Barcelona Receive Signatures That Could Trigger Vote of No Confidence Against Josep Maria Bartomeu

Barcelona have confirmed they have received the signed petition that could lead to club president Josep Maria Bartomeu facing a vote of no confidence.

The news is the latest misadventure in what has been a disastrous few months for the Blaugrana.

On the pitch, they surrendered the La Liga title to Real Madrid and were humiliated 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Off it, Lionel Messi has attempted to manufacturer a move away from Camp Nou while former manager Quique Setien is threatening to sue the club for a breach of contract.

Throughout of all this fan group 'more than a motion' have been collecting signatures in an attempt to force a vote of no confidence against the beleaguered president. In total, 16,520 signatures would be required to trigger a vote which must be held within three months. If 66.5% if club members then vote to depose Bartomeu, he must step down.

Barça have confirmed that they have received the petition but warned that the signatures would have to verified before any no confidence vote took place.

"This afternoon, member Jordi Farré, promoter of the vote of censure against the FC Barcelona Board of Directors, has delivered the signatures of the club members who support his request to the offices of the Barcelona Supporter Services Office (OAB)," the statement began.

"The corresponding count has been made, and a total of 20,687 signatures have been counted, pending validation pursuant to article 55.4 of the FC Barcelona Statutes."

With the signatures submitted, a group made up of two Barcelona board members, two signatories and a delegate from the Catalan Football Federation must now verify their authenticity.

If they are concluded to meet all the requirements within ten working days then a vote of no confidence will follow.