Barcelona president Joan Laporta has expressed confidence that the club will be able to make signings in the upcoming January transfer window despite facing registration issues during the summer transfer window. Laporta reassured fans that the club will be back on track by January and will be able to operate normally in terms of player acquisitions. The signing of Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig for a substantial fee was delayed due to registration problems caused by the team exceeding their league-imposed spending limit.
The focus for Barcelona moving forward is to reach LaLiga’s 1:1 rule, which would allow them to spend money saved in wages, transfer fees, or revenue on players. Laporta is optimistic that through renegotiating the club’s agreement with kit supplier Nike, they will be able to rectify their financial shortcomings and comply with the league regulations. Laporta emphasized that financial decisions around players like Ilkay Gündogan were made primarily for sporting reasons rather than economic ones.
The departure of Gündogan along with other players created room for registering Olmo and potential new signings. Despite missing out on additional signings in the summer transfer window, Laporta believes that the squad is currently strong and does not foresee any urgent need for reinforcements in January. The sporting director is actively analyzing the team’s needs on a medium and long-term basis while ensuring that the squad remains competitive.
Barcelona’s on-field performance has been impressive, winning all four LaLiga games at the start of the season. Laporta commended coach Hansi Flick for his approach to incorporating academy players into the first team, showcasing a commitment to the club’s youth development system. He praised Flick for his intensity and dedication to pressing until the final whistle, demonstrating a focus on physical conditioning and tactical awareness in training sessions.
Deco’s Contribution
Deco, the club’s sporting director, has played a significant role in shaping Barcelona’s squad and coaching staff. Laporta highlighted Deco’s efforts in appointing Flick as coach, renewing contracts for young players, and restructuring the fitness department. Despite rumors of Deco’s potential departure following transfer frustrations, Laporta expressed his confidence in Deco’s commitment to the club and stressed the importance of effective communication between the board and the sporting director.
Barcelona’s president remains optimistic about the club’s future prospects and the ability to strengthen the squad in the upcoming transfer window. Laporta’s strategic approach to financial negotiations and team management reflects a desire to maintain competitiveness while adhering to league regulations. With a strong start to the season and a cohesive vision for the team’s development, Barcelona looks poised for success under Laporta’s leadership.