FC Barcelona’s financial structure is unique among top football clubs, as it operates under a fan-ownership model rather than being bankrolled by a single wealthy individual or investment consortium. The club is entirely owned by its approximately 150,000 members, known as socios, who each pay an annual membership fee that grants them voting rights on key club decisions, including the election of the club’s president and board of directors.

Barcelona’s financial troubles can largely be traced back to the presidency of Josep Maria Bartomeu (2014–2020). Under his leadership, the club spent excessively on player salaries and transfer fees, leading to an unsustainable financial model. High-profile but underperforming signings such as Philippe Coutinho, Ousmane Dembélé, and Antoine Griezmann cost the club hundreds of millions of euros, while player wages soared to unprecedented levels. 

The financial crisis escalated when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of Camp Nou for an entire season, eliminating crucial matchday revenue. By the time Bartomeu resigned in October 2020, the club’s debt had ballooned to €1.35 billion, with wages consuming nearly  70% of total revenue – far exceeding sustainable limits.