The season Barcelona lost Neymar but found a domestic double
In short: Imagine a football giant navigating a seismic shift: the departure of a global superstar, the arrival of a new era, and a domestic campaign of near-perfection. The 2017–18 season was a masterclass in transition, balancing heavy financial moves with a quest for silverware.
The 2017–18 campaign marked a pivotal turning point for FC Barcelona, defined by the departure of Neymar. Following his move to Paris Saint-Germain, the club underwent a massive financial and structural shift, navigating the first season without him since 2013–14. Significant deals marked this shift, such as Neymar's agents settling a €222 million buyout and the €105 million purchase of Ousmane Dembélé with extra clauses. The club also reached a €30 million agreement with Benfica for Nélson Semedo. Additionally, they activated a buyback clause for Gerard Deulofeu from Everton. They also agreed to pay €4 million to Real Betis for Cristian Tello. Finally, Jérémy Mathieu mutually terminated his contract to join Sporting CP.
Under the leadership of new head coach Ernesto Valverde, the team achieved significant domestic success. They secured the domestic double, clinching the league and the Copa final with a 5–0 victory over Sevilla. In La Liga, the Catalans remained undefeated until match day 37, when a 5–4 loss to Levante finally broke their streak.
However, the European stage proved more difficult; for the third consecutive year, Barcelona crashed out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals, losing 0–3 to Roma on away goals. Beyond the pitch, the season was shaped by unique social and administrative milestones. The club navigated a period of civil unrest in Catalonia, leading to a match against Las Palmas being played behind closed doors and a country-wide strike that shuttered club offices and training facilities. Amidst this, the club secured landmark commitments, including a lifetime contract for Andrés Iniesta and a five-year extension for goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen. The club also signed Marlon Santos from Fluminense on a three-year deal. They released Jordi Masip after his contract expired. Barcelona also secured a loan for Douglas from Benfica. Furthermore, Munir joined on loan from Alavés for the duration of the campaign.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2017–18 FC Barcelona season
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