Barcelona midfielder Pedri has refuted claims that the club’s players considered boycotting the Spain national team amid the ongoing dispute over Dani Olmo’s registration.
The controversy stems from LaLiga’s initial refusal to re-register Olmo and fellow Barcelona player Pau Víctor for the second half of the season, a decision that has sparked debate across Spanish football.
Boycott Rumors “A Lie,” Says Pedri
Reports had surfaced claiming that Barcelona’s Spanish internationals were prepared to refuse call-ups to the national team if Olmo’s registration issue persisted, potentially impacting his ability to represent Spain.
Pedri, however, was quick to dispel these rumors.
“People said the Spain national team players wouldn’t go [to play], but I heard that and was surprised by that—it’s a lie,”Pedri clarified during a press conference in Jeddah ahead of Barcelona’s Spanish Supercopa final against Real Madrid.
“I wouldn’t say no to the national team; I love playing for the national team. I hope nobody believed it.”
Under Spanish law, players called up to the national team are obligated to report for duty, making such a boycott unlikely.
Temporary Reprieve for Olmo and Víctor
Both Olmo and Víctor were de-registered by LaLiga on Dec. 31 after Barcelona failed to meet a deadline to comply with squad spending limits.
While the club later provided the necessary financial proof, LaLiga rejected their re-registration, citing a rule that prevents players from being registered twice with the same club in one season.
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Barcelona appealed the decision, prompting Spain’s sports ministry (CSD) to grant a temporary injunction.
This allows Olmo and Víctor to participate in matches while the case is under review.
Both players are now eligible for selection in Sunday’s Supercopa final against Real Madrid.
Pedri Praises Olmo and Víctor Amid Difficult Situation
Pedri expressed relief at the CSD’s decision, sympathizing with his teammates’ uncertain situation.
“It’s good news for us,” Pedri said. “The position they were in is very difficult, knowing they couldn’t play.
I have Dani Olmo with me on my table when we eat, and it’s tough to travel here not knowing if you can play. I’m very happy for him and for Pau—they’ll contribute a lot.”
LaLiga and Club Reactions
LaLiga has indicated it is reviewing the CSD’s ruling and is considering a possible appeal.
Meanwhile, several clubs, including Atlético Madrid, have criticized the decision, arguing it undermines the league’s financial controls.
Pedri remained diplomatic when addressing the backlash.
“Every club has its opinion about each case,” he said.
“I’m happy to have them [Olmo and Víctor] in the team. They’re important for us. What other people think is their opinion.”
The temporary resolution allows Barcelona to focus on Sunday’s Supercopa final, where Olmo and Víctor could play key roles.
As the CSD continues to deliberate on the case, the controversy highlights the tension between LaLiga’s financial regulations and the interests of clubs navigating complex squad management issues.
With the stakes high in both the Supercopa final and the broader legal battle, all eyes will remain on Barcelona as they look to balance on-field success with off-field challenges.
