More Boos At The Bernabéu - Real Madrid Fall Nine Points Behind Barca

Summary

---

The Rest Is Football: "More Boos At The Bernabéu - Real Madrid Fall Nine Points Behind Barca"

Date: April 14, 2026
Hosts: Gary Lineker & Alex Aljo

---

Episode Overview

This episode revolves around what Gary Lineker calls a "defining moment in La Liga," as Barcelona widen the gap at the top of the table and Real Madrid’s title hopes fade further. The hosts dissect the current standings, heated controversies around key games, VAR decisions, managerial futures, fan unrest at the Santiago Bernabéu, and the impressive records and young talents shaping the league. The chemistry and candid style between Lineker and Aljo delivers both footballing insight and offbeat humor.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Real Madrid's Title Hopes Veering Off Course [02:02]

• Result: Real Madrid once again drop points, falling nine behind Barcelona.
• Lineker declaration: “No La Liga. It's done, isn't it?” [01:29]
• Both hosts agree that only a major Barcelona slip—coupled with Real Madrid winning El Clasico—could keep the title race alive, but even that looks unlikely.

2. Champions League Priorities & Implications [02:49, 03:36]

• Barcelona are seen as prioritizing Champions League success over La Liga this season.
• Aljo: “We've always said the Champions League was Barcelona's priority this season. So there could be a glimmer, glimmer of hope if Barcelona went through and put all the eggs in the Champions League basket.” [02:49]
• If Barca were knocked out by Atletico, La Liga is basically wrapped up.

3. Controversial VAR & Refereeing Decisions [03:36–04:29]

• Strong criticism of the VAR decision to send off Real Madrid defender Kibasi—a decision Lineker calls “one of the most appalling VAR turnovers I’ve seen.” [03:36]
• Lineker contends: “He tripped himself over…even then when he trips himself over, how can that possibly be a red card?” [04:02]
• The incident dramatically changed the flow and outcome of the match, leading to heated post-game fallout.

4. Real Madrid’s Structural & Tactical Problems [05:31–07:25]

• Madrid’s performances are flat and lack cohesion; debate over whether the true issue is up front or in midfield.
• Alex: “There’s a lot of very talented individuals, and I don’t know what the solution is.” [05:38]
• Gary: “The issue is more in midfield. There’s no real control of games…There’s no doubt that both Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. like to favor the left side…” [06:07]
• Neither Mbappé nor Vinicius Jr. are natural defenders, raising questions about balance.

5. Booing at the Bernabéu—Fan Unrest [12:04, 13:05]

• Boos and white handkerchiefs from fans are directed at Real Madrid’s stars, especially Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., as well as team management.
• Alex: “I think the frustrations aren’t aimed at Alvar [Baloa]…he’s still popular with the Real Madrid fan base…but it was always seen as a stopgap appointment.” [12:04]
• Lineker: “Most of the boos seemed to be if either Mbappé or Vinicius Jr. didn’t score on a couple of opportunities. There was a lot of booing…” [13:05]

6. Managerial Uncertainty and Rumors [12:33]

• Klopp is rumored but seen as an unlikely fit unless Florentino Perez (Real Madrid president) steps back:
  • Alex: “They want Jurgen Klopp, but the only way they'd get Jurgen Klopp is if Florentino Perez took a back seat...” [12:36]
  • Lineker: “His ego’s too big for that, I suspect.” [13:05]
• Jose Mourinho is also mentioned as a president favorite but previous incidents have soured that potential reunion.

7. Referee & Media Bias—Perceptual Controversies [08:11–09:59]

• Historical grievances between Barcelona and Madrid over referee bias are debated:
  • Lineker: “The true bias in these things is your own rather than the referee... I don't think that they deliberately go about their business on one side or the other.” [09:15]
  • Real Madrid TV’s dramatized features on referees are discussed humorously, highlighting how media fuels conspiracy thinking.

8. La Liga's Retro Weekend [09:31–10:23]

• Referees and some teams wore retro kits as part of a nostalgia-themed matchweek.
• Lineker reminisces about classic kit styles and shares laughs with Alex about football shirt fashion over the decades.

9. Standout Player Performances & Milestones [10:58–11:39, 19:21–20:05]

• Fede Valverde’s outstanding recent form for Real Madrid is praised, but with questions on goalkeeping errors.
• Lamal Yamana sets a new record as the youngest player to reach 100 La Liga games for Barcelona at just 18.
  • Alex: “Another record for Lamina as well. The youngest player to reach 100 La Liga games for Barcelona in La Liga history.” [01:33]
  • Lineker: “It defies belief, really.” [19:45]
• Gavi’s impactful return from injury is celebrated.
• Mark Stracher’s effectiveness as a sub gets attention, with a hint he may start in upcoming key matches.

