Futbol Club Barcelona

http://homepage.mac.com/sugwino/guapoBG/wallimage/campio/campio800.jpg

More than a club

Futbol Club Barcelona was founded on 29th November 1899 on the initiative of a Swiss enthusiast called Hans Maximilian Gamper, popularly known by the name of Joan Gamper. He, together with eleven collaborators, created a Club that has become the reflection of the civic conscience of a country characterized by integration and solidarity: Catalonia.

Over the more than 105 years of its history, Barca has become a unique social phenomenon that goes beyond the strictly sporting arena. The Club has grown together with its city, Barcelona, and has gradually become the representative of our country around the world. Through football, the Catalan people found a way of expressing their identity during many years of political repression.

At present, Barca has more members than any other football club in the world, almost 120,000, and can boast one of the most impressive sporting histories. The long list of great victories and legendary footballers that have worn the Barca colours, such as Samitier, Alcántara, Kubala, Suárez, Cruyff, Maradona, Romário, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho shape the reality of Barca.

Barca belongs to its 120,000 members. Every four years, they choose the president and the Board of Directors who manage the Club. They have the right to speak and to vote. This is a fundamental characteristic in understanding the democratic and participative nature of the Club.

In addition, FC Barcelona is the most important multi-sport Club in the world. It has more than 2,000 sportspeople, divided among more than one hundred teams which compete in thirteen different sports: basketball, handball, roller hockey, women's football, indoor football, cycling, athletics, field hockey, ice hockey, rugby, baseball, volleyball and figure skating. No other club competes in so many disciplines, and in four sports it competes at the highest international level (football, basketball, handball and roller hockey) and has achieved the top European honours.


A singular fact that helps to explain the Club's greatness is the number of fans it has around the world, organized into official fan clubs. At present, there are more than 1,500 of these fan clubs spread among the five continents and sharing a common goal and passion for Barca.

Special thanks to Dream Team and Ole Spain.

Goalkeepers

1. VALDÉS http://www.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/thumb/f/f8/20px-Spain_flag_large.png
25. JORQUERA http://www.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/thumb/f/f8/20px-Spain_flag_large.png
28. RUBEN http://www.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/thumb/f/f8/20px-Spain_flag_large.png

Defenders

2. BELLETTI
4. MÁRQUEZ
5. [PUYOL
12. BRONCKHORST
15. EDMÍLSON
19. FERNANDO
23. OLEGUER

Midfielders

3. MOTTA
6. XAVI
10. RONALDINHO
14. GERARD
18. GABRI
20. DECO
24. INIESTA
22. ALBERTINI
* VAN BOMMEL
* EZQUERRO

Forwards

7. LARSSON
8. GIULY
9. ETO'O
11. MAXI

Players in: Santi Ezquerro, Mark Van Bommel
Players out:

Kit Manufacturer: http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/sponsors/peu/nike-gran.gif

Camp Nou

http://www.worldstadiums.com/stadium_pictures/europe/spain/catalonia/barcelona_camp_nou2.jpg

Capacity: 109,815
Built: 1957
Official Name: Nou Estadi del Futbol Club Barcelona

FC Barcelona Honours, Trophies & Awards

Champions League: 1
1991-92
FC Barcelona 1 - 0 Sampdoria
Goal by Ronald Koeman (111')
UEFA Cup: 4
1958
FC Barcelona 6 - 0 London XI
London XI 2 - 2 FC Barcelona
1960
FC Barcelona 4 - 1 Birmingham City
Birmingham City F.C. 0 - 0 FC Barcelona
1966
Real Zaragoza 2 - 4 FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona 0 - 1 Real Zaragoza
1971
FC Barcelona 2 - 1 Leeds United
European Super Cup: 2
1992
Werder Bremen 1 - 1 FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona 2 - 1 Werder Bremen
1997
FC Barcelona 2 - 0 Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund 1 - 1 FC Barcelona
Cup Winners' Cup: 4
1979
FC Barcelona 4 - 3 Fortuna Düsseldorf
1982
FC Barcelona 2 - 1 Standard de Liège
1989
FC Barcelona 2 - 0 Sampdoria
1997
FC Barcelona 1 - 0 Paris Saint-Germain
Spanish First Division: 17
1928-29, 1944-45, 1947-48, 1948-49, 1951-52, 1952-53, 1958-59, 1959-60, 1973-74, 1984-85, 1990-91, 1991-92, 1992-93, 1993-94, 1997-98, 1998-99 , 2004-5
Spanish Super Cup: 5
1984, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1997
Spanish League Cup: 2
1983, 1986
King's Cup: 24
1909-10, 1911-12, 1912-13, 1919-20, 1921-22, 1924-25, 1925-26, 1927-28, 1941-42, 1950-51, 1951-52, 1952-53, 1956-57, 1962-63, 1967-68, 1970-71, 1977-78, 1980-81, 1982-83, 1987-88, 1989-90, 1996-97, 1997-98
Catalunya Cup: 5
1990-91, 1992-93, 1999-2000, 2003-04, 2004-05
Macaya Cup: 1
1901-02
Championship of Catalunya: 20
1904-05, 1908-09, 1909-10, 1910-11, 1912-13, 1915-16, 1918-19, 1919-20, 1920-21, 1921-22, 1923-24, 1924-25, 1925-26, 1926-27, 1927-28, 1929-30, 1930-31, 1931-32, 1934-35, 1935-36, 1937-38
Latin Cup: 2
1949, 1952
Eva Duarte Cup: 3
1948, 1952, 1953
Martini & Rossi Trohpy: 2
1952, 1953
Little World Cup: 1
1957
Joan Gamper Trophy: 30
1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1988, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Teresa Herrera Trophy: 5
1948, 1951, 1972, 1990, 1993
Ramon de Carranza Trophy: 2
1961, 1962
Ciudad de Palma Trophy: 5
1969, 1974, 1976, 1980, 1981
Cup of the Pyrenees: 4
1910, 1911, 1912, 1913
Mediterranean League: 1
1937

Special thanks to zka

Legendary Players
Asensi
Alcantara
Amor
Bakero
Sergi
Beguiristain
Cesar
Cocu
Cruyff
Deco
Luis Enrique
Ferrer
Figo
Guardiola
Kluivert
Koeman
Hansi Krankl
Kubala
Larsson
Laudrup
Gary Lineker

Josep Samitier Evaristo de Macedo
Maradona
Neeskens
Puyol
Quini
Ramallets
Rexach
Rivaldo
Romario
Ronaldinho
Ronaldo
Rüştü
Sadurni
Samitier
Saviola
Schuster
Simonet
Stoitchkov
Urruti
Valdes
Velasco
Zamora
Zubizarreta

http://www.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/2/21/Joangamper.jpg

JOAN GAMPER FOUNDER OF F.C BARCELONA

•••••••••••••••••••http://www.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/9/9e/Fcbarcelona.png•••••••••••••••••••

that yellow is really hard to read, apart from that, good post, just add history to it, like titles won in each competition.

my first post in the thread..

hehe, how exiting.. :chew:

That yellow font almost gave me an epileptic seizure. :|

Nice. (Y)

That yellow font almost gave me an epileptic seizure. :|


lmao. :funny:

Yeah, apart from that yellow, nice (Y)

Why does van Bommel get a small asterix, and that Exquero or whatever his name is a big one :( You don't like Dutch people do you, racist :( ;)

Page 1 post!!!!!!

Good job Surfy (Y)

yes...this year it's the copa d'el rey along with the championship again:rockman::rockman:

aleeez barçaa!!!!!!!!!!!:rockman::hump:
:ewan:

lol, i was trying to blind a few people with the yellow, maybe i should put it back to black. :D

Cheers.

It's not yellow, it's gold ;)......like in the shield....
I like it Surfy, keep it........it looks good....(plus, those won't be the first seizures Barcelona causes, I figure next season, there will be seizures all across Spain and Europe as we sweep all titles) :rockman:

Thanks jack. (Y)

Barcelona's Riquelme won't rule out Atletico Madrid

Barcelona midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme won't rule out a move to Atletico Madrid over the summer.

The Argentina international has starred on-loan at Villarreal this season and its been suggested Carlos Bianchi has requested his signing by Atletico if he is to takeover at the Vicente Calderon.

Riquelme worked with Bianchi at Boca Juniors and said: "I've always said that I would like to return to play in a team that Bianchi coaches.

"I see it as very normal that Atletico Madrid is interested in a coach who has won so many things as Bianchi, but it is another thing I am not going to be thinking about because there is nothing official."

He added: "It makes me happy that Villarreal continues thinking about me. That means that they're happy with what I have been doing here.

"But Barcelona has still not said to me that it does not want me or that I must leave, therefore I do not think about anything else."

good job Surfy :ewan:

Some stats of last season, from 'Mundo Deportivo'

Eto'o 29 goals
Ronaldinho 13 goals, 14 assists
Xavi 3 goals, 11 assists
Deco 9 goals, 10 assists, 252 balls recovered (only Puyol beats him)
Giuly 12 goals
Puyol, 276 balls recovered and only 28 fouls



BTW, according to 'Sport', Gerard may sign with monaco tomorrow! :rockman:

BTW, according to 'Sport', Gerard may sign with monaco tomorrow! :rockman:

Good, good! Bon voyage Gerard :)

Nice update.

Too bad Eto'o lost his award... oh well, Forlan deserved it.

