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WHAT HAPPENED?
The National Sports Council (CSD) has upheld Barcelona’s request to register Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, in spite of opposition from the LaLiga-RFEF joint commission. LaLiga had attempted to block their registrations, arguing that the players’ licenses had automatically expired on December 31, 2024, and that the RFEF-LaLiga commission lacked the authority to grant new registrations without prior validation. However, the CSD declared that this agreement was “null and void” and sided with Barcelona.
Despite this ruling, the controversy revolves around the fact that Olmo and Victor had been playing matches while their registrations were under dispute, which could potentially lead to penalties. LaLiga has announced plans to appeal the CSD decision, questioning the CSD’s authority in the matter and emphasizing alleged violations of Spain’s sports registration rules.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Barcelona has been facing the risk of severe penalties, including a potential 17-point deduction or even expulsion from LaLiga, for fielding Olmo and Victor before their registrations were validated. While the CSD ruling provides temporary relief by allowing both players to remain registered, this does not resolve the broader legal disputes surrounding the case. LaLiga has explicitly stated that the financial control aspects of the situation, which fall under its jurisdiction, remain unresolved and could escalate further. Barcelona’s appearance in court on Friday could see these penalties enforced, depending on the judge’s decision.
WHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA?
The reinstatement of Olmo and Victor confronts only a part of Barcelona’s ongoing challenges. The club continues to face legal battles, including allegations of financial mismanagement under its previous board and disputes with both LaLiga and the RFEF. Furthermore, Barcelona has yet to successfully secure permanent registrations for Olmo and Pau Victor, leaving the potential for further complications. The court proceedings on Friday will be a critical moment that could define the club’s immediate future.
Despite the turmoil, Barcelona has been having a very successful season, winning the Spanish Supercopa, leading the La Liga, playing the Copa del Rey Final against Real Madrid and the Champions League Quarter-finals against Dortmund.
The Blaugranas play against Betis on the weekend, where they lead the La Liga with 3 points advantage against rivals Real Madrid.