10. High-Scoring Barcelona & Flick’s Style [20:14–21:33]

• Barca’s bold, attacking “high line” tactics under Hansi Flick are analyzed:
  • Lineker: “It’s brave, it’s bold, it can be a little bit crazy at times, but it’s wonderful to watch.” [21:33]
• Defensive fragility is acknowledged, but the approach is lauded for entertainment and results.

11. Atletico Madrid & Tactical Rotation [22:23–22:52]

• Simeone’s decision to completely rotate his squad, fielding 10 new outfield players for a league match ahead of Champions League ties is discussed, with Lineker noting: “In this case, I think that's absolutely, totally understandable.” [22:41]

12. Sevilla’s Relegation Scrap & Ramos Rumors [23:09]

• Surprise at Sevilla languishing near the relegation zone despite their storied history.
• Sergio Ramos is rumored to be interested in buying—and perhaps playing for—his boyhood club to “save the day.” [23:09]

13. Champions League Statistics & Optimism [24:25–25:38]

• Atletico's record at home in Champions League knockout games is noted: “They have never lost at home in the knockout stages of the Champions League.” [24:25]
• Only one team has ever pulled off a comeback after a similar first-leg deficit (Man United vs PSG in 2018-19).
• Hosts agree Barcelona has enough attacking firepower to make it through to the next round.

14. La Liga Roundup—Other Results [26:00]

• Alex summarizes the weekend’s La Liga highlights:
  • Villarreal wins at Athletic Club.
  • Real Sociedad and Alaves share a dramatic 3-3 draw, with a 98th-minute away equalizer.
  • Elche beats Valencia (1-0).
  • Osasuna and Real Betis draw 1-1.
  • Mallorca wins 3-0 at home.
  • Real Oviedo moves off the bottom with a 3-0 win at Celta Vigo.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Gary Lineker:

• “No La Liga. It's done, isn't it?” – Opening salvo, sets the episode’s tone [01:29]
• “One of the most appalling VAR turnovers I’ve seen...” – On the Kibasi red card incident [03:36]
• “His ego’s too big for that, I suspect.” – On Perez ever relinquishing enough control to hire Klopp [13:05]
• “It’s brave, it’s bold, it can be a little bit crazy at times, but it’s wonderful to watch.” – On Hansi Flick’s Barcelona [21:33]
• “If there’s a team that you want to watch in Europe at the moment, it’s probably Barcelona.” [21:33]

Alex Aljo:

• “Another record for Lamina as well. The youngest player to reach 100 La Liga games for Barcelona in La Liga history.” [01:33]
• “There’s a lot of very talented individuals, and I don’t know what the solution is.” – On Real Madrid’s issues [05:38]
• “I thought Gavi was also really good in this game...he was brilliant.” [20:05]
• “Sergio Ramos save the day...Can Ramos save the day at Sevilla?” [23:09]

---

Timestamps of Key Segments

• [01:29] – Season verdict: “No La Liga. It's done, isn't it?”
• [03:36] – Hostile VAR and red card debate (Kibasi incident)
• [05:31] – Breaking down Real Madrid’s on-field problems
• [06:07] – The Mbappé & Vinicius Jr. dilemma (positions, work rate)
• [12:04] – Boos at the Bernabéu, fan unrest contextualized
• [12:33] – Real Madrid’s managerial search: Klopp, Perez, Mourinho
• [19:21] – Yamana’s 100th La Liga game record, emerging talents
• [21:33] – Lineker’s praise for Barcelona’s style: “brave, bold, wonderful”
• [23:09] – Sevilla’s struggles & Ramos buying club rumors
• [24:25] – Champions League knockout home record stat for Atleti
• [26:00] – Full La Liga results roundup

---

Final Notes & Tone

The episode provides a comprehensive, witty, and sometimes critical look at the shifting dynamics in La Liga and Europe. There’s a mix of strategic analysis, historical context, and fun interludes—excelled by the co-hosts’ banter and decades of football knowledge. The tone is candid, humorous, and occasionally nostalgic, particularly when reflecting on retro kits and “the good old days” of football.

---

For more illuminating analysis and lively discussion, tune in to “The Rest Is Football” every week!

