Barcelona's squad puzzle: Registration woes vs. renewal hopes

Both players were notably absent from the La Liga squad list as the deadline for compliance with La Liga's economic control regulations elapsed on December 31.

This situation has become the central drama at the Catalan club, where every move is scrutinized for financial viability.

While the registration saga unfolds, Barcelona are somewhat relieved not to be contending with multiple contract renewals. Four players could potentially leave come June, but the spotlight is particularly on Wojciech Szczesny.

The 34-year-old goalkeeper, who joined the club in October to cover for the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen and back up Inaki Pena, signed a short-term contract until June. Hansi Flick has made it clear that Pena is the preferred choice in Ter Stegen's absence.

Szczesny, who has yet to make his debut, has accepted his role but his future at the club remains uncertain. Barcelona are hopeful about Ter Stegen's recovery and confident in their youth system, yet Szczesny's experience and locker room presence are valued, leaving his retention still a possibility.

On the other hand, the futures of other key players look more promising. Robert Lewandowski, the seasoned Polish striker at 36, has a clause from his 2022 contract that allows for extension if he participates in 55% of matches, either starting or playing at least 45 minutes.

Lewandowski has appeared in 24 of the 25 matches this season, missing only the clash with Mallorca, positioning him well for a contract renewal. "I feel good here and I am contributing," Lewandowski has said, indicating his contentment with his role at the club.

Inigo Marti­nez, the 33-year-old Basque defender, also has an extension clause in his contract, effective if he plays in 60% of the games. He's played in 24 out of 25 matches, only absent during the Osasuna game, and has consistently played over 80 minutes in each appearance. "I want to continue here," Marti­nez has stated, reflecting a mutual desire between player and club for an extended tenure.

Lastly, the young left-back Gerard Martin, at 22, is on track to secure his future with Barcelona until June 2028. An academy product and a backup to Alejandro Balde, his negotiations are nearly complete.

Despite the high-profile registration challenges with Olmo and Victor, Barcelona's core squad looks set for stability with the probable contract renewals of Lewandowski, Martínez, and Martín, offering a silver lining to the club's current financial and administrative complexities.

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