The fortunes of Nike in the soccer universe seem to have hit the skids. Barely recovering from golf icon Tiger Woods’ abrupt departure just hours ago, terminating a $660 million contract, Nike will be again left out in the cold. After breaking a longstanding partnership of over 27 years with Mr T, now Spanish giants FC Barcelona might also consider a breakup, as Nike’s arch-rival Puma is eying to become the Catalans’ kit sponsor. This shocking update comes from revered sports commentator Adrian Sanchez.

Speaking on his podcast, ‘Más Que Pelotas’, the journalist revealed that Nike is set to be replaced by Puma. The German athletic-wear brand is reportedly preparing an ‘irrejectable‘ offer for the La Liga giants. Sanchez claims it hasn’t been ruled out that their partnership will start next season. “The next few weeks will be decisive,” said the Spanish commentator. 

Interestingly, Nike and FC Barcelona have an agreement that runs through 2028 that is worth €100 million ($110 million) per season, plus bonuses of up to €155 million ($170 million). But it seems Puma has a better offer for the Catalans, as they are eager to see their logo on the red and blue jersey. Notably, Puma has been quietly snatching clients from Nike, striking a partnership deal with players like Neymar and Jack Grealish and teams like Manchester City as well. Moreover, they are also in contention to become Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Portugal kit sponsors. 

Either way, if Puma manages to lure Barca into signing the deal as their official sponsor, it would do wonders for them. Meanwhile, it would be a huge blow for Nike, which has been a client of the Spanish side since 1998. On the other hand, FC Barcelona’s exit will align with its three-year $2 billion cost-cutting strategy. That begs the following question.

Is Nike and FC Barcelona’s relationship at a point of no return? What exactly happened?

Information indicating an unhealthy relationship between the Oregon-based corporation and FC Barcelona was previously reported by Mundo Deportivo. Over the previous two seasons, Nike has had numerous problems, one of which is the scarcity of FC Barcelona’s first-team jerseys in retailers in a variety of sizes. Notably, fading problems with the shirts prevented the home kit replica from being marketed in July 2020.

As to the sources coming from Foot Mercato, FC Barcelona is the only significant Nike-affiliated club that is currently without orders for the forthcoming season. Despite Puma’s vigorous efforts to become the official sponsor, and Nike’s logistical issues, it is still possible that Nike and FC Barcelona will call it quits on their collaboration earlier than anticipated. Let us know your predictions in the comments below.

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