Barcelona coach Xavi has revealed that the team’s inability to sign Borussia Dortmund striker, Erling Haaland was due to financial constraint.
The former Spanish international made this known in an interview with TribalFootball.
With a transfer fee of around €75million and wages to cover, Barca, who are operating under financial restrictions which were imposed by LaLiga, are unable to compete with City.
“It’s not official for City, is it? When it is, you’ll ask me again. For us? It is very difficult (to recruit him) because of the economic situation, I will not lie to you.
“I will not say much, I will not insult other projects. But our project is good. City have a lot of titles and are in competition (for the PL title). If what you say happens, it will be because of financial problems. I’ve been to Munich several times (laughs).”
Xavi also said: “I think it’s important to get stronger every year, no matter if you win or lose, but even more so if you lose. This year will not be positive, because we did not fight for titles and we did not win and whatever happens will be welcome.
“The current economic situation and people will have to leave for them to come. It’s one of the most difficult situations but we have to strengthen ourselves next year if we want to be competitive.”
On their transfer work in general, he added: “In this there is no problem, I am very comfortable with the president, the sporting director, the technical secretary, Jordi, and the director of football, Mateu (Alemany). They respect my opinion. We have built a good group and my opinion is respected. I will be aware of everything and work to strengthen ourselves and be more competitive next year.”
