BARCELONA FINANCES: £625M LA LIGA SPENDING-LIMIT RECOVERY EXPLAINED

 

Barcelona's La Liga squad cost limit has risen by around £625m in five years, completing a remarkable recovery from the financial restrictions that once left the Catalan giants with a negative spending ceiling.

La Liga's latest figures give Barcelona a squad cost limit of €582.7m (£501m) for the 2026-27 season, putting the club back in a position to operate with financial room that appeared almost unimaginable at the height of their crisis.

Real Madrid remain comfortably ahead with a record €832.7m (£716m) limit, leaving a gap of approximately £215m between Spain's two biggest clubs.

However, that difference looks very different when compared with 2021-22, when Barcelona's limit had fallen to -€144m (-£124m) while Madrid could spend up to €739m (£635m).

Barcelona have recovered £625m of La Liga spending power

La Liga's squad cost limit should not be confused with a club's actual wage bill.

The calculation covers fixed and variable salaries, social security costs, bonuses, transfer acquisition costs, agents' commissions and the annual amortisation of transfer fees. Clubs are also not required to use the full amount available to them.

For Barcelona, the movement from -€144m to €582.7m represents a swing of almost €727m, or approximately £625m, in just five years.

The scale of that turnaround becomes even clearer against Madrid. At Barcelona's lowest point, the difference between the two clubs stood at €883m (£759m). It is now just under €250m (£215m), meaning Barca have erased more than £540m of that extreme gap.

The recovery has also begun to translate into greater freedom in the transfer market. Barcelona spent heavily during the latest summer window, their biggest outlay for several years, after seasons in which registrations, spending restrictions and emergency financial measures repeatedly shaped their recruitment.

According to AS, structural cost reductions have played an important role in improving the numbers, alongside increased commercial income and revenue connected to the redevelopment of Camp Nou.

The reopening of part of the stadium has been particularly significant, while Barcelona's VIP-box programme has also generated substantial income during the rebuilding process.

The improvement does not mean that Barcelona's wider financial problems have disappeared. The club continue to carry major liabilities linked particularly to the Espai Barca project, even after returning to annual revenues above €1bn.

Camp Nou move could put Barcelona's progress under pressure

Barcelona's recovery is substantial, but the next phase of the Camp Nou project means the upward trajectory may not continue uninterrupted.

The Catalan club are expected to return temporarily to the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys during the 2027-28 campaign while further work, including the installation of the Camp Nou roof, is carried out.

That move is expected to reduce matchday revenue compared with playing at their redeveloped home and, according to AS, could consequently lower Barcelona's La Liga spending limit again.

It creates an unusual situation for Joan Laporta's administration. Camp Nou is one of the main assets expected to drive Barcelona's long-term commercial growth, yet completing the project could temporarily restrict the financial room that the club have spent several years rebuilding.

That tension is already visible in the way Barcelona have financed their return to major transfer spending, with higher revenues and greater La Liga flexibility offset by the continuing cost of the stadium redevelopment and historic liabilities.

There is nevertheless considerable optimism over the longer-term picture. Barcelona reportedly expect the redeveloped stadium and its commercial spaces to become major revenue generators, with the club targeting total annual income of around €1.45bn by the 2030-31 season.

Madrid therefore remain well ahead in immediate spending capacity, but the comparison is no longer remotely as one-sided as it was five years ago.

Barcelona have moved from a negative La Liga limit to more than half a billion pounds of permitted squad expenditure. The next test is whether that £625m recovery can survive one more temporary move away from Camp Nou.

BARCELONA SACK XAVI WITH FLICK SET TO REPLACE HIM

 Barcelona have sacked manager Xavi with former Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick set to replace him.

Xavi will take charge of Barcelona for the final time on Sunday, when they host Sevilla in their last La Liga match of the season.

The 44-year-old, who had been contracted until 2025, was informed of the club's decision during a meeting with club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco on Friday - exactly one month since it had been announced that he would remain at the club.

Former Spain midfielder Xavi announced in January that he would leave the Camp Nou, but he was persuaded to stay by Laporta in April.

But recent comments from Xavi, in which he opened up about the club's financial struggles, are said to have angered Laporta.

Barcelona said they would like to "thank Xavi for his work as a coach" since taking charge in 2021.

The Catalans added a "new structure" will be confirmed in the coming days, with Flick set to take charge.

The 59-year-old has been out of work since he was sacked by Germany in September 2023.

Flick, who replaced Joachim Low as national boss in 2021, became the first Germany manager to be sacked since the role was created in 1926, winning just 12 of his 25 matches in charge.

Flick's stint with Germany came after he guided Bayern Munich to a treble in 2020, winning the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and Champions League.

Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski, 35, played under Flick at the Allianz Arena for two seasons.

After guiding Barcelona to the La Liga title in 2022-23, Xavi's side put up a disappointing defence to their crown this term.

The Catalans are 12 points behind rivals Real Madrid, with one game remaining in the season.

Barcelona were knocked out of the Champions League at the quarter-final stage by Paris St-Germain.

Xavi spent 17 years with Barcelona as a player, having emerged from the club's La Masia academy.

After four years' playing for Qatari side Al-Sadd, Xavi retired in 2019 to take over the side as manager.

He remained in Qatar for a further two seasons, before replacing Ronald Koeman in November 2021 as Barcelona boss.

Xavi helped the club to the La Liga title and Spanish Cup during his first full season in charge, earning the side a return to the Champions League.

Sevilla boss Quique Sanchez Flores has criticised Barcelona's treatment of Xavi.

"I shouldn't say this, but how badly Barcelona treats its legends. What a bad streak," Flores told reporters on Friday afternoon.

"With Koeman, with Messi, with Xavi now - how bad. I wish clubs treated their legends well. That would be fantastic. Xavi is a legend of the club."

Flores added he had "doubts the criticism about him [Xavi] is correct".

Barcelona will finish the season second in LaLiga behind champions Real Madrid and Xavi will remain in charge for the game at Sevilla.

During his 141 games as Barcelona boss, Xavi won 89 matches - giving him a 63% win ratio.

