamal, fresh from his inclusion in the FIFPRO World Starting XI, coolly finished off a sweeping move in the 61st minute with the outside of his foot, a reminder of his composure beyond his years, an act that drew appreciation from the club, which was reflected via a post on their official X account.
However, just when it seemed Barcelona had settled, Forbs struck once more two minutes later to complete a brilliant hat-trick, punishing another lapse in concentration with a deft chip over Szczęsny. The Blaugrana pushed hard for a response and got a stroke of luck in the 77th minute when Lamine Yamal’s dangerous cross deflected off Christos Tzolis and into the net for 3–3.
Balde of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
In the dying moments, Brugge thought they had snatched all three points when Romeo Vermant bundled the ball home, but VAR intervened, ruling the goal out for a foul on Szczęsny in the buildup.
The draw means Barcelona drop points away from home in the Champions League for the first time under Flick, leaving them on six points, level with PSG and Real Madrid in Group D. For Brugge, the result extends their impressive five-match unbeaten home run in Europe, proving once again that the Belgian champions are no pushovers on the continental stage.
Marcus Rashford is currently on loan at Spanish club Barcelona.
He has impressed with the Spanish outfit, and they are hoping to sign him permanently. They have an option to sign the player for a fee of around €35 million, and Fichajes claim that they are considering paying it.
It will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done.
Barcelona must sign Marcus Rashford
Rashford does not have a future at Manchester United, and he has done quite well in La Liga. He could be a very useful player for Barcelona going forward.
He is capable of slotting into multiple attacking roles, and he will add goals and creativity to the side. The England International is enjoying his time in La Liga, and he will not want to return to Manchester United. He is not an important part of their project anymore, and it would make sense for him to join Barcelona permanently.
They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and the player will be desperate to prove his quality and convince them to make the move permanent. He will be hoping to fight for major trophies with them in the coming seasons.
Marcus Rashford in action for Barcelona (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Rashford was regarded as one of the best attacking players in the Premier League a few years ago. There is no doubt that he is still a very good player, and he is at the peak of his career. If he manages to get back to his best, he would be an asset for Barcelona.
The €35 million asking price could look like a bargain in future. Even though Barcelona are going through financial limitations, they should do everything in their power to get the deal done. It would be a gamble worth taking.
Spain’s holiday tourism is gearing up for a busy festive season, with cities and regions such as Madrid, Barcelona, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and beyond attracting millions of travelers. The surge is driven by a mix of family visits, short city breaks, and the enduring appeal of winter-sun escapes in the Canary Islands. High occupancy rates and a significant share of pre-booked trips reflect both careful planning by travelers and the strong demand for popular destinations during peak dates, while seasonal spending rises as visitors combine sightseeing, festive activities, and accommodation. Domestic travelers dominate city breaks, while international tourists flock to sun-soaked islands, making Spain a hub of vibrant holiday activity throughout December and January.
Spain is gearing up for another bustling festive travel season, driven by short urban escapes, family reunions, and a strong desire for winter-sun getaways in the Canary Islands. Recent research shows that over 70% of Spaniards intend to take at least one trip during the Christmas period, with individual spending averaging around €800. Most December and January trips have already been booked, highlighting a clear preference for domestic travel this season.
High-demand travel dates and traffic trends The busiest travel periods align with Spain’s public holidays, including Constitution Day on 6th December, the Immaculate Conception on 8th December, the Christmas-to-New-Year stretch, and Epiphany on 6th January. Private cars remain the dominant mode of transport, creating higher traffic volumes along main city arteries and resort access roads during long weekends. Early booking is strongly linked with cost savings, explaining why such a high proportion of trips are pre-planned.
Domestic hotspots during the holidays Madrid stands out as the leading destination for festive travel once local trips within the region are excluded, attracting nearly three million visitors during December and January. Domestic tourists make up the bulk of these visits, with spending in the capital during the festive period often surpassing the yearly average. The city’s combination of cultural events, family gatherings, and urban attractions makes it a magnet for short winter breaks.
