Photo: Peter Baba

Jalen Suggs has revealed that FC Barcelona is the football team he enjoys watching the most right now, offering rare insight into his interests beyond basketball during the NBA’s international stop in Europe.

The Orlando Magic guard made the comments in an interview published by Mundo Deportivo, while the NBA continues its regular-season slate overseas.

“I love Barça! They’re the football team I enjoy watching the most right now, I won’t lie,” Suggs said. “Lamine is brilliant, Raphinha is playing at a fantastic level.”

Suggs also highlighted Barcelona’s midfield as the area that stands out most to him this season. “Their midfield is incredible, my favorite midfield at the moment is Barça’s, I won’t lie,” he added.

The comments come as Barcelona sit atop La Liga with a four-point lead over Real Madrid in the 2025–26 season. Under head coach Hansi Flick, the club has recovered from early injury issues and stabilized its domestic form.

Young forward Lamine Yamal has emerged as a central figure in the attack, while Raphinha’s return to form has added consistent production from the wing. Midfielders Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Dani Olmo have anchored possession and tempo.

Barcelona’s squad depth has been tested throughout the campaign, especially during a demanding schedule that included domestic and European competition. Despite challenges in the Champions League, league results have kept them in control of the title race.

Suggs’ remarks were made while he was spending time in London ahead of Orlando’s international game. He also shared his experience exploring the city during the trip.

“Yesterday I walked around the city, along Piccadilly Circus, which was funny to visit because I knew it from a Call of Duty map,” Suggs said. “I was able to explore the city a bit, chat with people.”

The Magic guard described the experience as a positive way to conclude the overseas stretch. “I loved it, I love being here and having this experience,” he said.

Suggs is currently sidelined with a right knee MCL contusion. He is averaging 15.0 points and 4.7 assists this season while serving as one of the team’s primary perimeter defenders.

Orlando enters the day fifth in the Eastern Conference at 23-18, maintaining playoff position despite injuries. The Magic continue to rely on Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner to carry offensive responsibilities.