Real Madrid are away to Real Betis as they seek to extend their winning run in La Liga, with the match currently goalless at 0-0.

Live coverage of the game includes the latest score, starting line-ups and updates from the match as they happen. Supporters can follow the contest through the online service, which provides the current state of play between Real Betis and Real Madrid.

The fixture is being presented as a live meeting between the two clubs, with Real Madrid aiming to continue their positive sequence of results in La Liga. Real Betis are the home side for the match, while Real Madrid are looking to leave with another victory.

At the latest update, neither team had scored and the score remained 0-0. The result therefore remains undecided, with the match still being followed through live updates and the published team selections.

The starting line-ups for Real Betis and Real Madrid are available as part of the live match information. The service also gives readers access to the score as it develops, allowing them to track the outcome of the fixture in real time.

A video broadcast of the Real Betis v Real Madrid match is also listed. Access to the video coverage is available after registration.

The match information includes the fixture’s current score, the confirmed starting line-ups and the ongoing online report. These details are presented together for supporters following the game remotely.

Real Madrid’s stated objective is to prolong their winning run in La Liga. With the score level at 0-0, that run remains at stake as the away side continues its attempt to secure another league win against Real Betis.

The live report will reflect any change to the score during the match. Until then, the contest remains goalless, and the latest available update is Real Betis 0-0 Real Madrid.

The published material also provides two listed sources for the match coverage. Video access remains subject to registration, while the online score and starting line-ups are available through the match information service.

Luis Figo has praised Real Madrid’s work during the summer transfer campaign, saying the Spanish club “worked very well in the transfer market”.

The former Real Madrid player, regarded as one of the most prominent figures in the club’s history, gave his assessment of the Madrid side’s activity during the summer window. His comments represent a positive judgement on the way Real Madrid approached its recruitment this summer.

Figo’s view was clear: “Real Madrid have worked very well in the transfer market.” The former Portugal international did not qualify that assessment with any criticism in the comments reported, instead offering a straightforward endorsement of the club’s work.

His remarks focus specifically on Real Madrid’s summer transfer campaign. The comments therefore provide his overall evaluation of the club’s activity rather than a detailed analysis of individual deals or particular positions within the squad.

Figo has previously spoken about the increasingly high figures appearing in transfer news. His latest assessment of Real Madrid’s summer work comes against that wider backdrop, after he had already addressed the enormous prices being discussed in the transfer market.

The former player’s comments connect two themes: the scale of modern transfer fees and the way clubs operate within that market. While his earlier remarks concerned the large sums involved in transfer news, his latest statement concentrates on Real Madrid’s performance in the market itself.

Figo remains closely associated with Real Madrid because of his time at the club, and his opinion carries particular interest when he discusses its transfer activity. In this case, he offered an uncomplicated verdict on the summer campaign, describing the club’s work as very good.

No further details of Figo’s assessment were provided in the report. His comments did not include a breakdown of the business completed by Real Madrid, nor did they identify specific players or transfers. The central point was his approval of the club’s overall work during the summer window.

The statement also stops short of making a broader prediction about Real Madrid’s season. Figo’s comments were limited to the transfer campaign and did not address the club’s results, performances or ambitions in any competition.

Instead, the former Real Madrid player’s message was focused on the process of strengthening the squad and operating in a market increasingly associated with substantial transfer fees. Having previously commented on the size of those fees, he now believes Real Madrid handled its summer activity effectively.

Figo’s conclusion was therefore positive and concise: Real Madrid’s work in the transfer market deserved a strong assessment. His comments provide praise for the club’s summer campaign while also recalling his earlier concern about the enormous prices that have become a feature of transfer news.

Former Real Madrid and Portugal midfielder Luis Figo has criticised the huge sums being spent in the summer transfer window, saying some deals involve “crazy figures” and expressing hope that the current trend will eventually come to an end.

Figo’s comments come after a series of high-value moves involving prominent clubs and players. Among the biggest transfers in recent months have been Enzo Fernandez’s move from Chelsea to Manchester City for 145m euros, Morgan Rogers’ transfer from Aston Villa to Chelsea for 138m euros and Elliot Anderson’s switch from Nottingham to Manchester City for 135m euros.

The figures were highlighted as examples of the scale of spending that has become associated with the latest transfer activity. Figo did not single out one particular club or player for criticism, but drew attention to the overall level of money involved in deals across the market.

His intervention focuses on the financial scale of transfers rather than the sporting merits of the individual moves. The former Portugal international said he hoped the situation would not continue indefinitely, suggesting that the size of some fees had reached a level he considered difficult to justify.

