Lewandowski's Departure Brings Barcelona Closer to 1:1 Rule

FC Barcelona is close to entering the upcoming summer transfer market under the 1:1 rule of financial fair play regulations in La Liga, following the departure of Polish striker Robert Lewandowski at the end of the current season, according to the Spanish newspaper "Mundo Deportivo."

Lewandowski's departure represents a significant financial step for the Catalan club, as Barcelona has shed the player's salary, which amounted to approximately 24 million euros this season, following the expiration of his contract on June 30. This provides the club with more room within the wage bill for the 2026/2027 season.

The Spanish newspaper indicated that the Barcelona management has also implemented additional measures to control expenses, in conjunction with developments related to the Spotify Camp Nou stadium redevelopment project, as the club prepares next season to complete the expansion phases of the VIP areas within the stadium.

The acknowledgment by the financial auditor of the remaining 71 million euros from VIP seat revenues has contributed to strengthening Barcelona's financial position, placing the club in the best possible situation to return to the 1:1 ratio, unless any unexpected developments occur.

This rule will enable Barcelona to use the full value of the salaries saved from selling or releasing players to register new signings, in addition to benefiting 100% from the proceeds of player sales. This grants the management greater flexibility in strengthening the team during the upcoming transfer window.

In recent years, Barcelona has been operating under financial constraints that required them to use only 60% of the salaries of departing players, with the percentage increasing to 70% for players who represent a significant portion of the wage bill. Meanwhile, the club was receiving only 20% of the value of sales deals, which could rise to 35% in certain special cases.

Barcelona is now awaiting official approval from La Liga to confirm its return to the 1:1 rule, a move that represents a significant boost for the club ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.