- BBC

FC BARCELONA NEWS: 14 DECEMBER 2025; BARÇA BEAT OSASUNA TO WIN SEVENTH LA LIGA GAME IN A ROW

NurPhoto via Getty Images

FC Barcelona 2-0 Osasuna: Raphinha to the rescue! - FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona will be spending the night seven points clear at the top of the Liga table after securing all three points from a difficult Saturday fixture against the defensively strong Osasuna.

HIGHLIGHTS | Barça v Osasuna - FC Barcelona

All the action from the La Liga contest at Spotify Camp Nou.

Hansi Flick: ‘We are playing well’ - FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona secured another victory in LaLiga after defeating Osasuna and coach Hansi Flick praised his team’s control of the game and defensive work. “We controlled the match. We did a good job defensively. Maybe we didn’t have many chances, but we scored two goals and got the three points,” explained the Barça coach.

FC Barcelona equal second longest La Liga goalscoring run - FC Barcelona

Hansi Flick’s Barça have matched a historic milestone. Saturday’s 2-0 defeat of Osasuna has extended their run of game in which they have scored at least one goal to 37, with Raphinha coming to rescue this time by finally breaking the deadlock after the visitors has held out for almost 70 minutes. The run now stands as the second-best in Barça history, level with the streak achieved between 2018 and 2019 under Ernesto Valverde.

Lamine Yamal shows off Player of the Month trophy - FC Barcelona

Lamine Yamal showed off his latest individual award on Saturday before Barça’s win over Osasuna, parading with the La Liga Player of the Month award for November.

Badalona 1-5 FC Barcelona: Leaders march on - FC Barcelona

There are still two matches left to round off 2025, one in the Champions League and one in the Copa de la Reina, but this Saturday Barça Femení brought their Liga F schedule for the year to a close with a win in Palamós, where Badalona Women play their home games. The home side held their own in the first half but ultimately surrendered the points as Pajor, Pina, Carla Julià, Vicky and Brugts scored the goals.

- Renato Gonçalves

BARCELONA EDGE REAL MADRID IN EXTRA-TIME TO WIN WILD COPA DEL REY FINAL

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde struck deep in extra-time to decide a gripping Copa del Rey Clasico final on Saturday in Seville, earning his side a 3-2 win over rivals Real Madrid

Team Barcelona wins the Copa Del Rey title© AFP

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde struck deep in extra-time to decide a gripping Copa del Rey Clasico final on Saturday in Seville, earning his side a 3-2 win over rivals Real Madrid. The Catalans, aiming for a quadruple this season, won the first major trophy of Hansi Flick's reign as coach and a record-extending 32nd Spanish cup in dramatic fashion. Pedri sent Barcelona ahead at La Cartuja but two Real Madrid goals in seven second-half minutes, from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, pulled the Spanish and European champions level.

However, Ferran Torres struck in the 84th minute to take the game to extra-time and Kounde drilled home to win it for the La Liga leaders.

"It was a good time to bring joy to our fans -- we have to enjoy it but without forgetting the Champions League semis are coming," Torres told La 1. Barca host Inter Milan on Wednesday.

"They can make a party -- for today, it's OK," a delighted Flick, who has won all seven finals he has coached in his career, told Movistar.

Substituted Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger was sent off in the final seconds for appearing to throw an object onto the pitch towards the referee, and Lucas Vazquez, also replaced, was dismissed for further protest as Madrid unravelled.

"I don't want to talk about the referee," said stone-faced Madrid coach Ancelotti.

"I don't know what happened at the end."

Madrid started with top scorer Mbappe on the bench after an ankle injury and lost Ferland Mendy early on with a thigh issue.

Ancelotti sent on Fran Garcia to take over the job of shackling Barcelona's dazzling teenage winger Lamine Yamal.

The 17-year-old Spain star, who dyed his hair blond for the game, led the assault on Thibaut Courtois' goal.

The Catalans, who won the first two Clasicos this season in La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, scoring nine goals in the process, controlled the ball.

They took the lead after 28 minutes, Pedri placing the ball into the top corner with precision and power from the edge of the box.

It was a sensational goal, starting with a smart Pau Cubarsi interception in his own half, before Pedri spread the play to Yamal, who teed him up once the Canary Islander reached the area.

Barcelona's opener brought Madrid out of their shell -- and also Mbappe off the bench to warm up.

The excellent Jude Bellingham netted but was offside. Vinicius Junior would have won a penalty as Inigo Martinez hacked him down but had also strayed off in the build-up.

Barcelona could have doubled their lead, with Dani Olmo's corner hitting the post and Cubarsi unable to turn home as Dani Ceballos held him back.

Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea was lenient with some heated Madrid tackles, perhaps cowed by Friday's drama as the Spanish champions seethed at his pre-match comments denouncing attacks on officials by the club's television channel.

Madrid sent Mbappe on for Rodrygo Goes at half-time and soon he and Vinicius began to work Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

End to end

Mbappe pulled Madrid level almost on his own in the 70th minute.

The striker surged forward and was brought down on the edge of the box. He then fired the free-kick home off the post.

Seven minutes later Madrid took the lead, Tchouameni heading Arda Guler's corner past the helpless Szczesny.

Barcelona responded when Yamal played a delicious pass over the top for Torres, which drew both Rudiger and Courtois, but the Spaniard pipped both to the ball and rolled home.

Controversy unsurprisingly reared its head before the match headed to extra-time.

Barcelona clamoured for a penalty when Rudiger appeared to fell Torres, and then were awarded one deep in stoppage time as Raphinha tumbled under pressure from Raul Asencio.

However the referee, called to review the incident by VAR, overturned his decision.

In extra-time Barcelona were ascendent.

They found their winner when Kounde intercepted an uncharacteristically loose Luka Modric pass and beat Courtois from range, sparking wild celebrations.

Rudiger's dismissal and Madrid's pre-match histrionics regarding the officials will ensure the repercussions run on. The teams meet again in La Liga in May in a potential title decider.

- Agence France-Presse

FÉLIX GIVES ATLETICO MADRID FANS ANOTHER REASON NOT TO LIKE HIM BY SCORING WINNER FOE BARCELONA

AP Photo 

MADRID (AP) — João Félix has given Atletico Madrid fans even more reason not to like him.

Playing on loan from Atletico after falling out with the club last season — and highly unlikely to return — Felix scored with a neat shot over goalkeeper Jan Oblak in the 28th minute to give Barcelona a 1-0 home victory on Sunday and move the Catalan team closer to the top of the Spanish league standings.

