FC BARCELONA

Betis looks for the surrender of the forward of the filial azulgrana, but Guardiola it doesn't accept.

Betis has stood as a suitor to gain the services of Barça B forward Cristian Tello.

The combined verdiblanco wants to bolster its leading and thought about the surrender of the young pearl of the cantera azulgrana, even during the winter 'market', as informs the newspaper 'Sport Stadium.'

The subsidiary forward is starring in a good campaign. In fact, recently scored two goals the first team in the match against L'Hospitalet butler, who finished 9-0.

Despite the intentions of Betis, the last word goes to Pep Guardiola. And the Barca coach, according to the newspaper, has steadfastly refused to let him go.

Barca going through a poor for forward, with Villa and Afellay injured until the end of the season. This means that the cantera will play a key role in the remainder of the current course.

In principle, Cuenca is emerging as the leading candidate to replace Villa (taking into account that are ahead of Messi, Pedro and Alexis, along with the possibility that Inietsa act as a winger and Cesc as false '9'). But Tello is also well positioned thanks to its good performances with the 'B'.

It is not the first time that the coach is pronounced similar negative possibilities. The Granada also interested in the services of Tello, but the response from Pep was the same: "No". (via SPORT)

As of January 1 players just can contract in June to begin negotiating with other clubs totally free. This year's roster includes Abidal, Cuenca, Drenthe, Kanoute or Toquero, among other.

On January 1, is again becoming, once again, on a date set for Spanish clubs and the rest of Europe. It is from that day when they can legally negotiate with the players they just contract on 30 June, although in many cases begin negotiations so 'illegal' much earlier.

The 2012 are many players who complete the contract and, given that Spanish football is experiencing a major economic crisis, it is a great opportunity to reinforce the templates at no cost. The list of players is large, but in most cases these are players who have already bespoken renewal or veterans who are in the final stretch of his career.

Few cases in Barcelona and Madrid

Abidal and Pinto Basin are the three Barcelona players ending contract next June, although the club hopes to renew the three players. A Pinto is extended by one year the contract, while Abidal renewal is in the final after a long negotiation process. With the young Isaac Cuenca will be easier, since the will of the player is to use the opportunity is giving Pep Guardiola and gain a place in the first team squad.

As for Real Madrid, the only player to finish the contract is Dutch Royston Drenthe, on loan to Everton and that counts for nothing in the plans of the white club.

More work in Espanyol

Up to four players out of contract next June at Espanyol, although the club is working primarily in the continuity of French striker Thievy. The player, who does not have professional contract, Pochettino is confident and has many options to follow in the first team Espanyol. Also just the keeper Kiko Casilla contract, defender and striker Ernesto Galan Walter Pandiani.

So things are in First

Of the other La Liga teams include players like Gaizka Toquero (Athletic)-although in their case-renewal depends on objectives, and Colsa Munitis (Racing Santander), Ballesteros and Juanlu (Levante), Nunes (Mallorca) Iriney (Betis), Miguel and Albelda (Valencia) Palop and Kanouté (Sevilla), among many others. The full list of players out of contract next June 30 is as follows:

Athletic: Raúl Fernández, Koikili, Aitor Ocio, Igor Gabilondo, Gaizka Toquero, Ibai Gómez.

Atlético: Antonio López, Luis Perea, Diego Costa.

Barça: Abidal, Pinto, Cuenca.

Betis: Nacho, Isidoro, Juanma, Iriney, Miki Roqué.

Espanyol: Kiko Casilla, Galán, Pandiani, Thievy.

Getafe: Gavilán, Pedro Ríos.

Granada: Juan José, Íñigo López, Abel Gómez, Boateng.

Levante: Ballesteros, Nano, Del Horno, Farinós, Carlos Aranda, Javi Venta, Juanfran, Juanlu, Valdo, Rubén Suárez, Rafa Jordá y Koné.

Málaga: Malagueño, Weligton, Hélder Rosario, Maresca, Van Nistelrooy.

Mallorca: Nunes, Martí Crespí, Pau Cendrós, Pep Lluís Martí, 'Chori' Castro.

Osasuna: Ricardo, Roversio, Sergio, Puñal, Calleja.

Racing: Mario Fernández, Gonzalo Colsa, Munitis, Kennedy, Edu Bedia, Tziolis, Osmar Barba.

Rayo Vallecano: Daniel Giménez, Cobeño, Arribas, Movilla, Casado, Koke, Javi Fuego, Raúl Bravo, Rafa García, Susaeta, Míchel, Tamudo.

Real Madrid: Drenthe.

Real Sociedad: Toño Ramírez, Aranburu.

Real Sporting de Gijón: Nacho Novo, Rivera.

Sevilla: Palop, Tom de Mul, Kanouté.

Valencia: Bruno, Maduro, Dealbert, Miguel, Albelda.

Villarreal: César, Mariño, Ángel López, Mario Gaspar, Marcos Senna, Gerard Bordas.

Zaragoza: Antonio Tomás, Ponzio, Paredes, Lafita. (via SPORT)

The Club Atlético Osasuna has fired 2011 with a morning workout in Tajonar facilities, which has prepared the Copa del Rey match next Wednesday, January 4, against FC Barcelona at Camp Nou.

For an hour and a half, the team has made technical pinko collective possession drills, actions auction and game, the club said on its website.

Like yesterday, the medical report is completed by six players: Echaide, Marc Bertrán, Masoud, Rubén, Raúl García and Kike Sola. Sunday morning, the Osasuna squad will rest day and back at work on Monday, January 2nd, from 10:00 hours. (via AS)

The midfielder believes that 2011 has been a “gratifying” year and he hopes to “continue learning from his teammates” in 2012.

Thiago is a nonconformist. “On a personal level, my challenge for 2012 is to continue progressing and to keep on learning from my teammates. On a collective level, we want to continue along the same lines that we’ve set for ourselves in recent times, which have been fabulous.” The midfielder didn’t rule out the possibility of winning another treble, although he did say that “it would be a difficult feat.” In the last press conference of the year, Thiago said he was satisfied with the team’s performance in 2011: “It has been a gratifying year, on a personal and familial level. In my wildest dreams I could not have imagined finishing the year like this.”

One of the first events of 2012 is the FIFA Ballon d’Or gala on January 9th. For Thiago, the favourite to win top prize is Leo Messi: “The whole world believes that he’s the favourite. He’s number one in this sport and after the year he’s put in, I believe that he deserves it. He doesn’t stop surprising us. He’s able to do just about anything with the ball. His qualities are unique, it’s a pleasure to play alongside him.”

Before the FIFA Ballon d’Or gala, Barça must play in the last-16 round of the King’s Cup and then in the League derby against Espanyol. On the Osasuna clash, Thiago doesn’t believe Barça will repeat their 8-0 League thrashing of the Northerners: “Every game is different from the previous one. They can design a completely different game plan this time around, both teams know each other a little better now. I don’t know what the game will be like.” FC Barcelona’s number 11 is positive that the team will be in peak physical condition for the year’s first game: “It’s always difficult to get over the turrón (traditional Iberian holiday treat), but I believe that we’ve all returned without any problems and in perfect physical condition.” (via FCBarcelona.cat)

The first team players visited FC Barcelona’s ‘Somos lo que respetamos’ (We are what we respect) stand. Cesc, Thiago and Fontàs played football with the children and signed autographs.



Barça’s first team players are committed to FC Barcelona Foundation’s social campaigns. This Monday afternoon, a small contingent from Guardiola’s team – Cesc, Thiago and Fontàs – attended the Foundation’s stand at the Barcelona Children’s Festival, located in the second pavilion at Montjuïc’s fairgrounds.

