It's all related to the fact that Barcelona are so entwined with the people of the city & the region. The fans can become 'associates' of the club and elect the president. And the club is the international symbol of Catalunya, which aspires to become a separate country from Spain. In other words, it's a club with avowed social and cultural agendas, not just a pawn in rich men's games.

Could it happen in Britain ? Shortly after pigs learn to fly.