“It was a relief after everything that I went through last summer,” said Félix, who was still with Atletico when he upset fans by saying his dream was to play for Barcelona. “Only those close to me know what it was like, especially my family. This was for them.”

The victory put Barcelona back within four points of leaders Girona and Real Madrid, which won their matches on Saturday. Madrid beat Granada 2-0 and Girona defeated Valencia 2-1.

Atletico, winless in its last 18 away matches against Barcelona in the league, dropped to fourth place, three points behind Barcelona in third but with a game in hand.

It was the fourth win in four matches between Barcelona's coach Xavi Hernández and Atletico's Diego Simeone.

MARCUS RASHFORD SPEAKS OUT ON MAN UNITED FUTURE AFTER BARCELONA LOAN

Rashford moved to Barcelona on loan from Manchester United this summer and the LaLiga giants have the option of making the deal permanent next year

Marcus Rashford is enjoying life at his new club (Getty Images)

Marcus Rashford has made it clear he wants to leave Manchester United permanently and stay at Barcelona beyond this season.

Rashford moved to Barcelona on loan from Manchester United this summer and the LaLiga giants have the option of making the deal permanent next year.

Having scored five goals in 12 games including a double in the midweek Champions League thrashing of Olympiacos, the 27-year-old is clear where his future lies, ahead of this weekend’s Clasico showdown with Real Madrid.

Marcus Rashford says he is loving life with Barcelona (Martin Rickett/PA)

Asked if he wanted to stay, Rashford told ESPN: “Oh yeah, for sure. I’m enjoying this football club and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game. For a player it’s an honour.”

Rashford has a contract at Old Trafford until 2028 but having also spent a brief spell on loan at Aston Villa last season it is highly unlikely he will return under current boss Ruben Amorim.

“People forget this, but 24, 23 years of my life was with Manchester United, so sometimes you just need a change,” added Rashford. “I think maybe this is the case with me and I’m enjoying everything.”

Injury problems loom before Clasico

Real Madrid host Barcelona this weekend as both sides grapple with a mounting injury crisis that has left them severely depleted.

Former Real midfielder Alonso faces his first Clasico after replacing Carlo Ancelotti, who departed for Brazil's national team in May following a trophyless campaign in which Barcelona dominated their rivals with four wins from four meetings.

Barcelona's superiority was emphatic, scoring 16 goals against Madrid en route to a LaLiga and Copa del Rey double, as well as the Spanish Super Cup title, as Ancelotti's Real Madrid finished the campaign empty-handed.

Alonso's tactical experiments have yielded mixed results. A humbling defeat to Paris St Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final and a loss to local rivals Atletico Madrid in LaLiga have raised questions about his project, with Real often looking exposed to counter-attacks.

Their star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been forced to work his magic, producing crucial saves to help them secure many valuable points.

Jude Bellingham epitomises Real's season, with the England midfielder still finding his rhythm after shoulder surgery that sidelined him for several months. On his first start after surgery against Atletico Madrid, he was one of Real's worst performers and clearly out of rhythm.

Bellingham did manage his first goal of the season in Real's 1-0 Champions League victory over Juventus on Wednesday, offering hope of a return to form.

Real's attack remains a bright spot, with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr flourishing while 20-year-old Turkey international Arda Guler is experiencing a breakout season. They have won all but one of their 12 games across all competitions this season.

They are top of the LaLiga standings on 24 points, two ahead of Barcelona, who appear to be travelling in the opposite direction under Hansi Flick after last season's double triumph.

The German coach guided his team to within minutes of their first Champions League final in a decade, but recent form has been concerning.

Getty

The Catalans needed a goal in added time by defender-turned-centre-forward Ronald Araujo to beat Girona on Saturday and avoid going three consecutive games without victory.

They were also struggling against Olympiacos in the Champions League on Tuesday until the Greek side were reduced to 10 men with a controversial red card which helped Barcelona take control before they romped to a 6-1 victory.

Barca's injury crisis has reached alarming proportions, with 10 players lost since August.

Lamine Yamal, who finished second in the Ballon d'Or vote, is struggling with lingering groin injuries and faces questions about his work ethic and off-field distractions.

The injury list makes for grim reading for both sides. Barcelona will be without Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi and goalkeepers Joan Garcia and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, while coach Flick cannot be on the bench at the Santiago Bernabeu after receiving a red card against Girona.

Real Madrid are monitoring right backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal, who returned to training this week but may not be risked in such a high-stakes encounter.

Club sources suggest key defender Dean Huijsen is on track to play after missing recent matches with a calf muscle injury, while David Alaba and Antonio Ruediger remain ruled out.

additional reporting by agencies

- Lawrence Ostlere

GABRIEL JESUS' FIRST WORDS AFTER ARRIVING IN BARCELONA AHEAD OF €10 MOVE: 'EAGER TO SCORE GOALS'

 

Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Barcelona are moving a step closer to completing the signing of Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal.

The Brazilian forward is set to join the club on a €10 million contract, with an additional €4 million in add-ons and Arsenal retaining a 20% sell-on fee clause.

Gabriel is slated for a medical today in Barcelona and ahead of that medical, the player appears to have already arrived in the city.

Gabriel reacts after arriving at Barcelona

Spanish journalist Victor Navarro has captured videos of Gabriel Jesus arriving in the Barcelona city this afternoon, ahead of his medical.

The forward can be seen waving the fans and even reacting to his Barcelona move for the first time after the speculations broke.

“I am eager to score many goals at Barça!” said the Arsenal forward, who is being signed as a momentary alternative to Julian Alvarez.

The Argentine was Barcelona’s top target this summer but Atletico Madrid were able to keep hold of the striker, prompting the club to sign Gabriel as an alternative.

The former Man City starlet, who was targeted by Barça way back in 2016, will be expected to operate as a number nine whenever required.

Gabriel arrives fully fit

Apart from waving at fans and showing his eagerness to getting things started at Barcelona, Gabriel Jesus offered a critical update no his fitness as well.

Gabriel Jesus is soon expected to complete his move to Barcelona. (Photo by James Fearn/Getty Images)

When asked about his injury situation, the forward replied, “My injury? My knee it’s perfect!”