The Foundation has been promoting the ‘Somos lo que respetamos’ (We are what we respect) campaign – which aims to teach children the social value of respect, tolerance and sociability through recreational and educational activities – at Children’s Festival since December 27th. The Festival concludes on the 4th of January.

Cesc, Thiago and Fontàs drew a lot of excitement to the FC Barcelona Foundation stand. The three footballers played a football match on a small field with 10 children, afterward the players attended the long line of children waiting to get their posters and photos signed. Surely, many of the children's dreams to play alongside a professional FC Barcelona player became reality today. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Less than a week before the vote closes, eight Barça players plus manager Pep Guardiola are in the running for a place in the UEFA.com Team of the Year 2011.

Following on from a near monopoly of the teams of the year announced by the prestigious sports papers L'Équipe and La Gazzetta dello Sport, Barça is hoping to extend the Club's dominance to the UEFA.com Team of the Year. Eight Barça players are among the contenders: Víctor Valdés (goalkeeper), Alves (right-back), Piqué and Mascherano (central defenders), Abidal (left-back), Xavi (central midfield), Iniesta (attacking midfield) and Messi (forward). Pep Guardiola has also been nominated for coach of the year.

Voting will close on 6th January at noon. Last year the website registered more than five million votes. The candidates are chosen by the editors of UEFA.com on the basis of their performances with their club and national teams. Barça has had a fantastic 2011 winning the Spanish league, the Champions League, the Spanish Super Cup, the European Super Cup and the World Club Cup. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Remember the best technical phrases Santpedor this 2011?



The press conference after the Cup final against Real Madrid, the Madrid-Barcelona prior to the first leg of Champions League semifinal, the statements after winning the Champions League final at Wembley, the speech in the Parliament of Catalunya and the words Once lifted the Club World Cup in Japan have some of the best quotes of the year of Josep Guardiola. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Barça closed out 2011 with a morning training session at the Ciutat Esportiva, Alexis Sánchez trained at the same rate as his teammates. Abidal, who has the flu, was absent.

The first team completed their final training session of the year this afternoon at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. Alexis Sánchez, who has been training apart from the group this week, trained with the rest of his teammates. The FC Barcelona players that played in the Catalonia-Tunisia game were also present.

Carles Puyol, however, continued to work apart from the group as he’s recovering from a minor muscle injury and Keita worked out in the gym.

Pep Guardiola was without Éric Abidal this afternoon, as the Frenchman came down with the flu, and the injured players Iniesta (who continued his recovery work), Villa and Afellay. Messi and Alves, both of whom are on holiday, were also absent. The Brazilian is due back in Barcelona this Saturday.

The Barça B players Cuenca, Montoya, Muniesa and Sergi Roberto also trained with the first team. Pep Guardiola is preparing the team for the King’s Cup clash with Osasuna, which is scheduled for the 4th of January. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Up to five players from FC Barcelona Dream Team are part of 'La Gazzetta dello Sport'.

Alves, Pique, Xavi, Iniesta and Messi are part of the 2011 Dream Team became official yesterday the Italian newspaper 'La Gazzetta dello Sport'. "The Spanish rule," is how Italian newspaper headlines in yesterday's edition to explain the development of this ideal team consists of Neuer (Bayern), Alves (Barcelona), Pique (Barcelona), Thiago Silva (Milan) Lahm (Bayern), Schweinsteiger (Bayern), Xavi (Barcelona), Iniesta (Barcelona), Cristiano Ronaldo (Madrid), Messi (Barcelona) and Bale (Tottenham). The training would be a 4-3-3.

Apart from the five chosen Blaugrana are also others who have been on the podium in their respective positions. This is the case of Carles Puyol. Barcelona captain has fallen behind Thiago Silva in the left central position, while Sergio Busquets has occupied the third position as a medium. In the same position has also finished Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal signed this season behind Iniesta and Silva, Manchester City.

For his part, Josep Guardiola has been chosen as the best coach in the year ahead of Alex Ferguson and Tabarez.

Thiago Alcantara, Oriol Romeu and Neymar would be included in the starting team of the ideal of the young promises of world football. The coach of this team would be Luis Enrique, now in Roma. (via SPORT)

Xavi went on Thursday to Manresa to become the suit in which the gala will go to 'FIFA Ballon d'Or' scheduled for Jan. 9 in the Swiss city of Zurich.

It turns out that the midfielder chose the prestigious Serra Claret clothing store for them to take action and draw up the suit. So far so normal, but what is more curious is that the facility is owned by Pep Guardiola's wife, Cristina.

In fact, it made a big splash at the output of the player's store since spread like wildfire the news that Xavi was testing the suit in that store, also located in the heart of the town. Hundreds of young people took the opportunity to ask for a picture or an autograph egarense. Xavi was armed with patience and complied with all requests without wrinkling at any time.

In any event it is not the first time that Xavi visits Serra Claret since also in a regular of the establishment that has in Barcelona.

What is clear is that the Blaugrana want to go as a true 'brush' to its fourth consecutive appearance in this gala. (via SPORT)

Like Marti Riverola has played on all computers in the cantera.

The big news in the morning session yesterday was the presence of Sergio Ayala, a centre-back born on March 19, 1993 living in Sant Feliu, a few minutes walk from the Ciutat Esportiva. In the afternoon, he was joined by two colleagues in the Youth A: Jordi Quintillà and Pol Calvet.

Its history parallels that of guard Riverola Martí, the squad who became famous for his response when heated in the Camp Nou in the Champions League against BATE Borisov: "I have prepared a lifetime," said the Barca player B. Well, something's going to Ayala, who arrived in Barca's youth system at the hands of Fran Sanchez, current coach of Infantil A.

Sergio Ayala played in the Penya Blanc i Blava de Sant Feliu,, although he and his immediate family are deeply Barca. Since then he has gone through all the teams in the ranks of FC Barcelona until he arrived last season as the Juvenil A under the command of Oscar Garcia.

Ayala is a lefty and started at left, although his physical progress made central start playing from old cadet. The youth player's head is well furnished, is a player very regular and has no gaps in any facet of the game. So to speak, out from behind the ball better than Puyol and Pique is more blunt. When comparing, one could say that seems to Marc Bartra, while not as offensive as the central branch.

Alongside Alejandro Grimaldo, is the great reference in the rear of the Juvenil A and could make the jump to affiliate next season. Good student, is one of those players who do not stand out too much, but they throw much at fault when they are not. It has a wide stride, is cold and its great virtues is his perseverance and his selfless work capacity. (via SPORT)

The Chelsea midfielder has struggled to assimilate the change, because it has very clear ideas in his head and there is only the ball.

London is kind to the brave and Oriol Romeu is, as in his day also was Cesc Fabregas is. The Ulldecona takes a few months living in the capital of England, but it's practically a citizen `Need more. It has not cost too much to adapt, because the only thing I think is in football, to seize a unique opportunity to become what, little by little, it begins to be: a player from head to toe.

For him, are secondary issues such as language, traffic, weather or food. To him what matters is the ball. In fact, the more impact it had upon arrival in London was not related either to the driving on the left or the English, but the fact of playing every three days, something that had not ever lived. "It's crazy, but at the same time enjoyable. I came here to play football, to do what I like, so ...", defines the midfielder.

Romeu lived until a month ago in a hotel, but now does so in an apartment block in which also lies Juan Mata, who spends most of the time. Both are raised about nine o'clock and head in the same vehicle to the sports city of Chelsea, which is half an hour.