So now that we've got vBommel and Ezquerro, are we going to sign anyone else?

I don't know if we're going to sign more players.

We have a really good squad already. 2 signings and also we have to count with the 4 players that suffered serious injuries last season and almost didn't play..


--------------------------VValdés/Jorquera---------------------------

Belletti/Gabri------Puyol/Edmilson----Márquez/Oleguer------Gio/Sylvinho

-----------------------Motta/Edmilson/Márquez-----------------------
--------------------Xavi/Iniesta----Deco/VBommel--------------------

Giuly/Ezquerro/Iniesta----------------------Ronaldinho/Ezquerro/Iniesta
-------------------------Eto'o/Larsson/Maxi---------------------------


If none of those players leave.. perhaps a CB?

yeah, the defence needs some strengthening. i think though you'll sell one or two players.

barça should get jorge andrade:p..i dunno:(

:ewan:

I think we need at least one center forward and wing forward....

why the hell? you have 4 possible wing forwards and 3 possible forwards, considering you play with one pure forward, 2 subs for him are enough.

yeah, the defence needs some strengthening. i think though you'll sell one or two players.Supposedly there are €8m to spend in the market, +Riquelme, +Saviola.

I only could see Maxi and Jorquera loaned out to a Spanish team. The rest is almost sure that will stay if there isn't more signings.

whos going to be the second GK then? and i thought your midfield is a bit overloaded with all the injuries back...well, we'll see as the market goes on :).

There were rumours about the GK Prats, from Betis, who finish his contract at the end of the season too. Old and experienced. Prats or some other cheap and young GK.. We have Rüstü also loaned although it'll be impossible because he's not EU player.

Márquez has played this season as DM because we didn't have more players in that position, and although he did a great job, he can return to the defence. After the problems we've had there, I think it's ok. Edmilson and Márquez are versatile players and they'll play on the midfield or defence, they'll have chances for sure.

Iniesta played every match except Villarreal but with the arrivals of van Bommel and Ezquerro, probably he'll be the sacrificed player and also goes out loaned. But right now there are 21 players and the board wanted 22, 2 per position. If we put Márquez or Edmilson on the midfield, there's a spot as CB. With a new CB it's exaclty 22 players :)


Villarreal want Riquelme. They'll get money after selling Reina. Money+Gonzalo Rodríguez(CB) could be the next deal that we get.

Villarreal want Riquelme. They'll get money after selling Reina. Money+Gonzalo Rodríguez(CB) could be the next deal that we get.

Agreed.

This is the highly likely scenario.

I can't see Iniesta leaving. Screw the loan. He played in almost every match. He is important to us.

ineista will never leave Barca, he's the kind of player every big team needs. he can play anywhere in the midfield, Am, LM, RM, DM, anywhere and that's the player i'd want at my club

nice thread!

forza Barca

We could get either Evra or Milito, you never know in the world of football.

Milito is close to Arsenal.

About loaning Jorquera: I think he's very good goalkeeper. It's soon to say it but maybe I like him more than Victor Valdés.

Some media say that Chelsea and Man uth are VERY interested in Etoo...

Liverpool are also interested in Milito. :(

Liverpool are also interested in Milito. :(

ups ups ups! you're right! it's Liverpool, not arsenal. :$ :X (:/)

Liverpool have more spaniards than we do. :(

Barca to sell Saviola

Barcelona are set to sell Javier Saviola when he returns from Monaco next month, despite promising the striker a place at the club before he left last summer.

Barca president Joan Laporta told the former River Plate forward that he would be part of the Barca squad if he went out on loan for a season to Monaco, due to the club having too many non-EU players.

But the Catalan club's president has been told by coach Frank Rijkaard that Saviola does not fit into his plans.

The Dutchman wants a 22-man squad for the next campaign and would prefer to trade Saviola and Juan Roman Riquelme as a package if it would help land one of the world's top strikers.

Riquelme has spent two successful seasons on loan at Villarreal, but the Yellow Submarines are unable to sign him permanently due to his wage demands and he is set to return to Camp Nou in June.

If the pair are unable to be offloaded together, then Saviola will be the first to be shown the door with Liverpool, Valencia, Deportivo La Coruna and Atletico Madrid all having registered their interest.

Barcelona have already secured the services of midfielder Mark Van Bommel from PSV Eindhoven and forward Santi Ezquerro from Athletic Bilbao on free transfers.

Now they are in the market for a striker and Arsenal's Thierry Henry has been strongly linked with a move to the Catalan giants.

Barca have offered Gerard a new deal, but it is thought to be well below the player's expectations and he is now set to leave the club.

The deal on offer suggested that Rijkaard sees the midfielder as a back-up player and he is not prepared to accept another season of watching from the sidelines.

Monaco have expressed an interest in taking him on board in the summer and Gerard is due to travel to the principality for talks after Barcelona's Far East tour in June.

Swap Saviola for Evra!

Simple.

I saw on TV today that Rijkaard said he was interested in Henry.

Seriously now, is Henry an option or not? Because I wouldn't see that on TV (not on the channel I saw it) if it was BS. Is there >>any<< truth to it?

if Henry comes, the squad will be unbalanced as hell, imho. Eto'o would have to leave, unless they plan to play with 2 strikers, which would turn the whole line-up around. i dont know, its just a waste of money imho, Henry would cost like 50 million. well, its your team :).

I saw on TV today that Rijkaard said he was interested in Henry.

Seriously now, is Henry an option or not? Because I wouldn't see that on TV (not on the channel I saw it) if it was BS. Is there >>any<< truth to it?

Rijkaard said he was interested in Henry...and only Henry!!!! (http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/3652650)

I don't see why you guys can' t play with both Eto'o and Henry up front. Giuly can play in an attacking midfield role.

yeah, and where are you going to fit Van Bommel, Xavi, Deco, and Ronaldinho?
Hah, maybe Barca will have a 3 man defence.

and where are you going to fit Van Bommel, Xavi, Deco, and Ronaldinho?

That' s Rijkaard' s problem. He wants Henry....he must have some plan in mind.

That' s Rijkaard' s problem. He wants Henry....he must have some plan in mind.


I tell you the plan, "KEEP THE PRESS TALKING ABOUT HENRY-BARCELONA MEANWHILE WE ARE TALKING WITH ANOTHER STAR" Thats the plan :)

What about Maxi Lopez future?

Loan him when he is injured? That's not very ethic... :jambo:

There are not official games until late August, he won't be injured when the season starts.. The loan is a rumour but it's a possibility. At Barça he won't have too much minutes, it's probably the best option for him.

Yeah, Racing Santander will probably be his destination, but it will be good if he does a Tommasson like role.

Maybe Barca will play Ronaldinho, van Bommel, Deco and Xavi in the same midfield.

Barcelona coach Rijkaard: Get me Arsenal's Henry

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard wants to bring Arsenal striker Thierry Henry to the Nou Camp over the summer.

Marca says Rijkaard was recently offered Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira by intermediaries, but rejected the approach, informing them that "the one that interests me is Henry".

Barca president Joan Laporta has already sounded out Henry about a move to Spain in the past month and knows the Frenchman is still to commit to a new, two-year contract extension which has been on the table.

Laporta and Henry have a good relationship thanks to their involvement with Nike and the Barca supremo has kept in touch with the prolific forward since his rise to the presidency two years ago.

Man Utd, Chelsea target Eto'o angry with Barcelona

Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o left Spain for international duty with Cameroon furious with his treatment by coach Frank Rijkaard and teammates after missing out on the Liga's top scorer's trophy.

Eto'o was desperate to win the prestigious title, but was edged out by Villarreal's Uruguayan ace Diego Forlan.

While showing no public signs of his discontent, privately Eto'o is reportedly fuming with the way the club let him down in his personal pursuit.

The African had a very public row with Barca captain Carles Puyol during the 3-3 draw with Villarreal, in which Forlan grabbed a hat-trick.

He was also furious with Rijkaard's decision not to select a full-strength team for last weekend's 0-0 draw with Real Sociedad, blaming the selection for him finishing the game without the necessary goals needed to wrest the trophy away from Forlan.

Yesterday, it emerged Manchester United had joined Chelsea in their interest for the Cameroon international. Eto'o has declared he has no interest in moving to Stamford Bridge, but United could be a different matter where the ability of manager Sir Alex Ferguson to get the best out of firebrands such as Eto'o are now legendary.

Oh man that Eto'o is whining ****. It's probably a bull**** story anyway, but if it's true, what the hell Eto'o thinking. If he wanted the golden boot he should have scored more, simple as that. Blaming it on your defenders or the coach is weak.

Eto'o won you the title, now Barca are gonna let him go. good one :).

Gerard definitely signed for Monaco :D

:$ :ewan:

I agree with Eto'o. The team should have helped more. I don't understand why Rijkaard rested the players in our final match of the season. It's just confusing. What the fvck were they rested for? A long vacation? I cannot understand it. I'd be pissed, too. Our defense was amateur against Forlan.

I hope he doesn't leave.

Eto'o talked to Oleguer because he didn't play a very good match and then Puyol talked to Eto'o because he's the captain. The goals were kind of stupid really. But anyway, Eto'o and Forlan took a penalty kick, Forlan scored, Eto'o hit the crossbar. That was the difference and he's the only one to blame. It should be frustrating for him that Forlan scored a hat trick against Barça. The press say Manchester United and Chelsea are interested, but he's not going anywhere.

