Barcelona’s disappointing transfer record during Laporta’s second term laid bare

Joan Laporta’s second tenure as Barcelona president has been nothing short of controversial. While his first spell at the helm is fondly remembered for the club’s golden era, his return to the presidency has sparked mixed reactions.

Laporta took over in 2021 at a time when Barcelona was in deep financial turmoil. The club’s economic crisis was severe, and while there have been some improvements, financial challenges continue to loom large over the club.

The weight of these financial constraints has undoubtedly shaped Laporta’s approach to rebuilding the team, often forcing him to make difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions.

One of the most telling aspects of Laporta’s second term is his activity in the transfer market. Since his return, Barcelona has signed 24 players in a bid to strengthen the squad and restore the club to its former glory.

However, the high turnover rate is striking—only eight of those signings are still with the team, while 16 have either departed or are on the verge of leaving.

This revolving door of players has raised questions about the club’s long-term strategy and whether Laporta’s decisions are truly in the best interest of Barcelona.

The departures: High turnover in a short time

The list of players who have already left the club is extensive. Some, like Sergio Aguero, were forced to retire due to health reasons, while others, such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Memphis Depay, moved on due to financial considerations or tactical changes.

Sergio Aguero was forced to retire. (Copyright: xXavierxBonillax)

Franck Kessie and Emerson Royal never fully integrated into the squad, leading to quick exits, while Luuk de Jong and Adama Traore were short-term loans that were not extended. 

Even club legend Dani Alves couldn’t find a long-term place in the team, leaving after a brief second stint.

Others who have left the club are Yusuf Demir, Hector Bellerin, Marcos Alonso, Oriol Romeu, Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo. Meanwhile, the likes of Vitor Roque and Ilkay Gundogan are close to exiting.

The survivors: Eight players still in the fold

Out of the 24 signings, only eight remain as of now. Key figures like Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha are vital to Barcelona’s current plans, while players such as Pablo Torre face uncertain future. 

Furthermore, Jules Kounde and Inigo Martinez provide stability in defence, and Ferran Torres continues to be a versatile option in attack. 

However, the futures of Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen remain uncertain, with rumours of potential exits still swirling.

Conclusion: A work in progress or a failed project?

Has Joan Laporta failed as a Barcelona president? (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Laporta’s transfer strategy has come under intense scrutiny, especially given the high turnover rate. 

While some of the exits were inevitable due to external factors like financial limitations and injuries, others raise questions about the club’s long-term planning and scouting efficiency.

The president’s approach has been a mix of short-term fixes and long-term investments, but the balance has yet to fully materialise. 

The club is still grappling with financial challenges, and the squad remains in a state of flux as they try to navigate these turbulent waters.

Laporta’s second term as Barcelona President has been marked by ambitious but turbulent efforts to reshape the squad. With only a third of his signings still at the club, the effectiveness of his strategy remains a subject of debate. 

The one good thing that has happened during his tenure is the upbringing of La Masia youngsters, but that development is largely credited to Ronald Koeman, Xavi and Hansi Flick and not the club president.