"Now I drive on the right cost," says the exblaugrana, although the first day I got behind the wheel thought it would be impossible to adapt. After lunch in the clubhouse before training have to learn English. Romeu and Mata attend class in the same city Ulldecona sports and better every day. Eat before you leave the club and have all afternoon free until the next day.

The problem is that "the four and there is no sun and it seems that the day is over," and perhaps is the only thing that has not been accustomed finish. Do not care if it's cold or heat, if it rains or is cloudy, but the feeling that the day is shorter is something that still weighs on him. Try to make it longer at home, watching a movie, playing the Play, or, occasionally, "making a tourist" by Mata central London. There will not overwhelms people: "They are very respectful. I thought it was because nobody knows me, but same thing happens Mata and world champion. "

From time to time, receives a visit from her parents, her brother and his girlfriend, who have already seen him play several times. Every time they do return to Catalunya quiet because they feel happy. It also take care of the team veterans like Terry, Lampard or Essien Drogba, who admired long before wear the shirt of Chelsea, "Everyone asks me if I need something, how I am, if all goes well ... are very concerned, "he explains.

So does Villas-Boas, a coach for a big bet Romeu who still has much to learn, but every day is better player. "You have to look at how they react peers who have long been in this for every situation, how to train ...". Oriol Romeu enjoys football and the Premier: "It's very nice to play here, is the host. Feel the warmth of your love and see how they animate the rival is a spectacle, "he says.

Is the food? "I am scrupulous and better than what I had said" ... Only interested in football. That is the way. (via SPORT)

The inexhaustible 'factory' of La Masia continues to bring new talent into the first team of FC Barcelona. Pep Guardiola was on Friday with three new faces in the evening training.

There are three players in the Juvenil A: defender Sergio Ayala (18) and midfielders Jordi Quintillà (18) and Pol Calvet (17). The first has already acted on occasion with Barça B, and also participated in the morning session on Friday. Ayala is a defender who can act as central and left side. Used know bluntly, while releasing the ball well played from behind. Calvet is an 'made in Masia', creative and organized, which after a campaign marked by injuries has settled into the team. And Quintillà is an offensive-minded midfielder, whose younger brother Xavier defense of juvenile B, 15, has already attracted interest from clubs like Arsenal.


In the afternoon did not practice any of those organized by the Catalan team to play against Tunisia this Friday: Valdés, Font, Pique, Busquets, Xavi, Cesc, Cuenca, Muniesa, Sergi Roberto Montoya.

Carles Puyol was low late in the notice of Johan Cruyff because of some discomfort in the adductor of the left leg, and was brought outside the group, as Alexis. Iniesta, meanwhile, continued his recovery process. (via SPORT)

The Brazilian full-back can have the days counted in FC Barcelona, because his representative is moving him to be taken to Milan

Mino Raiola, representing Maxwell, is moving to take the full-back azulgrana to Milan this winter, when the market is open from January 2. The manager has an excellent relationship with the directors of all Rossoneri having been directly involved in the operations of Ibrahimovic and Robinho, all contract with Barcelona with whom it had its ups and downs in the wake of the transfer of Ibrahimovic and controversial statements against Pep Guardiola.

The player never has been a mainstay of the team last season but scratched at a good level when Pep Guardiola gave continuity. Today it remains the last piece of the Barcelona defense and, if an offer comes finalmene Italy, would have no problem letting him go because their absence would not alter plans too sporting. His hole could be completely covered by a youth player as is the case Muniesa also left handed.

For now, the offices of FC Barcelona has not yet reached a firm offer from the Italian side but the conviction that there is a strong possibility. What is the club will not seek a solution to the player or make any move to bring about its progress. Basically, do not care to continue or leave.

Mino Raiola is awaiting the opening of the winter market to start making moves in firm but not in a hurry because the operation can be done until late January. It so happens that Mino Raiola is now in Dubai where coincided with Sandro Rosell, Laporta. The representative stated that "Maxwell is a player in many operations. Now, I think it will be difficult to come to Milan because the team already has two sides and do not want overstate Galiani staff. Moreover, from the financial point of view is not a player who can move easily. " The form of the player and the price paid to FC Barcelona in the form of transfer are the two obstacles that must save Raiola to get Maxwell to end up in Milan.

Barca, for now, waiting does not want to give to the player whose contract expires on June 30, 2013. Now the club should charge between one and a half to two million euros. (via SPORT)

It is not yet closed, but almost. Wenger confirmed yesterday, the coach of Arsenal: "This is a transfer agreement for two months, but you have to arrange the details, which are not closed. We have to respect the agreements with the American League and the Red Bulls. So We have not announced as safe. " Henry played for Arsenal and between 1999 and 2007, when he joined Barça, and remains the top scorer for the Gunners. (via AS)

The Catalan coach, Johan Cruyff believes that the game displayed on the pitch Catalunya "can win any game".

"Winning a championship sounds great, but to me what interests me is the quality football. If you see the first and the second part, this team has every chance to play anywhere and win any match," said Cruyff press conference.

The Dutchman was pleased by "a fairly good game" of his players against an opponent that he was surprised by its quality and technical level.

In addition, Cruyff has praised the team that has ranked in the second half, "with a mean age of 21 years", but admitted that on the whole lacked accuracy.

"We have not been too thin in the auction. They could have fallen enough, but in football you value how you play first," stated the coach, who has welcomed because no player is injured.

Cruyff has deployed players like Roberto Sergi and Cuenca and has stated that Bojan liked by the desire to show things you have.

"Everyone has gone well, perhaps you've missed a goal, but we have been at a high level," said Cruyff on the public's role in the Lluís Companys stadium.

Trabelsi: "Catalunya could win the World Cup"

For its part, the coach of Tunisia, Sami Trabelsi, said that "there are not many teams in the world can be like the Catalan", and considered to have "great players and great quality, and that" could conceivably win the World Cup. " (via SPORT)

Leo Messi has been named ambassador for his native capacity worldwide.
The crack of Barca he was "proud" and pointed out that there "probably" will live when he retires from football.

Lionel Messi , who plays for Barcelona , was today appointed Ambassador of his native Rosario in the world, a distinction of the city in Argentina where his "family and friends," and where "probably" will live when he retires from football, the player said.

"It's a great pride for me to receive this award, in my city, my country. I want to thank this recognition in Rosario, in my home, my birthplace, where my people, my family," said Messi during the act in which he was honored by the mayor of the district, Monica Fein.

The front figure of the selection Argentina , welcomed the award and said he was "very happy" with the appointment he received in the act developed in Rosario, Santa Fe province of Argentina, attended by his parents, Celia and George, and several friends.

"It's very nice that people come from outside and want to know the city (300 km from Buenos Aires). I'm always here even though it is not, are my friends, my family and my people and will surely be my home when I leave football, "said 'Lio'.

Messi also took the opportunity to praise the coach Gerardo Martino and wish the "best" in Newell's Old Boys, who joined coach this week and where the striker took his first steps in football.

He is "a very dear person for the club, for the fan. Hopefully things will go well, I wish him well, the player said who the next January 1 will travel to Barcelona to be added to the trainings of the team.

"I hope to keep growing and keep getting things for Barcelona," recent Club World Cup champion, wanted the player.

Messi has just closed a brilliant 2011, culminating with five titles with Barcelona and 59 goals in 70 games, four of them in the selection Albiceleste.

