La Liga chief talks Barcelona’s economic situation, Yamal, Raphinha, Ballon d’Or | OneFootball

La Liga president Javier Tebas has offered his thoughts on several hot topics surrounding Spanish football, with Barcelona naturally at the centre of the conversation.

Speaking to the media, Tebas addressed the Catalan club’s financial outlook, their ability to enter the transfer market, and the rising prominence of home-grown talent like Lamine Yamal.

Despite recent economic limitations placed on Barça, Tebas expressed optimism about the club’s ability to go through the summer transfer window effectively.

“FC Barcelona knows what they have to do to make big signings,” he said. “They are aware of the duties they need to fulfil in order to operate normally in the market.

“Hopefully, they’ll make the right moves and bring in the players they want.”

This is a clear signal that while the club’s financial challenges have not disappeared, there is a belief at the highest level that Barcelona can still make a splash in the market if they follow the financial regulations set by La Liga.

Yamal as a future superstar

Tebas also commented on the Ballon d’Or conversation, highlighting Lamine Yamal as one of the top contenders. “Lamine is one of the best in the world today,” he remarked, while adding that the Barça star still has room to grow.

He also took a moment to mention Raphinha, another standout for the club: “Raphinha is at the level of Lamine Yamal, but sometimes you have to highlight someone.”

Javier Tebas spoke about Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or candidacy. (Photo by OSCAR DEL POZO/AFP via Getty Images)

Tebas praised the emergence of talents like Yamal as proof that La Masia continues to be a world-class production line.

“What’s important about Lamine is that he shows how home-grown players, like Messi once did, can become global stars.”

Barça’s request to delay season start

On a logistical note, Tebas addressed Barcelona’s request to play away from home during the opening matchdays of the 2025/26 La Liga season due to ongoing work on their stadium.

He stated that such requests are not controversial.“Clubs under renovation are usually allowed to begin later.

“The key is that all teams kick off the league at the same time, because the first day is emblematic.”

Tebas also touched on scheduling pressures caused by the Club World Cup, noting that it has led to delays for several top teams.

“This is not the result of a reshuffle. It’s simply a matter of adjusting to international commitments, though it does hurt when key matches get postponed.”

Source: SPORT