Barcelona’s off-field troubles may once again cast a shadow over their European campaign. The Spanish club is facing the serious threat of a points deduction in next season’s UEFA Champions League after breaching financial rules for the second year running.
According to The Times, UEFA’s Club Financial Control Board (CFCB) is reviewing Barcelona’s accounts after a second straight failure to meet Financial Fair Play (FFP) requirements.
The issue stems from the club’s attempt to count profits from selling future broadcasting rights as part of their operating income.
But UEFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) have ruled otherwise.
Barcelona’s financial gymnastics — including selling 25% of future TV rights for close to €670 million — were not enough to pass UEFA’s tight checks.
The CAS had already fined the club €500,000 last year, calling it a light punishment. But this time, things could get a lot tougher.
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Barcelona could suffer Champions League points deduction
The CFCB warned earlier that another breach would bring “harsher disciplinary measures.” Now, Barcelona could face a reduced squad limit for the Champions League or even a starting points deduction.
That’s not the kind of kickoff Xavi’s side was hoping for.
The La Liga club isn’t alone in this storm. Chelsea and Aston Villa are also under UEFA’s microscope for first-time breaches.
However, their situations are expected to end with fines, not competitive penalties. The English clubs had tried to declare income through internal asset sales — something UEFA rules don’t allow.
Barcelona’s risk is higher because of repeated offenses. Clubs are allowed to lose up to €200 million over three years, with exceptions for youth, women’s football, and infrastructure.
But even with those deductions, Barca appear to be in the red zone again.
As UEFA prepares to announce sanctions later this month, one thing is clear: the only thing tighter than Barcelona’s pressing may be their budget limits.
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