Inland regions, which tend to be quieter in summer, experience a surge in visitors during the festive season. Certain areas even register higher tourist numbers in winter than in summer, reflecting a shift toward seasonal domestic tourism. Meanwhile, the Canary Islands continue to dominate Spain’s international winter travel market, drawing between one-quarter and one-third of foreign visitors. Resorts such as Adeje and Arona in Tenerife and San Bartolomé de Tirajana in Gran Canaria are particularly popular, hosting hundreds of thousands of travelers. Pleasant daytime temperatures of around 21°C in December make the archipelago a reliable choice for sun-seeking tourists.
Barcelona’s international draw Barcelona remains a key festive destination, particularly for international visitors, welcoming close to 1.5 million tourists in December and January. The city accounts for over half of the province’s seasonal visitors, with short cultural excursions and family-focused trips being the main motivators. Moderate winter temperatures, averaging 14–15°C, allow visitors to enjoy outdoor markets, sightseeing, and festive events comfortably, without the summer crowds.
Travel patterns, group types, and expenditure Most festive trips in Spain are brief: about 43% last up to three days, while 27% extend for three to five days. These short getaways often coincide with long weekends, resulting in rapid turnover for city-center hotels, short-term rentals, and resort accommodations, particularly in the Canary Islands. Families dominate travel at 48%, followed by couples at 27%, friends at 16%, and solo travelers at 9%. Seasonal spending tends to increase, driven by accommodation costs, dining, entertainment, and festive experiences.
Connectivity and transportation Spain’s well-developed air network continues to support strong mobility during the holiday season. Recent years have seen record passenger volumes, with international routes remaining highly popular. Key European markets contribute significantly to inbound tourism, sustaining heavy two-way travel flows. Peak holiday days often bring higher ticket prices, but the availability of additional flights offers flexibility for those planning travel around family gatherings or festive events.
Madrid, Barcelona, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and other top destinations are driving Spain’s festive tourism with high occupancy, pre-booked trips, strong seasonal spending, family travel, and winter-sun escapes during the Christmas and New Year period.
Spain’s Christmas travel landscape blends traditional domestic movements with international tourism, creating a dynamic mix of short city breaks, family-oriented trips, and winter-sun escapes. Cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, along with resort destinations in the Canary Islands, continue to attract the majority of travelers, offering a combination of cultural experiences, seasonal festivities, and mild winter climates. This diversity ensures Spain remains a top destination for both domestic and international travelers throughout the festive period.
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has poured cold water on rumours about his future, making it clear he’s exactly where he wants to be. Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League trip to Club Brugge, the German coach said in a post shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account:
I really love this club, I love the players, I love everything surrounding it. I am very happy in Barcelona.
Hansi Flick and Lamine Yamal (Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano X handle)
Flick’s calm but passionate declaration followed days of speculation that he could leave at the end of the season. According to SoftFootball, the 60-year-old feels completely settled in the city and deeply connected to his players, especially the younger ones. He’s also proud of how Pedro “Dro” Fernández has impressed since making his La Liga and Champions League debut.
Hansi Flick: “I really love this club, I love the players, I love everything surrounding it. I am very happy in Barcelona”. pic.twitter.com/rPWnskXNmq
Since taking charge in 2024, Flick has guided Barcelona through an emotional and footballing transformation. His first full season ended with a domestic treble — La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa — a turnaround that earned him a contract extension until 2027.
Fermín López and Hansi Flick. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano Media on X
Beyond tactics and trophies, Flick often speaks about how Barcelona has changed him. Once known for his cool composure at Bayern Munich, he now celebrates every goal with visible emotion. His belief in the club’s identity remains strong, built around La Masia’s youth and a possession-based style. As SoftFootball noted after Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Elche, Flick’s mix of passion, patience, and trust in young talent is shaping a bright new era at Camp Nou.
Arsenal midfielder and club captain Martin Odegaard is reportedly emerging as a top transfer target for Barcelona for summer 2026.
However, the Gunners don’t want to sell the Norway international and will instead prioritise tying him down to a new contract, according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes.
Odegaard is a world class talent on his day, and it makes sense that he’d be of interest to someone like Barca, but Arsenal surely need to do all they can to keep him at the Emirates Stadium.
Even if he’s had some recent injury problems, a fully fit Odegaard is a key part of how this Arsenal side plays, so it would be a big risk letting him go to another major European club.
