The Dani Olmo case has marked a before and after in Spanish soccer. The controversy over his non-registration in LaLiga has unleashed a storm at FC Barcelona, with consequences that go far beyond the player. Joan Laporta has made it clear he won't forgive those who, according to him, have worked in the shadows to harm the club.
A More Combative Barça
FC Barcelona has decided to radically change its strategy in the transfer market. Clubs like Atlético and Sevilla, pointed out by Barça as instigators in the Olmo case, will no longer be options for closing deals.
The first move of this new approach was halting the sale of Clément Lenglet to Atlético Madrid. Although the French center-back is currently on loan and his departure would benefit Barça economically, Laporta has decided to block any agreement with the red-and-white club.
"Anything but closing another deal with them," is said in the Barça environment. The list of precedents with Atlético includes cases like Villa, Luis Suárez, or Griezmann, which reinforces Laporta's decision to end that commercial relationship.
Sevilla Also Off the Radar
Sevilla isn't spared from the breakup. Ansu Fati, whose departure seemed destined for the Andalusian team, won't play there. The operation, which seemed closed, has been vetoed by Laporta as a direct reply to what happened with Olmo.
Sevilla, in the midst of a sporting and economic crisis, was seeking a favorable agreement to take Ansu Fati. However, Laporta has made it clear there will be no deal. "Ansu will never go to Sevilla while he's under contract with Barça," sources close to the club state.
The Olmo case hasn't only fractured relationships with other clubs. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and LaLiga are also in Barça's sights. According to the club, both institutions have acted against their interests, and Laporta has decided to adopt a stance of distancing.
Barça will maintain its affiliation with both entities out of obligation, but won't collaborate in any of their initiatives. From the offices at Camp Nou, phrases like: "Let them select Real Madrid's players... if they can." are heard.
This could have a significant impact on the Spanish national team's call-ups. If Barça hinders the release of its players, the RFEF could struggle to form a competitive team.
The Future of Ansu Fati
One of the names most affected by this change in strategy is Ansu Fati. His departure, which seemed imminent, will now be reconsidered. Laporta and Deco will seek options outside the national scope, avoiding any ties with clubs considered adversaries after the Olmo case.
Ansu Fati's relocation will be key in the winter market, and there's speculation about his possible destination in international leagues. Teams from England and Italy have already shown interest in the youth player.
The Olmo case has triggered a chain reaction at FC Barcelona. Laporta and his team are not only looking to strengthen the team but also to protect the club's interests in an environment they consider hostile.
This new stage for Barça promises to be more combative and less conciliatory. Marking a change in its relationship with other clubs and institutions in Spanish soccer. With Ansu Fati as a symbol of this transition, the winter market will be decisive in defining the club's immediate future and its strategies.
Barça no longer looks back. The reply to those considered traitors is underway, and it promises a hot winter in European soccer.