Transcript

[Commercial Narrator]

When you think like an athlete, setbacks don't stop you. But mindset alone doesn't get you moving again. That's where Icy Hot steps in. Ice works fast heat makes it last. So when the rest of the world settles because of a setback, Icy Hot accelerates your comeback with fast acting powerful pain relief. Icy Hot. You're so back. Somewhere out there is a Chevy truck and the person who drives it, well, that's a Chevy person. You probably know one. Your buddy, your sister. Ones who always show up to the first to rise, the last to leave. They always have that little extra something. And maybe you've got it too. Chevrolet together. Let's drive. Visit chevy.com trucks to explore the lineup.

Last night you spent two hours deciding what to wear to the party this morning. It'll take you two minutes to list it on Depop and make your money back. Just grab your phone, snap a few photos and we'll take care of the rest. The sheer dress and platform heels you'll never wear again. There's a birthday girl searching for them right now. Your one and done look is about to pay for your next night out. Or at least the ride home. Your style can make you cash start selling on Depop. Where taste recognizes taste.

[Gary Lineker]

No La Liga.

[Alex Aljo]

No La Liga.

[Gary Lineker]

It's done, isn't it?

[Alex Aljo]

Another record for Lamina as well. The youngest player to reach 100 La Liga games for Barcelona in La Liga history.

[Gary Lineker]

Arboloa had a rant, didn't he?

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, I liked what he said. What did he say? For me, it's a clear penalty here and even on the moon.

[Gary Lineker]

If there's a team that you want to watch in Europe at the moment, it's probably Barcelona.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, I think that they will turn things around in the Champions League as well. Foreign.

[Gary Lineker]

Welcome to the Rest is football La Liga episode with Alex Aljo. And meet Gary Lineker on probably a defining moment in La Liga this weekend where Barcelona won and Real Madrid dropped points yet again. But before we get to the football. Alex. Wow.

[Alex Aljo]

You're at home, I'm at home.

[Gary Lineker]

You're not in a hotel room?

[Alex Aljo]

No. You can tell by the dial boards. That's when you know I'm at home. No, I'm at home for the next half an hour and then I'm off to Liverpool for second leg. Liverpool, Paris San. Not looking hopeful, is it? For Liverpool?

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, I think it's a big ask against a very, very good PSG team, but. Well, I think it's very, very clear that no I Liga, no I Liga. It's done, isn't it?

[Alex Aljo]

It's done, surely, barring what, Barcelona slipping up in a couple of games and then Real Madrid winning the Clasico. That could be Liga after that. But it's not looking hopeful, is it? I think it sort of depends what happens in the Champions League as well. If they were to get knocked out of the Champions League by Atletico Madrid, which obviously could happen with two nil lead. Yeah, got a two nil lead, obviously, then I think they're 100% winning La Liga. But we've always said the Champions League was Barcelona's priority this season. So there could be a glimmer, glimmer of hope if Barcelona went through and put all, you know, all the eggs in the Champions League basket. But. But it's. Yeah, we want to say there's Liga,

[Gary Lineker]

but no I Liga, no I Champions Leaguer. So, I mean, as you said, I just wondered what the fallout was about that decision. The red card, Kibasi red card. Because I thought it was one of the most appalling VAR turnovers I've seen because the ref didn't give it on field.

[Alex Aljo]

Was there even any contact? I was watching it.

[Gary Lineker]

It looked like he tripped himself over. I'm not sure there was contact, but even if there was a minimum of

[Alex Aljo]

contact, because he was the last defender.

[Gary Lineker]

He was the last defender, but the law says you've got to deny a clear goal scoring opportunity. Right. So the ball is actually behind him and you can see quite clearly that it's behind his backside. So how that even then when he trips himself over, how that can possibly be a. A red card, I. I don't know. And that's obviously completely changed the game.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. And the.

[Gary Lineker]

Julian Alvarez scored, didn't he, from that very free kick. Barcelona down to 10 men and all of a sudden it's a different game. They were so dominant as well before that you just thought it's only a matter of time before Barcelona run away with this. But then I think they almost doubled down. They criticized the referee who's now not going to play, but did say one of the reasons that was that he didn't give the red immediately. And you thought what? Is that true? I don't know. Just one of those social media posts. It might be wrong that, but I just thought it was extraordinary. So Barcelona have got it all to

[Alex Aljo]

do, but they could, they could, they

[Gary Lineker]

could as have Real Madrid.