Can Arsenal keep hold of Martin Odegaard?
Martin Odegaard in action for Arsenal (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Arsenal are building an exciting project and have done well in recent times to tie other star names down to new deals.
In recent months, we’ve seen the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri all commit to the club, so it would make sense for Odegaard to follow suit.
The 26-year-old surely has little reason to try to move on for a new challenge elsewhere, as this Arsenal team looks really close to finally going all the way in the Premier League title race, and could perhaps challenge for the Champions League as well.
Arsenal have lost stars to Barcelona in the past
There was a time when Barcelona were able to raid Arsenal for their star players, but Gooners will hope those days are over.
During the Arsene Wenger years, the Catalan giants poached AFC for stars like Thierry Henry, Cesc Fabregas, Alex Hleb and Alex Song, but the north Londoners no longer look like a selling club.
Odegaard previously played in Spain with Real Madrid, and had a loan spell with Real Sociedad, but it remains to be seen if he’d be desperate to move back to La Liga.
According to Sport, Oriol Romeu has secured his next move after leaving Barcelona, returning to England to join Southampton. The 34-year-old midfielder, who terminated his contract with the Catalans at the end of the summer transfer window, will sign a short-term deal until the end of the season, with an option for an additional year. […]
According to Sport, Oriol Romeu has secured his next move after leaving Barcelona, returning to England to join Southampton. The 34-year-old midfielder, who terminated his contract with the Catalans at the end of the summer transfer window, will sign a short-term deal until the end of the season, with an option for an additional year. […]
Club Brugge’s Champions League journey started brightly with a win on matchday one, but things have quickly gone off track since then. Despite solid domestic form, six wins from their last eight games their struggles in Europe have been clear, with both of their recent losses coming in the Champions League, Softfootball reports
Still, they’ll head into this fixture with confidence after a 2-1 weekend victory over Dender, which made it three wins in a row since their 4-0 defeat to Bayern Munich on matchday three. That run has helped rebuild momentum ahead of this tough clash.
Club Brugge players in training session (Photo Credit: Club Brugge facebook page)
Brugge will also be counting on their impressive home record to give them an edge. They’re currently unbeaten in their last four UCL home group games, setting a club record and have won nine of their ten home matches across all competitions this season.
Those numbers suggest they could be a tougher opponent than many expect, even against a side as strong as Barcelona. The Belgian side’s challenge will be to translate their domestic dominance into Europe, where consistency has often eluded them.
Club Brugge players in training session (Photo Credit: Club Brugge X handle)
Barcelona come into this game in good spirits after bouncing back from their El Clásico defeat to Real Madrid with a solid 3-1 win over Elche in La Liga. That performance showed real character, and Flick will be hoping his side can carry that momentum into this trip to Belgium.
In Europe, Barça have been sharp two wins from three games so far puts them in a strong position to qualify, but they know a slip here could make things complicated in a competitive group.
Barcelona Players training (Photo Credit: Barca via X
Flick’s men have been impressive away from home in the Champions League lately, winning their last four away games in the group stage. Their most recent one a 2-1 win over Newcastle showed how well they can handle pressure on the road.
With young stars like Fermín López and Lamine Yamal stepping up and Lewandowski leading the line, Barcelona look dangerous again. A win in Belgium would also mark the first time since 2020/21 that they’ve opened a Champions League campaign with two away victories, so there’s plenty to play for.
Barcelona via their official X handle shared an exclusive video with fans showing the the entire team including the first team coaches, traveling down to Bruges as they set to lock horns against club Brugge in round 4 of the Uefa champions league first phase. They posted:
Brugge could still be without Bjorn Meijer, who has missed the team’s last two games through injury. However, in-form winger Carlos Forbs has been a consistent threat, with all six of his recent goals coming in the second half five of them scored at home. Manager Ronny Deila will rely heavily on his attacking pace and the home crowd to push the team forward.
Club Brugge confirmed via its official X handle the squad list for the game against Barcelona Tomorrow evening.They posted:
Barcelona continue to deal with a long injury list. Raphinha and Gavi remain the biggest absentees, while a few other key names are still working their way back to full fitness. Despite that, Flick has found inspiration in Fermín López, who has been in sensational form contributing six goal involvements in his last three appearances, including a hat-trick in their 6-1 win over Olympiacos on matchday three.