The three deals cited represent some of the most expensive activity of the recent transfer period. Fernandez is listed as having moved to Manchester City from Chelsea for 145m euros, while Rogers joined Chelsea from Aston Villa for 138m euros. Anderson completed the third major transfer, leaving Nottingham for Manchester City in a deal worth 135m euros.

Figo, who played for Real Madrid and Portugal, is one of the most recognisable former players to have spoken about the sums involved in the current window. His remarks place the focus on whether the level of spending can be sustained and where the transfer market may go next.

While large fees have become a central feature of modern football, Figo’s view is that the amounts attached to certain transactions have become excessive. His hope is that the period of what he described as “crazy figures” will eventually come to an end.

For now, the transfer activity referenced by Figo illustrates the continuing willingness of leading clubs to commit more than 100m euros to individual players. The deals involving Fernandez, Rogers and Anderson all rank among the largest transfers of the past few months, with each exceeding 135m euros.

Athletic Club will look to continue their recovery when they host Atletico Madrid in La Liga on 5 September 2026, with the visitors starting the match as favourites after an unbeaten opening to the season.

Athletic Club are 13th in the Spanish top-flight table, having collected three points from their first three matches. Their record so far is one win and two defeats.

The Basque side began with consecutive losses against Sevilla and Barcelona. They were beaten 3-1 by Sevilla before losing 2-0 to Barcelona, but responded with a 2-0 away victory over Celta. That result gave the team from Bilbao their first points of the campaign.

Atletico Madrid arrive in third place with seven points. Diego Simeone’s side have won twice and drawn once, leaving them two points behind leaders Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Their league campaign began with a 2-0 victory over Malaga. Atletico then drew 2-2 with Villarreal before securing a 3-1 win against Sevilla. They are the only one of the two teams to remain unbeaten this season.

Atletico’s current form has made them the expected winners in the betting for the meeting, although Athletic Club will take confidence from their success against Celta in their most recent outing.

The previous meeting between the clubs also went Atletico Madrid’s way, with the Madrid side winning 3-2.

Match prediction

The prediction for the fixture is that both teams will score at least once.

With Athletic Club having found the net in their latest match and Atletico Madrid having scored in each of the results listed in their opening run, the game is expected to produce goals at both ends. The meeting is also forecast to be an entertaining and high-scoring contest.

Key statistics

- Atletico Madrid are the favourites to win.

- Athletic Club have lost four of their past five games.

- Atletico Madrid have not been beaten this season.

- Atletico Madrid won the most recent head-to-head match 3-2.

Match odds and viewing information

The article includes a section for the match coefficients, although no specific prices are provided.

The game can be watched free of charge through bookmakers after quick registration. The listed sources are:

- Source 1 advertising: winline.ru

- Source 2 advertising: fon.bet

Athletic Club will be aiming to use home advantage to move up from 13th, while Atletico Madrid will attempt to maintain their unbeaten start and stay within touching distance of Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Rayo Vallecano will host Racing in the fourth round of the Spanish Championship on 5 September 2026, with both sides looking to improve their league position. Rayo are the pre-match favourites despite a difficult start to the campaign, while Racing arrive with four points from their opening three fixtures and a win over Elche behind them.

Rayo Vallecano

Rayo Vallecano sit 18th in the table after collecting just one point from their first three matches. They are level on points with 17th-placed position, with the difference between the two teams currently determined by additional tiebreaking criteria.

The side began the season with a 2-1 defeat by Sevilla. They then drew 1-1 with Alaves before suffering a heavy 5-2 loss against Barcelona in their most recent match. The result leaves Rayo searching for their first victory of the league campaign and in need of points to move away from the relegation places.

Rayo Vallecano’s recent record has been inconsistent. The club have lost three of their past five matches, a run that has contributed to their position near the bottom of the table. They will hope home advantage can help them produce a stronger performance against Racing.

Racing

Racing are ninth in the Spanish Championship with four points from three games. Their record includes one win, one draw and one defeat.

They opened their recent run with a 2-2 draw against Villarreal, but then lost 1-0 to Getafe. Racing responded in the latest round by beating Elche 3-2, securing their first victory of the season and moving into the upper half of the standings.

The club, known as the black-and-greens, have won two of their past five matches. Their latest success should give them confidence before the trip to Rayo Vallecano, although their opponents have the stronger position in the pre-match assessment.

Key statistics

Rayo Vallecano are regarded as the favourites to win the match.

Rayo Vallecano have suffered three defeats in their past five games, while Racing have recorded two victories during the same period.

The most recent meeting between the teams ended in a 2-1 victory for Rayo Vallecano. That result gives the hosts a positive head-to-head record heading into the latest encounter.