On Tuesday, Lionel Messi won the Olimpia de Oro sports highlight of the year in Argentina, an award he received for the first time in his career. (via MD)

Carles Puyol has enjoyed their Christmas holidays in La Pobla de Segur with his family and closest friends . Before returning to work under the orders of Pep Guardiola on Thursday 29, the captain of FC Barcelona was the detail of the football field near the village, seeing different teams to train and chat a while with the young players who will both admire. 'Puyi' photos with all the templates and hung one of these images into his 'facebook'. (via MD)

10 FC Barcelona players played in the international friendly between Catalonia and Tunisia. Andreu Fontas was the only Barça player to play the full 90 minutes.

The friendly between Catalonia and Tunisia ended in a goalless draw. At Montjuic, in front of 36,545 supporters, the side managed by Johan Cruyff deserved better against the Tunisian national team, who is in the middle of finalizing preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations that will take place in January. 10 FC Barcelona players played in tonight’s game –six featured in the starting XI, and four came off the bench– only Fontas played the full 90 minutes. It’s worth mentioning that Carles Puyol, who had been named to the Catalan side, didn’t play due to an injury to the adductor in his left leg.

Before the match, the ex-Barça player Roger Garcia received a warm and special homage: he’s the footballer that has played the most games for Catalonia (12).

The Tunisians came out swinging and surprised the Catalan side at the start. The visitors created various goal-scoring chances but Valdés did well to save each one. With six Barça players on the pitch, Johan Cryuff’s side slowing wrestled control of the game away from the Tunisians. However, Catalonia was having trouble creating chances on Mathlouthi’s goal. The best chances for the Catalans in the first half fell to Bojan, who’s shot hit the woodwork on 11 minutes, and for Piqué, who couldn’t connect well with the ball when he was in the six-yard box.

At the other end, Tunisia, who had started strong, was only able to create one more chance before the break. The referee called a hand ball on Valdés outside of the area (the keeper was not booked). The draw at the break was a fair result for both sides.

In the second half, Johan Cryuff subbed in eight new players. The Barça players Piqué, Busquets, Xavi and Cesc left the pitch for Montoya, Muniesa, Sergi Roberto and Cuenca. With the substitutions, Fontas changed his position form full back to central defensive midfielder. On 51 minutes, the keepers were also changed: Valdés for Casilla. With nine new players on the pitch –the only remaining starters were Fontas and Bojan– Catalonia created its best chances and enjoyed 80% of ball possession. Bojan, once again, came close to scoring, and Sergi Roberto and Cuenca were simply brilliant. The winning goal, however, never came. (via FCBarcelona.cat)


[Technical Data]
Catalunya: Valdés (Casilla, min 51), Juste (Montoya, min 45), Piqué (Raúl Rodríguez, min 45), Fontàs, Dídac (Muniesa, min 45), Busquets (Amat, min 45), Xavi (Sergi Roberto ,min 45), Cesc (Verdú, min 45), Coro (Cuenca, min 45), Sergio García (Álvaro Vázquez, min 45) and Bojan (Puigdollers, min 73).

Túnez: Mathlouthi, Benyahia (Boussaidi, min 74), Chammam, Ifa, Abdennoun, Korbi (Baratli, min 73), Traoni, Darrafi (Chikhaoui, min 57), Chermití, Misakui and Dahaouahi.

Goal: -

Referee: Álvarez Izquierdo. He admonished Abdennoun (m.31) a Chickhaoui (m.66), y a Misakui (m.68).

Incidents: Friendly match held at the Olímpico Lluís Companys Stadium before 36,545 people. The president of the Generalitat, Artur Mas, has chaired the Royal Box. It has honored former player Roger Garcia, the player with most appearances for Barcelona.

Barça completed its second training session of the day without the Catalan internationals. Puyol, Keita and Alexis, all of whom are dealing with minor injuries, trained apart from the group.

Today’s second training session was attended by fewer footballers than normal due to the game between Catalonia’s national team and Tunisia at Montjuic. Barça was without Valdés, Fontàs, Piqué, Busquets, Xavi, Cesc, Muniesa, Montoya and Sergi Roberto this evening at the Ciutat Esportiva.

The absentees were replaced by the reserve keeper Masip and the under-17 side players Ayala (who trained this morning with the first team), Calvet and Jordi Quintillà. Puyol, Keita and Alexis, all of whom have niggling injuries, trained apart from the main group.

Barça will hold their final training session of 2011 tomorrow, Saturday, at 10.00 at Sant Joan Despí. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

The Argentinian, who scored 19 goals in international matches, was recognized by the Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) as the top goal scorer of 2011.

Leo Messi keeps on winning titles and awards. The latest title to be awarded to the Argentinian came this Friday, when the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) named Barça’s genius striker as the ‘World's Top Goal Scorer’ of 2011. In the past 12 months Messi has scored 19 goals, two more than Falcao, the second place finisher. The award only takes into consideration goals that have been scored in international and Olympic matches and continental tournaments.

David Villa, tenth

FC Barcelona has two top-10 finishers this year. David Villa, who finished tenth, is level with Cristiano Ronaldo, both with 12 goals. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Here is the complete list of the top goalscorers in 2011:

1- Leo Messi, FC Barcelona (19 goals)
2- Radamel Falcao, Porto/Atlético de Madrid (17 goals)
3- Hasan Mahmoud, Kuwait-City/Al-Wehdat/Jordan (16 goals)
4- Mario Gómez, Bayern Munich (16 goals)
5- Javier Hernández, Manchester United (15 goals)
6- Sunil Chhetri, FC Kolkata (14 goals)
7- Neymar, Santos FC (14 goals)
8- Abdullah Khaled Deeb, Al-Wehdat (13 goals)
9- Eduardo Jesús Vargas, Universidad de Chile (13 goals)
10- David Villa, FC Barcelona; Cristiano Ronaldo, Madrid (12 goals)

Apart from the many home-grown players who are defending Barça’s European crown this season, there are six other players brought up through the Barça youth system who will be hoping to win the Champions League with their new clubs.

The success of La Masía academy is usually judged by the number of players who make it through the youth system right up to the Barça first team. However, for some years now, many talented young players have had to move away from the Club in order to find regular first team football. Six of these players - Arteta, Motta, Romeu, Miquel, Nolito and Urko – will be taking part in the next stage of the CL.

At the age of 29, Thiago Motta and Mikel Arteta are two of the most well-known players to have come out of the Barça youth system in the last decade. Motta, who played in the first team from 2001 to 2007, has already played twice for Inter in the Champions League this season while Arteta, who has replaced Cesc in Arsene Wenger's Arsenal, has taken part in five of the six matches so far.

Two other former Barça youth stars – twenty-year-old Oriol Romeu (Chelsea) and nineteen-year-old Ignasi Miquel (Arsenal) – have progressed from the group stage with their new clubs. Romeu is fast carving out a regular place in the Chelsea midfield and enjoyed 257 minutes of play during the group stage. Meanwhile, Miquel, a skilful centre back has remained on the fringes of the Arsenal team with just 39 minutes.

Nolito (25) moved from Barça B to Benfica in the summer and enjoyed an exceptional start to the season. A skilful winger, Nolito made his first team debut with Barça last season. Finally, Goalkeeper Urko Pardo (28), who never made it through to the Barça first team, is currently with UCL sensations Apoel Nicosia and played in four of the six group stage matches. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Villa's Twitter account, @guaje7villa already has 210.000 followers.



Villa is going full 2.0. The FC Barcelona striker opened his Twitter account this Wednesday (@guaje7villa), and garnered over 100,000 followers within 24 hours. Through the popular microblogging site, Villa also announced his new blog: http://blog-es.davidvilla7.es/. Both platforms will be updated by a team of web specialists and Villa himself.