This will serve as a massive relief for Barcelona fans who were worried about Gabriel’s recent issues with injury, which had drastically reduced his game-time.

With Gabriel now back to full fitness, it will be interesting to see whether or not the Brazilian international can rekindle his old form and make a big difference at Barcelona.

The forward’s past experience, coupled with his versatility in the final third should make quite the asset for Hansi Flick, but only if he can perform up to his level this season.

- Connell Edgar-Jones

BARCELONA BEAT NAPOLI TO MAKE 1ST UCL QUARTERFINAL SINCE 2020

 

Robert Lewandowski sealed Barcelona's winover Napoli. Getty

Barcelona reached the Champions League quarterfinals for the first time in four years after a 3-1 win over Napoli in their round-of-16 second leg gave them a 4-2 aggregate victory on Tuesday.

Early goals by Fermín López and João Cancelo set the hosts on their way and, after Amir Rrahmani cut the deficit before the break, Robert Lewandowski wrapped up the win with a late third.

Barcelona had been eliminated in the group stage the last two years and hadn't reached the quarterfinals since 2019-20, when they lost to Bayern Munich. Club legend Lionel Messi left Barcelona at the end of the following season.

"Very happy, Barcelona are in the top eight in Europe. It was a well-deserved qualification, a game dominated in attack and defence but also an excellent game by Napoli," Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez told Mediaset.

"Happy with the qualification and we'll see how the draw goes. Proud to be back in the quarterfinals after years."

The Champions League could be Barcelona's last realistic chance for a title this season. They were eliminated in the Copa del Rey and trail LaLiga leaders Real Madrid by seven points.

'IT FEELS LIKE HOME': RASHFORD JOINS BARCELONA ON LOAN FROM MANCHESTER UNITED

English forward Marcus Rashford during his introductory news conference after he joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United on Wednesday. | AFP-JIJI

England forward Marcus Rashford said Barcelona was a club where "dreams come true" as he joined the La Liga champion on Wednesday on a season-long loan from Manchester United with an option to buy.

Media reports said that Barcelona would cover Rashford's wages this season after the player accepted a pay cut, with the option to buy set at around €30 million ($35.25 million) for the 27-year-old.

"Very excited. I think it's a club where people's dreams come true. They win big prizes. And what the club stands for really means a lot to me as well. So it feels like I am at home," Rashford told reporters following his unveiling.

"Another factor is because the conversations I had with the manager (Hansi Flick) were positive. What he did last season was terrific.

"To lead such a young team to a very successful season and come back to preseason and still want to do more, it shows me everything I thought I knew about the club and it's everything I wished."

Once seen as a club icon and homegrown star, Rashford had a dramatic fall from grace at United, marked by a falling out with manager Ruben Amorim that paved the way for him to move to Aston Villa on loan in February.

"(Manchester United) is in a period of change and they have been for a while. I don't have anything bad to say as it has been an important part not just of my career but my life, so I was grateful for the opportunity," he added.

"But like life not everything goes as simple as you thought and this is my next chapter and I'm fully focused on improving myself and helping the team win trophies."

Barcelona said Rashford had signed his contract earlier in the afternoon. "Rashford can play anywhere in attack. Right footed, he can take players on and is an excellent finisher, talents he can now show in a Barca shirt," the club said in a statement.

The move came after Manchester-born Rashford, who made 426 senior appearances and scored 138 goals for United in all competitions, fell out of favor with Amorim, who called his work rate into question.

Rashford, who won two FA Cups, two League Cups and a Europa League title with United, joined Aston Villa on loan after Amorim said he would rather put a goalkeeper coach on the bench than a player not giving their all.

United issued a statement wishing Rashford well as it announced the deal with Barcelona.

"Everyone at Manchester United wishes Marcus good luck for the season," the club said.

The forward, who has scored 17 goals for England in 62 appearances, said he was feeling fitter and better after joining Villa, where he netted two goals in 10 league games, while United had its worst-ever Premier League campaign, finishing 15th in the standings.

Rashford said he had wanted to move to Barca during the mid-season transfer window when he joined Villa.

"I was clear on my preference (to join Barcelona) from the beginning. Actually from maybe in January. It didn't work out in January so I went to Villa and enjoyed a good period there," he said.

"It was time to make another decision. My choice was easy. (Barcelona) is a family club, something I'm used to from my past. It feels like home."

Meanwhile, Barcelona canceled a preseason friendly against Vissel Kobe on Wednesday, citing "serious contractual breaches" by the tour promoter. The club also suggested it may have to scrap upcoming fixtures in South Korea.

The Catalan giants were set to play their first game in Kobe on Sunday against the J. League team that retired former Barca star Andres Iniesta also played for.

"Barcelona announces that it has been obliged to suspend its participation in the game scheduled for next Sunday in Japan due to serious contractual breaches on behalf of the promoter," Barca said in a statement.

"Nevertheless, the club will consider readjusting the leg of the summer tour in South Korea, where two games are scheduled against FC Seoul (July 31) and Daegu FC (Aug. 4), if certain conditions are met by the promoter.

"If these conditions are met, then the club will travel to South Korea in the coming days. Barcelona regrets this incident and the impact it will have on the many, many Barca fans in Japan."

The club had planned to face Italian side Como at its revamped Camp Nou stadium on Aug. 10 for its reopening but after failing to obtain the adequate permits, it was forced to move the game to the Johan Cruyff stadium by their training ground.

- REUTERS, AFP-JIJI

PSG FAVOURITES TO REACH SEMIFINALS DESPITE BARCELONA WIN - XAVI

Xavi is seeking to reach his first Champions League semifinal as a coach. FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images

 Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said Paris Saint-Germain remain favourites to win the teams' Champions League quarterfinal tie, despite his side winning Wednesday's first leg 3-2 in the French capital.

Raphinha scored twice and substitute Andreas Christensen headed the winner the 77th minute at the Parc des Princes to give Barcelona the edge heading back to Spain for the second leg next week.

"PSG are still the favourites," Xavi said in his postgame news conference. "It will be very difficult to win in Barcelona.

"Today we played well because we were united defensively. I'm very proud, everything worked well. We have to improve our concentration in the first minutes of the second half. We managed to mature and recover from a match that became very difficult."

Barcelona, who beat Napoli in the round of 16, are seeking to reach their first Champions League semifinal since 2019 following back-to-back group-stage exits.

