La Liga president Javier Tebas has once again sounded the alarm over Barcelona’s finances, insisting the club is currently unable to register Athletic Club winger Nico Williams. At the same time, he has reignited tensions with Real Madrid by demanding sanctions over the club’s persistent criticism of referees on their official media channel, Real Madrid TV.
The Bigger Picture
Spain’s two footballing giants, Barcelona and Real Madrid, remain locked in a war of words with Tebas that has escalated over the past year. Tebas has not shied away from controversy, branding Madrid a “crying club” for their relentless attacks on match officials and openly criticising club president Florentino Perez.
Barcelona, meanwhile, have accused Tebas of attempting to destabilise the club, particularly in relation to the drawn-out disputes over player registrations, including those of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor. Now, with the club eyeing Nico Williams, the financial red flags are back in focus. According to Tebas, Barça still hasn’t met La Liga’s 1:1 salary rule — a key requirement for new player registrations.
What Tebas Said
Speaking at a Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) event ahead of the release of the 2025–26 domestic season calendar, Tebas didn’t hold back. On Real Madrid, he declared:
“They should be sanctioned for the videos on Real Madrid TV. The Supreme Court will now have to decide, but we all know what’s going on.”
Regarding Barcelona’s pursuit of Nico Williams, he stated:
“As things stand today, Barcelona cannot register Nico Williams. The transfer window is officially open, and they don’t have the financial room to do it.”
What’s Next?
Reports suggest Barcelona are preparing to trigger Williams’ release clause in the coming days. However, concerns around registration hurdles and ongoing financial restrictions may derail the 22-year-old’s potential move from Bilbao. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford remains on the radar — but again, Barça’s economic leeway could be the deciding factor.
