BARCELONA — Eduard Romeu, economic vice president of Barcelona and a key figure on Joan Laporta’s board of directors, has announced his resignation due to incompatibilities with his professional commitments. This news comes as a surprise to many, as Romeu was instrumental in implementing financial strategies to reduce the club’s debt and maintain competitiveness in LaLiga.
Romeu leaves behind a legacy of financial restructuring and asset sales to investment funds, which helped reduce Barcelona’s debt from 1,350 million euros to below 1,200 million euros. Despite his efforts, his initial goal upon joining the club has not been fully achieved. The announcement of his resignation comes just three months before the end of the financial year.
In a statement released by the club, Romeu cited his dedication to his professional tasks outside of Barcelona as the primary reason for his departure. He explained that his new responsibilities required his full attention and commitment, leaving him unable to continue serving as the club’s economic vice president.
During a press conference held by Joan Laporta, the president of Barcelona, both Laporta and Romeu emphasized the professional motives behind the resignation. Laporta thanked Romeu for his dedication and contribution to the club’s economic rescue, stating that Romeu had been a key figure in the financial turnaround of Barcelona.
Romeu’s departure marks the third high-profile exit from the club’s economic management team in recent years, following the resignations of Jordi Llauradó and Ferran Reverter. The sudden departure of key figures has raised questions and concerns about the stability of Barcelona’s financial operations and management structure.
As Barcelona navigates through these changes, the club will need to ensure continuity and stability in its economic leadership to sustain its competitiveness and financial viability in the long run. Romeu’s departure serves as a reminder of the challenges and complexities faced by one of the most iconic football clubs in the world.