Marcus Rashford's Barcelona might come to a halt even before it started as the club faces issues in registering his name due to financial implications. According to a report by The Sun, the England striker is one of seven Barcelona stars who may not be registered in time for the club’s LaLiga opener against RCD Mallorca on August 16. Last summer, Dani Olmo faced a similar delay before the club found a regulatory loophole to finalise his inclusion.
Barcelona's Marc-Andre ter Stegen issue
With money being a major factor to register their full squad ahead of the new season, the club believe that the funds could be reallocated if the German goalkeeper’s injury is classified as serious enough to sideline him for at least four to five months. Ter Stegen is one of the highest earners in the club.
The report further states that for that plan to be approved, the German shotstopper must consent to a medical report being submitted to the league. So far, he has declined to do so. After undergoing back surgery last month, the 33-year-old maintained he would only be out for three months too short a period to trigger the league's financial relief protocols.
Barcelona have since taken drastic action, reportedly launching disciplinary proceedings against Ter Stegen and stripping him of the club captaincy.
Which players are unregistered by Barcelona?
Besides Rashford, new signings Roony Bardghji and goalkeeper Joan Garcia are also currently unregistered. Wojciech Szczesny, who reversed his retirement to join the club last season, is similarly affected. Youth prospects Marc Bernal, Gerard Martin, and Hector Fort are the other players at risk.
Will Barcelona register players on time?
Despite the uncertainty, the club remains optimistic. According to the Daily Mail, Barcelona are hopeful of registering six players, including Rashford, before the clash with Mallorca.
Club president Joan Laporta spoke to ESPN, expressing confidence in the situation. He said,“It’s progressing well. We’re doing our job and we’re confident that we’ll be able to register everyone.”
