Barcelona tried their best to fill every position that needed players during the summer transfer window, but they were unsuccessful in executing their plans.
As we know, they were able to bring in a couple of bodies, but it is clear that there are still positions throughout the squad that need improving and January would have been an ideal time. Indeed, their need for help would have been heightened following the decision by Gerard Pique to retire, too, especially as each of their centre-backs are currently injured.
And, with Barcelona currently 2 points ahead of Real Madrid in the La Liga standings, the need to improve this January is clear. Nonetheless, Barcelona fans still believe their team is the favourite to lift the La Liga title.
The break for the World Cup could have come at the ideal time for the club, with the Blaugrana able to reset. Indeed, while there will be numerous players at the tournament that bettors are likely to use the available no deposit bonus codes when wagering on the matches that involve them, it could give the team the time to get others back and give those who do not head to Qatar the chance to rest.
This could be vital for the squad, as they will be unable to sign any one in January due to La Liga’s FFP regulations. President Joan Laporta verified this in an interview with EFE.
“We cannot sign players in January per La Liga’s FFP. We are making every effort to convince the league to be more accommodating,” he stated.
If rumours are accurate, Barcelona was intrigued by some players this winter. Inigo Martinez of Athletic Club was a front-runner in the competition for the central defensive position because his contract expires in July 2023.
Other names were also being bandied about with fairly reliable support, including Ruben Neves of Wolverhampton Wanderers, Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad, Youri Tielemans of Leicester City, Ilkay Gundogan of Manchester City, and Arnau Martinez of Girona.
Barcelona’s focus will be renewing a few crucial players, like Alejandro Balde. He has surprised coaches and fans alike with his breakout season as he has continued to perform brilliantly when given the opportunity to play. Alonso also appears to be on the radar of a possible extension.
However, they will also have to contend with a few players leaving, starting with Memphis Depay. The Dutchman’s contract runs until the summer of 2023, and the club plans to put him up for sale in January to raise funds.
Final Words
While it seems a disappointment to some fans, it does not mean that the team will have to rely on its existing players to get through the rest of the season. Despite this setback, it is important to remember that the club is still in a strong position. With some clever planning, Barcelona can still have a successful season.
