Here’s How an 18-Second Delay Due to Computer Error Jeopardized MLS Superstar’s Dream Move to European Giants Barcelona

At a time when Barcelona is struggling with its finances, they made some sensible sales in this window. Soccer players Gerard Pique retired, and Hector Bellerin and Memphis Depay exited the club. With Bellerin leaving the club, the spot was open for a new player to come in. But, the club messed up the final dealings for a player from La Galaxy named Julian Araujo. MLS and USMNT insider Tom Bogert failed to understand how the deal broke off as they mentioned it as a ‘computer error.’

To replace Bellerin as soon as possible, Barcelona went to MLS to get the right player. However, things looked different after the transfer window closed. 

Technical difficulties force MLS players’ deals into jeopardy!

Tom Bergert tweeted, “Nearly 24 hours after the transfer window closed & I’ve not heard a definitive ruling on the Julian Araujo saga.” The transfer window shut down a couple of days back, and Barcelona looked in a superior position to get the deal done. But the club director Mateu Alemany gave pointers on why it failed to materialize. He said, “We didn’t arrive on time due to a computer error … the delay was only 18 seconds. We’ll have to wait and see what FIFA decide.”

The Catalan side now waits for FIFA’s approval to see if the transfer goes on. Despite scouting the right player, according to Sport, Barcelona’s financial constraints probably came into the picture while discussing the deal. Reports suggested Barcelona had decided to pay two million Euros upfront for 50% of the rights and would offer another 2 million Euros in the summer for 40%. The rest of the 10% LA Galaxy could keep it. 

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However, if the player performed weakly his performances, he could leave Barcelona, and ultimately it becomes a loan move. Therefore, the deal stalled. 

Araujo’s rise to fame

The right-back would have been the perfect replacement for Barcelona to fill Bellerin’s void. Since Dani Alves left the club, Barca craved an attacking full-back, and the 21-year-old probably would fit the mold. The Mexican right-back is one of the best performers in the MLS. Being direct and a good passer on the ball are some qualities that make him an archetypal right-back. 

In the current season, he played 33 games and created nine assists. In addition, he had a pass completion rate of 85.4% would make him tailor-made for Xavi’s possession philosophy at the club. Yet, they called off the deal because of a computer error that left Barcelona stranded for a right back. Hopefully, they could get another bite at the cherry during the summer. 

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