Barcelona’s pursuit of Erling Haaland saw their hopes dashed as President Joan Laporta’s statement left Xavi, the club’s manager, speechless and anticipating Manchester City’s triumph. While Haaland ultimately joined Man City, Barcelona and Xavi were among the frontrunners in the hotly contested summer transfer market of 2022.
Barcelona’s President’s Bold Statement:
Joan Laporta conveyed a remark to Xavi that rendered the esteemed coach silent, revealing his willingness to go against the financial demands imposed by Haaland. The President indicated that should they pay the exorbitant commission fees demanded by Haaland’s camp, he would resign from his position the very next day.
Haaland’s Preference for La Liga and Barcelona:
It’s worth noting that the Norwegian striker has expressed a preference for La Liga over the Premier League and has even studied the Spanish language. In March, Haaland’s commitment to a potential move was shaken when Xavi and advisor Jordi Cruyff traveled to Germany to persuade him and present Barcelona’s long-term project, with the Norwegian forward at the center.
Financial Hurdles for Barcelona:
Although Haaland held an affinity for Xavi and Barcelona, the primary obstacle to their union was the financial aspect. Barcelona, burdened by significant debt, found it challenging to meet the financial demands associated with Haaland’s transfer.
Xavi’s Hope for Barcelona’s Financial Situation:
Nevertheless, Xavi remained hopeful that Barcelona could somehow resolve their budgetary issues. However, President Joan Laporta’s statement extinguished any lingering hopes. Diario Sport revealed that Laporta informed Xavi that if the entire commission fee for Haaland were paid, he would have to resign from his position as Barcelona’s President the following day.
Erling Haaland’s Potential Impact at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola:
Will Erling Haaland be able to reach new heights in Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City lineup?
The agreement between Manchester City and Haaland reportedly involved a €40 million agent fee, along with an additional €30 million commission for the player’s father. Furthermore, the Premier League champions paid Borussia Dortmund a transfer fee of €60 million.
Xavi’s Lack of Surprise:
Prior to Manchester City officially confirming Haaland’s signing, Xavi expressed his lack of surprise, implying that it was a choice driven by financial factors that Barcelona couldn’t compete with due to their financial difficulties.
Haaland’s Contract Details and Future Aspirations:
Haaland signed a five-year contract with Manchester City, earning £375,000 per week. However, it is believed that a release clause worth £128 million (€150 million) will be activated in 2024. La Liga is still considered the destination that the Norwegian striker aims for in the future.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Erling Haaland ended in disappointment as Manchester City secured his signature. Financial constraints and President Joan Laporta’s statement stifled Barcelona’s chances, leaving Xavi speechless. Haaland’s decision to join Manchester City raises questions about his potential impact under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, while his future aspirations still point towards La Liga.