Prediction

Both teams are expected to score at least once. Rayo Vallecano are favourites, but Racing’s 3-2 victory over Elche means they should arrive with renewed confidence. The match is expected to be competitive and produce goals at both ends.

The recommended prediction is for both Rayo Vallecano and Racing to score.

Betting and how to watch

The article provides betting options through bookmakers after a quick registration. No specific odds are listed in the available information.

The match can be followed through the bookmakers’ platforms after registration. The listed sources are:

- Source 1 advertisement, winline.ru

- Source 2 advertisement, fon.bet

Rodri Hernandez could make his first start for Barcelona in Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Valencia, after reaching the physical condition required to play from the beginning.

The 30-year-old midfielder is ready to be included in the starting line-up for the away fixture, according to Sport. However, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has not yet made a final decision on whether Rodri will begin the match.

Rodri officially joined Barcelona from Manchester City on 18 August. The World Cup winner has since appeared as a substitute in each of the Catalan club’s past two matches.

A starting role against Valencia would therefore represent Rodri’s first appearance in Barcelona’s starting XI since completing his move to the club. His involvement in the two previous games suggests he has already begun to feature in Flick’s plans, but the manager must still decide whether the midfielder is ready to take on a full role from kick-off.

Rodri’s availability provides Flick with another option in midfield as Barcelona prepare for their next La Liga fixture. The Spain international is reported to have now reached peak physical condition, increasing the possibility that he will be selected from the outset rather than introduced during the game.

The final decision remains with Flick, with the Barcelona boss yet to confirm whether Rodri will be trusted to start. Until then, the midfielder’s potential inclusion in the line-up remains one of the main selection questions surrounding the fixture.

Barcelona’s match against Valencia will take place away from home on Sunday, 6 September. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:15 Moscow time.

Rodri’s move from Manchester City was formally completed on 18 August, and his two substitute appearances have so far marked the beginning of his Barcelona career. The Valencia match could now provide the next step, with the midfielder potentially making his full starting debut for the club.

AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit says he chose to remain with the Dutch club after a conversation with coach Lee-Roy Echteld, despite strong links with a move to Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid.

Smit, who is now 20, had been heavily linked with the Spanish giants after an impressive 2025-26 campaign. He scored five goals and supplied nine assists in 46 appearances across all competitions, performances which brought him to the attention of several of Europe’s leading clubs.

Real Madrid were reported to be the most prominent side monitoring the AZ Alkmaar youngster. However, Smit ultimately opted to continue his development in the Netherlands with his boyhood club.

The midfielder said his decision was influenced by discussions with Echteld, who made clear that AZ wanted him to stay.

“To be honest, at first I had the feeling that I was going to leave, but then it turned out that the coach really wanted me to stay,” he said, as quoted by AS. “I feel good here, surrounded by friends and family. That’s why I stayed.”

Smit added that AZ Alkmaar later made it clear that they would not sanction his departure. A further conversation took place 10 days before his comments, after which the club firmly closed the door on a possible transfer.

“Ten days ago I had a conversation and then AZ didn’t want to let me go anymore,” Smit added. “I took it positively, because I feel like I’m not done here yet.”

The decision means Smit will remain at the club where he began his career, despite the attention generated by his performances and the speculation surrounding his future.

He also admitted that he initially followed the transfer reports closely, before deciding to distance himself from the coverage. Smit said some of the claims were inaccurate, but that he had been able to manage the interest without difficulty.

“At first I read a lot, but then I started to do it less.

“Because some things are not true either. I can cope with it quite well. In short, I’m here and I’m happy to be here.”

Smit’s comments offer an explanation for why he did not pursue a move during the summer window, with his immediate focus remaining on AZ Alkmaar rather than a transfer to Real Madrid.

His decision followed a season in which his contribution was measured not only by his five goals but also by the nine assists he recorded in 46 matches. Those numbers helped attract interest from across Europe, but the conversations with Echteld and AZ’s eventual refusal to let him leave persuaded Smit that his next step should come with the Dutch club.

Kylian Mbappe has been named Real Madrid’s best player for August after scoring four goals in his opening three La Liga appearances.

The award for the French central striker was announced on Real Madrid’s social media channels, with the club confirming Mbappe as their standout performer for the month.

The 27-year-old featured in three league matches during August and found the net four times. His contribution came as Real Madrid made a perfect start to their league campaign, winning each of their first three fixtures.

Real Madrid began with a 2-1 victory over Espanyol before beating Real Sociedad 4-1. They then completed a run of three wins by defeating Malaga 4-0.

Those results have put Jose Mourinho’s side second in the La Liga table. The club’s early form has been supported by Mbappe’s goalscoring, with the forward quickly becoming a decisive player in the opening weeks of the season.

