Euro Sports Events

Barcelona’s squad was stripped of some of its top talent on Saturday night, clearly a sign that they have given up the fight for the league and going after the Champions League instead. The result was a 2-0 win to Deportivo, leaving players such as Leo Messi and the all important Victor Valdes to rest in time for Manchester United on Tuesday. Barça is still fighting for the second league position, but it is far from clear whether they’ll be able to take it. With just a handfull fo league games still to play, this one could go to the wire.

Samuel Eto’o seemed to be putting his support by Frank Rijkaard with an on pitch display of solidity after scoring on Saturday night. The Cameroon player scored both of Barcelona’s goals at Recreativo de Huelva, and despite scoring in the 2nd minute the score ended in a 2 all draw.

Recreativo are theoretically a much weaker side, just one point above the relegation zone, and were lucky in having their first goal allowed; the replay showed that Victor Valdes had stopped the ball on the line.

With Espanyol visiting the Nou Camp on Saturday and Manchester United coming over next week, the team is clearly just about treading water and in danger of drowning.

Barcelona visits Recreativo de Huelva on Saturday in the return match for the Spanish League. In November Barcelona beat Recreativo 3-0 at the Nou Camp, it remains to be seen how they will do with their spirits apparently down.

Ather news is that Milan and Barça are talking about a move by Ronaldinho. It is clear he is unhappy at Barcelona so a move looks like it will be good for him. Also, with a cash burning salary off the books the club will be free to pursue someone who may be more effective.

While Ronaldinho has always been a pleasure to watch, it is hard to justify his pay on the 2007-2008 season.