Despite Meeting Requirements: Saga Over Denied Olmo Registration Drags On

Chances for Olmo’s License Dwindle

Hopes for a playing license this season are fading fast for Dani Olmo.
IMAGO/Ulrich Hufnagel

The saga surrounding Dani Olmo’s registration has taken another twist. FC Barcelona failed—just as they did last summer—to register the 2024 European champion for the second half of the season. The financially troubled club was unable to meet the Spanish league’s (LFP) requirements by the December 31 deadline.

Legal maneuvers and financial efforts, including selling VIP boxes at Camp Nou to generate immediate revenue, proved unsuccessful. As announced by La Liga on New Year’s Day, Olmo and reserve player Pau Victor will not receive playing licenses for the season.

No License Despite Increased Salary Cap

Barcelona submitted another application for the 26-year-old’s eligibility, but this too was rejected on Saturday by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and the league’s oversight committee.

The federation acknowledged that the club now meets the financial requirements for extending its salary cap, thanks in part to evidence of the €100 million box seat sale. However, they stated that the license denial for Olmo and Victor could not be reversed.

Under RFEF regulations, "a player whose license has been revoked cannot receive a new license for the same team during the same season," making both players unavailable to Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, for the remainder of the campaign.

Barcelona to File Another Appeal

Despite the setback, the drama may not be over yet. Shortly after the federation's announcement, Barcelona declared plans to appeal the decision with the National Sports Council (CSD). Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo speculated that the club could escalate the case to the Sports Administrative Court (TAD) or even a civil court.

Laporta Stays Optimistic, Olmo's Agent Rules Out Exit

Club president Joan Laporta expressed optimism, stating that he had spoken to Olmo and Victor to reassure them. “We won’t comment further on this matter,” the Blaugrana announced.

Olmo, who joined Barcelona last summer from RB Leipzig for €55 million, has made 15 appearances for the club. If not registered, the 26-year-old could leave as a free agent while still claiming his salary until 2030, potentially costing Barcelona up to €260 million.

However, Olmo’s agent, Andy Bara, dismissed transfer rumors on Friday. "Barcelona is the first and last option. We are not negotiating with any other club," he said, expressing confidence that Barcelona would resolve the matter.

Flick: "We Need Olmo"

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick also remains hopeful for a resolution. "I trust the club will manage this," said the former Germany coach following a 4-0 Copa del Rey victory over fourth-tier UD Barbastro. He revealed that he had spoken with Olmo on Saturday morning.

"Dani wants to play for Barca. We need him and Pau Victor. They are excellent players," Flick emphasized. "All we can do now is wait."