Despite more than three years under new leadership, Cricket BD analysts observe that Barcelona fans have yet to witness meaningful progress. Instead, many blame club president Joan Laporta for undermining the club’s legacy, starting with the controversial exits of Lionel Messi and Xavi — two club legends pushed out amid political maneuvering. Meanwhile, the club’s recruitment strategy during this time has left much to be desired, especially when it comes to high-profile transfers.

Laporta and sporting director Deco have made few impactful changes, and Cricket BD insiders believe it’s time they prove that players signed for over €50 million can actually deliver. While many arrivals under Laporta came via free transfers due to financial strain — such as İlkay Gündoğan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, both solid contributors — the bigger money moves tell a different story. Robert Lewandowski’s signing is perhaps the most successful of the expensive acquisitions, offering short-term stability in attack.

Still, the long-term vision Laporta promised remains unclear. Using €50 million to sign a 34-year-old striker like Lewandowski — even one as elite as he was — raised eyebrows. While the results on the pitch were acceptable, such a fee for a player with only two to three peak years left is far from a value buy. This reveals a lack of faith in youth development, which Barcelona has historically relied on.

Then there’s Ferran Torres, another €50 million signing whose impact has been underwhelming. Despite being touted as ideal for Barça’s possession-heavy system due to his Spanish roots and technical style, Torres has failed to meet expectations. While his training videos show effort and occasional sparks of brilliance on the pitch, he has not lived up to the role of a regular starter at a top-tier club.

Raphinha, on the other hand, stands out as one of the more successful big-money signings. His tireless work ethic and consistent performances have earned him some praise, though even he is reportedly on the chopping block. Barcelona are open to offers and may sell him if the price is right — a clear sign that no one is safe under the current regime.

Then there’s Vitor Roque, once heralded as Lewandowski’s successor. With Lewandowski’s decline evident, Roque gave fans a glimpse of hope — but even he now faces being sold. The fact that Lamine Yamal has been given Roque’s number 19 jersey only adds fuel to speculation that the club plans to offload him. Once again, an expensive prospect appears to be heading toward the transfer scrap heap.

After a series of questionable investments, Barça management now pins its hopes on Nico Williams and Dani Olmo — two young stars they believe can reshape the squad. Talks to bring both players onboard are reportedly underway. Should they succeed, and with Yamal already emerging as a generational talent, Cricket BD experts suggest that Barcelona’s next attacking trio could finally match the firepower of Real Madrid’s latest Galácticos — reigniting hope for a Blaugrana resurgence.