Jolas Toyin

One of the biggest talking points of Barcelona’s pre-season is Hamza Abdelkarim, who demonstrated his precocious talent with a string of impressive performances. The 18-year-old Egyptian striker impressed with Barca’s youth ranks on loan last season before earning a call-up to the 2026 World Cup. Barca quickly reacted by making his transfer permanent from Al-Ahly, tying him to a contract until 2029.

Lionel Messi is mourning the loss of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away at 68 after a prolonged illness in Rosario, Argentina. The Inter Miami captain missed Sunday’s Leagues Cup clash with Monterrey, returning to his hometown to be with his family during an incredibly difficult time. Still, even in Messi’s absence, Inter Miami made sure their beloved No. 10 was very much in their thoughts.

Joao Cancelo has opened up on his time at Barcelona on loan from Al Hilal, providing some insight into his future. “Barça is a very special club for me, even before coming here I was a Barça fan. Winning a league with this club is very special. "Let’s see what happens, because, as you know, I’m on loan from Al Hilal,” he said. "I know what I want, I can’t say it publicly. We’ll see what happens." He added: "I’m very happy, I won a title with Barcelona, ​​which is, for me, the best club in the world.”