Raphinha Expresses Concerns Over Barcelona’s Registration Crisis and Future Signings

Barcelona winger Raphinha has voiced concerns about the potential impact of the club’s ongoing registration issues on attracting future signings. His comments follow the de-registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor from the first-team squad, leaving both players unavailable for selection ahead of key fixtures.

The crisis erupted after Barcelona failed to comply with La Liga’s financial fair play (FFP) regulations by a December 31 deadline. Olmo and Víctor had been granted temporary registrations, which expired at the end of the year. Despite filing complaints to both the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and the Consejo Superior de Deportes (CSD), the club has so far been unable to resolve the issue.

Raphinha: "Players Could Think Twice"

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Club, Raphinha admitted the situation might deter players from joining Barcelona.

"I think it could," he said when asked about the potential impact on future signings. "If I were at another club and saw what Dani and Pau are going through, I might think twice about coming here."

Reflecting on his own transfer to Barcelona in 2022—a move that required the club to activate economic levers to comply with FFP—Raphinha expressed no regrets. "When I signed, I knew the club's situation. I took a chance because I wanted to wear this shirt, and I don’t regret it," he said.

Hansi Flick Optimistic Amid Turmoil

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick acknowledged the challenges posed by the crisis but expressed faith in the club’s management and unity within the team.

"It’s a complicated situation for Dani and Pau," Flick said. "We miss them, especially Dani, who can change matches. But this is our reality, and we have to accept it."

Flick praised the team’s performance in recent matches, citing their strong showing against Atlético Madrid despite the loss, and highlighted the importance of unity ahead of the Super Cup.

Ongoing Appeals and Temporary Measures

Barcelona has appealed to the CSD, requesting temporary measures to allow Olmo and Víctor to play while the case is resolved. However, a ruling is not expected before Wednesday’s match against Athletic Club.

La Liga and the RFEF maintain that Barcelona cannot re-register the players mid-season, despite the club now meeting FFP requirements. This has added to frustrations for the Catalan side, who are fighting to regain form after a difficult run in La Liga.

Focus on the Super Cup

Despite the off-field drama, Barcelona is eyeing its first silverware of the season. Victory against Athletic Club in Saudi Arabia would secure a spot in the final against either Real Madrid or Mallorca.

Raphinha emphasized the significance of the tournament: "Winning a title gives any team confidence. It’s an important trophy, and we’re focused on giving our best."

Both Raphinha and rising star Lamine Yamal are expected to feature prominently in Wednesday’s clash as Barcelona seeks to shift the narrative from administrative struggles to on-field success.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @Raphinha, Pexels / Mihai Vlasceanu