LaLiga president Javier Tebas reveals astonishing cut in Barcelona's wage bill that has got them level with Real Madrid
La Liga president Javier Tebas recently highlighted a massive cut in Barcelona's wage bill that got their figures equal to Real Madrid's. He also explained that things have been the best for the Catalan club now since they began facing financial issues.
At the Global Expansion of La Liga conference in the 2024 Sports Mexico on Wednesday (July 3), Tebas mentioned that Barcelona's wage bill was €650 million three years ago. However, now it's at par with Real Madrid's wage bill at €450 million.
"There is an essential fact. Three years ago Barcelona had a first-team wage bill of 650 million euros, today it is 450 million , 250 million less, something that is more affordable for a team like Barcelona. It is at the same level as Real Madrid in terms of wage bill, but Madrid has done its homework well for many years and that is why it can incorporate players," Tebas said. (Via MARCA)
The La Liga president went on to speak about Barca's reported poor financial situation, indicating that they're on their way to come out of the situation. Tebas said that this year it would be the easiest for them to sign players compared to the last couple of years with looming financial issues.
"This year, of all the last few years, is the easiest for them. Barcelona knows what they have to do to bring in players , they know financial fair play, they have a good command of it.
"They are coming out of their complicated economic situation and we will see if they can resolve those few issues they have in order to add the important signings they are hoping for," he added. (via MARCA)
Since the departure of former president Josep Maria Bartomeu, Barca have been in a poor economic situation. Their financial needs allegedly led to them being unable to register Lionel Messi's contract and the Argentine's eventual departure from his boyhood club in 2021.
However, they've been slowly getting a grip on the finances, with multiple reports suggesting that the Blaugrana will return to the 1:1 rule this summer. This means they will spend as much money as they'll earn.
Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal says he'll never play for Real Madrid
The Barcelona and Real Madrid rivalry has been one of the most heated and bitter ones in the history of football. In the past, players who've played for both clubs are frowned upon by football fans. Former Portugal legend Luis Figo famously received immense backlash for transferring from Barca to Real Madrid in 2000.
However, Culers can now take a breath of relief as Blaugrana star Lamine Yamal recently confirmed to the media that he would never join Real Madrid, per Forbes. Yamal, already considered one of the most promising young players in the world, has been a La Masia star since seven.
The media recently asked him how he'd rate himself as a Culer or Blaugrana supporter, to which he confidently said "10". In a follow-up, he was asked whether he's a fan big enough to say he'd never join Real Madrid. Yamal didn't hesitate before saying yes.
Lamine Yamal is key to the club's future plans and has been performing exceptionally for Spain in the Euro 2024. The youngster has made it clear that he is at Catalonya for the long-term period and it remains to be seen how he fairs in the upcoming season.