Lamine Yamal expresses his admiration for Lionel Messi – ‘Greatest player in history’

Several Barcelona players face crucial periods regarding their futures, with a veteran determined to fight for his place but set to review his situation in January, while a midfield gem enters a make-or-break season to secure a first-team role. Manager Hansi Flick has cut his vacation short to address unresolved issues at the club.

Barcelona is active in the transfer market, reportedly intervening late to disrupt Sevilla's plans for a 22-year-old forward and identifying a 24-year-old Chelsea forward as a potential loan target. Analysis compares Marcus Rashford and Luis Diaz as options for the club. The reasons behind Nico Williams' decision to snub Barcelona are explored, alongside analysis suggesting Joan Garcia will be an ideal signing.

Youth development is a significant focus, with three La Masia youngsters potentially receiving first-team chances following a midfielder's imminent exit. Three more La Masia talents are highlighted as ones to watch during the pre-season tour, and Hansi Flick will call up eight La Masia players for pre-season.

Match analysis covers recent fixtures. Key talking points are identified ahead of and following Barcelona's final La Liga game against Athletic Club, which they won 3-0. Player ratings from that victory awarded Pedri 8.5 and Lewandowski 9. A potential starting lineup (4-2-3-1 with Christensen and Casado) for the Athletic match is suggested. Additional analysis breaks down three talking points from the preceding 2-3 loss to Villarreal.