Joan García’s recent form has reignited one of Spanish football’s most talked-about debates. His display in the Catalan derby at Cornellà, making seven crucial saves against his former club Espanyol, drew widespread praise and intensified calls for his inclusion in Luis de la Fuente’s squad as Barcelona won 2-0.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has offered Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde hope he could be part of his World Cup 2026 squad. Balde has been overlooked by the national team recently but De la Fuente says he is on his preliminary list for the tournament in North America, Canada and Mexico.

A tournament which is often criticised for off-pitch reasons has become a barometer by which to measure Spain's big two at midseason

A Portugal teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly close to joining Barcelona ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Barcelona are dealing with defensive complications during the current season, especially after losing last year’s cornerstone in Inigo Martinez.