I think Rijkaard did what he had to do, there are players who deserve a chance to show their qualities. The Pichichi and the Golden Boot are personal trophies and they're not a target of the club.

E'too seems like a prick.

what do u guys think about this starting line-up for next season.

===============Valdes================
Puyol====Edmilson======Marquez=======Gio
===============Motta================
======Xavi===============Bommel======
Deco========================Ronaldinho
===============E'too=================

Same, he's attitude isn't great, just don't like him.

I hope this is our Lineup next season.

===============Valdes================
Puyol====Edmilson======Marquez=======Evra
===============Motta================
======Xavi===============Bommel======
Deco========================Ronaldinho
===============Henry=================

The best by specialities

A championship winning team like Barca needs every player to give his best, whether it's scoring goals, giving that vital final pass or forcing a foul. These are just some of the aspects of the game that are needed for the team to perform well.


Eto'o, with his goals, Ronaldinho, with his goal assists... For a team to run like clockwork, every player has to carry out his role to perfection. Here we take a look at the current squad and highlight the areas in which theyve most contributed to a successful league campaign.

Minutes played: The ranking has changed a number of times over the season with Valdés and Xavi sharing the lead for most of the time only to be overtaken by Puyol in the last match.

1. Puyol 3,179
2. Xavi 3,143
3. Valdés 3,135
4. Eto'o 3,129
5. Ronaldinho 3,071

Goals: Samuel Eto'o has put his signature on no less than 32% of Barca's goals in the league.

1. Eto'o 25
2. Giuly 11
3. Ronaldinho 9
4. Deco 6
5. Gio 4

Goal assists: Ronaldinho leads the field in terms of providing the final pass closely followed by fellow midfielders Xavi and Deco.

1. Ronaldinho 12
2. Xavi 10
3. Deco 9
4. Belletti 4
5. Márquez 3
Eto'o 3

Shots against the woodwork: Not surprisingly, Eto'o has demonstrated his constant activity in front of goal not only by hitting the back of the net but also with the number of times he's hit the woodwork.

1. Eto'o 5
2. Deco 2
Iniesta 2
4. Xavi 1
Márquez 1
Giuly 1
Gio 1
Ronaldinho 1

Fouls committed: It's often said that the team that commits the most fouls in a match usually wins because they have managed to impose their rhythm. The tireless work of Deco in midfield is reflected in his domination of this aspect of Barca's game.

1. Deco 125
2. Belletti 72
3. Márquez 68
4. Oleguer 44
5. Ronaldinho 37

Fouls suffered: The importance of Deco to the team is clearly reflected by the fact that he is easily the player who has suffered most fouls, even more than Ronaldinho. Curiously enough, third place in this particular ranking is taken by Juliano Belletti, a defender with a taste for getting up in attack.

1. Deco 124
2. Ronaldinho 105
3. Belletti 71
4. Puyol 60
5. Eto'o 54

Yellow cards: Deco is also the player to have been booked most often though he has never been sent off. Belletti comes second, as he does in fouls committed.

1. Deco 13
2. Belletti 10
3. Gio 8
4. Márquez 7
5. Xavi 5
Ronaldinho 5

Eto'o is a hothead and very ambitious but he's a great guy. He's not very different to any other great player. His attitude is one of his best qualities, on the field he's the first defender. Sometimes he loses his mind though, but the press overreact too. Don't believe everything you read.


***************************


Sandro Rosell and Bartomeu resigned, these are the pricks. When things are going well on the field, the members of the board act like kids. It's our f*cking destiny. :nape:

That's good at last. :)

Gerard is gone to Monaco of course, i can't believe we payed a bit over 20 Million for him from Valencia. :|

Eto'o is a hothead and very ambitious but he's a great guy. He's not very different to any other great player. His attitude is one of his best qualities, on the field he's the first defender. Sometimes he loses his mind though, but the press overreact too. Don't believe everything you read.


***************************


Sandro Rosell and Bartomeu resigned, these are the pricks. When things are going well on the field, the members of the board act like kids. It's our f*cking destiny. :nape:

Maybe cause Laporta is corrupted, one guy leaving is OK, but 3 guys ? the 3 guys that seems to have a brain are leaving you!

Perez is corrupted. :)

Maybe cause Laporta is corrupted, one guy leaving is OK, but 3 guys ? the 3 guys that seems to have a brain are leaving you!I didn't have a doubt that you knew Rosell, Monés, Bartomeu and the crisis of the board. With those great newspapers, AS and MARCA, there's nothing you can't know.

ROSELL AND BARTOMEU CONFIRMS THERE RESIGNATION (http://www.as.com/articulo.html?xref=20050602dasdasftb_1&anchor=dasftb&type=Tes&d_date=20050602)

oooo i sence trouble in wonderland (6)

I hope the troubles in the board end today.


Riquelme has been one of the best players in la Liga. We won't get what he's worth but we can get a good deal.

Options: teams where he may go or are interested and players that we may be interested in exchange

Villarreal - Gonzalo Rodriguez (CB), Forlan (CF)
Atlético - Pablo (CB), Torres (CF)
Depor - Andrade (CB), Luque (LW, CF)
Betis - Juanito (CB), Joaquín (RW)

Forlan, Torres and Joaquín would be more difficult and expensive.

My choices would be Pablo from Atlético. Great CB, from Spain only Puyol is better than him IMO, and an extra point in the set pieces. It seems that Atlético are going to sign Bianchi. I'm sure he will request Riquelme and Riquelme would love to play with Bianchi as his coach again.

Of course Joaquín.. BTW there's an interview on 'Sport' where he says that if Barça reach an agreement with Betis he wouldn't mind to come.. that's why I included him.

Perez is corrupted. :)


hahah u wish that :)

I didn't have a doubt that you knew Rosell, Monés, Bartomeu and the crisis of the board. With those great newspapers, AS and MARCA, there's nothing you can't know.

You dont see my point, i dont read marca and as talking about Laporta. I just see Laporta behaviour when he talk, when he acts, pure "psicology".

Gaspart was a crazy guy when football was involved but always looked like very intelligent guy and that can show respect when he is not "hot". In the other hand Laporta is that kind of guy that look very respectful, very nice, but sadly he is the kind of guy that can betray you. Basically Laporta can sign Henry, Adriano or do amazing things for Barça but i never will trust in his person.

F.Perez can be a moron that always say "el Madrid es el mejor equipo del mundo" but Laporta would kill his family to keep his position in Barcelona.

Since Laporta took over, everything has improved.

I don't care who leaves as long as we keep doing what we're doing. Laporta can run the Club by himself for all I care. Keep this up, that's all that matters.

And about Eto'o... I think the team should have tried harder for him. He's a very important part of the team and we should look to make him happy, not do this.

You dont see my point, i dont read marca and as talking about Laporta. I just see Laporta behaviour when he talk, when he acts, pure "psicology".

Gaspart was a crazy guy when football was involved but always looked like very intelligent guy and that can show respect when he is not "hot". In the other hand Laporta is that kind of guy that look very respectful, very nice, but sadly he is the kind of guy that can betray you. Basically Laporta can sign Henry, Adriano or do amazing things for Barça but i never will trust in his person.

F.Perez can be a moron that always say "el Madrid es el mejor equipo del mundo" but Laporta would kill his family to keep his position in Barcelona.


Amazingly perceptive. You got all that just from watching him talk? :Bow:

:rolleyes:

---------

Skysports says that we are gonna double our initial offer for Henry. That would then be 48M euros. Wow. I think that is something Arsenal would accept. I never thought Rijkaard was so serious about this.

Laporta doesn't need to do anything to keep his position.

Henry is still a dream. I don't know if Barça really offered 40m for Henry but the news comes from AS. I don't even believe that we have that money.

ROSELL AND BARTOMEU CONFIRMS THERE RESIGNATION (http://www.as.com/articulo.html?xref=20050602dasdasftb_1&anchor=dasftb&type=Tes&d_date=20050602)

oooo i sence trouble in wonderland (6)

Well, those things may happen in democracies.

It's difficult in clubs where only one person owns the club or in those where although being the president elected, he rules as a dictator.

Anyway, i'm relly tired about this stuff. It's so boring. The press doesn't have much more to talk about after the season is over... so they talk about this.

Good move for Gerard... (Y) You can't bench all life...well, you can if you want to.. :)

Henry???
OMG...this is like giving Eto'o a stab in the back... :nape:
Henry is the most over-rated player in my opinion...he's an EPL player..no CL succes ( I dont mean his team)

You dont see my point, i dont read marca and as talking about Laporta. I just see Laporta behaviour when he talk, when he acts, pure "psicology".

Gaspart was a crazy guy when football was involved but always looked like very intelligent guy and that can show respect when he is not "hot". In the other hand Laporta is that kind of guy that look very respectful, very nice, but sadly he is the kind of guy that can betray you. Basically Laporta can sign Henry, Adriano or do amazing things for Barça but i never will trust in his person.

F.Perez can be a moron that always say "el Madrid es el mejor equipo del mundo" but Laporta would kill his family to keep his position in Barcelona.

Gaspar looked like intelligent guy?????
when?
in this life?

Believe me, I don't know about Laporta, but in you could never trust in Gaspar out of football. I've heard histories about employees in his hotels ... really a person with no dignity at all.

Besides he was from PP, with it's already sad, and here in Catalunya, it's even sadder.

