Barcelona to return to 1:1 rule in the summer after the departure of veteran striker – report | OneFootball

This Saturday was a tough one for Barcelona fans as star striker Robert Lewandowski announced he is leaving the club after four successful years.

Lewandowski had grown to become a key individual at Barça, notably forming a part of the trifecta involving him, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. He is tipped to play his final home game against Real Betis this evening.

However, at the age of 37, it does seem like a good time for Lewandowski to leave, and his departure could aid Barcelona in more ways than one.

Barcelona to return to 1:1 rule

Lewandowski’s exit serves as a financial boost for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

According to Mundo Deportivo, Lewandowski’s exit is expected to open up a very promising financial scenario for the club heading into the summer transfer window.

The Polish striker has earned close to €24 million gross this season, and with his contract expiring on June 30, that entire sum will be eliminated from Barcelona’s wage bill for the 2026-27 campaign.

Combined with other planned adjustments, this puts the club in a position to begin the summer window operating under LaLiga’s coveted 1:1 rule for the first time in several years.

Two additional factors are working in Barcelona’s favour. The ongoing renovation of the Spotify Camp Nou will see the remaining phases of the VIP area expansion completed next season.

An auditor has recently authorised €71 million in outstanding payments for VIP seats, which could further strengthen the club’s financial position.

Lewandowski to bid goodbye after four years. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

What the 1:1 rule means in practice

Operating under the 1:1 rule would be a significant upgrade on Barcelona’s recent financial restrictions.

Currently, the club has only been able to use 60% of a transferred player’s salary or 20% of transfer income on new signings.

Under the 1:1 rule, those percentages rise to 100%, giving Deco and the sporting management considerably greater flexibility to operate in the market.