Barcelona shared with the fans via its official X handle, the official Squad list of the players that traveled to Bruges to face club Brugge in their uefa champions league match day 4 fixture. They posted:
Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, E Garcia, Balde; Casado, De Jong; Yamal, Fermin, Rashford; F Torres
SoftFootball Prediction
Club Brugge have been strong at home this season and will fancy their chances of pulling off a surprise in front of their fans. However, Barcelona have regained their rhythm after the El Clásico setback and have shown they can handle tricky away fixtures. With Fermín López and Rashford in good form, the Catalans should have just enough firepower to edge past Brugge in what could be a hard-fought match.
According to Sport, Harry Kane is emerging as one of the major names for the upcoming summer transfer window, and FC Barcelona considering him as a potential signing. The 32-year-old striker, currently at Bayern Munich, has a release clause of €65 million effective from summer 2026, when he will have one year left on his […]
According to Sport, Harry Kane is emerging as one of the major names for the upcoming summer transfer window, and FC Barcelona considering him as a potential signing. The 32-year-old striker, currently at Bayern Munich, has a release clause of €65 million effective from summer 2026, when he will have one year left on his […]
After that comfortable 3-1 victory over Elche in La Liga, FC Barcelona has officially teamed up with US luxury fashion house AMIRI in a brand-new five-year deal that’ll see the Los Angeles-based label become the club’s Official Formalwear Partner through the 2029/30 season.
Softfootball reports that the collaboration brings together the best of two worlds, the bold creativity of fashion and the rich sporting culture of Barça, producing custom-tailored suits for both the men’s and women’s teams, along with the club’s top executives and board members. And after fans reacted to the last victory enjoyed by Barcelona, fans will once again be excited by the news.
Barcelona Players rocking the Amiri Brand (Photo Credit: Barca via X)
The designs draw heavy inspiration from Barça’s iconic blaugrana colours, blending AMIRI’s signature modern flair with the club’s deep football identity. It’s not just about clothing; it’s about elegance, character, and how the club represents itself even off the pitch. Barcelona announced the collaboration in a post made on their official X account and club website.
They posted:
Where legacy meets innovation. AMIRI joins forces with FC Barcelona as official Formalwear Partner. A celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and confidence, designed for the athletes who define excellence. A partnership born from shared artistry. #BarçaxAMIRI
For the Winter set, AMIRI went with deep navy blue as the base, crafting beautifully tailored six-button overcoats, double-breasted jackets for men and single-breasted ones for women, paired with pinstripe wool trousers that flare just slightly. The outfit is completed with pinstripe poplin shirts, a blaugrana-striped tie, and a gold tie clip — a look that screams understated class but still carries that Barcelona edge.
Barcelona Players rocking the Amiri Brand (Photo Credit: Barca via X)
When the weather turns warm, the tone softens. The summer outfits bring in a more relaxed elegance, a pinstriped shirt-collar blouson inspired by AMIRI’s sportswear roots but reworked into a formal statement. Lightweight knits stitched with AMIRI’s logo in Barça tones finish the look sharp yet easy on the eye.
Both brands share a similar mindset: precision, craft, and passion. The partnership doesn’t just dress players; it mirrors how sport and style can reflect the same values of ambition, confidence, and identity, a sentiment shared by Barcelona’s managing director, Manuel del Rio, when addressing the press.
He said:
The partnership with AMIRI represents a connection between two institutions that share the same ambitions: excellence, creativity and attention to detail. At FC Barcelona, we believe elegance is part of how we represent the club, both on and off the pitch.
Barcelona Players rocking the Amiri Brand (Photo Credit: Barca via X)
The founder of Amiri, Mike Amiri, spoke about the unique bond that blends football and fashion and highlighted that shared values of both parties were critical to the deal.
He noted:
Soccer and fashion share a spirit born from passion and precision. Partnering with FC Barcelona lets AMIRI show that same pursuit of excellence through tailoring. It’s a celebration of shared values.