Mbappe’s award was confirmed ahead of Real Madrid’s next fixture, which is scheduled for today, 4 September. The capital club will face Real Betis in their next match.

The August recognition reflects Mbappe’s impact across Real Madrid’s first three league games, during which the side scored 10 goals and collected maximum points. His four goals accounted for a significant share of that total as the club established themselves near the top of the table.

Real Madrid’s victories over Espanyol, Real Sociedad and Malaga have left them in second place, while the team now prepares for the meeting with Real Betis. That match will provide the club with an opportunity to continue its unbeaten start and maintain pressure at the top end of the standings.

For Mbappe, the honour represents individual recognition for his contribution to Real Madrid’s opening month of La Liga action. The France international has been selected by the club as its leading player for August after delivering in all three matches in which he appeared.

Atletico de Madrid are the bookmakers’ choice to beat Athletic Club when the teams meet at San Mames in the fourth round of La Liga. Pinnacle888 rate an away victory at 2.35, compared with 3.00 for an Athletic Club win and 3.45 for a draw.

The match is expected to be closely contested, with both sides potentially prioritising the result over an open and entertaining game. Athletic Club will be looking to build on their latest success, while Atletico de Madrid arrive with a strong points return from their opening three league fixtures.

Athletic Club seeking further improvement

The Bilbao side ended a run of disappointing results in their previous match and will now aim to collect more points against a major rival from Madrid. Athletic Club are expected to approach the game with the objective of avoiding defeat at the very least, although a victory would provide a significant boost.

In their two most recent fixtures, Athletic Club won 2-0 away at Celta, having previously suffered a 2-0 defeat at Barcelona. The team will therefore be hoping their latest result marks a change in form as they return to home action.

The hosts may also have to balance attacking ambition with defensive caution. Given the quality of their opponents and the importance of the fixture, a controlled performance could be considered more valuable than an especially entertaining contest.

Atletico de Madrid start strongly

Atletico de Madrid have collected seven points from their first three La Liga matches, a return that can be viewed as a positive start to the campaign.

There is, however, an unsettled issue surrounding Julian Alvarez, who is seeking to leave the club. Despite that situation, the rest of the squad is attempting to concentrate on its responsibilities and not allow the uncertainty to affect performances.

A draw at San Mames would probably not be regarded as a major disappointment for Atletico de Madrid. Diego Simeone’s side are nevertheless expected to take any opportunity to claim all three points if one presents itself.

Atletico de Madrid’s latest match ended in a 3-1 away victory against Sevilla. Before that, they shared the points in a 2-2 draw with Villarreal.

Pinnacle888 odds and prediction

Pinnacle888 make Atletico de Madrid the most likely winners, with the main match prices listed as follows:

- Athletic Club to win – 3.00

- Draw – 3.45

- Atletico de Madrid to win – 2.35

Recent results provide some support for a cautious outlook. Five of Athletic Club’s last six matches have ended in defeat, while Atletico de Madrid have seen both teams score in each of their last six away matches.

The head-to-head figures point towards a low-scoring encounter: three of the clubs’ previous five meetings finished with fewer than 1.5 goals.

The suggested Pinnacle888 selections are an Atletico de Madrid victory at 2.35 and “both teams to score – no” at 2.10.

Where to watch the match

The article lists free viewing options through bookmakers after a quick registration. The sources provided are:

- Source 1: advertisement, winline.ru

- Source 2: advertisement, fon.bet

Real Betis and Real Madrid have announced their line-ups for their fourth-round La Liga meeting, which takes place on 4 September.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 22:00 Moscow time, with both clubs confirming the players selected for the fixture.

Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini has named Alvaro Valles, Hector Bellerin, Diego Llorente, Natan, Fran Garcia, Facundo Bernal, Marc Roca, Antony, Isco Alarcon, Pablo Fornals and Juan Hernandez.

The selection includes experienced players such as Bellerin, Llorente, Roca, Fornals and Isco Alarcon, alongside the other players chosen for the fourth-round contest.

Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has selected Thibaut Courtois, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe.

Courtois is included for Real Madrid, while the rest of the announced line-up features Dumfries, Konate, Huijsen, Cucurella, Valverde, Camavinga, Guler, Bellingham, Vinicius Junior and Mbappe.

The meeting between Betis and Real Madrid forms part of the fourth round of the Spanish championship. The clubs have now made their selections public ahead of the encounter, with the fixture due to begin later on 4 September.

For Betis, the players named by Pellegrini are Alvaro Valles, Hector Bellerin, Diego Llorente, Natan, Fran Garcia, Facundo Bernal, Marc Roca, Antony, Isco Alarcon, Pablo Fornals and Juan Hernandez.

