Graeme Souness Explains Why He Chose Sampdoria Over Barcelona in 1984

Former Liverpool midfielder Graeme Souness has explained why he rejected an offer to join Barcelona when he left Liverpool in 1984.

In an interview with BBC Scotland, Souness said Barcelona offered a two-year contract, but he needed a three-year agreement for personal reasons. He instead joined Sampdoria, whose owner Paolo Mantovani was building a young squad and wanted an experienced player.

Souness had helped Liverpool win the European Cup in 1984 before moving to Italy for a reported £650,000. He later joined Rangers as player-manager in 1986.

Source: BBC Sport Scotland, 15 October 2026.