Founded in Los Angeles back in 2014, AMIRI has carved its own lane in luxury fashion — a mix of California cool and sharp craftsmanship. This partnership simply feels right: Barça brings the spirit, AMIRI brings the style, and together they’re rewriting what football elegance looks like.
Marcus Rashford has declared that Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Elche is very important in the push to retain their LaLiga title this season, Softfootball reports.
The England international scored the third goal after Lamine Yamal opened scoring and Ferran Torres netted his 50th goal for Barcelona with the away side getting a consolation through Rafa Mir. Barcelona bounced back from the 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the El Clasico last week.
Marcus Rashford (Photo Credit: Barcelona media file)
Speaking after the match in an interview shared on Barcelona’s official X handle. Rashford said:
Very important. Its always important after win to lost a game, to win the next game is the most important thing. I’m very happy with this and we will try to build a momentum and I’m happy today.
Confidence is a huge thing in football and the onus is on us to work hard to win and to feel good with our relationships on the pitch. Winning is helping us but we take it game by game and focus on ourselves and try to improve our performances.
Rashford has been on a fantastic form since he joined Barcelona on the final day of the transfer window from Manchester United on loan and he is one of the key players for German manager Hansi Flick.
Rashford and his Barcelona teammates will be back in action on Wednesday when they travel to Belgium to face Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League.
Born on November 3, 2000, Dest’s career began at Ajax, where he broke into the senior team before transferring to FC Barcelona in 2020 for approximately €21m.
He won the 2020–21 Copa del Rey with Barcelona but his time at the club was limited by injuries and a lack of necessary opportunities under manager Xavi, leading to his departure.
So, he spent the following two seasons on loan at AC Milan and PSV Eindhoven, respectively. At AC Milan during the 2022–23 season, he was limited to just 14 appearances while his loan to PSV the 2023–24 season was more successful as he won the Eredivisie title with them and made his transfer permanent after that.
Dest will hope to get a perfect birthday gift with a victory over Olympiacos in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Barcelona are intensifying their efforts to make Marcus Rashford’s move to the Camp Nou permanent, with club sources describing him as one of manager Hansi Flick’s top priorities for 2026.
The Manchester United forward, currently thriving in Spain, has impressed both on and off the pitch, quickly earning the trust of the coaching staff and integrating seamlessly into Barcelona’s dressing room culture.
Barcelona view Rashford as a long-term solution to their left-sided attacking needs, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
The major stumbling block, however, remains Rashford’s salary. After signing a lucrative new contract with Man United in the summer of 2023, the Englishman’s wages significantly exceed Barcelona’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) limits.
The Catalan giants are crafting a long-term deal that would involve a reduced base salary but include performance-based bonuses and image rights incentives.
If Rashford agrees to this financial compromise, a deal could be finalised as early as the January transfer window.
Barcelona face competition to sign the versatile attacker
Marcus Rashford applauds the Barcelona fans (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Financially, Barcelona are prepared to pay €30 million, slightly below Rashford’s €35 million release clause.
However, Barcelona face stiff competition. Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, and Arsenal are all monitoring Rashford’s situation closely.
Chelsea and Arsenal are considering potential moves should the player wish to remain in the Premier League.
Still, Barcelona’s confidence is growing. Rashford’s strong rapport with Flick and his enthusiasm for Spanish football have made the Catalan club his preferred destination.
Barcelona’s 3–1 victory over Elche at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium on November 2, 2025, may have strengthened their title push, but among fans on X, the conversation went far beyond the scoreline. Softfootball reports that the mood was a mix of admiration, cautious optimism, and mild frustration, as supporters dissected the match from emotional and tactical angles.
Lamine Yamal scored the first goal for Barcelona with a neat finish before Ferran Torres extended Barcelona’s lead after some neat work from Fermin Lopez. Rafa Mir halved the deficit for Elche before the break, and it was Marcus Rashford, fresh from celebrating his 28th birthday, that decided the match with a powerful shot that sent the roof blazing, prompting fans to speak their opinions regarding the result.
For Vawulencia (@youngskidmusic_), the night was about chemistry and connection, the kind of raw emotion that makes football beautiful. His focus wasn’t on tactics or stats, but on the spirit of the players and how much they enjoy playing together.