[Alex Aljo]

Yes. And I did say last week that I thought that Real Madrid would knock Bayern Munich out. And I think I'm Gonna stand by them?

[Gary Lineker]

I. I'm not.

[Alex Aljo]

And I know that's a really big statement.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, it's possible. It was a very good game. The Real Madrid, Bayern Munich 1. Bayern Munich were excellent, but both teams had their chances, and we'll probably do so again in the Allianz arena, but that is a tighter one to call. But I fancy Bayern Munich quite strongly.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. And they're at home as well.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, Exactly. With a 2:1 lead. And that takes us nicely onto Real Madrid. Dropping points left, right and center.

[Alex Aljo]

It's strange because we said it last week as well. With that performance, they just don't look like a team that's fighting for a La Liga title. I mean, maybe they're not anymore, but it's just lackluster. We've said it all season. There's a lot of very talented individuals, and I don't know what the solution is. I was thinking maybe they need a traditional number nine. But then what happens with Mbappe and Vinny Jr. You can't play them both on the left, but that could be the solution.

[Gary Lineker]

I think the issue is more in midfield. There's no real control of games. Now, you've said it before, there are some great individuals and there's no denying that, but can we say no? I. Equippo.

[Alex Aljo]

Yep. I think he definitely. They're not playing as a team.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, that's just not working. They're not gelling particularly well. There isn't. There's no doubt that both Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. Like to favor the left side to play particularly Vinicius, I suppose, and Mbappe's played there most of his career. But Kylian Mbappe's turned himself into a bloody good center forward. A really, really good nine, and he's scoring a lot of goals. He always looks dangerous, even in this game. You know, one or two, you know, decent efforts.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, I. His finishing is letting him down. At the moment, it's only, what, one goal in seven appearances, which is. But, well, by his standards, pretty poor, isn't it?

[Gary Lineker]

He's going through one of those spells that all strikers go through where it doesn't quite happen for you. If you've got two of them, you've got Vinicius and Mbappe. Neither of them like defending, there's no doubt about that. So that in itself can be an issue, particularly against the best teams. So, yeah, I just don't know what they do. Real Madrid, I don't know what they do. I don't know whether you can have them Both playing the way they do, unless one completely buys into defending and stuff. But neither of them really do.

[Alex Aljo]

They're never going to, are they? And there was a big late penalty shout, wasn't there as well, involving Kylian Mbappe.

[Commercial Narrator]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

And he got blood on his forehead. I think he clipped him. I mean, it was a flailing arm. It didn't look particular. I don't know, it's one of those that thought they might give it, but they didn't. What did you think? I mean, Arbolo had a rant, didn't he?

[Alex Aljo]

I liked what he said. What do you say? For me, it's a clear penalty here and even on the moon.

[Gary Lineker]

On the moon.

[Alex Aljo]

But surely there's no Var on the moon either, so.

[Gary Lineker]

So, yeah. I wonder if you could have done that similar incident with. With. Without gravity. His arm might have just lifted above his head instead. So. I'm not sure if that's true.

[Alex Aljo]

That's true.

[Gary Lineker]

But I know what he means.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. It was like another week, another incident. That's the reality we're dealing with. And, you know, I don't think Real Madrid help themselves when they're, you know, constantly complaining about referees.

[Gary Lineker]

No. Because we all know they get decisions way more than Barcelona do. As says former Barcelona.

[Alex Aljo]

No comments. No comments.

[Gary Lineker]

To be honest. To be honest, if you read, I. Not. Not just social media, but the newspapers and everything, like the Real Madrid fans and group and club are convinced that the referee is against them. Oh, yeah. Barcelona, the fans and the players and everyone are convinced that all the referees are against them. So it's. And it was exactly the same when I was there some 40 years ago.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. And certain referees as well.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, yeah, exactly.

[Alex Aljo]

Real Madrid TV make whole features on like these referees and it goes out on television, these like sinister music in the background. You can imagine.

[Gary Lineker]

I can remember. I mean, it's exacerbated massively because of social media now and you see it everywhere, so you note it more. But I remember when I was playing, every one of us at Barcelona were convinced there was, you know, the referees were completely on the side of Real Madrid and vice versa. But because it's the true bias, I always think in these things is. Is normal your own rather than perhaps the referee. Referees make mistakes, but I don't think that they deliberately go about their business on one side or the other. I genuinely don't.

[Alex Aljo]

And the referees this weekend were wearing the retro ref shirts. Did you see it was retro weekend in La Liga?

[Gary Lineker]

I didn't notice.

