Barcelona Granted Temporary Permission for Olmo and Victor to Play
Barcelona has received temporary authorization from the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD) to register Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, allowing them to play for the club. This decision comes after a request from the club following the rejection of their initial registration by both the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and La Liga. The two players, who were signed during the summer transfer window, had been temporarily registered only for the first half of the season due to financial limitations related to La Liga’s wage cap restrictions.
CSD Intervention Following La Liga and RFEF Rejection
On Wednesday, after Barcelona filed an appeal, the CSD intervened and granted a precautionary measure, allowing Olmo and Victor to play until a final ruling is made on the case. This temporary approval suspends the previous decision by La Liga and RFEF to cancel the players’ licenses, thus allowing them to continue their involvement with the team. The CSD confirmed that the licenses of both players remain valid until the resolution of the appeal.
Olmo and Victor Eligible for Future Matches
Although the temporary registration came too late for Olmo and Victor to play in Barcelona’s Spanish Supercopa semi-final against Athletic Club, which took place in Saudi Arabia, both players are now eligible for the final. Barcelona won 2-0 and will face either Real Madrid or Mallorca in the final, where Olmo and Victor could make their debut appearances.
Financial Issues Behind Registration Delay
Dani Olmo, who arrived at Barcelona from RB Leipzig for £51 million, was initially registered under a special exemption for the first half of the season due to Barcelona’s financial situation. The club struggled to meet La Liga’s strict wage cap regulations, which forced them to sell VIP boxes for their under-construction stadium for €100 million (£83.42 million) to comply with La Liga’s financial fair play requirements. However, Barcelona’s registration paperwork was submitted three days after the La Liga deadline.
La Liga’s Disagreement and Pending Clarifications
La Liga has expressed its dissatisfaction with the CSD’s decision and is awaiting further clarification on the appeal process. The organization noted that it was not given the opportunity to review the appeal or submit counter-arguments before the CSD made its ruling. La Liga intends to thoroughly review the decision and file appropriate appeals if necessary, emphasizing its disagreement with the resolution.
Barcelona’s Argument Against Wage Cap Restrictions
Barcelona has argued that the rule preventing players from obtaining a new license at the same club within the same season is outdated. The club claims it now meets the financial requirements necessary to register Olmo and Victor, especially with the transfer window still open. According to Spanish reports, Barcelona believes that it should be allowed to register the players given the current financial standing and the flexibility of the transfer window.
Conclusion: A Temporary Solution Amid Financial Struggles
While the issue is still pending a final resolution, the temporary approval granted by the CSD allows both Olmo and Victor to contribute to Barcelona’s upcoming fixtures. The club’s financial struggles remain a key factor in their efforts to comply with La Liga’s wage cap, but this provisional measure provides some relief for both the players and the team as they navigate the complexities of Spanish football regulations.