Barcelona reportedly set to be banned from Champions League

Another day on the mess express.

Barcelona could be banned from the Champions League and all UEFA competitions next season. The LaLiga champions used several ‘financial levers’ in an attempt to sign a number of high-profile players in order to ensure they could continue challenging at the top of football. While they emerged successful on a domestic front – currently sitting 11 points clear of Real Madrid – their European fortunes have been less impressive and have been knocked out of the Champions League in the group stage in both of the last two years. Despite their on-pitch success, Barça have been embroiled in controversy over in Spain. The club have been accused of making payments to a company affiliated with referees in the country however they have denied any wrongdoing. They could also be relegated, if found guilty, however UEFA are also conducting their own investigation. ABS have reported that two investigators have concluded that La Blaugrana should be removed from all European competitions next season. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has allegedly seen the report and they could even announce their punishment before the Spanish justice system’s verdict. Alternatively, they may wait to see if Barça are guilty of corruption, in which case an even harsher punishment may happen. If they were to miss out on Europe it could cost the club almost €50m, plus any additional money depending on how far they were to progress. Related links:

• UEFA planning radical change to cap transfer spend and wages
• Barcelona and Real Madrid banned from using ‘El Clasico’
• Real Madrid lash out with extraordinary social media video linking Barcelona to Spanish dictator