:-puke: Gaspar

I can't uderstant how he is sometimes in some media yet, how he was allowed to enter in the lockerroom some weeks ago or how Laporta hug him. :nape:

Well if it is true, 48 million is awfully close to 50.

Arsenal slap £50M price on Barcelona target Henry

Arsenal have slapped a £50 million price-tag on star striker Thierry Henry to ward off interest from Barcelona.

Barca president has had two bids rejected by the Gunners in the past week for the French international, which led to manager Arsene Wenger stating that he "would not sell" any of his top players this summer.

Laporta's first offer was for £18 million, which was rejected immediately by Arsenal. A second bid worth £28 million was also dismissed.

Sources close to Arsenal have informed AS that the London giants will not consider selling Henry for anything less than £50 million.

That price is too rich for Barca - unless they first choose to sell.

i think E'too is gone. There is no room for these guys. Egos would clash bigtime. Not good for the team

Eto'o is fine.....he just needs some time to cool off and realize what a great accomplishment this season has been and not worry about the pichichi.....he will get it if he has another great year next year.....

Too late, Eto'o is one of the favorite players of the fans. With this crisis in the board, if Laporta sells him, he's dead.

The Boixos Nois will give him even more threats, DT were the BN in the Nou Camp when Barca arrived with the trophy?

I guess they were, some of them as usual. Most of them are banned or can't pay the tickets..

Maybe panxoman can answer this question better than I.

The Boixos hate and will hate Laporta, it doesn't matter if he sells Eto'o, Ronaldinho or the whole team hehe

Was it the same with Gaspart?

I don't think they were in the Camp Now. Well, some of them of course, but not as a group. I wasn't there anyway so I don't really know it for sure.

When Gaspar ruled the club, in those black years, the boixos had all his support and affection. He was very close to them because he has an empty head like them.

What we've had now is a civil was in the club (it's not the first time). It started some months ago but it was postponed until the end of the season. By the start of the season, it will be already calm.

Boring stuff In my opinion. Nobody really knows what has happened there. Most people says that it has been Cruyff ( or Cruijf (spelling?)for the dutch mates) who started it, trying to influence too much on the board and that Rosell (and his group) didn't accepted that.

I don't think there's one guilty. Both Laporta and Rosell have committed mistakes. They've acted like kids because they could've solved them easily.

From outside it's impossible to know who's right.

I just hope everything end this week.

Yeah, well if Cruyff has so much influence on Laporta, get him to join the board.

Yeah, well if Cruyff has so much influence on Laporta, get him to join the board.

That would make sense but:

1. he doesn't want to. He prefers to give advices from outside the club. He has a very easy live right now, and if anything fails nobody can blame him for it because he's not actually in the board.

2. Last "civil war" was between Cruyff and former president Nuñez. There's many peolple who still hasn't forgotten or forgiven that. All those who supported Nuñez wouldn't like to have Cruyff in the club.

Right now, I agree wit DT. We don't know what has been going on inside the board and both Laporta and Rosell have let their egos go to far.

Anyway, let's hope this soup finish soon and we talk again about football. It's so boring all this right now.

Yeah, political talks piss me off lol, anyway, looks even more likely we won't be getting Milito in the summer, Liverpool have come in with a second bid. :(

Valencia signed Kluivert!

:lui: :lui: :lui: the elephant is craZY!!! :lui: :lui:

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :kader: :kader: :kader: :kader:

Source !!!!!

Valencia signed Kluivert!

:lui: :lui: :lui: the elephant is craZY!!! :lui: :lui:

Wow! Valencia night life, here he comes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Valencia signed Kluivert!

:lui: :lui: :lui: the elephant is craZY!!! :lui: :lui:

Kluivert (H)

I don't care what they say about Laporta. I can't say that I know how he handles his business, but we have La Liga, handball CL and hockey Euro Cup.
He is doing his job very well. Unlike Gaspart, who was an idiot. He was fake, just like the team during his presidency. It was all talk and not much action. Before every season we were so great, but when it came down to it, we sucked big time. That was Gaspart's Barca, and obviously Crus likes him a lot. What Madridista wouldn't? I remember Gaspart telling Real Madrid how we were the ones who would qualify to the Glasgow final and not Madrid. We were easily eliminated and that shows how Gaspart lived in his own world.
And even if Laporta is what Crus says, I honestly don't care. I will support our President because he's the one that sorted things out. Like it or not, we've taken the helm in Spanish football again. You have to satisfy a lot of people when you are managing a club like Barcelona. And Laporta is doing that perfectly. He's the man for the job and I respect him, regardless of what he's really like. That's not my concern, anyways.

--------

Eto'o is untouchable. When you take a player from Real Madrid and he becomes your star scorer in a glorious season, you don't sell him. Not for any price. If I had to choose between Henry and Eto'o, it would be Eto'o without a doubt.

As for Henry, it's funny how articles say that 50M is too much for us. If we really doubled the 24M, then we would be just 2M short of 50. Though I doubt he'll come.

zka, what would be your opinion of Laporta if he decided to sell Eto'o and buy Henry? :)

Wow! Valencia night life, here he comes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:funny:


I thought Kluivert was going to wake up at Newcastle. He's one of the biggest talents wasted.

Well, he's still 28 years old. To play with a winger like Vicente will help him a lot..

Let's see what he can do at Valencia.

any confirmed(or almost confirmed) signin besides bommel and ezquerro people?? hope we can get someone good for the defence...maybe gallas or somethin, since probably kaladze is going to chelsea..i dunno:ewan:

zka, what would be your opinion of Laporta if he decided to sell Eto'o and buy Henry? :)

I would be pretty disappointed to see Eto'o go, but I wouldn't be mad at Laporta. Nor would I think less of him. I think it wouldn't be a great move, because of what I said in my prev post. But I'd be trully pissed off to see Puyol and Ronaldinho go. The rest I can deal with.

Not that it's gonna happen.

Same, i can't and don't want to see Puyol, Dinho or Marquez go.

:rockman: :rockman: :rockman: Marquez :rockman: :rockman: :rockman:

I don't think any of them will go......it's good to have a player pissed off because he didn't win the prize......it means he cares about being the best.
Eto'o won't go anywhere, zka is right....he is one of Laporta's crown jewels.....

Remember when Puyol had said he wouldn't mind playing for Madrid, how can you say that !!!

If I saw Puyol in a Madrid uni, I think I would be physically sick. But hey, weirder things have happened.......

Barcelona signing Van Bommel: Spurs not big enough

New Barcelona signing Mark van Bommel says he rejected an offer from Tottenham because the London club is "not big enough" for him.
The former PSV Eindhoven captain said: "Spurs play good football and have a good trainer but at the moment they are not a big enough club.

"I may have joined had there been no interest from bigger clubs."

Remember when Puyol had said he wouldn't mind playing for Madrid, how can you say that !!!


I won't believe Puyol said that until he comes to me and says it into my face.

Well i think he did because Laporta got really upset by that.

Barcelona's Xavi wants boardroom turmoil to end

Barcelona star Xavi has urged the club's directors to come together after a week of boardroom turmoil.

Vice-president Sandro Rosell and three other directors resigned from the board this week as they believe the direction of the club has been altered by president Joan Laporta.

"We (the players) are always concerned about what is happening at the club and there appear to be splits in the board," Xavi said.

"We are at the margins of this but we hope that everything sorts itself out quickly for the sake of the club.

"I do not like speaking about these things because we are not directly involved and the situation has nothing to do with football.

"It takes nothing away from winning the title this season and hopefully in the next few days everything will be a lot clearer."

[B]Originally Posted by SuRFy
Remember when Puyol had said he wouldn't mind playing for Madrid, how can you say that !!![B]

If puyol goes to real madrid, he will be shot before his first game. I mean, if he was to join rm it would be risking his own and and the rest of his families (sp.?) life at the same time.

btw, are the Boixos Nois still banned from the stadium?

Puyol would never do that. He grew up at La Masia. It would be a bigger treason than what figo did. I still don't believe he said that.

why are you talking about Puyol and madrid?

btw, are the Boixos Nois still banned from the stadium?

Nothing has changed

Maxi looks back over season

Just before leaving on holiday, Maxi López gave an exclusive interview to Barca TV and fcbarcelona.com in which he discussed his injury and shared his impressions of his first season.


Maxi López is now a month into the three-month rehabilitation period predicted by Club doctors after the operation on his injured right foot on May 3rd and has been working hard to be fit in time for the start of the pre-season.

Just before leaving Barcelona on holiday, the Argentine striker spoke to us about the progress of his injury and his impressions of his first season with the Club: "I'm feeling very well. I'm keeping up with the recovery schedule but without any hurry. We're working conscientiously but always bearing in mind that there's a prudent recovery period that we have to keep to".

Bad timing

Maxi's injury occurred at precisely the worst moment and stopped the former River Plate player from taking an active part in the run in to the league title: "The injury didn't happen on a specific day. It was the result of a number of training sessions. But the truth is it was bad luck that the injury occurred right at the end of the league when all the nicest things happened".

However, Maxi is staying positive and is already looking to the future: "Right now the first thing is to get over it as maturely and calmly as possible and my team-mates and the medical services are helping me in this. It's important I make a complete recovery so that I can start the season with my team-mates. Im sure that if I train hard, I'll play more".

Healthy competition

The arrival of Ezquerro and the return from injury of Larsson will mean that Rijkaard will have more attacking options next season but Maxi believes that the increased competition will benefit everyone: "You have to face it calmly. I know there'll be a lot of competition against top class players. But Im young and I'll try to learn and fight for a place in the starting eleven like everyone else".

