Barcelona head into their final UEFA Champions League group-stage match against Copenhagen with far more than pride on the line.
While sporting ambition remains central, the financial rewards attached to progression in Europe have added an extra layer of importance to the clash.
Finishing inside the top eight of the group standings would be a significant achievement, but it also carries major economic benefits at a time when Barcelona continue to monitor their finances closely.
Notably, this season’s UEFA Champions League offers a substantial prize pool, with earnings tied directly to results and final positioning.
How much will Barcelona earn?
According to SPORT, Barcelona have already secured €27.9 million with one group-stage match still to play, as a large portion of that total was guaranteed before a ball was even kicked.
UEFA allocates €18.6 million to each of the 36 clubs that qualify for the group stage, ensuring a solid financial base for all participants.
Barcelona have a lot to play for. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The remaining €9.1 million has been earned through performance on the pitch. Barcelona have won four of their seven group-stage matches so far, with each victory worth €2.1 million.
On the other hand, the draw against Club Brugge added a further €700,000 to the club’s European earnings.
However, the biggest financial jump comes with qualification for the knockout rounds.
Reaching the round of 16 guarantees an extra €11 million. On top of that, UEFA rewards teams that qualify directly from the group with an additional €2 million, while those who progress via the playoffs receive €1 million instead.
As such, a victory over Copenhagen would bring in an extra €2.1 million.
If that win is combined with direct qualification to the round of 16, Barcelona’s total Champions League revenue could rise to €42.8 million before any further bonuses are applied.