[Alex Aljo]

I didn't Notice they rolled back the years and they had the retro graphics on screen. They had the refs in there, like with the high collars and then all the kits except Real Madrid and Barcelona opted out. Which I thought was a shame because there's been some brilliant shirts over the years. But I liked it.

[Gary Lineker]

Oh, they could have brought that one back from the 80s that I wore.

[Alex Aljo]

Do you have one? Do you have one in your cupboard at home?

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, I've got. I've got one. I've got somewhere. I know no idea where it is, but I definitely got one. Yeah.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

I like seeing it.

[Alex Aljo]

I like seeing it. Well, if there was one shirt you could wear again, sorry, I know this is off topic, but what shirt would you bring back?

[Gary Lineker]

Of the ones that I wore?

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

I think it'd be hard not to be that Barcelona shirt because Blana so special.

[Alex Aljo]

Was it baggy?

[Gary Lineker]

Was it baggy? I was quite skinny about that. It would. It wouldn't be baggy now. They're quite tight. They were quite tight, fitted, quite. Shorts were short in the 80s as well. That's the one thing, short shorts, you know, Whereas now they're not. Nothing like as long, but. Yeah, was. How is it baggy? That's a good question.

[Alex Aljo]

Well, I just feel like that's the main difference because these shirts are.

[Gary Lineker]

I think you're going back to the 60s now, aren't? I mean, I'm old, Alex, but not that old.

[Alex Aljo]

It's eight goals in eight games for club and country. For Fede Valverde. He's having a brilliant season, isn't he? And it was a great goal.

[Gary Lineker]

It was a very, very well structure. I would blame the goalkeeper though. I mean, it's gone straight through. Yeah.

[Alex Aljo]

Formerly of a Spurs.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, it sums up the way things are going for spurs at the moment, whether past or present.

[Alex Aljo]

And then it was Andre Lunin in Golf Around Madrid. Thibaut Courto are still out injured and yeah, Real Madrid's lead only lasted 11 minutes because let's. We can call this one a Golaso, can't we?

[Gary Lineker]

I think no, this was a really good finish.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. Thomas Lamar, no chance for. For Andre Lunin. He was never saving that. And yeah, it was a brilliant equalizer.

[Gary Lineker]

Score to our close.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, I think so. I don't think it. It was never bad, but I think they're just being cautious.

[Gary Lineker]

I think it'd be important if they could get him for. To play in Munich because he's such a. He's such a big game player as well.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, but, yeah. So the Real Madrid faithful made their feelings known once again. A lot of boos and whistles, etc. White handkerchiefs.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. I think the frustrations aren't aimed at Alvar Baloa. I do think he's still popular with the Real Madrid fan base and they appreciate the fact he's given some youngsters minutes this season. They've done well. Some of those academy players as well. I think it was always just seen as a. Alvaroa was never going to be the long term solution. He's coming to do a job until the end of the season. I think it's unlikely he'll be there at the start of next season, but I don't think that was ever the plan.

[Gary Lineker]

Any rumors as to who it might be there yet or.

[Alex Aljo]

Well, they're saying they want Jurgen Klopp, but I think the only way they'd get Jurgen Klopp would be if Florentino Perez took a back seat because the way he likes to be involved, you know, so, so, so involved. Would never work with a, with a manager like Jurgen Klopp.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah.

[Alex Aljo]

So I think if, yeah, if Perez, if Perez did decide to take a step back and let Jurgen Klopp do his thing, then, then it could be great, but I'm not sure he would.

[Gary Lineker]

He's not, he's not.

[Alex Aljo]

He could just take a backseat.

[Gary Lineker]

His ego is too big. His ego's too big for that, I suspect. I noticed actually, because watching the game in midweek against Bayern, most of the boost seemed to me was if either Bape or Vinicius Jr. Didn't score on a couple of opportunities. There was a lot of buoy. I mean, normally it's like, oh, there's a near miss, but it was the significant boos and whistles heard there, wasn't there? So they seem to be the main direction, the big stars.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. Yeah. And I think Arbolo actually came out and, and defended both of them after the game. He said, look, we're talking about two of the best players in the world and it's not about individuals here. We need to improve collectively as a team. So, yeah, I think it's harsh to, to target those two players because what would they do without them really? You know, they need them. And also I think Jose was high on the list of, of, of managers they, they like until that Benfica Vinicius Jr. Incident game. And he didn't help himself with what he said after the game, did he? And I think that changed everything for Real Madrid.