Success of the #animsVilla hashtag

David Villa’s decision to open a Twitter account –he already has a Facebook page– is thanks to the massive support the Asturian striker has received from Twitter users after he broke his shinbone in the Club World Cup semifinal. The hashtag #animsvilla was a trending topic that day.

In addition, the striker’s official Facebook page boasts 3.6 million fans. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Arsenal coach, Arsene Wenger French, confirmed that Thierry Henry's return to the club 'gunner' is almost a given.

"This is a transfer agreement for two months, but you have to arrange the details, which are not closed. We have to respect the agreements with the American League and the Red Bulls, so we have not advertised as safe," said Wenger on Arsenal's facilities.

In the technician's opinion, Henry "has experience, quality, knows the club and can help the players inside of and outside of the field." Wenger explained that the possible incorporation of Henry strengthen the team during the absence of Morocco Marouane Chamakh and the Ivorian Gervinho, who will play the African Nations Cup. (via SPORT)

Carles Puyol, discomfort in the left adductor is low as a precaution for tonight's match between Catalunya and Tunisia. (via FCB twitter account)

With Keita, Iniesta, Puyol and Alexis, to the margin of the group, the news in the train azulgrana it was the presence of four players of the branch - Cuenca, Montoya, Muniesa, Sergi Roberto - and of juvenil Sergio Ayala.

Barca made a gentle workout on the penultimate day of the year. During the session, the Malian Seydou Keita was brought outside the rest of the group as a precaution because of a sore left knee, like Iniesta, who continues to make up work.

For his part, Captain Carles Puyol and Alexis Sanchez also exercised on their own. In the training four players of the branch participated: Cuenca, Montoya, Muniesa and Sergi Roberto, besides Sergio Ayala, coming from the group juvenil azulgrana. (via SPORT)

For Harry Redknapp is a player non-transferable, and it has publicly reported for any team to sign him in January purporting to be saved the inconvenience, but this summer might be different.

According to the ' Daily Mirror', Barcelona already planning on signing Gareth Bale next June. Barça is preparing the workforce of the next season, which provides that one of the positions to be strengthened is the left side, and therefore has established guidelines to follow to bid for Welsh.

Most important is the maximum price they would pay the Catalans: 30 million euros . Price it at first seems to be insufficient to achieve the star of White Hart Lane . Bale is still the leader of a Tottenham who is third in the Premier , in the shadow of the teams of Manchester , and its value keeps rising every season.

For Harry Redknapp is a player non-transferable, and it has publicly reported for any team to sign him in January purporting to be spared the inconvenience. Although next summer could change history. The England coach knows he can not keep him forever in the 'Spurs', where aspiring to enter the Champions League but has little chance of getting titles. (via AS)

Gareth Bleats, the left-handed polivalente of Tottenham, is the defensive reinforcement preferred by the liking of Barça, as he comes off of the results of a survey hung in the web of Mundo Deportivo. The Welshman, 22, clearly exceeds 55 percent of the vote to other defenders studied sports club management as Jordi Alba (Valencia), Thiago Silva (Milan) and Iñigo Martínez (Real Sociedad) . It is also chosen over the possibility of rising to a defense of the subsidiary in a survey in which, at press time, had involved more than 3,000 followers.

Indeed, Bale was on Tuesday the protagonist in the Spurs' victory over Norwich (0-2) in the Premier League to achieve the two goals, one of them spectacular, showing off his powerful stride to leave behind several rivals before chipping the goalkeeper to beat the ball with a touch worthy of Messi. And football is that their progression will increasingly moving away from the defensive to make you a midfielder or even at one end. Its contribution could match that of Alves on the right side of Barça, although in his case on the left.

Each season has more goal: in the present and has eleven goals (seven in the Premier League, one in the Europa League and three with the selection of Wales), only one fewer than the twelve that achieved during the 2010-11 academic year: seven in the Premier League, four in the Champions League and one in Wales. In 2009-10 was made up of three, the same as in 2007-08, while in 2008-09 did not score.

"It's going good in the air, is as strong as a bull, he can run, dribble and shoot. It's an incredible player who has no weaknesses, but most importantly of all, it's a great kid." So defined his coach Harry Redknapp, the BBC after his exhibition in Norwich, advancing even results of the survey of Web MD, perhaps knowing that Barça seeks defenders: "Not for sale, has said the president . I know very wealthy clubs like Barcelona, ​​Madrid or Manchester City could pay much money, but Bale is priceless. How much should we ask? ".

Neymar, another future of Barça, in this case and tied in 2014 - or earlier - showed his magic in the eighth edition of the 'party of the stars' organized by Zico in Sao Paulo. The striker managed a goal and participated in three more in a match that served to honor the late Socrates.

The crack of Santos sported alongside legends like Ronaldo, Zico and Rai, brother of Socrates, who played together on the team who won 7-5 to another combination in which shone Djalminha (ex Deportivo). Neymar part of the party trying to dribbling and juggling impossible and even talked on a cell phone during a meeting with Luke

Despite the festive nature of the party and beneficial, the fact that the scenario was Morumbi Stadium Sao Paulo, led to some of the 35,000 fans who attended were devoted to provoke military Neymar for Santos, club rival. Specifically, we heard shouts of "Messi, Messi", just happens to Cristiano Ronaldo in numerous European and Spanish courses, each time the crack touched the ball, in reference to what happened in the final of Club World Cup in Japan. There the '10 'Argentine scored two goals in the 4-0 friendly club, which drew criticism in Brazil to poor response by the Santos in general, and Neymar in particular.

The forward admitted that "I am saddened that some people are supporting me and the Santos. We were the team that was representing Brazil in the Club World Cup". (via MD)

At 43, after several experiences, Juan Antonio Pizzi enjoys his life as a coach in the Second Division in Argentina, as coach of Rosario Central.

- What coach will identify in your training period?

Reference to any coach today is Barcelona. From there, one must give an identity to the schools to lead. If I had to choose a line of football, would the Dutch school. From there I try to take things. At Barcelona I had Bobby Robson and Van Gaal, with whom he agreed on what I thought.

- As your ex-partner of Barcelona, ​​Guardiola and Luis Enrique ...

Yes, we did the training course together. The training activity is an alternative that we find the former players we want our life to follow linked to an environment that is familiar.

- With Guardiola!?

Yes, it was a very nice experience. There were Sergi, Nadal, Ferrer, Julio Salinas, Rafael Alkorta ... It was a special course for former players of selection of Spain. We were 25 or 30.

- Did he give you the recipe Pep? How do you do?

Ja, ja. No. Pep was doing the course, but do not know if I would coach. And today is leading the best team in history. With Luis still more in touch. With Pep out there sent us some mail or our wives are friends, but with the times and distances is more difficult to maintain a relationship. Since he started leading the first, we have not agreed to talk about football. Pep is a recognized as a person, player and coach.

- It also coincides closely with Mourinho, before it was what it is today.

True, but he was a translator for Bobby Robson when I played in Barcelona.

- Have you had profile coach?

No, I had the current profile. Its great virtue was to learn from the technicians who had his hand, as Robson and Van Gaal. And he gave his identity to the equipment. He learned a lot, were trained and took advantage.

- Do you see yourself heading in Spain?

Today I do not project too. Football takes you where he wants. Today Rosario Central project. But if I put a little common sense is not unreasonable that the lead tomorrow in Spain.

- Messi or Cristiano?

Messi is doing what is unattainable for the past, present and probably will be for the future. There will another so in a long time.

The best selection Catalan history faces Tunisia in the stadium 'Olímpico Lluís Companys' in the traditional Christmas friendly.

The stadium Olímpico Lluís Companys will be today Catalunya witnessed the best ever. Are unanimous in highlighting the talent of a group of players of undisputed quality, star-level selections (there are six world champions in the group) and axes of a Barcelona that for many is the best team in history.

