Rafinha’s comments at the press conference did not go unnoticed. The Brazilian winger, one of Barcelona’s key leaders, was candid when addressing the club’s player registration issues, referencing the cases of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor.
When asked if these problems could impact the interest of future signings in joining Barcelona, his answer was straightforward: “I think so. If I were at another club and saw the situation, I might think twice.”
These words, coming from Rafinha’s personal experience, highlight the anxiety within Barcelona’s dressing room. Rafinha, with his extensive experience in European football, understands the psychological toll that such crises can have on players.
According to “El Nacional”, both club president Joan Laporta and coach Hansi Flick were displeased with the Brazilian star’s remarks, fearing that they could dissuade potential signings from joining Barcelona.
The newspaper further reported that Rafinha justified his comments by citing the example of Liverpool winger Luis Díaz. Although Díaz was initially a target for Barcelona, he decided against the move, fearing the uncertainty surrounding the club’s finances and registration issues.
Sources close to Díaz revealed that the player values stability above all, and feels secure at Liverpool under coach Jürgen Klopp. In contrast, the ongoing problems at Barcelona made him hesitant to pursue a transfer to Camp Nou. Despite Díaz’s dream of playing for Barcelona, the complications at the club ultimately led him to renew his contract with Liverpool.
Díaz’s decision has been a setback for Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, who had considered the Colombian a key target to strengthen the attack, especially with his ability to perform in high-stakes matches. This refusal leaves Barcelona with fewer options in the market to bolster their offensive line.
The ongoing financial problems, highlighted by the cases of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, are now affecting Barcelona’s ability to secure new signings. Players like Luis Díaz are rethinking their potential moves, fearing they might face similar complications if they join the club.
Within the Barcelona dressing room, voices like Rafinha’s are becoming more prominent, as players realize that the club’s financial troubles are not only impacting the present but also threatening the team’s competitive future.