Real Madrid’s announced group is Thibaut Courtois, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe.

LiveResult will provide text-based online coverage of the game. The service will follow the match between Betis and Real Madrid as it takes place.

The fixture therefore brings together the sides selected by Pellegrini and Mourinho in a fourth-round La Liga contest at the announced time of 22:00 Moscow time.

Barcelona are preparing new contract offers for Hamza Abdelkarim, Xavi Espart and Brian Farinas after the young trio made encouraging starts to the season, according to SPORT.

The club’s priority is to protect three of its most highly regarded prospects from being lost for relatively modest transfer fees. Barcelona’s decision-makers are understood to be concerned that the players’ current release clauses could allow other clubs to make affordable approaches.

Talks with the representatives of Abdelkarim, Espart and Farinas began about two weeks ago. The discussions are focused on improving the players’ terms and raising their respective release clauses.

Barcelona are particularly keen to avoid a repeat of last season, when Dro left the club to join Paris St-Germain. That departure has increased the sense of urgency around retaining the club’s emerging talent, with optimism now growing that agreements can be reached for all three players.

Espart has made the most immediate impact at senior level this season. The 19-year-old appears to have established himself as Barcelona’s first-choice left-back and has played every minute of the club’s three LaLiga matches so far.

He has also contributed two assists during that run. Despite his strong start, Espart’s existing release clause is reportedly €20m, a figure Barcelona believe does not sufficiently reflect his importance or potential.

The club are therefore seeking improved protection in any new agreement with the defender. Increasing the clause would make it more difficult for rival teams to recruit him without Barcelona’s consent.

Abdelkarim, 18, only joined Barcelona this summer from Egyptian club Al Ahly. However, the forward or attacking player impressed during pre-season and has already convinced the club that his contract should be reviewed.

Barcelona want to offer him improved terms and raise his current €15m release clause. His arrival from Al Ahly was followed by a strong pre-season, prompting the club to act swiftly rather than wait for a longer period before considering a new deal.

Farinas is the third player involved in the negotiations. The 20-year-old midfielder came close to moving to Girona during the transfer window, but Barcelona manager Hansi Flick intervened and the player ultimately remained at the club.

Farinas has not played for Barcelona this season, although the club still considers him an important part of its plans and wants to increase his €15m release clause.

The three cases reflect Barcelona’s attempt to secure the futures of promising young players before their market value rises further. While Espart has already become a regular in the team, Abdelkarim has impressed since arriving and Farinas was retained after interest from Girona.

Barcelona’s negotiations with the players’ representatives are ongoing. The club’s aim is to ensure that the trio cannot be taken for fees it considers manageable, while rewarding their progress with revised contracts.

Jonathan David has faced criticism from Atletico fans before making his first appearance for the Madrid club, with Antoine Griezmann stepping in to support the Canadian forward on social media.

The 26-year-old striker attracted attention from supporters who questioned his physical condition after images and videos of him circulated online. Some comments described David as overweight, while others focused negatively on his appearance.

The criticism came before David had played a single match for Atletico. He has only recently begun training with Diego Simeone’s squad, meaning supporters’ reactions came before he had the opportunity to make his contribution on the pitch.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Griezmann responded to one of the critical videos shared on social media. The former Atletico player, who now represents Orlando City, defended David as the forward came under scrutiny from fans.

David joined Atletico from Juventus on loan at the end of the summer transfer window. His arrival has therefore so far been followed by discussion about his fitness and appearance rather than his performances for the club.

The Canadian has yet to make his debut for Atletico and is still adapting to training under Simeone. Until he plays, the online criticism remains based on his physical appearance and the limited images supporters have seen since his move.

Griezmann’s intervention offered public backing from a player with a previous connection to Atletico. The Frenchman spent time at the Madrid club before continuing his career elsewhere and is now playing for Orlando City.

David’s first appearance will provide the earliest opportunity for Atletico supporters to judge him in competitive action. For now, however, the forward’s introduction to the club has been marked by social media criticism and Griezmann’s decision to come to his defence.

Dmitry Guberniev says Arsen Zakharyan “deserves respect” as the Russian midfielder continues to be named in Real Sociedad’s squad without appearing in the club’s recent matches.

Zakharyan has been included in the matchday squad for Real Sociedad’s latest games, but has not been used on the pitch. His situation at the San Sebastian club has prompted discussion in Russia, with well-known commentator Guberniev offering his support for the 23-year-old.

The headline message from Guberniev was clear: “He deserves respect.”

The midfielder joined Real Sociedad from Dynamo in the summer of 2023, signing a five-year contract with the club. Since moving to San Sebastian, Zakharyan has made 66 appearances for Real Sociedad.

