De Jong Backs Rashford, Fermín Misses World Cup & Laporta Eyes Striker Hunt — May 21, 2026
Frenkie defends his season and Rashford's future. Fermín's World Cup dream ends in heartbreak. Meanwhile, Deco opens the door to Julián Álvarez as Lewa's replacement looms.
De Jong Speaks Out: Rashford Stays, But Questions Linger
Frenkie de Jong broke his silence yesterday, and the Dutchman had plenty to say. Speaking to Diario AS after the team's celebratory dinner at Casanova Beach Club in Castelldefels, he made it clear that Marcus Rashford has earned his place at Barcelona. "Rashford has earned the right to continue," De Jong stated, backing the English forward despite a season that divided opinion among culés.
But Frenkie wasn't just defending his teammate. He turned the mirror on himself too. "People haven't seen the real Frenkie," he admitted, acknowledging that he hasn't managed to "sell himself well" to the fanbase. It's a rare moment of vulnerability from a player who's faced constant scrutiny since arriving from Ajax. He firmly ruled out any departure this summer, which should quiet the transfer rumors that seem to follow him every window.
Fermín's Heartbreak: World Cup Dreams Dashed
The mood wasn't entirely celebratory this week. Fermín López will miss the World Cup after fracturing the fifth metatarsal in his right foot during the penultimate Liga match against Real Betis. Surgery followed immediately, and with it went his dreams of representing Spain in North America.
His girlfriend, Berta Gallardo, posted a touching message of support: "I love you and admire you." These aren't easy days for the Andalusian midfielder, who had been pushing for a spot in Luis de la Fuente's squad. Football can be cruel.
On a brighter note for Egyptian football, Barça's juvenil striker Hamza Abdelkarim received a shock call-up to Egypt's preliminary World Cup squad. The 'Pharaoh of goals' will join Mohamed Salah's squad, though one player must still be cut before the final list. Not bad for a kid still learning his trade in the academy.
The Striker Search: Deco Keeps All Options Open
With Robert Lewandowski's exit to Al Hilal all but confirmed, Deco addressed the media outside Wednesday's celebration dinner and didn't mince words. "We don't rule anyone out," the sporting director said when asked specifically about Julián Álvarez. "It's time to make decisions."
Jonathan Soriano, speaking to SPORT, offered perspective on Lewa's Saudi move: "They'll demand a lot from Lewandowski in Arabia." At 37, the Pole has given us two brilliant seasons, but it's the right moment for both parties to move on.
President Joan Laporta, meanwhile, expressed confidence about the summer window. "We will be able to sign," he declared. Given our financial tightrope act these past years, that's not nothing. But can we actually land a top striker? Álvarez would be phenomenal, but prying him from City won't be cheap or easy.
Other Bits and Pieces
Ferran Torres will reportedly be offered a contract renewal. The Valencia academy product is set to face his former club at Mestalla this Saturday in the season finale before joining up with Spain.
Lamine Yamal attended the team dinner with Inés García, the Sevillian content creator, after days of relationship rumors. Young love and LaLiga titles—life's treating our wonderkid well.
And in a detail that won't go unnoticed, El Chiringuito's José Álvarez hinted at a "snub" during the celebration dinner that could signal a heavyweight departure. Classic Chiringuito stirring, but with this club, you never know.