"I hope the ghosts have died," Xavi added. "We've gone through difficult years in the Champions League recently. This win shows that Barça are still alive."

PSG looked to have recovered from Raphinha's opener when Ousmane Dembélé equalised in the 48th minute against his former club. Three minutes later midfielder Vitinha put PSG ahead from Fabián Ruiz's pass in a pulsating match where Dembélé also hit the left post moments before Christensen's winner.

"We are not happy with the defeat," PSG manager Luis Enrique, who won the treble with Barcelona in 2015, said. "The second leg will be like a final now, it's our objective. I have no doubt that we can qualify. I congratulate Barcelona for their win and their performance.

"We could have done better and we will have to improve some things for the second leg but I'm still satisfied by what I saw tonight. We controlled well our emotions I thought but the game swung on details. The manager is also responsible for the results. I chose players because I thought they would be best for this game but it didn't work. We changed our plans at half-time and we scored two goals."

Luis Enrique refused to comment on Kylian Mbappé's performance, as the France captain was shackled by Barcelona's defence and had little impact on the game.

However, he said that Barça were not necessarily favourites even with a win in hand and the home field advantage.

"We are going to go to Barcelona to fight a war," he said.

"I never see the opposition as favourites, whoever they are. In top-level competition, that's how I see it. And I will continue to believe that we will go to Barcelona to win the game.

"I repeat. We could have won this game. [Football] is about small details and let's hope that the small details go our way in the second leg."

Information from ESPN's Julien Laurens, Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

- ESPN News Services

BARCELONA MAKE MARCUS RASHFORD TRANSFER DECISION AFTER MAN UTD AGREEMENT

Marcus Rashford joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United (Picture: Getty)

Barcelona have made a decision on signing Marcus Rashford permanently from Manchester United after his first few months at the club.

Rashford said he felt like he was ‘at home’ after joining Barca on an initial season-long loan deal back in July.

The England international last played for Manchester United in December 2024 after being dropped by Old Trafford boss Ruben Amorim and eventually banished from the first team.

Rashford showed glimpses of his potential during a loan spell at Aston Villa in the second-half of last season and has continued to impress this term at the Nou Camp.

The 27-year-old has scored three goals and made four assists in his first ten games for Barca, with two of his goals coming in a Champions League win over Newcastle United.

According to The Sun, Barcelona are ‘ecstatic’ with Rashford’s early form at the club and already intend to sign him on a permanent transfer next summer.

During talks with Barca over the summer, Manchester United agreed the Spanish champions could sign Rashford permanently for just over £30m in a year’s time.

That means Rashford has most likely played his last game for United, the club he first joined at the age of eight before going on to make 426 first-team appearances for.

Rashford looked at best misused and at worst disinterested during the latter stages of his lengthy Old Trafford spell but Barcelona have been impressed by his ‘work ethic and talent’.

He became the first male England player to play for Barca since former striker and Match of the Day host Gary Lineker.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta was reportedly left ‘stunned’ Manchester United were willing to part ways with Rashford, especially for a relatively small fee.

Rashford came on as a second-half substitute in England’s routine friendly win over Wales on Thursday night and could start Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Latvia.

Discussing Rashford’s struggles at Old Trafford, Barcelona chief Deco recently said: ‘What we thought he could bring to us, he’s bringing.

‘He’s a very high-level player; he exploded very early, then he had great seasons at United, then he had more complicated management years with changes of coaches, and perhaps he also struggled because they demanded a lot of things from him there.

‘But we’re happy with him; that’s the most important thing.’

On the possibility of Rashford staying at Barcelona beyond this season’s loan, Deco added: ‘He has a simple loan, there’s no penalty. If we want him, we have a purchase option.

‘It’s too early to talk about decisions for next season, but what matters is that we’re happy with him.

‘These aren’t decisions for now; now it’s time to focus on the upcoming games. A decision will be made, but that’s not being discussed now.

‘There’s a contract between the clubs, but it needs to be discussed.’

Rashford, meanwhile, admitted he was relishing his time at Barcelona while speaking after a Champions League game last month.

‘It’s going good,’ he told TNT Sports. ‘Obviously learning a lot, it’s a new way of football.

‘I’m enjoying it all and I think it’s making me a better player. That’s what I’m here to do, help the team win but also try and improve and be the best I can.

‘Honestly it’s an amazing experience, I’ve always been a huge admirer of Barcelona.

‘Most people my age have watched them play from when we were younger, so it’s amazing football, amazing players and we just want to win as much as possible.’

- Louis Sealey

FC BARCELONA: BARCELONA YACHANGIA ALISILIMIA 1.5 YA PATO LA TAIFA

FC Barcelona yachangia asilimia 1.5 katika pato la Jiji la Barcelona...Katika report iliyotolewa na kampuni ya Deloitte inasema timu ya Barcelona inachangia sana hasa katika kuajiri watu, utalii na mapato ya kodi...Mchango wa timu ya Barcelona ni Euro 906 milioni ambayo ni asilimia 1.5 ya biashara yote jijini Barcelona katika mwaka 2014-2015...

Deloitte wamesema kwa upande wa ajira tu Barcelona imetoa ajira kwa watu 16, 620...Kwa upande wa utalii asilimia 6 ya watalii wanaoingia Barcelona wanasema ni kwasababu ya timu ya Barcelona...Bofya hapa upate habari zaidi.

LA LIGA PRESIDENT WEIGHS IN ON BARCELONA-ATHLETIC CLUB TIFF OVER NICO WILLIAMS - 'WILL HAVE TO COMPLY WITH THE REGULATIONS'

Photo by Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images For Sporte

Barcelona and Athletic Club are at a silent war over the Nico Williams saga. After all, the Catalans are close to signing the Basque superstar and Athletic Club are anything but pleased with the development.

At this point, they have done everything in their capacity to complicate the transfer but they crossed a limit earlier this week by meeting with La Liga representatives to express concern about Barcelona’s financial situation.

Tebas speaks on the case

Speaking to the media via Mundo Deportivo and clarifying the recent incidents in an interview, La Liga president Javier Tebas brought out the truth about the conversation Athletic Club had with him.

“Bilbao complained because Deco’s statement expressed his desire to sign the player,” he said, bringing out the intention behind the Basque club’s approach.