During those matches, he has scored three goals and provided three assists for his team-mates.

Zakharyan’s continued presence in the squad, despite his lack of playing time in recent fixtures, has made his current position at Real Sociedad the focus of attention. The Russian player remains part of the group selected by the club, but has not been sent on to the field in the latest games.

Guberniev’s comments offer public backing for the midfielder during a period in which his involvement has been limited. The commentator did not change the basic facts of Zakharyan’s current situation: the player is being selected for matchday squads, while remaining on the bench throughout the recent matches.

The transfer to Real Sociedad in 2023 marked a major step in Zakharyan’s career. He arrived from Dynamo on a long-term agreement and has since accumulated 66 appearances for the Spanish club. His record includes an equal number of goals and assists, with three in each category.

For now, Zakharyan’s role is defined by his inclusion in the squad rather than by regular minutes on the pitch. The midfielder continues to be available for selection, while his recent absence from the action has generated debate around his position at the San Sebastian side.

Guberniev’s assessment places the emphasis on respect for the player as he negotiates this spell without recent appearances. Zakharyan’s five-year contract remains in place, and his overall record for Real Sociedad stands at 66 matches, three goals and three assists.

Valencia will be without six players for their La Liga meeting with Barcelona on 6 September, with a further three footballers doubtful because of injury concerns.

The match will be played at Mestalla, where Carlos Corberan’s side will attempt to recover from a difficult opening to the season. According to Sport.es, Copete, Umar Sadiq, Sergi Canos, Justin De Haas, Ildiz Rodriguez and Diego Lopez are all expected to miss the fourth-round fixture.

The six players are dealing with a range of injuries. The problems include meniscus damage, hamstring injuries, ankle and quadriceps issues, as well as anterior cruciate ligament ruptures. Valencia have not been able to call on the affected players as they prepare to face the reigning Spanish champions.

There is also uncertainty over the availability of three more members of the squad. Dimitri Foulquier is continuing his recovery from injury, while Luis Rioja has pain in his quadriceps. Cenk Ozkacar is also experiencing discomfort in his ankle.

Their status will be assessed ahead of the match, but Valencia already face a significant shortage of available players. The scale of the absences adds to the challenge for Corberan, whose team has collected only one point from its first three league matches.

Valencia began their campaign with a draw against Celta before suffering defeats by Deportivo and Real Betis. Those results have left the club with just a single point before the visit of Barcelona.

Barcelona, by contrast, have made a confident start to the season and arrive as the current champions of Spain. Valencia therefore face a demanding test at a time when injuries are limiting Corberan’s options.

The fixture represents the fourth round of La Liga and will take place at Mestalla on 6 September. For Valencia, the immediate priority is to manage the extensive injury list while preparing for a Barcelona side that has started the campaign strongly.

The six confirmed absentees are Copete, Umar Sadiq, Sergi Canos, Justin De Haas, Ildiz Rodriguez and Diego Lopez. Foulquier, Luis Rioja and Cenk Ozkacar remain doubts, meaning Valencia could still have further decisions to make before the match.

Chelsea and manager Xabi Alonso are reportedly considering a €100m bid for Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios as they look to strengthen their central midfield.

The 23-year-old is being viewed as a possible replacement for Enzo Fernandez, with Chelsea said to be planning an approach for the new year. Alonso is understood to be a strong admirer of Barrios and believes the midfielder has the qualities required to succeed in the Premier League.

Chelsea had originally hoped to sign Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara before the transfer window closed. The Stamford Bridge club saw Camara as a potential replacement for Fernandez, who cost £125m, but Monaco did not agree to a deal during the final stages of deadline day.

That left Chelsea short of options in central midfield, and they are now reported to be exploring a more ambitious move for Barrios. Spanish outlet Fichajes claims the club could make an offer worth €100m in an attempt to persuade Atletico Madrid to sell.

Barrios has a €500m release clause in his contract, meaning any proposed transfer would still require lengthy negotiations if Chelsea do not meet that figure. A move during the season would also be difficult because Atletico manager Diego Simeone regards Barrios as a key part of his team.

Alonso currently has Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, Reece James, Valentin Barco and Jordan Henderson available for the position. However, the club’s failure to secure Camara has reportedly encouraged them to consider other solutions ahead of the new year.

Barrios is therefore emerging as a high-value target, although Atletico Madrid would have little reason to accept a significantly reduced fee while the player remains under contract and central to Simeone’s plans. Chelsea’s reported €100m proposal would represent a major investment, but it would still fall well below the midfielder’s release clause.