He posted:
The way Fermin starts celebrating already even before Ferran scores the goal . And the way they all came to meet him for the celebration . Win or lose, these guys dey give me joy
His post highlighted how moments like Fermín López’s premature celebration, a spontaneous show of belief, capture the essence of team unity and remind fans why they love the game and support the club.
On the other hand, Aaron (@Barca4life733) provided a more structured match review, pointing out both strengths and weaknesses.
He analysed:
Once the pressing intensity is on, there’s no team in Europe that can stop us. It’s fair to say we were being lazy for the last month. We don’t have a better midfielder TACTICALLY than Casado. A lot of poor decisions on the ball is plaguing this team. There’s still a lack of focus in this team’s overall play. Again Szczęsny with a few key saves.
His tone reflected that section of the fanbase that admires Barcelona’s brilliance but demands more consistency and sharper focus.
Lamine Yamal of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
UTAZiWiLD (@WildSmT) shifted the spotlight to the midfield, commending Frenkie de Jong and Marc Casadó for stepping up in Pedri’s absence.
He wrote:
We need to take our opportunities more. FDJ is a gem and along with Casado covered our midfield in the absence of Pedri. Great to be back to winning ways #ViscaBarca
Meanwhile, Feranmi Ade-Alao (@FeranmiAdeAlao) struck a hopeful tone, acknowledging the team’s imperfections but celebrating the return of key players.
He tweeted:
Grinded that one out somehow As usual, offence and defence needs tweaking, and refining, and all other areas of work. Good to see Olmo and Lewandoski back on the pitch. Let’s hope the others follow too To a more glorious progress Força barça
Not everyone was satisfied, though. Ayo dele (@themainAyo) voiced dissatisfaction with individual performances and defensive frailties.
He said:
Win but a very poor performance, rashy scored but he had an awful game. We will just dedicate yamal’s poor form to his injury and yah a better right back is needed, kounde has been awful for sometime now and it’s not improving. Without Pedri and Rafinha, weren’t that team
Marcus Rashford of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
Similarly, Shifu (@_ThembaD) criticised Flick’s in-game decisions, calling out his substitution patterns and squad management.
He criticised:
Bad man management by Flick. Wrong subs or too late with the subs. Give Bernal some game time. Rest De Jong before same overuse issue as Pedri happens with him , Stop protecting and favouring Ferran. Give Ronny decent minutes or dont bother playing him.
In essence, Barcelona fans are torn between excitement and expectation. While some celebrate the growing chemistry and renewed momentum under Flick, others remain wary of recurring flaws. The 3–1 win against Elche brought three points, but also sparked deeper reflection on what still needs to improve if Barcelona are to truly close the gap on Real Madrid.
Barcelona continued their steady climb up the La Liga table, defeating Elche 3-1 at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium on November 2, 2025, to move within five points of league leaders Real Madrid, who yesterday saw off Valencia 4-1 in their own fixture. The win also marked Barça’s ninth straight victory over Elche and stretched their unbeaten record in this fixture to 22 matches (W18, D4).
Lamine Yamal of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
The game kicked off with intensity, and it didn’t take long for Lamine Yamal to light up the night. The 18-year-old prodigy pounced on a loose ball from Alejandro Balde’s press, slotting home in the 8th minute to give Barcelona the lead. Just moments later, Fermín López took advantage of a slip by Adrià Pedrosa, setting up Ferran Torres to make it 2-0 inside 12 minutes. Barcelona posted a video of Lamine Yamal celebrating and kissing the badge on their official X account.
Elche, though, refused to fold; Rafa Mir halved the deficit before halftime with a curling strike after slipping through a shaky Barça offside trap. Softfootball reported that the team would be without Pedri, as the Spanish midfielder suffered an injury after the El Clasico loss to Real Madrid, and without him, Barcelona struggled to control the game, with Elche surprisingly edging the Spanish champions in possession.
Marcus Rashford of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
After the break, Barcelona steadied themselves. Marcus Rashford, who had earlier seen one goal disallowed and another effort blocked by the post, finally got his reward smashing in a thunderous shot that took a wicked deflection off the woodwork to seal the win.
Elche gave a good fight, with Mir twice rattling the crossbar, but it wasn’t enough. The result leaves them winless in their last four league outings (D1, L3), while Barça notch up six wins from seven home matches this season.