[Gary Lineker]

That's a good point. I was talking to someone that says that the one person that Perez really misses as a man, as a manager, as a coach. Call it what you like was Jose. And he's the one that he's still slightly fixated on.

[Alex Aljo]

But I think Jose would have loved to go back as well too, right?

[Gary Lineker]

He would. He loves it, doesn't he? Jose? And he'd make probably make a difference. But. But I think the game in midweek is the one. But I don't think they can win the league now. I really don't.

[Alex Aljo]

No.

[Gary Lineker]

I can't see Barcelona. Even if they lose the Classic, I can't see them losing that many points. So as it says on the front page of Marker, Munich or La Nada.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I think ass. The ass.

[Gary Lineker]

Such a great name for a newspaper.

[Alex Aljo]

It

[Gary Lineker]

no one gives up.

[Alex Aljo]

And Real Madrid definitely don't give up in the Champions League. There's something about them, isn't there? We've seen some incredible comebacks from Real Madrid in the competition and to be honest, this doesn't even require a comeback. We're not talking about a massive comeback. There's one goal in it, so we'll see. But they'll need a massive performance in Munich against a really, really good Bayern Munich team who might go all the way and win it.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, let's see if as is right and they're known for being a bit with their news. Sorry.

[Alex Aljo]

That was a good one. That was good.

[Gary Lineker]

It wasn't. It wasn't that good. And I think let's take a little break to get over it.

[Commercial Narrator]

Spring Black Friday is on at the Home Depot. Save on grills and patio sets that will be sure to bring your hosting game up a notch. Fire up your feast with help from the Home Depot and save on grills like the next grill. 4 burner propane gas grill was $249. Now in special buy for $199. Or give everyone the best seat in the yard with the Hampton bay Mayfield park four piece conversation set for only $399. Save on grills and patio sets with low prices guaranteed during spring Black Friday only at the Home Depot now through April 22nd while supplies last exclusion supplies. See homedepot.com Pricematch for details.

[Alex Aljo]

K Pop Demon Hunters, Haja Boys Breakfast meal and Hunt Tricks meal have just dropped at McDonald's. They're calling this a battle for the fans. What do you say to that? Rude.

[Commercial Narrator]

It's not a battle. So glad the Saja Boys could take breakfast and give Our meal the rest of the day.

It is an honor to share.

No, it's our honor.

It is our larger honor.

[Alex Aljo]

No, really stop. You can really feel the respect in this battle. Pick a meal to pick a side

[Commercial Narrator]

and participate in McDonald's while supplies last. You know you need fiber for a healthy gut, but do you actually know how to get it? Quaker's been serving UP fiber since 1877 with over 100 great tasting, good source of fiber options to choose from. Whether you like old fashioned oats, instant oatmeal granola or oatmeal squares, Quaker makes it delicious.

[Alex Aljo]

Mmm.

[Commercial Narrator]

So good. Get your fiber with Quaker Shop Quaker's good source of fiber products at a store near you.

[Gary Lineker]

Welcome back to the Resties Football La Liga with Alex Alger, meet Gary Lineker. Let's move on to Barcelona. Difficult week as we mentioned in the first half in the Champions League against Atletica and they'll be looking ahead to that one. But a convincing win in La Liga in the local derby against Espanol.

[Alex Aljo]

Yep, yep. I was surprised actually that Pedri and Lamina male both played 90 minutes. 90 minutes three days before the second leg of what was a huge game for them. And Hansi Flick was quite defiant post match. Just saying, well, they've got time to recover. You know, they're professionals, they're athletes, they're fit, they'll be all right.

[Gary Lineker]

Quite like that. Because, you know, the great players do tend to play all the minutes.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

And I know there's a lot more rotation now and there's a lot more, more study done into players, injuries and whether they're gonna should be playing and physios and doctors and people get more involved than they used to, so. But I quite like a bit of the old fashioned stuff occasionally because to tell you, you could, you can say you can rest this player, rest that player, but I tell you now, you never. No one ever rested Messi. No one ever rested ronaldo. They played 90 minutes every game and they do not want to come off. No players want to come off. And the real greats don't come off. They play and they, and generally they don't get injured. I was a little bit surprised though with Yamal because obviously he's, he's very tender age still. Yeah, she's mad.

[Alex Aljo]

It's crazy.

[Gary Lineker]

And he's had, he has had like kind of niggling injury this season, so.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. And Pedri's obviously broken down a few times and, and I think, I think, boss, I have to be Slightly careful about overplaying them in their youth because obviously Ronaldo and Messi weren't necessary at this level at playing amount of football when they were in the teens.