The Catalan team has also gained media attention with the presence of a character as flashy as Johan Cruyff, who Catalonia has a long romantic relationship from his years at the club. Is credited to Dutch influence on Catalan culture and the legacy of soccer in a style that many Catalans now recognize as their own.

The Catalan team will face Tunisia, a low-profile rival, unknown to most fans, but the game is loaded with incentives. Among them, the presence of Cesc, this time it may be with the Catalan, which is not usually happen by Arenys commitments with Arsenal at this time. To date, Fabregas had only had the opportunity to play a friendly against Catalonia and now you can reconnect with the players he faced in the bottom of Barcelona, ​​this time shared the same goal.

Along with eight players are Cesc over Barcelona. Valdes, Pique, Puyol, Font, Busquets, Xavi, Sergi Roberto and Cuenca. Their involvement portends a touch Catalunya and offensive profile. Moreover the presence of Cruyff in the bank. The Dutchman has excelled in the hours before the meeting the importance of having a large number of fans in the stadium on a very pointed, especially vindictive. The forecasts were quite optimistic yesterday do you expect about 35,000 people today, what for a meeting that will bring together a generation of players that specialists, understand, would be competitive in the highest demand for official tournaments. Cruyff, who will once again Oscar Garcia (Juvenil A coach of Barcelona) as an assistant, is a priority that the meeting ends without injury. That's why the Dutchman is expected that the Barcelona players that reach the party charged of minutes play only half time. "The important thing is that nobody gets hurt, come to have fun," Oscar said yesterday. The second Cruyff also stressed the commitment of the players, who had no any problem to play the game, despite the tight schedule. Johan also said that this year the problem was having to leave some players out of the list. Technicians plan to take minutes at 22 players invited to the meeting. One of the more forward facing the party is Bojan, a player often shows his best side with the Catalan, as has happened in recent years friendly.

Unlike other occasions, this time Catalunya has not made a single workout to prepare for the meeting. For the players of Barcelona, ​​Guardiola finally decided yesterday to participate in the morning session, but is expected to exercise less pace and only do some stretches. In the afternoon, and will focus in the Catalan.

To all this, Tunisia will encounter after winning by 0-2 on Wednesday to Euskadi. The African team is preparing for the African Cup, played in January in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. Front will have the best Catalan seelcción memory. In the stadium Olímpico Lluís Companys game is expected today in style. The last record (three wins) predict performance. (via SPORT)

The magazine 'Doha Stadium' published the coach's false declarations.

The magazine catarí 'Qatar Doha Stadium Plus' surprised yesterday with an extensive interview with Pep Guardiola. The first impulse is to ask whether it is true, because the technician does not grant interviews and breaks his rule only in exceptional cases. However, the close relationship that has with Qatar since Santpedor went by the football of that country,, might suggest that there had been one of those cases. The interview also seemed a compilation of statements that the coach has been done over three and a half years ahead of the Blaugrana first team, mostly during press conferences. In his Cruyff praised and talked about the motivation necessary and essential that they should have elite players to continue competing. Nothing new, but always interesting coming from who supposedly came from. The problem is that those words were not out of his mouth, although they could have done. Apparently, an interview was purchased from a Dutch news agency. The club denied that Pep Guardiola had given any interviews to any media Dutch whoever asked for it without being forced, which makes sense, to any statement. (via SPORT)

The Linyola willshare wardrobe with his former teammate of Barça in Lluís Companys again.

Ten days before meeting the squad for tonight's game, Bojan asked permission from Luis Enrique and Rome to be with Catalonia in the Lluís Companys Stadium. Since it debuted on December 29 in Bilbao with the selection, has not lost a single match. Catalan wearing the shirt has always felt very comfortable and has signed major actions: scored on his debut against Argentina repeated and made double to Honduras.

Those parties will serve to forget that he had little role in Barça and reconciled with football. So since it became known Cruyff's team play again in December, he set to work to be with Catalunya. But this time is special, since, after his departure for Rome, had not yet been able to match his former teammates at the Camp Nou. Bojan will share a dressing room, if only for a day with friends Puyol and Valdes, Xavi, with Pique, Busquets, Cesc ... And will share minutes on the pitch with them. Play Catalunya is always special, but this time more. (via SPORT)

Cruyff has always shown their devotion by Xavi Hernandez, ensuring that if were not for him, and would egarense the 'Ballon d'Or' in the windows of his house.

"Many think change my words and I say that Xavi is better than Messi", says the current coach of Catalonia, "but it has nothing to do are two different players. Messi is a show and all that, but Barcelona has so many hits and plays so well because Xavi let it run the team. "

Asked if Xavi is one of the most irreplaceable players in the template for their talent and their specific weight, acknowledged that "their goodbye is one of the great problems of Barça. He has 32 years experience, are details that are not easy. " (via SPORT)

The coach has not sit well that the subsidiary back on January 2 and enjoy nine days of celebration that his team. At the last moment he has summoned the three players mentioned by Cruyff for the Catalunya-Tunisia: Montoya, Muniesa and Roberto.

The first team of FC Barcelona return to work this afternoon to begin preparing the first game of 2012 against Osasuna , which will be held on January 4. Guardiola has 17 players, as Iniesta , Villa and Afellay are injured and Alves and Messi are allowed to extend their vacation. Under normal conditions, throw Barca B but can not do it because interestingly the subsidiary will not train until 2, which has surprised and really liked Pep, which has been used at the last minute for the first session of the three Cruyff cited by players for the day-Tunisia Catalunya 30, Montoya, Muniesa and Sergi Roberto.

A first team of technicians has not sit well that the B-grown players have enjoyed nine days of celebration that their own players. The Barca played his last match on day 22 compared to Hospitalet, so there will only be counted on six days of vacation. The subsidiary, however, finished the year on Saturday December 17 in Valladolid, and a narrow defeat, and the return on January 2, have had more than two weeks, 16 days.

Eusebio understood that this outweighs the Christmas holidays were shorter than the summer for their players. Some disputed the Under-21 Championship in Denmark in June, others the FIFA Under-20 Colombia in August and two players, Sergi Gomez and Deulofeu, just rested six days between the final of the Copa del Rey youth, Sunday June 26 in Ceuta, and the beginning of the preparation for the European Under-19 Romania, which ended up winning on 6 July.

The first team of Barca who has returned to work was that of the Juvenil A, which is also part of the professional structure of the club. Oscar Garcia's team has trained this morning in Ciutat Esportiva with absences of Ernesto and Ella, injured, Sergi Spreads, Samper, Babunski and Cristian Herrera, summoned with the Under-18 Catalan, and Bagnack and Dongou that are still in Cameroon. Interestingly, these two players started their holidays later to have the same days as their peers. (via MD)

The second coach will receive a brief acknowledgment Sabadell before the match against Tunisia.
The youngest of the Garcia Junyent is most capped player wearing the shirt of the selection.

TheFederació Catalana de Fútbol will honor on December 30, on the eve of Catalunya-friendly Tunis, Roger Garcia , the most capped player has worn the shirt of the 'Selecció' (12). The current coach of the CE Sabadell will receive a brief survey of the stands and a plaque from the President of the Federation, Andreu Subies.

Roger was formed in the ranks of FC Barcelona and the first team debut in 1995 under the command of Johan Cruyff , curiously the current coach of Catalonia. In 1997 he debuted with 'Selecció' in a friendly against Bulgaria and two years ago hung up his boots after spending also by Espanyol , the Villarreal and Ajax . On the pitch match with his brother Oscar , assistant Cruyff in Catalan.