The interest comes as Chelsea assess how best to replace Fernandez and add depth in an area where their options are considered limited. Alonso is said to believe Barrios could provide the technical and physical qualities needed to adapt to English football, but any agreement is likely to depend on Atletico Madrid’s willingness to part with one of their important midfielders.

A club shop at Atletico de Madrid’s stadium is currently not selling a single football shirt bearing the name of striker Julian Alvarez, according to The Touchline.

The absence has attracted attention because of the uncertainty that has surrounded the Argentina forward in recent weeks. No explanation has been given for why Alvarez shirts are unavailable in the stadium store, but the situation has been noted against the backdrop of speculation over his future in Madrid.

Alvarez considered leaving Atletico de Madrid during the summer. Barcelona were interested in signing him, but Atletico refused to allow the striker to move to the Catalan club. A possible transfer to Arsenal was also discussed, although Alvarez himself rejected that option.

The forward’s position at Atletico has therefore been the subject of increased attention, with the lack of shirts in the club shop adding another detail to the continuing discussion around his future. The report from The Touchline does not state whether the absence is connected to transfer plans or to a separate issue involving the store.

Atletico manager Diego Simeone has, however, indicated that Alvarez remains part of his immediate plans. Simeone previously said he was counting on the striker for the team’s next match against Athletic, which is scheduled to take place tomorrow, 5 September.

That public backing suggests Alvarez remains under consideration for Atletico’s forthcoming fixture, despite the recent transfer speculation and the decision by the club shop not to stock shirts with his surname at present.

The developments have left two contrasting signals around the striker. Atletico declined to release him to Barcelona, while Alvarez chose not to pursue the alternative involving Arsenal. At the same time, supporters visiting the stadium shop cannot currently buy a shirt displaying his name.

The original report does not provide further information about the shop’s stock, including whether Alvarez shirts were previously available or when they might return. It also does not claim that the lack of shirts confirms a transfer is imminent.

For now, the clearest indication of Atletico’s sporting intentions has come from Simeone. The manager has said he expects to rely on Alvarez against Athletic, placing the striker in the club’s plans for the match despite the questions raised by events away from the pitch.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has spoken about Julian Alvarez’s future after the Argentina forward remained with the Spanish club beyond the summer transfer window, saying: “We want to see him happy.”

Alvarez ultimately stayed at Atletico Madrid despite previously wanting to leave. The Madrid club rejected the possibility of discussing a move to Barcelona, meaning the striker remained part of Simeone’s squad when the transfer window closed.

The situation had centred on Alvarez’s desire to change clubs and Atletico’s decision not to consider his departure to Barcelona. With the Spanish side unwilling to negotiate that transfer, the forward’s future was settled without a move taking place.

Simeone has now addressed the circumstances surrounding the player, focusing on Alvarez’s happiness after he remained at Atletico Madrid.

The manager’s comments come after a period of uncertainty over whether the forward would continue at the club. Alvarez had wanted a change, but Atletico’s position prevented discussions over a transfer to Barcelona from progressing.

As a result, Alvarez will continue as an Atletico Madrid player after the conclusion of the summer market. The club’s refusal to discuss his move to Barcelona was the decisive factor in his staying in the capital.

Simeone’s message was centred on the forward’s personal situation rather than on the outcome of the transfer discussions. “We want to see him happy,” he said, outlining what Atletico Madrid want for Alvarez following the decision over his future.

The forward’s remaining at the club brings an end to the transfer uncertainty described around him. Although he had wanted to change clubs, no move was completed and he remains available to Atletico Madrid after the window closed.

Barcelona were the club linked with the proposed change, but Atletico Madrid declined to discuss the transfer. That left Alvarez at the Madrid club and ensured the matter was resolved with the striker staying rather than moving elsewhere.

For Atletico Madrid, the outcome means Alvarez remains part of the squad. For Simeone, the immediate priority is that the player is happy in the aftermath of a situation that had raised questions about his future.

The club’s stance was maintained throughout the summer transfer window: Atletico Madrid would not discuss Alvarez’s transfer to Barcelona. Once the window ended, the forward’s position at the club was confirmed.

Simeone has therefore spoken publicly about the situation after Alvarez stayed in Madrid. His main message was that Atletico Madrid want to see their forward happy, despite the player having previously wanted to leave and change clubs.

Diego Simeone has confirmed that Julian Alvarez will travel with Atletico de Madrid for their La Liga match against Athletic Club in Bilbao on 5 September.

The Argentina forward’s future at the Madrid club had remained uncertain earlier in the summer, but he stayed with Atletico after the summer transfer window closed. Simeone’s decision means Alvarez is set to be part of the travelling group for the league fixture.

The match between Athletic Club and Atletico de Madrid will take place on 5 September, with kick-off scheduled for 17:15 Moscow time.