[Alex Aljo]

Yep. Another record for Lamina Mal as well. The youngest player to reach 100 La Liga games for Barcelona in La Liga history. Which is crazy. 100 league games at 18 years old. It's actually crazy. I know we say it all the time, but. I know, but hearing numbers, figures like that, at 18 years old, to have played 100 La Liga matches.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, defies. It defies belief, really. I mean, the assist that he did and the weight of the past, that little one he does with the outside of his foot and it's so good.

[Alex Aljo]

I mean, two assists, wasn't it?

[Gary Lineker]

And a goal and yeah, cracking finish that one.

[Alex Aljo]

But yeah, no, I thought Gavi was also really good in this game. It was his first start post injury and out for a while and it didn't look like it at all. He was brilliant. He was so good. They're obviously missing Raphinha. They could do with him at the moment, couldn't they? But yeah, I thought Gavi had a great game.

[Gary Lineker]

He did. Mark Stracher came off the bench.

[Alex Aljo]

He came on for Gavi, didn't he? And he had this chance. He was clean through but just couldn't finish it. I think it's one of those things like had he been on the pitch for a little bit longer, when he had that chance, that one might have gone in. But he got his goal. He got his goal.

[Gary Lineker]

I thought he was quite threatening against Atletico because obviously he did start that game and probably should have scored one. He was unlucky. Got one just offside. You might. Was offside, wasn't he? Disallowed goal in that. In that game. Be interesting to see if he starts him on on Wednesday evening. I suspect he probably will.

[Alex Aljo]

He hasn't had many starts, has he? But I feel like he deserves it. He does deserve it.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, he contributes when he comes on and I thought he was one of their better players on in midweek against Atletico as well.

[Alex Aljo]

So I think the 4:1 SC line doesn't really reflect the game. Espanol were in the game for a lot of it and didn't make it easy for Barcelona. But one thing we know about Barcelona is that they score a lot of goals. They're averaging three goals at home a game this season, which is crazy.

[Gary Lineker]

They do give up a lot of chances, but that's one of the reasons that they do score as many Goals. And I know a lot of people, I mean, myself included, have been critical at times of the high line, but it does allow them to do what they do and they're brilliant to watch. And there is, you know, they've got players that will take people on and individual stuff when the game has become slightly robotic. So you're not getting any criticism from me for Hansi Flick's style of football, because, you know, it's brave, it's bold, it can be a little bit crazy at times, but it's. It's wonderful to watch. And if there's a team that you want to watch in Europe at the moment, the moment, it's probably Barcelona, I'd say.

[Alex Aljo]

I think that they will turn things around in the Champions League as well. So does our friend Eric.

[Commercial Narrator]

Oh, go on.

[Gary Lineker]

We didn't hear from Eric last week.

[Alex Aljo]

We haven't spoken about. Oh, yeah, yeah, true. We haven't spoken Lesko yet.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, we don't really need to say much about Athletico games. He made a huge amount of changes. He's obviously completely focused.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, he changed all 10 outfield players for that. So very different approach to Hansi. Flickering. A very, very young team.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. And. And they. And they're going to get the Champions League anyway. They can't win the league. So you could. Normally, I'm not a big fan of that sort of thing, but in this case, I think that's absolutely, totally understandable.

[Alex Aljo]

And Sevilla were like, thank you very much. We're in a relegation battle, so we'll take that and we'll take huge three

[Gary Lineker]

points before we get to Eric. What's going on at Sevilla? It's always been such a, you know, successful club over so many years, and now the last two seasons have really struggled.

[Alex Aljo]

Yep, yep. Fighting down the bottom of the table. Yeah, I've heard that Ramos wants to go back and Sergio Ramos save the day. Sergio Ramos back to his boyhood club and buy the club and maybe play for them as well. So can Ramos save the day at Sevilla?

[Gary Lineker]

Well, that'd be amazing. That'd be amazing. So it's. It's mad, isn't it? The footballers now earn so much money they can actually buy football clubs. Because he's not the only one that's involved in that, obviously, Beckham being the main one. So. Yeah, fascinating. Well, we'll keep our eye on that one, but, yeah, come on, Eric.

[Alex Aljo]

Eric. Right. He's saying so he says dream result in the first leg. Nice to see athlete finally win at the Camp Nou. And he said, barca deserve more, which made it even more fun. Gary.