The Federation has organized other events before and after the meeting, with protagonists of 'castellers' and boys and girls of the U-16 and U-18 . The 'speaker' is Pep Callau and end of the game, the president of the Artur Mas and the president of the FCF Andreu Subies trophies awarded to the winning team and FIATC the best player. (via MD)

The Barca player could not go to training because he has been arranging various roles and bureaucratic issues.

Maxwell Scherrer, FC Barcelona side has not trained on Thursday because they have entered the house to steal. The Brazilian footballer has had to arrange the different roles and bureaucratic issues and asked to leave the club first training after the Christmas holidays. (via MD)

The ex-player of FC Barcelona Giovanni Silva de Oliveira recommends who was his partner in the Santos Neymar to follow his path.

Giovanni, who plays for FC Barcelona between 1996 and 1999, recommended that the new Brazilian star Neymar who joined the club. They agreed on Santos in 2010 and exblaugrana is clear that the young footballer to play in Spanish football. "I advise Neymar come to Spain. At the level it is today, the best football he is Spanish. For me to come to Barça, Barça forever," said Giovanni to the program 'Mas Esports' COM Radio.

The predictions of Giovanni Silva on his former teammate can not be more flattering. For him, Neymar "will grow more and more. It's a crack. It plays great, is very fast, very fast changes of direction ... It's like Messi but can not be compared because it is a different style of play."

But comparisons are inevitable. And just telling Giovanni that the future can be Neymar. "Messi is the best in the world. Neymar has many years to progress. Now, Messi is at a level higher than Neymar" said exbarcelonista, who insisted that the young Brazilian star "is a disciplined guy. Here in Brazil has played every game ever is not injured and this is very important. "

Giovanni Silva would be delighted if Neymar play at the club and was under the command of Guardiola. The former player of FC Barcelona celebrates the successes of Santpedor: "I'm happy for Guardiola, we had very good relationship, our women were close friends. Guardiola is a symbol of Barcelona, ​​was born in the club, is an institution."

He praises his football and therefore had no doubt he would win the Club World Cup against Santos. "In Brazil we all knew that Santos could not win at Barca. Barça is the only team in the world playing as a team," he told COM Radio.

Giovanni Barca played years back. And one of the deeds that he was a goal scored at the Bernabeu held with various cuts of manga: "My best memory with the club was the goal against Zaragoza gave us the league, but in Brazil, people still stop me from the streets to remember the game against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu where I scored the winning goal and I celebrated by making sausages. "

Currently, Giovanni enjoys his 'retirement' football. Especially because the president of Santos was named scout as originally promised. "Agree with him to scout Santos in my people but unfortunately not kept his word. I promised many things and not kept, how to make a farewell party in Santos," said the footballer. (via SPORT)

The right-back of FC Barcelona Daniel Alves remembered another time of Real Madrid while it hurries its vacations in Brazil.

Quoted by Four, the Brazilian spoke about the Real Madrid and the envy felt by whites to the titles is conquering Barça. The last, the Club World Cup, Madrid coach defined as 'two partidillo'. "We do not expect much from Real Madrid, all praise be to us, it hurts a lot," said Alves.

Although Madrid is far ahead in the league championship, Dani Alves believes that we should not give more importance to this fact: "We are behind them in the league, but we know they have to stop by and we have to cut points for us to take the title. "

"We are not aware of what we are achieving. Where there is this team will be given greater recognition," insisted the Barcelona player, who threw a message of support for his coach: "We will continue to kill Guardiola. We with him. In the future, more people will appreciate their work. "

Finally, Alves his personal letter to Santa Claus with a desire evident: that Neymar is Barça. "The best time is now Neymar do not know what will within two years. So I hope you can come soon," he said. (via SPORT)

Pep Guardiola’s team, 15 first team players and four Barça B players, returned to work this afternoon after the Christmas break.

Maxwell, with the manager’s permission; Alves, who will return to Barcelona on the 31st; and Messi, who will join the team on January 2nd, were the main absentees from today’s training session.

After spending nearly a week on holiday with their families, the first team returned to work this Thursday afternoon. In the first training session after the Christmas break, Pep Guardiola worked with 15 first team players and four Barça B players – Cuenca, Muniesa, Sergi Roberto and Montoya.

One of the absentees was Maxwell, who is in Barcelona, but had permission to miss today’s session for personal reasons. The Brazilian fullback’s house was burglarized over the holiday.

The Barça players returned to work fully focused on their last-16 Cup clash against Osasuna, which will take place on the 4th of January at the Camp Nou (22.00 hrs). Alexis Sánchez was the only player to work apart from the group, while Iniesta, who was injured in the Cup game against Hospitalet, worked out in the gym.

Leo Messi and Dani Alves will join the team in a few days. The Brazilian will return to Barcelona on the 31st of December and Messi will follow suit on the 2nd of January.

Barça will train again on Friday in a double session at the Ciutat Esportiva. The first session will be at 10.30 in the morning and the second will start at 17.30. Both will be closed-door training sessions.

The last training session of 2011 will be on Saturday. It will start at 10.00, the first 15 minutes will be open to the press. Thiago will attend the post-training press conference.

Double visit

The FCB Escola trainers, who are leading the Christmas Football Campus for youngsters, didn’t want to miss out on the first team’s training session this afternoon. David Trueba, Pep Guardiola’s friend, was also present at today’s session. (via FCBarcelona.cat)

Barcelona returned to training this afternoon after the Christmas break and Pep Guardiola will start preparing the first game of the year against Osasuna (January 4), corresponding to the departure of the second round of the Cup

The coach will not even Leo Messi and Dani Alves, who has given more vacation days, expect the club resolved in the next few hours the future of Aleksander Hleb, who will rejoin the team after the first discipline Wolfsburg that has not officially announced continuing its assignment.

Pep has already told you do not want to Rosell Belarus, which was completed culé adapt to the locker room at the stage which was at Barça. The coach believes that it can be a destabilizing element in the team and the president has been quick to ensure that under no circumstances Hleb will play at Barça.

One of the measures that will push him by threatening to leave you without dorsal and therefore without the ability to play a minute for the remainder of the season. However, Barça is already negotiating a way out and try to put him in England. (via Marca.com)

Oriol Romeu is still one of the biggest surprises in the Premier League and has earned herself a place in the Chelsea midfield thanks to his performances since Villas-Boas trusted him. Barcelona considered a priority if Keita decides to go to Italy in June, but the player has been found in England that does not guarantee continuity at the Camp Nou.

Barcelona passed the five million but included a repurchase clause for the next two seasons. The Catalan club should pay 10 million to get it back in 2012 or 15 million for it in 2013. And I could run it unilaterally, but the preference would be to follow the youth squad a year at Chelsea.

The representative of Oriol Romeu, Magic Javier Diaz, normal is that Barcelona is following the trajectory of the player, as published yesterday BRAND. "It's logical to want it back because he's a player you have a buyback clause and it is normal to follow him and see its evolution," the newspaper said yesterday.

However, Diaz is reluctant Magic the fact that end landfall again in Barcelona in June: "I wonder if he will return? Her dream was to be before leaving Barcelona player and still holds, but now, we can not despise Chelsea, which is the club that has given the opportunity. Oriol has carved a niche in the Premiership and playing regularly. We are committed to Chelsea and we can not let them hang, "he added.

