Barcelona is facing an internal scandal following a 2-1 defeat to Inter Milan in the 2024/2025 Champions League final at the Allianz Arena on May 31, 2025. Former manager Xavi Hernandez, who led the team from 2021 to 2024, was shocked to openly call on the club to immediately dismiss Ohmo, a player who was often played in the main squad under the coach. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Xavi frankly stated: “He really doesn’t deserve to have a place here.” Notably, the young talent Lamine Yamal, the team’s mainstay, also expressed his agreement with this view, sparking controversy among internal teams and the fan community.
OHMO, a 24-year-old, joined Barcelona in the summer of 2023 with the expectation of becoming a key factor in midfield. However, his performances were considered shaky. In the final against Inter, OHMO kicked but only completed 62% of his passes, lost one-on-one challenges 5/7 times, and did not create any chances, according to Sofascore. His phase lost the ball in the 23rd minute, leading to Lautaro Martinez’s opening goal, which saw Barcelona fall into a chase. Rick replaced Ohmo with Pedri in the 60th minute, but it was not enough to turn things around. X-post @Barcatimes criticized Ohmo as the “weakest link” in the squad, while @culepride called for his sale in the summer transfer window.
Criticism of Xavi, who led Barcelona to La Liga in 2022/2023, weighs heavily. He believes Ohmo lacks the creativity and fighting spirit needed to play for a top team like Barcelona. “We need the players to make a difference, not the person who brought the team down,” Xavi emphasized. The signing of Yamal, a 17-year-old star with 11 assists in the Champions League this season, is increasing the pressure on Ohmo. Yamal, in an Instagram post, refers to the fact: “The team needs people who really contribute.” Although he didn’t name them, fans believe he was targeting Ohmo.
The reaction from Barcelona’s leadership remains vague. According to Sport, president Joan Laporta is considering Ohmo’s future, especially as his contract runs until 2027. Sources at As Times reported that Flick, despite being disappointed with Ohmo, still wants to be given the chance to right the wrongs in the 2025/2026 season. However, with pressure from fans and Xavi’s appeal, the possibility of Ohmo being sold is very high, with teams like Arsenal and Juventus considered interested. Given the context in which Barcelona needs to restructure to return to its peak, this scandal is a warning that no one is guaranteed a position if they don’t live up to expectations at Camp Nou.
