Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández acknowledges the grim reality of the club’s financial situation. In an effort to generate much-needed revenue, Barcelona played a friendly match against Club América in the United States just 30 hours after their hard-fought LaLiga victory over Almería. This unusual strategy aims to bring in a reported €5 million for the club. Xavi’s pragmatic approach demonstrates his commitment to Barcelona’s financial stability.
Despite the demanding scheduling, Xavi expressed his satisfaction with playing in Dallas. He appreciates the hospitality and support the team receives from their American fans. The coach emphasizes the importance of unity among the players and staff in navigating the club’s financial challenges. “We all have to row in the same direction to sustain the club financially,” Xavi emphasizes.
Ahead of the match against Club América, Barcelona faced a significant setback with a growing number of injured players. Ronald Araújo, Pedri, Marc-André ter Stegen, Gavi, Íñigo Martínez, and Marcos Alonso are all sidelined due to injuries. This circumstance has provided an opportunity for several players from the B team and the youth team to join the first-team squad. The inclusion of these young talents, such as Marc Guiu, who has already displayed promise with two goals in just 44 minutes of play, demonstrates the club’s commitment to nurturing its own talent.
Barcelona’s choice to play matches abroad is not a new phenomenon. In recent years, the club has embarked on preseason tours and hosted mid-season and end-of-season matches in various countries, including Japan, Australia, and South Africa. The motive behind this global revenue strategy is evident: Barcelona seeks to maximize its financial potential. By expanding their reach beyond Spain, Barcelona aims to capture international market interest while securing additional income.
Following the friendly in Dallas, Barcelona will enjoy a short break over the Christmas period before facing Las Palmas in LaLiga on January 4. Currently positioned third in the league, Barcelona faces a six-point gap behind Girona and a four-point deficit behind Real Madrid, with both teams having games in hand. As the competition intensifies, Xavi and his team will need to find the right balance between generating revenue internationally and focusing on their domestic campaign.
Xavi’s pragmatic approach amid Barcelona’s financial struggles stands as a testament to his leadership. With the support of his players, he strives to sustain the club financially. By embracing opportunities to play abroad and tapping into the potential of their youth system, Barcelona demonstrates their resilience in the face of adversity. Through unity and sound financial management, the club is determined to regain its position as a football powerhouse.