Raphinha admits Dani Olmo and Pau Victor saga ‘can have an impact’ on Barcelona’s future transfers and recruitment
By James Hilsum
Updated 07/01/2025 at 21:46 GMT
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Raphinha had his say on an unsavoury administrative battle for Barcelona after they were forced to take Dani Olmo and Pau Victor out of their squad. The Brazilian admitted the situation could have a negative impact on Barcelona's future recruitment of players. However, he explained that the club's prestige ultimately convinced him to join in the summer of 2022, despite their financial problems.
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Raphinha stressed that the ongoing saga surrounding Dani Olmo and Pau Victor could deter players from joining Barcelona.
The Spanish giants have been forced to de-register both players after failing to extend their licences beyond January 2.
A statement on Tuesday evening from La Liga read: "As of Dec. 31, Barcelona have not presented any alternative, in accordance with La Liga's economic rules, that allow the registration of players from January 2."
The matter has since been escalated to the Consejo Superior de Deportes (CSD), and Raphinha admits that this upheaval could be off-putting to some players.
"Yes, it can have an impact, I can’t say the opposite," he said in quotes published by The Athletic.
"If I was in another club seeing the situation they are going through, I would probably wonder if coming here is the best option.
"When I signed for Barca, I knew the situation the club was going through. I saw a chance to play for this shirt and I waited until the very last moment. I don’t regret at all my decision."
Olmo and Victor were only issued with temporary permits that ran until the end of December.
Despite the issue, Olmo is reportedly willing to bide his time and committed to remaining with Barcelona.
It is a far-from-ideal situation for Barca coach Hansi Flick who is preparing for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Club on Wednesday.
However, the German stressed he has no regrets about agreeing to become the club's head coach.
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When quizzed about Raphinha's comments in the pre-match press conference, he replied: "I don’t know. The only thing I can say is that I trust the club.
"When I was in this situation [of signing for Barcelona], I knew the club, how great the club is and how great the team and the people around it are.
"I love everything around Barcelona. I signed the contract and I would do that again. I have no doubts. It’s amazing to work with everyone here."
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