Fermin Lopez of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barcelona via X)
Barcelona fans finally have something to smile about as Hansi Flick welcomes back Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo to the squad ahead of Sunday’s La Liga showdown with Elche at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium. Softfootball understands that both players have been given full medical clearance, as revealed by the club’s official X account after spending weeks on the sidelines, and their return couldn’t come at a better time for the Catalan giants.
Lewandowski, who had been nursing a muscle injury, and Olmo, recovering from a stubborn knee problem, missed some crucial matches, including fixtures against Girona, Olympiacos, and Real Madrid. Their absence was deeply felt, especially in attack, where Barcelona struggled for consistency and a clinical edge.
Dani Olmo of Barcelona (Photo Credit: Barca via X)
The full 21-man squad features a mix of first-team regulars and emerging young talents: Szczesny, Kochen, Eder Aller, Balde, Ronald Araujo, Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Kounde, Eric, Xavi Espart, Fermín, Marc Casadó, Olmo, Frenkie De Jong, Bernal, Dro, Ferran Torres, Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Rashford, and Roony.
An excited Barcelona Media team posted a video of Barcelona’s dressing room soon in a post made via the club’s official X account, revealing that the Polish striker is definitely part of the team that takes on Elche today.
For Flick, this is a timely boost, as the German manager has been forced to try out some youngsters in training in a bid to maximise what the academy has to offer, a situation that youngster Tommy Marques enjoyed on his 19th birthday. Lewandowski brings back his trademark goal-scoring instinct, while Olmo adds much-needed flair and creativity to the midfield. With Barcelona currently sitting in the top three, the challenge now is maintaining that momentum.
Fans will be watching closely to see how Flick reshuffles his starting XI and whether the returning duo can inspire Barça to another crucial win.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has spoken warmly about Lamine Yamal, assuring fans that the club will continue to handle the teenager’s development with care. The 18-year-old, who in recent weeks, has been managing some minor discomfort, including in the 2-1 El Clásico defeat to Real Madrid, but Flick insists there’s no cause for concern, Softfootball reports.
The Barça boss was calm yet deliberate as he addressed questions about Yamal’s fitness and the youngster’s growing importance to the team, emphasizing maturity, patience, and responsibility in managing his progress.
Lamine Yamal of Barcelona. (Photo Credit: Barcelona media)
According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Flick shared an encouraging update on Yamal’s recovery, while highlighting his commitment to guiding the youngster both on and off the pitch. Romao posted;
Lamine is fine, although some days he still feels a bit of discomfort. He is progressing well, that’s important. I spoke to Lamine. I’m always going to protect and help him, he’s a young guy and a fantastic one… and we’ll continue on the same path.
The German tactician’s comments reflect a nurturing approach to one of Barcelona’s brightest prospects a player who has quickly become a key figure despite his age. Flick’s emphasis on patience and protection shows his awareness of the pressures surrounding a generational talent already carrying great expectations in Catalonia.
Flick also touched on Pedri’s injury, providing insight into the midfielder’s situation after he too picked up an issue after the El Clásico loss. According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Flick revealed that Pedri’s condition turned out to be worse than initially thought.
Hansi Flick: “Pedri’s injury has surprised us. After El Clásico, he only had minor discomfort… but then we checked him and saw the injury”.
Both Yamal and Pedri have been pivotal for Barcelona this season, and their absence has left a noticeable gap in the team’s creativity. However, Flick remains optimistic and focused on restoring confidence within the squad.
Barcelona will now turn their attention to Elche at home, where they’ll be eager to bounce back from the El Clásico heartbreak and reignite their momentum as the season continues.
Matchday 3 of the UEFA Champions League delivered drama, goals, and statements of intent from Europe’s heavyweights. Across two nights, the continent’s top clubs flexed their muscles, while others were left scrambling to keep their campaigns alive. Here’s a full roundup of the action from October 21 and 22. Tuesday, October 21: Fireworks in Spain, […]
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Lamine Yamal: “Comparisons with Messi’s goals? No, no. Messi has scored thousands of goals like this, so I can't compare myself to him…”.
Bruges, here we come! 
Marcus Rashford on 