And the fact is, Maxi is very excited by the challenge: "Firstly, I hope to make a full recovery (and then) fight for a place in the starting line-up and keep on competing so as to be able to improve both in technique as well as physically and try to consolidate my position in this group, which has given me such a good reception".

Go for the grand slam

With the league trophy safely tucked away in the Museum, the team will be looking to go all out again in all three competitions next season and Maxi believes it will be essential to get off to a good start: "We have to have a good pre-season so as to be able to face up to all the challenges with the best possible preparation. We have to go out to win the league, the Spanish Cup and the Champions League. We have the squad to do it and this year we have consolidated ourselves. It'll be tough, but with hard work from everybody it can be done".

why are you talking about Puyol and madrid?



Nothing has changed


why were they banned?

when I was at the Barca - Betis game, there were a few down at their regular place, the spirit on the stadium really missed a gang that got the croud going...

Man Utd, Chelsea watch as Rijkaard not against Barcelona Eto'o sale

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard won't protest should president Joan Laporta choose to sell the Cameroon ace.

Manchester United and Chelsea are both prepared to make mega offers for the prolific striker, who had several bust-ups with Rijkaard towards the end of last season.

Eto'o was particularly upset with Rijkaard's selections in the end-of-season games, believing that he was weakening the team as he chased the top scorer's trophy.

The African eventually lost out to Villarreal's Diego Forlan and confronted Rijkaard over his decisions. The coach responded by stating there were no stars at Barca and that every member of the squad had a role to play.

Eto'o was furious and AS says he instructed his agents to seriously listen to offers from the Premiership, particularly Chelsea, about a summer move.

Rijkaard has already informed Laporta that he wouldn't be against the sale of Eto'o, but only if he can be replaced with an equally dynamic goal scorer.

Let's keep AS out of this thread, please. They're anti-Barça. According to AS we'll sell the Camp Nou to pay the debt..

I hope we can field this starting XI when la liga starts again in Sept.

-------------Valdes-------------
--------------------------------
Ramos---Puyol---Márquez---Cole
--------------------------------
---Xavi---Van Bommel---Deco---
--------------------------------
Joaquín---------------Ronaldinho
-------------Eto'o-------------

Bench: Jorquera, Ruben, Belletti, Oleguer, Edmilson, Gio, Gabri, Motta, Iniesta, Giuly, Larsson, Maxi, Ezquerro, Messi, Sylvinho

Of Course Ramos is a long shot, maybe the same with Joaquin but Perez seems to be more interested with Robinho and Reyes, so i reckon he's kind of shut the door on joaquin.

What do you guys think?

ahh, now that's a pretty 1st 11!

Deco has signed a new contract, he's now one of the top earners of the squad with 5million € a year

Bring in Cole if you want to discuss about racism all the year


"Madrid cabrón, saluda al campeón"

Eto'o was fined after saying that, 12.000€

There's a website to collect the money and pay the fine. So far, in 2 days, 978€ (H)

http://www.nostraculpa.com/

What does Cabron mean DT?

I don't know the exact translation.. something like.. bastard?

An insult

haha, what the ****, people raising money for Eto'o who makes more in a week than those who donated make in a year :). the owner of the site will keep the money to himself anyway :).

They won't get any money, it's 100% legal and guaranteed. If they get more than 12000€, it will be donated to the Fundació Campaner (a non gubernamental organization where Eto'o is honorific president)

The reason is that the fans also chanted with him so we are responsible.

It's not a matter of money.

I thought I read that Madrid is after Ramos as well no?

Joaquin would be great, but a long shot. And Ashley Cole would be awesome, especially since he would probably love to come to us!
I still think Eto'o is not going anywhere....he's just a hothead who should now be known for speaking before he thinks....

I think right now the board are working on the contracts. I've not read anything about Deco in the spanish press but if he's not signed yet, he will. Eto'o will also get the raise that they promised him last year. Ronaldinho will sign a contract to end his career at Barça, something like 4 years with a clause to renew other 4 more years if Barça decide to. Rijkaard will renew also soon and probably they'll take a look to Xavi's contract.

All this sh*t could have been avoided if Rijkaard had put in a stronger squad against Sociedad. It wouldn't have killed him. Such a fuss over something that never should have happened. A team has to stand behind the player. Eto'o should have been helped more. I am disappointed with Rijkaard because of this. The award wasn't that important, IMO. It was about the players helping eachother. They all promised to help Eto'o. The defense sucked balls against Villarreal (someone should have burned for that hat-trick Forlan did) and no one even played against RS. He was let down big time. I am 100% behind Eto'o. His anger is justified.

But I do not believe he would leave.

And Drvar, how could you not have seen the point of the money-raising?
Eto'o can afford a lot more without a problem, but it's about the fans standing behind him and supporting what he did. I'd pay if I had the cash. I salute the people who payed up. Bravo.

:jap: in deed..

anyway, imo eto'o loves this team more then we think, and that's why he wanted to be the top scorer, not only for himself...
about the signins,..if we got joaquin, it would be awsome,..joaquin and ramos would be out of this world,..joaquin, ramos and cole? i would probably kill myself..not before saying 'madird, cabron saluda el campeon' a second time though ;)
:ewan:

Sad people, proud of insulting another team, i spit on that people.

Barcelona powerbrokers split over Man Utd pair Ferdinand, Van Nistelrooy

Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard and president Joan Laporta are caught in a battle of wills over Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand and Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Laporta, the man who came to power with the promise of signing David Beckham only to lose out to Real Madrid, now has Ferdinand in his sights.

But Rijkaard isn't keen on the Old Trafford defender and has other targets including Ferdinand's team-mate Van Nistelrooy, says the Daily Star.

===============================================

I hope we don't get either.

Pay large for Rio.

Barcelona powerbrokers split over Man Utd pair Ferdinand, Van Nistelrooy

I hope we don't get either.
So wait just a second: You dont want Rio, and I'm assuming this because he has revealed his true stripes in the last few weeks, as a "me first" guy looking for a payday, and yet you'd like to see cole at LB next season? Isnt he pretty much the same thing?

All things aside, getting Rio Ferdinand to pair with Puyol in the middle of your defense would be, frankly, scary good. Even with his problems, though, he would cost a boatload, provided, that is, he doesnt extend.

Oleguer for Rio (H)!!!

Barça don't pay the wages that Rio is demanding to Manchester United. He already makes more money than Puyol.. and wants a raise..

Yeah he's asking £440,000 a week.

originally he was asking 150k pounds a week, but now hes down to 100k i think.

I have this dream.......this dream about Robinho

It starts with selling Riquelme, Saviola et al. ends with us signing Robinho out from under Madrid's nose.

Just a dream, but after seeing the highlights of Ronaldinho-Robinho in the Brazil game........*sigh*

any one who knows what Ronnies "pinky and thumb" motion he does after scoring agoal means?

I have this dream.......this dream about Robinho

It starts with selling Riquelme, Saviola et al. ends with us signing Robinho out from under Madrid's nose.

Just a dream, but after seeing the highlights of Ronaldinho-Robinho in the Brazil game........*sigh*

heh. Riquelme will go to Atletico almost 100%, and Saviola will be sold too. so thats one part complete. then the Robinho part, which would mean you'd have to splash out a ****load of cash, and also sell someone from your offense. it would also mean less money for a CB, which imho, you need alot more :).

Where do you guys think Saviola will go ?

I think he could go to Atletico, which could see us getting Torres.

Bianchi could be the new Atletico coach (if he isn't already, don't know), and he wants Riquelme in his team. If we want, we can trade Riquelme + Saviola (who has said that he would love to team up with the other two) and get Torres. That would be awesome because he is one of the best, and we wouldn't spend any money. It would be the ideal deal for me. Torres has said he would come to Barca if he was ever to leave Atletico and that's why I can see it happening. Fingers crossed.

As for Cole... it wouldn't be bad. Madrid - Barca would be effective with him in our team, replacing Gio.

zlojack - What about the EU? Ronaldinho, Eto'o, Marquez...

We don't need Ruud nor Rio. Rio is an overpayed arrogant ****. Wouldn't want his ass anywhere near Barcelona. Stay away.

Sad people, proud of insulting another team, i spit on that people.
yes, go for it..spitting is much more dignifying.:rolleyes:

:ewan:


anyway,...greedy rio can stay in england, overrated(atm) ruud can stay in england...bring some new, fresh and good stuff;)

To drvar and zka.....It is just a dream....and of course I wouldn't want to get rid of any of those 3.....nonetheless....
What is Marquez's EU status? I thought he was close as well as Dinho? And Eto'o as well, all three of them have been in Europe for a few years....what are the rules?

Van Bommel arrives on Thursday

Mark van Bommel will arrive in Barcelona on Thursday afternoon and will be officially presented as Barca's first summer signing for the 2005/6 season on Friday at 12 noon.


On his arrival in the city from Holland, Van Bommel will go to the club's medical centre for his medical, which he'll complete on Friday morning before the official presentation in the press room at the Nou Camp.

Great season with PSV

Van Bommel joins the club at the end of a great season for PSV, who won the double in Holland and were unlucky to go out to Milan in the semi finals of the Champions League. Van Bommel himself was voted player of the year in the Dutch league.