Moreover, the representative believes that all parties should sit down and talk to evaluate all options and see which option is best for his ward, beyond the economic issue: "We should see whether it is appropriate for Barça and the player. See if Barça will continue to evolve as the Chelsea Will these minutes? Maybe it is more convenient to leave a year and recover in 2013. "

Oriol Romeu has been shown to play a big team and one of the big leagues. It has also sucked Barcelona football from the lower grades, so that his return would be practically a guarantee of success. And we must take into account that has the approval of Guardiola. However, under the direct arrival there was some way out in the Barca midfield. (via Marca.com)

The Boca Juniors player, Riquelme said he would like to re-dress after winning the opening albiceleste, and you want to "play alongside Messi, the best in the world".

Juan Roman Riquelme, a former player of FC Barcelona and Villarreal, and now Boca Juniors reference, was interviewed on Fox Sports after he managed to raise the cup of the Argentine Apertura tournament prinicpios December after 3-0 win Banfield.

Argentine footballer through a good moment of form and that is why openly admitted: "I want to help the team, playing alongside Messi again and enjoy the selection. I look forward to play with him, which is the best player in the world, and help you qualify for the team. "

On the Barcelona striker, Riquelme said that "you may be asked to play as in Barcelona," implying that the game system that uses Barça and the players surrounding Messi are not yet available to the albiceleste .

In another vein, Riquelme said "playing for people, I am of the people" and reviewed the latest developments that have occurred in his current club, with the change of presidency and his alleged poor relationship with the new president, Daniel Angelici.

"Footballers do not have to talk about money," said the captain of Boca avoiding the controversy over a premium that would have agreed with the former president Jorge Amor Ameal. Then he acknowledged that "the best president that I had was that of Villarreal and (Peter) Pompillo."

Finally, he was pleased that the President of Argentina, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, say he was "happy as a Roman" in a recent statement. "I was surprised that the President of my country will remember me was wonderful," praised Riquelme, visibly happy. (via SPORT)

Josep Guardiola, coach of FC Barcelona, ​​has given an interview to the medium Qatar 'Doha Stadium Plus Qatar' in which reviews his career since he came to Barcelona, ​​his philosophy of football and Barca team today. For Pep, unlikely to give interviews, the titles continue to be what makes his Barça keep it running.

"Let me say that my team will go hungry is perhaps the highest praise that can be done. Next to the skill and vision and hunger is the most important factor. Hunger for further improvement and hunger to win. That is what keeps the engine running even after 13 major titles, "he said. (via AS)

After showing off to Norwich, with two goals, the left-back Gareth Bale returns to the international showcase.

Gareth Bale is not for sale. The Welsh full-back Tottenham heritage is not going to move to White Hart Lane. Harry Redknapp, the coach of the Spurs has been commissioned to remind the European football in the north of London there are no plans to divest most decisive player of the team.

The last exhibition of Bale, author of two goals from Tottenham's victory in Norwich, has relocated to escape Welsh international in just a few days when it will open the winter market. But Redknapp has been commissioned to dissuade potential buyers. "No, of course Bale is not for sale," he said after the game against the 'canaries'. "And anyway, he added, the Barcelona-only club that has on its agenda-, Real Madrid or Manchester City, no money to pay the clause and the tab."

At 22, Bale sport has reached maturity. Started in rugby, the Welsh soon realized that his site was in football. Of Southampton, his first club, made the leap to Tottenham in the summer of 2007. The White Hart Lane club paid seven million euros for his transfer. Today it is rated at 40. "I do not know if this is the best player in British football, I can say is that it is an incredible player, sometimes unstoppable," said his coach. Bale, however, was elected last April best player in the Premiership.

The player believes that one of the reasons why stands out above the rest is his versatility. "I've always played more on the wings, but now I do more for the environment," said Bale. However, he acknowledges that this freedom of movement means that sometimes have to overcome "the marking of two or three players." Thanks to the contribution not only but also Bale Modric, Van der Vaart or Adebayor, Tottenham is third, seven points of the two teams in Manchester. "They are the favorites," insisted Redknapp. (via SPORT)

The current German coach, Joachim Löw, is one of the options for the future that has the FC Barcelona in the event that Pep Guardiola decided not to go someday. In the event Santpedor over from the heir would first like someone out of the house, but otherwise you have to Löw as a coach would fit into the philosophy of the organization, because he likes attacking football and often rely on young talent. (via MD)

Cuenca, Montoya, Bartra and Sergi Roberto part of the first team next season, which may also be Dos Santos.

The spate of renovations that have occurred in the last days of Barca players 'B' in specifying that next season the first team players will respond to the intent of Pep Guardiola to build the new boat project, the 2012-2013 season, relying again on the quarry as a complement to the cracks that are currently leading the first team. Up to four players who currently have the tab of the subsidiary will play next season in the Primera Division does not change much if the plan has established the coach. It is about Isaac Cuenca, Martin Montoya, Marc Bartra and Sergi Roberto, with the possibility also that Jonathan Dos Santos is the recruit. The Mexican renewed his contract in early December until June 2015, but that does not mean that Barca are thinking about a possible transfer of the player this summer. In fact, one of the players from the reserves with more offers. If the aspirations of the entity that came, it would not be a problem for Guardiola to continue a player who can act both in the center of the field as right back. What has made it clear that the Mexican is if he stays, will play the first team and not the subsidiary.

In all other cases, it also relies heavily on the four to join the staff of the First Division. The first thing to be resolved is the renewal of Isaac Cuenca, contract ending in June 2012 and still has not reached an agreement. The two parties have shown their willingness to fix the issue and once it is achieved, the end will be the first team for all purposes. In the case of Martin Montoya, who extended contract until 2014, will be the alternative to Alves on the right side. His progress has been dramatic and is seen as the winger for the future. As Bartra, his promotion could go endetrimento of Fontan, who is having little prominence. The player at the moment, not think about leaving. One in which much hope is being deposited Roberto Sergi. That is why even be sold to Keita, club officials have decided not to Oriol Romeu playoffs and give opportunities to Reus. The plan is already underway. (via MD)

Another of the additions that you plan to make is that of a third goalkeeper Victor Valdes to accompany and Jose Manuel Pinto. It would because Guardiola believes that if you are injured, you should always have two goals that provide the necessary guarantees. The leading candidate is Esteban Andrada (Lanús), although it is possible that the subsidiary, Oier, occupying the square end. (via MD)

The biggest investment of Barca in the summer will be in the back area.

If the summer of 2011 was that of Cesc Fabregas and the 2013 is presumably the end of the economic profile of the operation Neymar, who is coming, that of 2012, aims to use the largest possible economic investment to shore up the defensive zone Barça. The priority is to hire a left or a center that can move through the area both in the back four and in three.

The reason to consider strengthening that flank meditate because the club is an outlet for Keita, Maxwell and even Adriano. In the case of Adriano, low priority and is executed only if a good deal. As for Mali, it is understood his desire to have more minutes and finally get a good contract: the Milan is back and Barça could get a good amount in return. As for Maxwell, is terminated at Barça stage. If these three outputs are produced, the arrival of a player for the band seems more than necessary. The player who is more like central Milan's Brazilian Thiago Silva. Although not a specific player band, is seen with the right profile to be on that side when Barca defense used three. The problem is economic. Besides it would have to pay the Italian side for a player who extended contract last season, is the central tab, too high for what you are willing to pay Barça.

Another player who has always been interest is Welsh left-back Gareth Bale Tottenham, 22 on Tuesday and scored twice. The problem with Bale is like there is with Thiago Silva. Renewed contract until 2015 last season and would very expensive to hire. Would have to see how he would be willing to pay Barça, which usually count each season with 45 million more sales. A cheaper option would Jordi Alba, of Valencia, while the future of the youth squad Muniesa is unclear. (via MD)