“According to FIFA regulations, he is in a protected period, and we have no authority to interfere with that,” he added.

Elaborating on the implications on Barcelona and what the club must be wary of, he said,

"What we will do, as we have always done, is that FC Barcelona will have to comply with the regulations in order to register players, whether it is Nico Williams, Haaland, Messi, whoever. And we will not change anything.”

Tebas also took an indirect dig towards the Athletic Club for releasing a public statement on the matter and how it was unnecessary.

“Athletic Club Bilbao doesn’t need to issue any statement. It’s our duty to clarify doubts about Financial Fair Play. We are transparent.”

"We don’t reveal the deep economic details of clubs, but it is known that there was a meeting of the Division Committee in February, in which the reasons for the salary caps were explained, and the situation of Barcelona was explained because we have the Olmo case,” he added on how Athletic Club knew of Barcelona’s situation.

Tebas also confirmed that Barcelona are still not in the 1:1 rule but that they are not far from reaching it.

“Barcelona doesn’t have a 1-1 rule, and I hope they achieve it as soon as possible. They already know what they need to do to be in the rule.”

“Bilbao also knows what Barcelona must do, because we were very transparent in February so that no one would question Financial Fair Play,” he concluded.

- Adithya Eshwarla

HANSI FLICK EQUALS BARCELONA RECORD LONG HELD BY LEGENDARY JOHAN CRYFF

 

Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images

Barcelona’s 5-2 win over Rayo Vallecano on Monday evening was another statement from Hansi Flick’s side as they continue to set the pace in La Liga.

It was a special victory for Flick as well, as it saw him equal a record that has stood for decades at Camp Nou.

Indeed, Flick has now matched one of the greatest managers in Barcelona’s history.

Flick matches Cruyff’s record

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Flick has now accumulated 59 league matchdays as the leader of La Liga, equalling the legendary Johan Cruyff’s tally during his time on the Barcelona bench.

Flick’s Barcelona continue their domination. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

What makes the achievement even more remarkable is the speed at which Flick has reached the milestone.

The German has managed just 79 league games in charge to get there, while Cruyff needed 300 matches to reach the same figure during his far longer tenure.

That means 74.7 percent of the league matchdays Flick has overseen as Barcelona coach have ended with the club sitting top of the table.

Among managers who have completed at least one full season in La Liga, nobody comes close. The second on the list is Pep Guardiola, who managed 57.2 percent.

A legendary start

Currently in his third season, Flick has done wonders at Barcelona.

In his first two seasons on the bench, the German has guided Barcelona to back-to-back league titles and built a side that plays with a clear identity and an attacking verve that has captivated supporters.

Now into his third campaign, Flick’s Barcelona show no sign of slowing down. With three wins from their opening three matches this season, the Catalans are once again setting the standard in Spanish football.

Cruyff remains one of the most iconic figures in Barcelona’s history, and being mentioned in the same breath as the Dutchman is a testament to Flick’s impact.

Should the German continue at this rate, surpassing the record entirely is only a matter of time, further cementing his place among the finest coaches to ever grace the Camp Nou touchline.

- Connell Edgar-Jones

WHY ARE BARCELONA NOT PART OF THE FOOTBALL SHOWPIECE EVENT?

The new-look FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will include 32 football clubs from across the globe but there will be no FC Barcelona in the competition. We explain why the La Liga champions Barcelona are not a part of the tournament.

The revamped FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will have some of the best 32 teams from across the globe fighting for glory in the United States. The tournament kicks off on 14 June with Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami taking on Egypt’s Al Ahly. However, one of the biggest football clubs from the world is missing from the scene – FC Barcelona.

It’s stunning that Barcelona, who are five-time UEFA Champions League winners, are not going to be a part of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which will include 12 teams from Europe including Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid from Spain.

Even teams like European clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City and Juventus, who failed to win their respective domestic leagues this season, will also be there in the USA to take part in the Club World Cup. But La Liga champions Barcelona are not a part of the tournament.

Why are Barcelona not a part of the FIFA Club World Cup?

Barcelona were edged out by domestic rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, who earned Spain’s two available slots. Real Madrid secured their place by winning the UEFA Champions League in both 2021–22 and 2023–

Atletico, meanwhile, booked their ticket by amassing more UEFA coefficient points than Barcelona over the four-year qualification window starting from the 2020–21 season.

Barcelona’s absence is largely due to their failure to make a deep impact in Europe during this period, having not lifted the Champions League trophy once in the last four years. The next realistic shot for Barça to return to the Club World Cup stage will come in 2029.

- FP Sports Desk

BARCELONA DRAW TO INCREASE LALIGA LEAD AFTER REAL MADRID STUMBLE

Real Madrid earlier conceded deep into added time to lose 2-1 at home to Valencia.

Barcelona failed to break down a frantic Real Betis defence as they were held to a 1-1 draw.
© AFP

Barcelona failed to break down a frantic Real Betis defence as they were held to a 1-1 draw in La Liga on Saturday but still gained ground on Real Madrid who earlier conceded deep into added time to lose 2-1 at home to Valencia. Barcelona moved four points ahead of Real Madrid atop La Liga. Both teams face Champions League first-leg ties this week, Real visit Arsenal on Tuesday and Barcelona play in Dortmund the following evening. Barcelona cut open Betis in the seventh minute and Gavi slid the ball past goalkeeper Adrian from inside the six-yard box.

But the hosts were unable to turn a series of lively attacks into goals. Instead the visitors hit back after 16 minutes when centreback Natan Souza escaped the clutches of his defender to head home a Giovani Lo Celso corner.

Barcelona besieged the Betis goal in the second half but were denied by a combination of dogged defending, strong goalkeeping from Adrian and some agonising near misses.

Wojciech Szczesny did not have to make a save until the 88th minute when he turned away a long-range drive by Natan.

With Betis playing for time, Barcelona did not leave themselves exposed to a late counter-attack as they played out a draw that bolstered their lead at the top.  

"If we had won we would be further clear, but in the end it's football," Gavi told Movistar.  "The draw leaves a bitter taste, because we were unable to take advantage of the chances we had."

The draw lifted Betis to fifth.

'Lots of chances'

"La Liga is more complicated, but we have to fight until the last game," said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"They didn't need to do much to score two goals," said Ancelotti. "We took risks at the end and found ourselves hit on the counter-attack.