Alvarez’s inclusion provides the latest indication that the striker remains part of Simeone’s plans following a period of uncertainty surrounding his position at Atletico. The forward had been linked with questions over his future before the transfer window shut, but no move materialised and he remained at the club.

Simeone, Atletico’s head coach, said Alvarez would make the journey to Bilbao with the team. That means the 5 September fixture will be the next opportunity for the Argentina international to feature for the Madrid side in La Liga.

The announcement settles, at least for this match, the immediate question of whether Alvarez would be involved after the summer transfer window closed. Atletico will now prepare for the visit to Athletic Club with the forward included among the players travelling to the Basque Country.

The fixture will see Atletico face Athletic Club in a meeting between two established Spanish La Liga clubs. It is scheduled to begin at 17:15 Moscow time, with the match taking place in Bilbao.

For Atletico, the game also represents the first confirmed league assignment involving Alvarez since his future at the club came under discussion. His presence in the travelling squad follows Simeone’s decision to retain him after the close of the transfer window.

No further details about Alvarez’s role in the match have been given. Simeone has confirmed only that the forward will travel with Atletico de Madrid for the fixture.

The focus will therefore turn to the match itself and to whether Alvarez is involved once Atletico arrive in Bilbao. For now, the clear decision from Simeone is that the Argentina forward will remain with the squad for the encounter with Athletic Club.

The match will be played on 5 September at 17:15 Moscow time.

Real Madrid have named Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius among their squad for Friday’s Spanish La Liga match against Real Betis.

The club’s media department published the list of players selected for the fourth-round fixture, with all of Real Madrid’s leading names included. The squad also features goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who is joined by Andriy Lunin and Javi Navarro.

Real Madrid’s full squad is:

Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin, Javi Navarro.

Defenders: Dean Huijsen, Trent, Ibrahima Konate, Marc Cucurella, Carreras, Antonio Rudiger, Denzel Dumfries and Rivas.

Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, Arda Guler, Silva, Sestero and Sergio Martinez.

Forwards: Vinicius, Kylian Mbappe, Espy, Brahim and Diomande.

The selection means Real Madrid will have Bellingham, Mbappe and Vinicius available for the meeting with Betis. Their inclusion provides the squad with a number of its principal attacking and midfield leaders, alongside experienced players such as Courtois, Rudiger and Valverde.

The match between Betis and Real Madrid will be played on Friday, 4 September, as part of the fourth round of La Liga. The referee’s opening whistle is scheduled for 22:00 Moscow time.

The fixture is the latest contest in the Spanish championship for both clubs, with Real Madrid’s published squad now confirming the players available for the game. The list includes 24 footballers across the goalkeeping, defensive, midfield and attacking positions.

Supporters will be able to follow all of the match action through a detailed text commentary on the LiveResult portal.

Diego Simeone has shared his first impressions of working with Jonathan David after the forward joined Atletico de Madrid on loan from Juventus at the end of the summer transfer window.

The Atletico de Madrid manager has also spoken about what he expects from David during his time with the club, although no further details of Simeone’s comments were provided.

David’s move to Madrid was completed late in the summer transfer window. He will represent Atletico de Madrid on a temporary basis, with the Spanish club holding an option to buy the player’s rights at the end of the loan spell.

The agreement gives Atletico de Madrid the opportunity to make David’s stay permanent, but the club has not yet committed to completing a permanent transfer. For now, the forward’s involvement with the Madrid side will come under the terms of the loan arrangement agreed with Juventus.

Simeone’s first assessment marks the beginning of David’s work with the Atletico de Madrid manager. The Argentine coach has outlined his expectations after the striker’s arrival, while the forward begins the next stage of his career in Spain.

David therefore joins Atletico de Madrid with his long-term future still undecided. The immediate arrangement is clear: he is on loan from Juventus, while Atletico de Madrid retain the option to secure his rights permanently.

The move brings David into Simeone’s squad after his departure from Juventus towards the close of the summer transfer window. His initial period at the club will allow Atletico de Madrid to assess the forward before deciding whether to activate the purchase option.

Simeone’s comments were his first impressions of working with David. However, the available account does not include a direct quotation from the manager or identify specific targets he has set for the player.

The key points of the deal remain unchanged. David has moved from Juventus to Atletico de Madrid, the transfer is a loan, and Atletico de Madrid have the option to buy him. Simeone has now addressed the forward’s arrival and explained what he expects from him during his spell in Madrid.

For David, the loan represents a move to Atletico de Madrid without a confirmed permanent transfer. For the Spanish club, it provides the chance to work with the striker before making a final decision on whether to acquire his rights.