The Dutch star played in Holland's 2-0 win over Romania at the weekend, but is not in the squad for the game against Finland, which jeans he can fly straight to Barcelona this week from Holland.

which jeans he can fly straight to Barcelona this week from Holland.

:rofl:

sorry, i know it was a mistake, but that's funny..:p

anyway, good news... Bommel:Bow:...hope he does even better this year:ewan:

Marquez and Etoo want to become EU players but Ronaldinho is not sure about getting another nationality.

Ronaldinho: Arsenal's Henry made for Barcelona

Barcelona ace Ronaldinho welcomes reports linking Arsenal striker Thierry Henry with the Nou Camp.

"It's not my place to speak of signings, it is not my subject, but by the quality that he has and the friendship that we maintain, it would be perfect if Thierry Henry came to Barcelona," declared Ronaldinho.

"For his quality and style of play, Henry is made to play for Barcelona."

Barca have had two bids for Henry rejected in the last month, but president Joan Laporta is considering trying again to take the focus off his boardroom battles.

Atlético signed Bianchi, that's great news for us. They want Riquelme now. I don't think they'll trade with Torres, but they can pay. Pablo is a personal desire of mine. Anyway the cash will be good too, around 10-12m €.

Ronaldinho: Arsenal's Henry made for Barcelona

Barcelona ace Ronaldinho welcomes reports linking Arsenal striker Thierry Henry with the Nou Camp.

"It's not my place to speak of signings, it is not my subject, but by the quality that he has and the friendship that we maintain, it would be perfect if Thierry Henry came to Barcelona," declared Ronaldinho.

"For his quality and style of play, Henry is made to play for Barcelona."

Barca have had two bids for Henry rejected in the last month, but president Joan Laporta is considering trying again to take the focus off his boardroom battles.

Last time Ronaldinho talked about signings, we got Eto'o...

If Henry comes, we'll own the universe. But that would be bad for Larsson and Maxi... I don't know. It's unfair towards Maxi not to give him a chance, but it's very appealing to have Thierry in your squad. That would almost guarantee us our second CL, IMO.

titles are never guaranteed ;). It would really strengthen Barca, even though i think Henry's overrated, the goals speak for themselves.
im surprised none of you are talking about defenders, or maybe even the money problem. i know cash is flowing in for Barca, but 50 million euro is a big sum. and would anyone be willing to predict Barca's line with Henry? doesnt that change it a lot?

Pablo is a defender ;)

Barcelona president Joan Laporta insists the Spanish champions have not made a bid for Arsenal striker Thierry Henry. (http://skysports.planetfootball.com/list.asp?hlid=283024&lid=10&cpid=23&title=Laporta+dampens+Henry+talk&channel=Spain)

titles are never guaranteed ;). It would really strengthen Barca, even though i think Henry's overrated, the goals speak for themselves.
im surprised none of you are talking about defenders, or maybe even the money problem. i know cash is flowing in for Barca, but 50 million euro is a big sum. and would anyone be willing to predict Barca's line with Henry? doesnt that change it a lot?

I know they are never guaranteed. But with Henry in our team, it would be as good as guaranteed. We are talking about him because not much is going on in our back line, while there is news about Thierry and us all the time.
We are going to get a defender for sure, but I'm gonna focus on that when we get to it. Right now, Henry is the star.
I doubt it will happen, but you never know. If Ronaldinho came out to say how great Henry is, there has to be something going on. He wouldn't say it just for the fun of it. I knew this would happen. The more he appears in the news, the more I start believeing in the move and I get carried away with my thoughts about a team to win the next year's CL... ah.

Valdés asks for contract revision'

Víctor Valdés has consolidated his position as first choice keeper this season and, speaking at a press conference after training on Wednesday, has asked the Club to reward his efforts with an improved contract.


This season, apart from the league title, Víctor Valdés was awarded the Zamora Trophy given each year to the First Division goalkeeper who concedes the fewest goals. He's understandably pleased with his personal progress as well as that of the team and believes it is an appropriate time for the Club to reconsider his contract situation: "I'm not very happy about my contract but I hope and trust that everything can be sorted out. Im working to be in this team for a long time".

"Im patient"

The locally born goalkeeper has denied that he's upset with the Club but asked for his contract to be improved in order to feel himself suitably valued: "I've worked very hard to make myself heard. I'm patient but when you achieve things you expect some positive movements". The Club and the player's agent have been in contact but as yet there is nothing definite. According to Valdés: "My advisors always inform me if there is something definite".

However, Valdés, who is a product of the Club's academy system and is under contract until 30th June 2008, was reluctant to overstate his opinions and preferred to point to his performances over the season: "I always prefer to do my talking on the pitch. I'm a professional 100%. Ive done my job and now Im awaiting events".

Lopera has admitted that Betis has an offer from Barça for Joaquín.. although he doesn't want to talk about his departure because they play the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. It seems that Joaquín will leave Betis this summer and Barça is one of the clubs interested.

spain must move up the cup finale date

Barcelona's Riquelme wants Bianchi reunion

Barcelona midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme has made a 'come and get me' plea to new Atletico Madrid coach Carlos Bianchi.
Currently in South America for Argentina's World Cup qualifiers, Riquelme knows that Villarreal are in talks with Barca for his services in a permanent deal.

But Riquelme said yesterday after an Argentina training sessions: "To play for Atletico? I now only think about Argentina, but I cannot hide that I would want to play again for Bianchi."

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is demanding £10 million for Riquelme, but Atletico chiefs are confident he'll drop his price to a more reasonable £8 million.

Lopera has admitted that Betis has an offer from Barça for Joaquín.. although he doesn't want to talk about his departure because they play the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. It seems that Joaquín will leave Betis this summer and Barça is one of the clubs interested.

it would be awesome if we got joaquín, but since his fav. club has always been RM and I belive RM are very interested in him I fear he will go there.

Riquelme is staying at Villarreal, they bought 80% of his value for 5 million €, Barca still has first option to sign him back. This is official, unless my local site makes up news, which could very well be :).

75% for 7 million.

http://www.sport.es/default.asp?idpublicacio_PK=34&idioma=CAS&idnoticia_PK=217838&idseccio_PK=637&h=

:nape: :nape: :nape:

Van Bommel won't be long at Barcelona, and for 1 reason: Johann Cruijff. He doesnt like van Bommel, and is excellent in manipulating. Because of Cruijff Van Bommel isn't selected in the Dutch NT anymore by van Basten, and he will do the same with Rijkaard. Van Bommel is a great player, too bad they want to destroy his career :( (he's not from Ajax you know) At least, that's my bet....

This is BS. Riquelme has been one of the best players in La Liga this year, played great last night and we can only sell 80% for 5 mil or 75% for 7 mil ? either way its crap. You'd think we could get at least 12-15 mil especially when we've been paying his salary for two years. I'm sure his elevated contract had to do with the price but come'on its not like Villarreal are poor...they'll get some money selling Reina and by qualifying for the champions...coulda had one of their players in return at least. :mad:

7 millions for Riquelme is really a joke. If Villarreal get the CL next season, we'll get 3 more million. That is the second joke. They won't get it, because they'll play the CL and they will forget la Liga like the rest of teams do. Only teams like Barça, Madrid, Depor or Valencia can play CL and la Liga at the same time.

Very bad move indeed. Why the hell didn't they wait Atlético de Madrid?

Van Bommel won't be long at Barcelona, and for 1 reason: Johann Cruijff. He doesnt like van Bommel, and is excellent in manipulating. Because of Cruijff Van Bommel isn't selected in the Dutch NT anymore by van Basten, and he will do the same with Rijkaard. Van Bommel is a great player, too bad they want to destroy his career :( (he's not from Ajax you know) At least, that's my bet....

That's not true, Cruijff didn't manipulate van Basten to kick van Bommel out of the Dutch NT. Van Bommel was **** against Romania, he kept the tempo low, that's the reason why he left him out of the squad.

This is deplorable :), well how much did we pay Boca for Roman in the first place.

Damn, just found out, we got Roman for 11 million euro's !!! :| and now we're selling him for like 2 cents. :kader:

We've been recently linked to this fella.

http://espndeportes.espn.go.com/2003/photos2004/1214/g_rodriguez_villarreal_v.jpg

Barcelona offer £5M for Villarreal's Rodriguez

Barcelona have made a bid for Villarreal fullback Gonzalo Rodriguez.

The Argentine youngster has only been at Villarreal for 12 months, but was a major influence on their Champions League qualification last season and also has caught the eye of Juventus.

Barca have tabled a £5 million offer to Villarreal for Rodriguez.

Damn, I really hope you guys don't get him. Gonzalo Rodriguez is a great defender.

Much better than any full-back you have defensively. I hope he stays at Villarreal.


Also, what were you guys thinking selling Riquelme so soon and for so cheap !!

Did you see the match vs. Brasil ? He was amazing. I would have given him another shot at Barça. He's amazing.

:)

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/VanBommel/100605_VanPresentacio_gran.jpg

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/VanBommel/100605_VanPresentacio_dif7.jpg

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/VanBommel/100605_VanPresentacio_dif8.jpg

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/VanBommel/100605_VanPresentacio_dif4.jpg

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/VanBommel/100605_VanPresentacio_dif5.jpg

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/VanBommel/100605_VanPresentacio_dif6.jpg

Yeah :rockman:

Van Bommel :rockman:

If our midfield was great, now..