"We've had deserved defeats this season, but I don't think we lacked attitude today," he added. "It's not a deserved defeat. We created lots of chances but lacked a little effectiveness."

The victory lifted Valencia to 15th, seven points clear of the bottom three.

Real had an early chance to take control when Valencia's Cesar Tarrega was adjudged to have fouled Kylian Mbappe in the penalty area, but Giorgi Mamardashvili saved a weak spot-kick from Vinicius Junior.

It was the Brazilian's second consecutive miss from the spot for Real, after he wasted a Champions League penalty against Atletico Madrid.

Within a minute Valencia went up the other end and won a corner. From it Mouctar Diakhaby outjumped Antonio Rudiger and rocketed home a header.

Real levelled after 50 minutes when Vinicius tapped over the line in a scramble following a Real corner. It was his 104th goal for Los Blancos, matching Brazilian compatriot Ronaldo.

Real gave a lacklustre performance, nevertheless, Mbappe carved out enough chances to win, but wasted opportunities in the 36th, 37th, 48th, 49th and 68th minutes.

Valencia's Georgian goalkeeper Mamardashvili was in imperious form keeping his team in the game until Duro delivered his winner.

Valencia stunned the dominant hosts deep into injury time when a slick countering-attacking move was emphatically finished by Duro from Rafa Mir's cross.

Ancelotti started third-choice 'keeper Fran Gonzalez following injuries to Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin, although the Ukrainian was fit enough to be named on the bench.

In addition to Arsenal, Ancelotti has to focus on the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26 in Seville.

"The match against Barca in the Copa del Rey will be different; they'll attack more, and we'll have to be better at the back and be effective up front," the Italian said.

- Agence France-Presse

CHELSEA READY TO MAKE €50M PLUS OFFER FOR BARCELONA MIDFIELDER

According to reports in Spain, Chelsea are willing to make a €50 million-plus offer for the FC Barcelona midfielder.

FBL-EUR-C1-BARCELONA-SHAKHTAR | LLUIS GENE/GettyImages

Chelsea defeated Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final on Sunday night, securing their title as world champions. The Blues are now looking to further bolster their squad ahead of next season after finishing the 24/25 campaign with two trophies under Enzo Maresca's leadership. Even though they have already made some major signings, they are now pursuing a few more.

Chelsea are believed to be currently looking to add more quality to their midfield. And they might look towards Barcelona for that.

As reported by Fichajes, Chelsea are willing to make an offer exceeding €50 million for Fermin Lopez, convinced that the competition he will face at Barcelona with players like Dani Olmo could open a window of opportunity. The Spaniard is fully focused on succeeding at Camp Nou, but he is also open to considering alternatives if his prominence diminishes.

Since being promoted to Barcelona's first-team, Lopez has only gotten better. The 22-year-old made a name for himself with his outstanding performances last season, despite not being a regular starter under Hansi Flick. He scored 8 goals and provided 10 assists in 46 matches across all competitions. He only featured for 2039 minutes. Elite output for a midfielder.

Chelsea ready to make €50m-plus offer for Barcelona midfielder

Lopez has four years left on his contract with Barcelona, and they have no plans of discussing his departure. The club believe he might become one of their pillars in the future.

However, it appears that Chelsea are hoping to capitalise on the fact that the Spanish club cannot guarantee him a starting role, and there is no immediate prospect of that improving next season. Remember, Olmo dealt with multiple injuries this season and is only expected to feature more often moving forward.

Furthermore, everybody is aware of the La Liga club's ongoing financial difficulties. As a result, they are always likely to consider satisfactory offers.

There is no doubt that Lopez would be an excellent addition to the team, but convincing Barcelona will be difficult because they are aware of the player's potential. And the 22-year-old is unlikely to leave his boyhood club unless absolutely convinced that it is the right step. Can Chelsea pull it off?

- Sayak Biswas

BARCELONA PRESIDENT EXPLAINS 'SUDDEN' DEATH OF CLUB DOCTOR AS PLAYERS PAY EMOTIONAL TRIBUTES

Barcelona’s match on Saturday was postponed after the tragedy (Picture: Getty)

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has spoken out on the ‘sudden’ death of the club’s first-team doctor Carles Minarro Garcia.

Garcia tragically passed away on Saturday just hours before Barcelona’s match against Osasuna with the La Liga match postponed as a result.

Fans had already gathered inside the Camp Nou with Barcelona making a stadium announcement 20 minutes before kick-off and releasing a statement on social media.

The match was called off at Barcelona’s request following consultation with La Liga officials and Osasuna.

Speaking later on Saturday evening, Barcelona president Laporta confirmed Garcia died earlier on Saturday afternoon ‘at the team’s training camp’.

‘A man very much loved by everyone passed away this afternoon during the team’s gathering at the hotel,’ Laporta told Barcelona’s official website.

‘As you can imagine, the players, the coaching staff, the coach, everyone was very sad.

There was an overwhelming sense of sadness because he was a very beloved person. We all loved him.

‘He was a man who travelled to every match to take care of all the players, the coaching staff, anyone. He never said no to anyone. A great professional, a great doctor. It is very sad what happened.

‘This is very painful new. It has left us devastated, in a state of shock, because it was so sudden.

‘We got in touch with his mother and his wife to offer our condolences and support in these painful moments.

‘We wanted them to know immediately. Carles leaves behind two children Gerard and Ana. His wife, as you can imagine, was also deeply affected. we want to be there for all of them.’

Garcia (left) was a ‘beloved’ member of the Barca team (Picture: Diego Souto/Getty Images)

Devastated Barcelona players have paid tribute to Garcia with midfielder Pedri among the first to share his condolences.

‘I still can’t believe it,’ the Spain international wrote on Instagram. ‘A big hug to Carles’ family and friends.’

- Tony Mogan

ANTHONY GORDON'S HUGE £80M BARCELONA DEAL WITH THREE CLAUSES SET TO MAKE NEWCASTLE MILLIONS

Anthony Gordon's sale to Barcelona could prove highly lucrative for Newcastle United down the line

Anthony Gordon made a big-money move to Barcelona before the World Cup(Image: Getty Images)

Anthony Gordon's move to Barcelona this summer could end up landing Newcastle United millions due to three clauses inserted into the deal. While he's been at the centre of one of the biggest transfers of the summer, the Liverpudlian winger failed to impress for England against Ghana on Tuesday evening.

