When Did Bartomeu Join Barcelona?
In this article, we will take a closer look at the timeline of Josep Maria Bartomeu’s association with Barcelona, one of the most successful football clubs in the world.
Early Days
Bartomeu’s journey with Barcelona began in 2003 when he joined the club’s board as a member. Over the years, he served in various positions and gradually climbed up the ranks.
2003-2010: The Rise
During this period, Bartomeu held different roles within the club’s administration. He played a pivotal role in strengthening Barcelona’s commercial and financial aspects. His efforts helped secure several lucrative sponsorship deals that contributed to the club’s overall growth.
- Bold moves: Bartomeu was instrumental in negotiating a shirt sponsorship deal with Qatar Foundation, which was later replaced by Qatar Airways as the main sponsor.
- Underlining success: Under Bartomeu’s stewardship, Barcelona won numerous trophies, including La Liga titles and UEFA Champions League triumphs.
2010-2014: Vice President
In 2010, Bartomeu was elected as one of the four vice presidents of FC Barcelona. His responsibilities expanded as he became involved in strategic decision-making processes alongside other board members.
- Bold vision: As a vice president, Bartomeu actively participated in shaping and implementing long-term plans for player recruitment and youth development.
- Growing influence: His dedication to promoting Barça values and nurturing young talent earned him respect within the club and among fans worldwide.
2014-2020: Presidency
In January 2014, Bartomeu assumed the role of president following the resignation of Sandro Rosell. He faced various challenges during his tenure but also witnessed significant success on and off the pitch.
- Bold decisions: Bartomeu oversaw major signings like Luis Suárez, Ivan Rakitić, and Neymar Jr., who formed a formidable attacking trio with Lionel Messi. These signings helped Barcelona achieve unprecedented success.
- Underlining achievements: Under Bartomeu’s leadership, Barcelona won several domestic titles, including La Liga and Copa del Rey. The team also reached the UEFA Champions League finals on multiple occasions.
The Departure
Bartomeu’s presidency at Barcelona came to an end in October 2020 when he resigned along with the entire board amid growing criticism and a vote of no confidence from club members.
In conclusion, Josep Maria Bartomeu played a significant role in the growth and success of FC Barcelona. His journey with the club spanned over a decade, starting from his initial involvement as a board member to eventually becoming the president. Despite facing challenges along the way, his bold decisions and contributions left a lasting impact on Barcelona’s history.