Doesn't that uni look great!!!!
I say @%$* the sponsors..:(

Even though I know we need the money.....
And what's this about red shorts next year???? Is it true?
I photoshopped for fun......
http://www.soccergaming.tv/attachment.php?attachmentid=123926&stc=1

Yeah it is, it looks alright, but i prefer the blue shorts.

To the guys from Barcelona:

What's a good online news source for stuff about the club? I read Marca.com, but people say that it is anti-barca? Is this true? I know that they are amarillistas and they print a lot of bullsh1t, so I wonder if there is another page I could read (english or castellano) that would give good information.

www.sport.es

http://www.diariosport.com/pdfs/dia/portada/thportada.jpg

www.elmundodeportivo.es

http://www.elmundodeportivo.es/mundo-img/20050611a/60_archivo55_graphic_10_1_2_20050611_Y11PORTB.EPS. jpg

Gracias Ole_Spain, mucho mejor!!!!

I prefer:

www.elmundodeportivo.es

sport is .... :nape: I don't trust their informations.

Isn't 17 Larsson's number??? :confused:

Why was it given to Van Bommel??

Larsson uses the # 7

Barcelona star Eto'o reveals English offers

Barcelona star Samuel Eto'o has revealed he's been courted by English clubs.
"Everyone is speaking about my transfer to England, but I am content here in Barcelona," said Eto'o.

"Numerous offers from England have arrived, but I am not going to take them seriously.

"Perhaps in a year or two, I will think about it, but we will see."

Xavi renewed, Rijkaard is very close...

Now if only Ronaldinho could sign a 10-year contract, we'd be set. :rockman:

We play Real Betis on Aug 14th and 21st.

Barcelona lock in agreement for Seville's Baptista

Barcelona have struck an agreement with Seville striker Julio Baptista.

Sources close to the player have told Media that Baptista has agreed to join Barcelona at the end of next season when he qualifies for a Spanish passport.

The Brazil international has given Barca first option on his services, with a deal not locked in as the Spanish champs still fancy Arsenal star Thierry Henry. But in the event Arsenal continue to hold out for £50 million for the Frenchman, Barca will take Baptista as an alternative.

Powerhouse Baptista has a buyout clause of £24 million, but is now closer to quitting Seville following the exit of coach Joaquin Caparros last week.

Whats the source for that?

Please dont say goal.com or tribalfootball.com

Would live to see him at Barca. He's a great player. Power, speed, goals galore. He would thrive at Barca with the better players and support around him.

Whats the source for that?

Please dont say goal.com or tribalfootball.com

Would live to see him at Barca. He's a great player. Power, speed, goals galore. He would thrive at Barca with the better players and support around him.

http://www.elmundodeportivo.es/20050614/NOTICIA197823373.html

They also say that if he comes, Rafa would have to leave!!!!:(

Why?

Because he is not EU.
So then you would have 4 and I don't think they would get rid of either Eto'o or Dinho....so that means Rafa........:( that's what it says in elmundodeportivo.com
But anyway, it's only a rumour.

Rafa can always get a spanish passport. :)

and won't baptista have a spanish passport by then when the deal does supposedly go through? Sources close to the player have told Media that Baptista has agreed to join Barcelona at the end of next season when he qualifies for a Spanish passport.

Baptista+Eto'o
the strongest(physically) forward!!!!

It would of course be ideal for him to get a Spanish passport, but is it really that easy? Doesn't it take a couple of years at least. I guess there are ways of fasttracking. Anyway, if he (Baptista) comes next year that would be cool.

(I really don't want Rafa to leave :rockman: )

I doubt he'd come at Marquez's expense. Especially after such a good season by Rafa. I am confident he won't leave. I want him to stay, as well.

Yeah, I am just quoting what I've read in elmundodeportivo
They are saying that since they already have Motta, Van Bommel and Edmilson who can cover that area, Rafa is expendable.

Of course that's just one source, and one opinion.

Eto'o rep can't rule out Barcelona exit

A representative of Barcelona ace Samuel Eto'o has confirmed offers have arrived in recent weeks for the striker.

Josep Maria Mesalles told local radio: "It is true there are offers, but he's very happy at Barça and we do not have any interest in changing.

"But we must talk, because he wants to stay.

"If the club doesn't want him, he will leave. If they want him, Eto'o has a contract and will continue. It is not a question of money."

Eto'o's agent is a bit of a sh!t disturber it would seem.....

Barcelona's Rijkaard fed up with Man Utd, Chelsea target Eto'o

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard has hinted he is fed up with the complaints of star striker Samuel Eto'o.

A day after the Cameroon ace's representative said he would be prepared to leave if the club didn't show a genuine desire to keep him, Rijkaard fired back from Japan: "I don't understand what he is complaining about.

"I only like players who are happy at Barcelona."

Rijkaard's strained comments came on a day that news broke in England that both Chelsea and Manchester United had tabled straight cash bids for Eto'o.

The African star insists his priority is to remain at the Nou Camp, but Eto'o is demanding an improved contract which was promised to him by Barca president Joan Laporta last summer in the event the club lifted the championship.

Eto,o should stay, barcelona is a better place than Manutd and chelsea

If Laporta promised him a new deal, then that's what he'll get. He's staying IMO. **** Abramovic and Glazer.

i don't know if it's him o his agent, but i'm really starting to hate Eto'o's attitude

We need him. He can be a little arrogant for all I care. He is nasty on the field. That's important.

eto'o=god...but we can get a nice player too..let's see:rolleyes:

:ewan:

I heard on TV that CFC wanna buy Torres and then trade him + money for Eto'o. They're like a plague.

lol...no way eto'o is leaving for at.madrid..i mean..if he leaves, may it be for a better club than madrid..and imo he doesn't wanna come back to that city so soon:rockman:

lol...no way eto'o is leaving for at.madrid..i mean..if he leaves, may it be for a better club than madrid..and imo he doesn't wanna come back to that city so soon:rockman:

You didnt understood:

Chelsea = Etoo

Barça = Torres + Money ?

At.Madrid = Money

I dont see that happening, anyway i dont think is a bad thing for Barça, cause Torres is younger, not a hothead, spaniard, and anti-madridista :fool:

lol..sorry 'bout that...:rofl:

anyway, i don't see it either..let's wait...eto'o is a crazy man...but so are mourinho and abramovic...:rolleyes:

Yeah here's an Article.

Mega bucks Chelsea to buy Torres - for Barcelona!

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has offered to buy Atletico Madrid captain Fernando Torres - for Barcelona!

The London giants' prime target is Barca striker Samuel Eto'o, but knows the Spanish champs will not sell the Cameroon star unless they can find a genuine, world class replacement.

Chelsea have already made a £20 million bid for Torres, which was immediately rejected by Atletico. The Madrid club insist Torres will not be sold for less than his £60 million buyout clause.

That's too steep - even for Chelsea. But the Blues will raise their initial offer if Eto'o indicates he is ready to leave Barca.

The African ace has exasperated coach Frank Rijkaard over demands for a new contract and if he continues to appear unsettled, Abramovich will throw more money at Atletico for Torres with a view to negotiating a straight swap with Barca for Eto'o.

Laporta promised Eto'o the raise that he deserves. He's going to sign the new contract as soon as he arrives in Barcelona like Xavi and Deco have done already. Fortunately none of our key players is leaving.

I just read on elmundodeportivo that the away shorts are lime green for next season :kader:
And I really like this year's kit, I am going to have to get one at the nike shop in Toronto when I go to visit! They are too expensive here......

Hey Zlo, could you give me the link, i want to see the home kit. :D

Cheers. (Y)

I just read on elmundodeportivo that the away shorts are lime green for next season :kader:
And I really like this year's kit, I am going to have to get one at the nike shop in Toronto when I go to visit! They are too expensive here......
The away kit look fabulous

'Mundo Deportivo' made this pic..

http://www.elmundodeportivo.es/mundo-img/20050617a/60_archivo55_graphic_10_1_2_20050617_YBA06M1.EPS.j pg

Haha. so ugly kits! :rofl:

The present kit is awesome. I hope the next one looks nearly as good. Though I can't see why we're changing...

So what about the sponsors? Is it done or what?

-------------

Skysports says that Saviola will try and stay with us. After seeing him in his NT, I think it's a good idea.

Txixi and Rijkaard have both declared that there is no room for Saviola in the squad.

I don't know, they are trying to sign Henry, and they signed another forward, who is Ezquerro, but they don't even consider Saviola.......oh well, I must say that Rijkaard certainly knows what he's doing, so no reason to doubt him.

And those kits don't look that bad....I'm not 100% convinced about the yellow and the red shorts will take some getting used to, but everything will be fine if they are remembered as the kits from the year we won the double :rockman:

This pic is a basic idea. dont forget how is the template of new season kits of Nike, And the yellow kit i saw it coming... :) Somebody remember when Maradona played in Barca? He used a yellow kit wth 2 stripes one blue and red :rockman:

The home kit is OK but I prefer the current classic one.
The away kit is HORRIBLE, Barcelona is going to look like the inverse Chinese flag.

Oh well, its all for the money$$$$$$$

Haha. so ugly kits! :rofl:

:rolleyes:

I definately liked the blue shorts more. Just doesn't look right with the red ones. Can't wait to see what that neon-looking yellow kit looks like in real life.

