Barcelona coach Hansi Flick remains optimistic the club will register key players, including new signings Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford, in time for Saturday’s LaLiga opener at Mallorca, despite ongoing financial fair play (FFP) hurdles.
The Spanish champions are once again battling LaLiga’s strict financial rules after several seasons of spending more on signings and wages than they have generated in revenue. Flick admitted the situation was far from ideal but expressed trust in the club’s management.
“For me, you can imagine I’m not happy about that. But I know the situation and I believe in the club,” Flick told reporters on Friday. “We have to wait till tomorrow. It was the same situation last season. We will focus on what we can change and what is in our hands.”
Barcelona’s registration woes have been partially eased by a surprising twist involving captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Initially unwilling to sign a long-term medical leave agreement that would reduce his wages by 80% while he recovers from surgery, the German goalkeeper was stripped of his captaincy before agreeing to the deal — after which the armband was returned.
“The most important thing is that everyone speaks together,” Flick said. “Marc has shown for many years he’s a fantastic goalkeeper. The important thing is he comes back fit. We’re all on his side.”
The sale of veteran defender Inigo Martinez to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia has also freed up valuable salary space. Flick admitted he was “a little bit surprised” by Martinez’s departure but understood the decision.
“I’m not happy he left, but he’s a fantastic player and person. He was one of our leaders and deserves the best,” Flick said.
Despite losing a key defender, Flick is not rushing into the transfer market, instead backing 23-year-old Gerard Martin to step up.
“Gerard can also play centre back. Last season, as a left back, he improved a lot. When he played as centre back, he did well. I like players who can play in different positions,” Flick noted.
With the squad’s registration still unresolved, all eyes will be on whether Barcelona can navigate their FFP constraints in time for kick-off at Son Moix.
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