Raphinha & Fermín Star, Rodri Debuts, Atlético Slams Door on Julián – August 28, 2026

Raphinha and Fermín Deliver the Goods at Camp Nou

Barcelona got their home campaign off to a solid start with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Spotify Camp Nou. Raphinha and Fermín López provided the goals in what was a dominant performance from Hansi Flick's side.

The win keeps Barça near the top of the early La Liga standings, though Mbappé's hat-trick for Madrid in their 4-1 demolition of Real Sociedad means the French forward now shares the Pichichi lead on three goals. Yes, you read that right. Raphinha and Fermín are level with Mbappé at the summit. Not a sentence we expected to write this season.

Flick seemed particularly pleased with Raphinha's performance as a false nine, a tactical wrinkle that's raised eyebrows but delivered results. "We need players who can adapt," Flick said post-match, praising the Brazilian's work rate and positioning.

Rodri Gets His Standing Ovation

The Camp Nou faithful gave new signing Rodri a proper welcome in his debut appearance. Coming off the bench, the Madrid-born midfielder looked composed and immediately showed the quality that convinced the club to bring him in.

"We need that," Rodri reportedly told Lamine Yamal after the match, presumably referring to the youngster's creativity and directness. It's early days, but the early signs suggest Rodri will slot nicely into Flick's midfield plans alongside Pedri, especially with Gavi facing a brief spell on the sidelines with a knee issue.

Flick outlined his vision for a Rodri-Pedri axis that could give Barcelona more control in the middle of the park. Whether it provides enough defensive solidity against Europe's elite is another question entirely.

Atlético Slams the Door on Julián Dreams

Hope for a Julián Alvarez transfer took a significant hit when Atlético Madrid's chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín delivered what can only be described as a diplomatic nuclear strike. He accused Barcelona of "dishonesty" in their pursuit of the Argentine forward and declared that Julián would "never, ever" be sold to the Catalan club.

When asked about the player after the Athletic match, Flick's response was equally definitive, if more measured. His tone made clear that while the interest exists, Barcelona aren't about to beg.

Gil Marín's vehemence suggests genuine irritation with how Barça have conducted themselves. Arsenal have also been linked with the former Manchester City man, so it's not as if Atlético are short of suitors should they change their mind. For now, though, that particular door is firmly bolted.

Youth Continues to Shine

While the first team grabbed headlines, La Masia continues churning out prospects. Young Zuk has been lighting up the U-18 tournament in El Albir, earning comparisons to a "young Bart Simpson" (make of that what you will) while contributing two goals and an assist in two matches for Spain's youth side.

Meanwhile, Ruud Nijstad is reportedly back on Barcelona's radar following Alvaro Cortes' departure. The Dutch winger impressed in limited opportunities last season, and with squad depth always a concern, bringing him back makes sense.

Flick also had praise for Xavi Espart, calling him a "top player" after his performance. These endorsements from the German coach carry weight. He's not one for empty platitudes.