Why champions Barcelona only have 17 players ahead of Liga F start

Barça's pared-down squad and financial restrictions make them a riskier title favourite this season — punters should be cautious backing them outright. Consider value on challengers, draw/no-bet markets or handicap (+0.5) on matches where injuries could force rotation; small stakes on Barça to win the league with hedge positions on rivals offer better risk-reward.

Barcelona Women enter season with thin squad after summer exodus

Barcelona begin the campaign aiming for a seventh straight Liga F title and a fourth crown in six years, but they face a starker challenge than in recent seasons. Coach Pere Romeu has retained the core that reached last season’s Champions League final, yet the squad’s depth has been significantly reduced after six major departures this summer. With only 17 first-team players registered ahead of the opener, injuries or suspensions could derail title hopes early.

LaLiga spending cap squeezes multi-sport giants

How the cap is calculated and who it hits

The LaLiga spending cap — based on a club’s revenue minus non-sporting costs and debt repayments — limits wages, transfer amortization and first-team staff expenses. For Barcelona, that cap includes “non‑registrable costs” such as other sports teams and global academy spending. Barcelona budgeted roughly €95m this season for those costs after overshooting last year and issuing internal guarantees to avoid further reductions to their limit.

Budget breakdown highlights trade-offs

Of the non‑registrable budget, millions are earmarked for basketball, youth academies and other professional teams, leaving a finite pot for the women’s squad. This season’s allocations include funds for first-team staff and youth pathways, but the widened spending hunger across sports has forced the women’s side to cut wages and promote from within rather than sign multiple replacements.

Departures, contract expiries and the changing transfer market

Key exits remove experience and versatility

The summer saw several established players leave, including a match‑winner from recent Champions League success and other internationals seeking fresh challenges. Those exits strip Barcelona of leadership, defensive cover and rotational options. Some departures were expected due to squad planning; others — notably a surprise contract rescission for a veteran winner — have deeper tactical and dressing-room implications.

Contract renewals loom large

Inflation in the women’s transfer and salary market is pushing clubs to spend more to retain talent. Barcelona enter negotiations with multiple first-team players out of contract in 2026, creating urgency to secure key personnel amid rising wage demands and competition from wealthier leagues.

Youth promotion is now the priority

Barcelona are leaning on their academy and a promising cohort of teenagers and young internationals to shoulder greater responsibility. Established youngsters and recent internationals are expected to take strides this season, with several teenagers already in preseason and poised to fill minutes left by departed senior players. The club views this as both a necessity and an opportunity to accelerate player development.

On-field outlook and tactical considerations

Expect a season of rotation risk and tactical adjustments as the coach balances ambition with a thinner roster. Depth loss could force conservative match management in congested schedules and reduce flexibility in European fixtures. Teams that have strengthened may exploit Barcelona’s narrow bench late in games or across competitions.

Betting implications

The squad’s fragility alters market value: Barcelona remain a top contender but carry increased downside risk. Punters should consider alternatives to backing them outright — look for value in challenger teams, match markets like draw/no-bet or +0.5 handicaps, and player markets where youthful starters may outperform price expectations. Manage bankrolls accordingly given heightened uncertainty around injuries and rotation.

Conclusion

Barcelona still possess quality and ambition, but financial constraints and summer exits have created a precarious balance between competitiveness and sustainability. The coming months will test whether youth reinforcements and careful contract management can offset lost experience and keep the club on course for silverware.

Barcelona have won the last six Liga F titles, but the team are looking short of depth ahead of the new season as financial issues take hold.

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