Two-time LaLiga champions Barcelona begin plotting for a new season
The Barcelona squad, fresh from lifting the LaLiga title, already has its sights set on the future. Rumors swirl around potential signings such as Íñigo Martínez and Ilkay Gundogan, and there is genuine talk of a possible return for Lionel Messi. The club’s celebrations followed a dramatic finish to the campaign, including an emphatic 4-2 victory over Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium that sealed Barcelona’s 27th league title. Under the guidance of coach Xavi Hernandez, Barça clinched the trophy with minutes to spare, marking his first major triumph since taking charge and signaling the start of a busy off-season aimed at elevating the squad for the next campaign.
The next season will be shaped by Xavi Hernandez, the architect of Barcelona’s compact and disciplined style. The team demonstrated strength at both ends of the pitch, allowing only 13 goals across the league and suffering just three defeats while keeping 25 clean sheets on the path to the title. This success was complemented by a domestic super cup victory, reinforcing the idea that the Catalan giants intend to compete on multiple fronts in the near future. With a contract in place for the remainder of the current term, Xavi will steer the project into the new season, balancing development with performance as the roster eyes its long-term objectives.
The core of the squad remains anchored by standout performers who delivered this season, including Lewandowski, the league’s top scorer, and Pedri, whose central role in midfield proved pivotal. Both players are under long-term deals, offering Barcelona stability as they pursue continued excellence through 2026. Yet, as is typical with a club of Barça’s stature, there are several pressing issues that must be resolved to facilitate a smooth transition into the next cycle. The management group is focused on aligning financial constraints with sporting ambitions to avoid disrupting the momentum built this year.
Among the financial and contractual matters to address, there are notable questions surrounding the registration of some squad members in the first-team squad and the adjustment of salary cap rules. If those salary-related hurdles are not resolved, potential acquisitions could be delayed. While some contracts extend through 2026, adjustments will be necessary to ensure the roster can be registered under league regulations. Additionally, the defense will require attention to ensure that Araujo remains a robust option at the back, and other personnel moves may be contemplated as part of the summer plans.
On the transfer front, Barcelona is reportedly pursuing reinforcements that could shape the club’s path in the coming season. Reports have pointed to interest in players such as Gundogan from Manchester City, Iñigo Martinez from Athletic Club, and a possible return for Aubameyang who recently played in the English Premier League. There is also a persistent wish from the club’s leadership to welcome back Messi, whose long association with Barcelona is a defining chapter in the club’s modern history. The idea of reuniting with Messi remains a topic of ongoing speculation and excitement among supporters and analysts alike.
In what marks a significant turn of events, Sergio Busquets, the captain and a symbol of the club for years, will part ways with the Barca first team after this season. His departure, after 15 seasons in the blaugrana shirt, signals a shift in leadership as the team forges ahead. Meanwhile, Mateu Alemany, who has served as football director, is stepping back from the position but will stay connected with the club during the summer to help oversee the transfer market and keep plans on track.
As Barcelona looks to the horizon, the club’s supporters and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the off-season developments translate into performance for the next campaign. The focus will be on integrating possible new signings with existing stars, maintaining financial discipline, and ensuring a smooth transition that preserves the club’s distinctive identity and competitive edge.
Source: Goal