Ex Barca Patrick Kluivert:
“I think Barcelona will keep up the speed and play the same style of play that they did yesterday [at Stamford Bridge]. The pitch is quite a lot bigger and Barcelona is used to playing under pressure.
“When they need to win, they can dominate you, they can push you in a place you don’t want to be in, and they can damage you. They will damage Chelsea, I think.”
After today’s recovery training, Barca players had lunch together, and are scheduled to return to training on Friday evening at 18.00.
Cesc Fabregas revealed that he’s not planning to try and tempt Robin van Persie to join him at Barcelona
Alexis Sanchez will return in Chile NT sooner than reappearing for Barca. He is expected to get the medical clear in next 10-12 days.
Benfica are interested in FC Barcelona full back Maxwell and could submit their bid this January. [A Bola]
Erik Botheim: “Many have said I have talent and I should develop my talent. But I look forward to meeting the best players in the world in my age group and find out how I can become better than them.”
Lys Oslco youngster, Erik Botheim, has accepted a trial offer from FC Barcelona.
Messi scored 2 goals vs. BATE and is now tied with Kubala as second best goalscorer in Barca history.
BATE – FC Barcelona 0-5 FT. (Volodko o.g., Pedro, Messi 2X, Villa)
In the other match of the group, Milan won 2-0 against Plzen. (Ibrahimovic, Cassano)
Barca official lineup vs. Bate: Valdés, Alves, Mascherano, Puyol, Abidal; Keita, Xavi, Thiago; Pedro, Messi and Villa.
Bench: Pinto, Pique, Adriano, Maxwell, Fontàs, Busquets, Fabregas.