In fact, so far, he's looked a shadow of the man that the Catalan giants shelled out in excess of £69.3million for. Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel elected to keep Gordon in his starting line-up for the tie with the Black Stars despite also underperforming in England's 4-2 win over Croatia last week.

Gordon's speed, directness and ability to race to the byline are just some of the reasons Barcelona chose to move for him over Marcus Rashford, who had impressed on loan at Barca last season. However, Gordon will do well to keep his place for England's clash with Panama on Saturday night.

Despite Gordon more often than not starring for Newcastle during his time in the North East, there'll be sections of the fanbase who believe they've had the better end of the deal with the player currently struggling at the World Cup.

He's signed on for five years in Spain and the figures involved are rather astonishing. His deal is set to expire in 2031 and it's thought he's pulling in £300,000 per week, for an annual salary of £15.6 million. Over the full five years of his contract, this amounts to around just shy of £80m.

Gordon, who joined Newcastle from Everton in 2023, cost the club £45m. The deal to take the attacker to the Camp Nou will see 15 per cent being paid to the Toffees.

Gordon struggled to make an impact against Ghana(Image: Getty Images)

With that in mind, the Magpies' trio of clauses mean there's a reality where they will bank much more than the initial fee for Gordon in the future.

Here we take a look at the trio of clauses, which were added to the deal by the club's sporting director Ross Wilson, and just how much Newcastle could bank from the deal.

The 60% Appearance Clause

Newcastle will receive £860,000 (€1m) per season if Gordon features in at least 60 per cent of Barcelona's fixtures, something he has never struggled to do during his time at St James' Park. If he stays fit and remains a regular starter, Newcastle will max this out at £4.3m (€5m) by the end of his contract.

The Silverware Clause

A further £4.3m (€5m) will be paid to Newcastle if Gordon helps Barcelona win trophies during his stint at the Camp Nou. This could bode well for the Magpies with Barcelona having won La Liga for the past two consecutive seasons.

He signed a five-year deal(Image: Adria Puig/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Sell-On Clause

Newcastle also wisely inserted a sell-on clause into the deal. While the exact percentage has been kept under wraps, it will ensure that the North East outfit will take a cut of any future transfer fee. This is typically based on the sale's profit if Barcelona choose to cut ties with Gordon before his contract expires.

- Chris Burns

BARCELONA FIGHTS BACK FOR DRAW AGAINST INTER IN SENSATIONAL FIRST-LEG MATCH

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal moves between two Inter players during their match in Barcelona, Spain, on Wednesday. | REUTERS

Barcelona and Inter Milan played to a compelling 3-3 draw in a high-octane Champions League semifinal first-leg clash on Wednesday, with teenage star Lamine Yamal shining bright.

The Italian side raced to a two-goal lead with superb strikes from Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries, before the unstoppable Yamal pulled Barca back into it with a sublime solo effort.

Ferran Torres evened the score for the five-time champion, and although Inter nosed ahead through Dumfries again, a Yann Sommer own goal left the tie on a knife-edge at the halfway stage.

"Letting in that many goals (here) is unacceptable, but we also have to give Inter credit, they did very well," said Barca's Raphinha, whose fierce drive forced the own goal.

"The important thing is we leave with a result where everything can happen."

Despite losing three domestic games in a row and seeing its treble hopes crumble, Inter showed resilience and quality in Catalonia.

"After three defeats in a row we saw the real Inter tonight, we played with heart and I'm proud," Dumfries told Amazon Prime Video.

Inter was desperately hoping Thuram would be fit to play after a thigh injury, and he showed precisely why, scoring the fastest ever Champions League semifinal goal after 30 seconds.

Dumfries aimed a low cross towards Thuram and Inigo Martinez slipped at just the wrong time, allowing the France striker room to finish with an impudent back-heel flick.

Quadruple-chasing Barcelona seized control and pushed forward, roared on by the nervous Olympic stadium crowd.

Yamal, in his 100th Barcelona appearance, was leading the charge.

Inter scored its second against the run of play. Francesco Acerbi nodded on a corner and Dumfries reached the dropping ball first to score with a stunning acrobatic effort for the 2023 runner-up.

Barcelona teams over the past few years may have crumbled, but Hansi Flick's youthful side is not burdened by the series of European failures since the club's last title in 2015.

Least of all teenage wizard Yamal, who pulled Barcelona back into the game just three minutes later with a wonderful individual goal that made him the youngest player ever to score in the semis.

On the eve of the game, the Spaniard rejected comparisons to all-time Barca great Lionel Messi, but his goal was straight from the Argentine's playbook.

Yamal shook off Thuram, floated inside from the right flank and past Henrikh Mkhitaryan into the box, drawing defenders towards him, but before they could stop him, he stroked a perfect shot in off the left post.

Yamal nearly repeated the trick minutes later. This time he darted outside, pausing to let Federico Dimarco lunge past him and off the pitch.

The youngster flashed a shot from a tight angle that Sommer tipped onto the crossbar.

"Yamal is a phenomenon of the kind born every 50 years," Inter coach Simone Inzaghi said.

Barca pulled level when Pedri hooked a ball into the area for Raphinha to head across goal and Torres to convert from close range after 38 breathless minutes.

Kounde limped off before halftime in a blow for Barca, while Inter captain Lautaro Martinez also came off hurt. Inzaghi said he "doubts" if he will be ready for the return.

Inter took the sting out of the game early in the second half and then sucker-punched Barca, scoring from another corner, with Dumfries' header bouncing in off Dani Olmo.

Barcelona equalized within two minutes, with Yamal stepping over a corner on the edge of the box, allowing it to run to Raphinha.

The Brazilian's rasping effort smashed against the crossbar and then in, off the back of the unfortunate diving Sommer's head.

Inter's Mkhitaryan had a goal ruled out for an extremely tight offside, later saying he would think about it "maybe for the rest of my life," and Yamal hit the bar again as the sides could not be separated.

"We will have our chance (in Milan)," said Flick. "This is our goal, we will fight for it."

The second leg takes place next Tuesday, with the winner to face Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal on May 31 in the Munich final.

- AFP-JIJI