FC Barcelona News: 19 February 2026

Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper has become midfielder Gavi’s second home as the 21-year-old continues his patient rehabilitation from the internal meniscus injury that has sidelined him since last autumn. Club medical staff are keeping the Spain international on a carefully monitored, step-by-step programme, with no firm return date set.

While Gavi works his way back, Hansi Flick’s squad have been left to rue their luck in front of goal. Barça top the unwanted European chart for shots striking the frame of the goal, their efforts having clattered off the woodwork 25 times across all competitions—more than any other side in the continent’s major leagues.

Off the pitch, defender Gerard Martín has brushed aside fresh speculation linking him with a move to AC Milan. Sources close to the 23-year-old say he has no intention of leaving the club he joined as a boy, believing he is “living a dream” and has an increasingly important role under the current coaching staff.

United Kingdom interest is not limited to Martín. Manchester United have identified left-back Alejandro Balde as a potential summer reinforcement. The Premier League giants are prepared to table an offer in the region of €40 million for the 22-year-old, who is contracted to Barça until 2028.

Elsewhere, senior figures at Old Trafford are reportedly experiencing buyer’s remorse over Marcus Rashford. The England forward is expected to move to Camp Nou for a cut-price £26 million at the end of the season, a fee United hierarchy now feel undervalues the 28-year-old by as much as £24 million.

On the women’s side, Barcelona Femení learned their UEFA Women’s Champions League fate after topping the league phase. The Blaugranes will face Clásico rivals Real Madrid in a blockbuster quarter-final tie, guaranteeing Spanish representation in the last four and setting up two high-stakes legs in March.