Why Betting Against Barcelona Makes Sense as Laporta Faces Mounting Pressure

Barcelona’s La Liga campaign is spiraling amidst off-field drama and underwhelming performances. Despite their struggles, bookmakers still list the Blaugrana as title contenders, making this an opportune time to explore alternative betting options.

Off-the-Pitch Chaos Could Derail Barcelona’s Season

Joan Laporta’s tenure as Barcelona president has been defined by efforts to stabilize a club in financial distress. Massive spending by the previous regime on aging stars and costly replacements left the club unable to renew Lionel Messi’s contract. Despite drastic asset sales, including the infamous “lever” deals, Barcelona’s financial woes persist.

A glaring example is the de-registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor from La Liga’s squad list due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches. The club failed to prove receipt of €100 million from leasing Camp Nou’s VIP boxes, prompting La Liga to act. Opposition groups are now demanding Laporta’s resignation, adding further instability.

This off-field turmoil threatens to seep into Barcelona’s performances on the pitch, where they are locked in an intense title race with both Madrid clubs. Hansi Flick, tasked with focusing on football, faces the daunting challenge of overcoming these distractions while managing a depleted squad.

Hansi Flick Unable to Arrest La Liga Slump

Barcelona’s start to the season was promising, including a commanding 4-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, their recent form in La Liga has been alarming, with just one win in their last seven league matches. Flick’s side has only managed five points in this stretch, slipping behind Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid in the title race.

Their upcoming fixture against Getafe doesn’t inspire confidence either. The Blaugrana haven’t won at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez since 2019, failing to score in their last four visits. With Barca struggling for form, backing Getafe to secure at least a draw at 2.38 offers good value.

Atletico Madrid: A Stronger Bet for the Title

While Barcelona falter, Atletico Madrid are thriving. Diego Simeone’s side has won 13 consecutive competitive matches, matching a club record. They sit just one point behind the league leaders with a game in hand and look well-placed to mount a title challenge.

Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at time of publishing and subject to change.

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