The problems are something that the president of Barcelona John Laporta it is not short, but there are rumblings of discontent from the club as much as there is criticism in it. With the players who admit that the drama of the registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor has been far from ideal, their frustration is consistent with a track of reports.
According to ReliefWhile Alejandro Balde and Lamine Yamal tried to convince Nico Williams to leave Athletic Club for Barcelona in the summer, there was a section of the dressing room that was not happy with the club's efforts to sign the Basque winger. Other players were promised contract renewals and were not properly registered, but saw their club go for Williams and then spend 55 million euros on Dani Olmo.
It would be no surprise if Raphinha was among that group. The Brazilian expressed his displeasure at the social media abuse he received as Barcelona pursued Williams, and spoke about Olmo and Victor's situation, noting that it would make him think twice about joining the club if he was elsewhere. Shortly after these statements to the press, Laporta was seen having words with Raphinha as Barcelona went out to train – MD say that Laporta was not even aware of the Brazilian's words at that point though.
Hansi Flick: “Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor? I'm very happy for both boys. We found out on the bus and it's great news for the whole club. It was a good sign for the whole team before the game.
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) January 8, 2025
The clear line of disappointment in the players has been visible in their press functions, but it is also seen in private. Ace for SportLaporta had left Hansi Flick to explain the situation that Olmo and Victor were in, a job that Flick carried out. After talking to the team though, the players asked that Laporta himself come to explain the matter. He did so, detailing his legal challenge, in a move that the visibility affected Olmo and Victor appreciated.
Laporta has seen criticism grow in the Catalan capital, with talk of a potential no-confidence motion against him. Ultimately, their survival depends on the team's results on the field, and to achieve this, motivated players are needed. As is the case for any employer, straining the relationship with key employees needs to be handled with care.