[Gary Lineker]

Yes, all right.

[Alex Aljo]

Aims at you, but he says far from over. And he remembers a 2 nil win win against Juve, that was in the last 16 back in 2019. And Cristiano Ronaldo came along in the second leg, scored a hat trick and they went through. But they do have an incredible record. I didn't realize just how good their record is. In knockout stages of the Champions League. They have never lost at home in the knockout stages of the Champions League, which is. Yeah, never.

[Gary Lineker]

Wow.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah. 14 wins, seven draws. And then this is interesting, actually. So, of the 38 times in which a team has lost a Champions league first leg game 20 at home, on only one occasion have they come up from behind to qualify, and that was Manchester United against PSG in the round of 16 in 2018-19. And it was Marcus Rashford who scored United's third spot in the 94th minute. So he's like, I'm not a superstitious man, but Marcus Rashford's going to come on and score the third, or if he starts, he's going to score the third anyway. So he's not feeling, hopefully. And I think.

[Gary Lineker]

Shall we call him up to Eric now?

[Alex Aljo]

Up to Eric, yeah. All these stats this morning. Yeah, exactly. But no, I think I do think Barcelona go through. I really do.

[Gary Lineker]

I'd like to think so. For obvious reasons.

[Alex Aljo]

We know they can easily score three goals.

[Gary Lineker]

Yes. But can they keep a clean sheet? Which I probably need to do, I

[Alex Aljo]

would think, or it goes to extra time.

[Gary Lineker]

I think ordinarily you wouldn't think the team that have lost at home 2:0 in the first leg will have much chance. But it is slightly different, I think, with Barcelona. So they've got so much talent. So we shall see. Look forward to watching that one. That'll be really good.

[Alex Aljo]

And then the Copa del Rey final as well, that's coming up next weekend,

[Gary Lineker]

which will not feature either Real Madrid or Barcelona, which doesn't happen that often.

[Alex Aljo]

No. And a massive opportunity for Diego Simeone to lift a trophy.

[Gary Lineker]

Win another trophy. Yeah, he's lifted a few over the years. Do you want to round things up, Alex?

[Alex Aljo]

Yes. Let's round up the rest of the results from La Liga this weekend. Athletic Club lost 2:1 at home to Villarreal. Goals from Sergi Cardona and Alphon were enough to clinch the points. Real Sociedad and Alaves drew three, all in a dramatic back and forth encounter. The point was secured for the away side thanks to a 98 minute equalizer from Lucas Boye just after Real Sociedad's Sergio Gomez had been sent off minutes earlier. Elche claimed a crucial three points in their fight to beat the drop, beating Valencia 10 thanks to a 73rd minute strike from Lucas Seppala. Osasuna and Real Betis played out a one all draw on Sunday afternoon. A penalty from Osasina's Ante Budomir cancelled out Abde EZ Azuli's opener. Mallorca picked up where they left off last week with a 30 win over Rayo Vallecano. Vera Marici double plus a goal from Jan Vergili secured the points. Real Oviedo moved off the bottom of the league with an impressive 30 win at Celta Vigo. Alberto Reina opened the scoring and a Federico Vinas brace rounded off the victory.

[Gary Lineker]

Very good, Alex. We'll call it a day there, but I, you know, we like to pick out a name here, but I didn't. It's quite nice that somebody's auntie scored. Yeah. Also soon as Antique Buddha mayor. That's nice, isn't?

[Commercial Narrator]

Yeah,

[Alex Aljo]

that's good. That's good.

[Gary Lineker]

That's a good spot. All right. Well, enjoy. Anfield. It's always, always a great place to be on a midweek for a second leg of a Champions League tie.

[Alex Aljo]

Yeah, no. Looking forward to it. Looking forward to it. Should be good.

[Gary Lineker]

You got any interviews?

[Alex Aljo]

Pre match, it's Ashraf Hakimi later on.

[Gary Lineker]

Hakimi. Oh, I really like him. What a player. What a great player.

[Alex Aljo]

He's really good and he can. His English is good as well. So. So no need to translate him today this time.

[Gary Lineker]

Nice. Well, well, enjoy.

[Alex Aljo]

Looking forward to that. Thank you, thank you.

[Gary Lineker]

Look forward to hearing all about it next week.

[Alex Aljo]

We'll see you next week.

[Gary Lineker]

Okay. That's it for this episode of the Rest is Football La Liga. Goodbye from me.

[Alex Aljo]

Goodbye from me.