Saudi Crown Prince Reportedly Intends to Buy Barcelona for €10 Billion

According to information shared by El Chiringuito TV journalist Francois Gallardo, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is preparing an offer to purchase “Barcelona” for €10 billion. This is not about millions but billions.

Such an amount is considered exceptionally large in the world of football. However, the matter goes beyond merely acquiring a club.

"Barcelona" symbolizes Catalonia, represents a long-standing history, UEFA Champions League titles, legends like Lionel Messi and Johan Cruyff, and includes thousands of “socios” who consider themselves custodians, not just fans. Now, someone appears willing to buy all of this with a single check.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has become a significant player in the sports market. In 2021, through the Public Investment Fund led by Mohammed bin Salman, the majority stake in “Newcastle United” was acquired.

Superstars Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar have joined the Saudi league under conditions unimaginable in Europe. Moreover, the Kingdom has secured the hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Now, their target is one of European football’s historic giants. “Barcelona” is currently facing severe financial difficulties, with the club’s debt estimated at €2.5 billion.

The Catalan club has been teetering on the brink of financial crisis for years: assets have been sold, “financial levers” utilized, and creative solutions sought to register players. Club President Joan Laporta has also stated he will not run again in the 2026 elections, attracting further attention.

Such a statement typically indicates the presence of significant internal processes. A €10 billion offer could potentially eliminate all debts and allow the club to operate in the transfer market without restrictions for several windows.

From a business perspective, this deal may appear to be a “lifeline” for the club. However, there’s a significant obstacle: the socios.

The club has over 100,000 registered members who vote in elections and play a decisive role in strategic decisions. “Barcelona” is not owned by a wealthy patron but is a member-owned club.

For this reason, it is regarded as one of football’s last bastions of the “people’s club” ethos in an era dominated by billionaires and investment funds. Selling the club without the approval of the socios is practically impossible.

In theory, segments of the club’s commercial ventures could be sold separately, or investments may be made in specific areas. However, this would not equate to buying the club itself but only investing in parts of it. For Catalans, the slogan “Mes que un club,” meaning “More than a club,” is not just a phrase but an integral part of their identity.

Were an announcement to emerge one morning stating, “The club now belongs to a Saudi prince,” the reaction at Camp Nou would likely extend far beyond simple dissatisfaction, potentially escalating into vehement opposition. However, the rules of modern football are changing.

“Manchester City” is owned by a UAE sheikh and has claimed nearly all trophies in recent years. “Paris Saint-Germain” transformed into a Qatari-backed project, reaching and winning the Champions League final.

These examples highlight how substantial financial investments can significantly shape the modern football landscape. If Saudi capital were to enter “Barcelona,” the club might return to the summit of European football in just a few seasons.

However, the question remains at what cost: “Barcelona” has always represented more than trophies. It is a club of history, principles, and spirit.

For now, the matter is based solely on speculation from a single journalist. Nevertheless, in 21st-century football, such rumors often quickly evolve into actual developments.

Soon, socios may face a crucial decision: accept significant funds to escape financial ruin, or uphold the club’s ethos and continue living with debts. Romance versus pragmatism, tradition against billions.

At present, “Barcelona” leads La Liga with 43 points. On the pitch, everything seems in order.

However, behind the scenes, a drama is likely unfolding, one that could completely alter the club’s future. Read “Zamin” on Telegram!