Barcelona winger Raphinha has voiced concerns that the club’s ongoing issues with registering new signings, such as Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, could discourage future transfer targets from joining the Catalan giants.
Barcelona’s Registration Struggles
Barcelona’s financial difficulties and LaLiga’s strict salary cap rules have prevented the club from registering Olmo and Victor for the second half of the season.
- Dani Olmo: Signed from RB Leipzig after winning Euro 2024 with Spain.
- Pau Victor: Joined from Girona during the same transfer window.
Despite multiple appeals, Barcelona has failed to secure permission to register the players, leaving their hopes pinned on a decision from the Administrative Sports Court (CSD).
Raphinha’s Perspective
Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s Supercopa de España semi-final against Athletic Bilbao, Raphinha acknowledged the potential impact of these issues on future signings:
I think Olmo and Pau’s situation may affect signings in the future. If I were at another club and I saw this situation, I would doubt if it was the right club for me.”
However, the Brazilian emphasized that he doesn’t regret joining Barcelona despite their financial struggles:
“When I came, I knew Barca’s situation. I waited until the last moment, and I don’t regret anything.”
Impact on Barcelona’s Reputation
Barcelona’s financial troubles have been well-documented in recent years, with the club navigating challenges like:
- Salary Cap Restrictions: Forcing the departure of key players, including Lionel Messi in 2021.
- Delayed Registrations: New signings often face delays or complications, as seen with Olmo and Victor.
- Transfer Limitations: The club has struggled to compete financially with other top European teams.
These issues could tarnish Barcelona’s reputation as a destination for elite players, particularly if high-profile cases like Olmo’s remain unresolved.
Olmo’s Current Situation
Despite being unable to play in LaLiga’s second half, Olmo has traveled with the team to Saudi Arabia for the Supercopa de España. However, head coach Hansi Flick admitted it is unlikely Olmo will receive clearance to participate in the tournament.
Barcelona’s Supercopa Challenge
Barcelona faces Athletic Bilbao in the Supercopa semi-final, with the winner advancing to the final against either Real Madrid or Real Mallorca. The tournament offers an opportunity for Barcelona to secure silverware amid their off-field struggles.
FAQs
1. Why can’t Barcelona register Dani Olmo and Pau Victor?
Barcelona has exceeded LaLiga’s salary cap, preventing them from registering new players for the second half of the season.
2. What is the Administrative Sports Court (CSD)?
The CSD is a Spanish government body that oversees sports-related legal matters. Barcelona is appealing to the CSD as a last resort to register Olmo and Victor.
3. How has Raphinha reacted to Barcelona’s financial struggles?
Raphinha admitted that Barcelona’s registration issues could deter future signings but stated he has no regrets about joining the club.
4. Will Dani Olmo play in the Supercopa de España?
Olmo has traveled with the team but is unlikely to receive clearance to play, according to coach Hansi Flick.
5. Who will Barcelona face in the Supercopa semi-final?
Barcelona will play Athletic Bilbao, with the winner advancing to the final against either Real Madrid or Real Mallorca.