Yeah, terrible kits

red shorts on home, piss yellow for away

****, **** ****, the home kit is worser than the one in the 2003-2004 season, poo.

oh well, the kits will look better when we are wearing them as we lift the La Liga trophy for the second consecutive year, and the CL as well :)

But yeah, as soon as I heard about the red shorts I was like :kader:
And then the away kit is just.......:|
And to cap it off, a sponsor!!!!!!!!

this red shorts are great news for nike, more sales :nape: , by the way Rustu is already Eu player according sport.es

Having Rustu back would be great.

We don't need Rustu, we've got Jorquera to cover for Valdes and Ruben. Let him stay in Turkey. :D

We don't need Rustu, we've got Jorquera to cover for Valdes and Ruben. Let him stay in Turkey. :D


Jorquera will never be the first choice. Rustu can be, and that's what we need for Valdes. Some competition.

I trust a lot in Jorquera.

Of course Rustu has already proven his value in lots of competitions but when he was here he failed again and again.

Right now I prefere Jorquera to Rustu.

I trust a lot in Jorquera.

Of course Rustu has already proven his value in lots of competitions but when he was here he failed again and again.

Right now I prefere Jorquera to Rustu.

He was great in the US before the injury. After that he couldn't find his form and he failed. I'm sure that if the injury hadn't occured, he would have been our first gk.

We agree that Valdes needs a better competition than Jorquera but i dont think Rustu would accept to be in bench... after all he is playing and doing well in that turkish team

I still hope Barca can attract him. I don't know, we'll see, but I think we definitely need a new gk. And while I acknowledge that Jorquera is a quality keeper, I can't see him posing a threat to Valdes.

rustu and valdez would be nice...but anyway, how are we in signings? i mean..i know we wanted a lot of people...but people such as joaquin or henry are ver difficult to get..

Ezquerro transfer a reality

Santi Ezquerro has officially signed for FC Barcelona. He is contracted to play for the club until 2008 with the option to play one season more, and his withdrawal clause has been set at 18 million euros.


"It's a new stage in my career. My ten years as a professional have got better and better to the point that I have come here. Money-wise, I had some better offers, but in a sporting sense this was the best option." Santi Ezquerro seemed very sure of what he was saying to the media in his official presentation as an FC Barcelona player.

Ezquerro, who will wear the number 14 shirt, made it clear that he is not worried about the competition he might face for places in the starting line-up: "I have been a professional for a while now, with lots of different coaches, and I know that you don't get anything for nothing. I have every faith in my ability to convince the boss."

A good deal

Ezquerro was joined for the presentation by president Joan Laporta, coach Frank Rijkaard, and technical secretary Txiki Begiristain. All three feel strongly that this is a good signing and were surprised at how smoothly the negotiations had gone. Laporta seemed particularly satisfied with this aspect: "I am grateful to Athletic Bilbao and their president Fernando Lamikiz for their great relationship and common sense, as well as a great job done by Txiki Begiristain."

The views from above

Rijkaard and Begiristain both used the occasion to highlight some of Santi Ezquerro's greater virtues. The technical secretary defined him as: "the kind of player we were looking for. A developed player, with experience and ready to perform straight away. He can score, moves intelligently and makes the squad more competitive. He scores goals whether he plays in the centre or out wide, and that's one of the things that most attracted us to him."

Rijkaard has also seen many positive things in the club's latest addition: "We have signed a good player and we are happy that Santi Ezquerro has chosen Barça. It goes without saying that we are sure we have made a good signing."

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/Ezquerro/Presentacio/170605_EzquerroPresi_dif.jpg

Number 14?!?!

!!!

14 come on 14 is a legend number in Barcelona and this guys give it to anyone (i mean Ezquerro is good but give the 14 to him?) what if Henry comes?

Yeah i know he shoud've been number 666. !!!

Gerard wore the number 14.. legend!!!!!!!

who has worn #14 that makes it legendary?

Who gives a f.uck what number he has?

who has worn #14 that makes it legendary?

some dutch guy

Eto'o: I'll sign Barcelona deal

Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o has declared he will sign a new contract with the club in the coming weeks.
Barca president Joan Laporta jetted to Cameroon over the weekend to thrash out terms with Eto'o over a deal which will keep him at the Nou Camp until 2010.

"I will sign the extension of my contract when I return from vacation. First we must beat Libya, then I will rest and later, will sign the contract," said Eto'o.

Last week, Eto'o's representative, Jose Maria Mesalles, revealed he had received offers from Chelsea and Manchester Unietd for the prolific striker.

Who gives a f.uck what number he has?
Looks like only me, and that dutch guy was Johan Cruyff

Now we need Ronaldinho to sign a 10-year deal.

i heard today that eto'o already signed the new contract. i'm glad:rockman: this means the hype surroundig the 'chelsea deal' will probably be over..hopefully:p
zka, make it a 20-year deal.:ewan: ;)

Eto'o was never going anywhere, it's just stupid talk and media hype.....and his agent is a sh1t disturber......

So that's that, the team's set for next season.

----------------------Valdes---------------------
Belletti---------Puyol----------Marquez--------Gio
------------------Van Bommel--------------------
--------Xavi----------------------Deco-----------
Giuly----------------------------------------Dinho
----------------------Eto'o-----------------------

Bench:
Larsson Ezquerro
Iniesta Sylvinho
Oleguer Jorquera
Edmilson Gabri
Motta Maxi
Messi Damia (or in B squad?)
Undecided yet:
Fernando?
Albertini?

Van Bommel defensive mid (H) Ronaldinho in defense anyone? Puyol targetman upfront? Meh, Puyol would be good actually at that.

PSVFOREVER you got it wrong, Van Bommel is the attacking mid, Valdes is the striker, and Eto'o is the goalie... :D

Juan Roman Riquelme moves on from Barca

Argentine international Juan Roman Riquelme has made a permanent move from Barca to Villarreal in a deal worth at least 7 million euros.


Club president Joan Laporta and Villarreal representative Jose Manuel Llaneza agreed the transfer at lunchtime on Tuesday. Also present were Riquelme's agent Daniel Bolotnicoff and FC Barcelona vice-president for economic affairs Ferran Soriano. Juan Roman Riquelme signed the final agreement via fax from Germany, where he is playing in the Confederations Cup with Argentina. The two clubs have agreed an initial fee of 7 million euros, which could rise to as much as 10 million. Barca will receive 25% of any future transfer fee that Villarreal obtain for the player.

Juan Roman Riquelme joined Barca in 2002 and was on loan to Villarreal for the whole of last season

Go make fun of Real Madrid. They're an easy target.

----------

I think we're set, but I'd like us to sign a defender because the injury scenario can happen again. We were unlucky last season. What guarantees that this season will be different? And we at least have no shortage in attack so I'd like a defender, please.

We wore ugly kits against Sampdoria in 1992. Does anyone think this is a sign that we could pull it off this season?

What a nice cover, I had to upload it,
Puyol is already a legend for Barcelona... our Spanish Maldini

We wore ugly kits against Sampdoria in 1992. Does anyone think this is a sign that we could pull it off this season?

No

What a nice cover, I had to upload it,
Puyol is already a legend for Barcelona... our Spanish Maldini


Puyol is my fav. Even before Dinho.

I love Puyol (in a not-queer way), he s hardworking, damn good, has a lot of discipline, and over all he have red and blue blood (no its not a freak.. he loves the club) :bouncy:

West Brom watch as Saviola seeks Barcelona release

Argie striker Javier Saviola is demanding a free transfer from Barcelona.

Ideally, Saviola would like to play next season at the Nou Camp, but knows he isn't seen as first team material by coach Frank Rijkaard.

The striker isn't interested in another loan and while on Confederations Cup duty this week in Germany, has instructed his agents to begin negotiations with Barca chiefs over a free transfer.

West Bromwich Albion boss Bryan Robson is monitoring developments closely and would love to bring Saviola to England. However, Robbo will face stiff competition from Spain, where Villarreal and Atletico Madrid are keen to keep Saviola in the Primera Liga next season.

==================

Get Real West Brom. :D

Saviola at West Brom. :rofl: That would be a definate step down. Heck, better he get by a car and stay on the injured list of Monaco or Barca for years then go play for West Brom. Atleast he'd still have some honor and value to the world.

if they pay enough for him let him go.
:ewan:

Saviola is in sale, Riikjaard didnt want him in Barca :nape: what a shame!!
I hope he dont take "revenge" like Morientes did once with Madrid.
Im really sad...

Rijkaard is really wasting Saviola here..

If he's available on a free I hope some Italian team gets him. Ideally he goes to Inter and that'll really make the derby a feast for the eyes :p

Rustu desperate for Barcelona chance

Turkish goalkeeper Recber Rustu has declared he wants to stay with Barcelona.

Rustu is returning to the Nou Camp for preseason training after playing last term on-loan at Fenerbahce.

He has just won a High Court case over his Spanish qualifications, meaning Barca coach Frank Rijkaard could, if he wanted, include him in his squad next season without the concerns of losing a non-EU slot.

"Rustu's return to Barcelona continues being a technical decision. We must speak with him and explain to him what the situation is in the team," said Barca sports chief Txiki Begiristain.

"Once he has this information, it will be important to know what he thinks."

================================

Good news IMO. (Y)

Yes....a little healthly competition will keep VV sharp.....and Ruustu would make for a great alternative, if he keeps his form....

i hear you, mate. :jap:

valdez>rustu atm...but i hope they both become even greater.

If Rustu decides to fight for the gk spot, I can see him winning.

I hope he stays and becomes our first goalie. He's a beast.