Barcelona winger Raphinha has expressed concerns that the ongoing registration debacle involving Dani Olmo and Pau Victor might influence potential signings to reconsider joining the club.
The financially troubled Catalan side is racing to secure Dani Olmo’s license for the second half of the season after earlier court attempts were rejected. The matter is now before Spain’s top sports court, leaving Olmo and Victor sidelined for now, including the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday.
Raphinha admitted the situation could deter future players. “If I were at another club and saw this, I might question if joining was the right decision,” he said. “But when I signed, I understood the circumstances, and I have no regrets.”
Coach Hansi Flick dismissed such concerns, reiterating Barcelona’s allure. “This is a great club with incredible quality,” Flick said. “I have no doubts players will want to sign here.”
Flick encouraged his team to rally in the absence of Olmo and Victor. “We miss Dani because he’s transformative, but this is an opportunity to grow stronger as a team,” he noted.
Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde acknowledged Olmo’s absence as a boost for his side. “He’s an extraordinary player. If he can’t play, it’s better for us,” Valverde remarked.
Real Madrid faces Real Mallorca in the second semifinal on Thursday, with both finalists set to clash on Sunday in Jeddah.