Laporta attacks Real Madrid: "They are losing prestige, recognition and credibility"

Joan Laporta did not hold back this Saturday in Sitges. The Barcelona president attended a tribute at Passatge Johan Cruyff, where a plaque with his name was unveiled at number 14, and seized the media attention to send a direct message against Real Madrid. He accused the club of clearly losing its prestige, recognition and credibility both in Spain and abroad.

• Laporta accused Real Madrid of losing prestige and credibility both nationally and internationally.
• The Barcelona president defended the club in the Negreira Case and firmly trusts in acquittal.
• The Catalan leader backed Lamine Yamal as a strong candidate for the Ballon d'Or.
• Laporta praised the work of Deco and Hansi Flick in building a competitive squad.

Laporta's strong message against Real Madrid

The Barcelona chief did not hesitate to respond to criticism coming from the Spanish capital. He pointed out that in Madrid they talk about other issues to distract attention from the great moment Barça is enjoying. According to Laporta, the team is playing attractive football and has become an international reference with several world-class players in different positions.

In Madrid they talk about other issues to divert attention. Barça is in a sweet moment, we are enjoying football and a very beautiful period in our history. We have nine players in the squad who have been world champions, we have a team that inspires love.

Laporta went even further and directly targeted the Madrid club's attitude in sports institutions. He explained that Real Madrid opposes everything in UEFA and in the EuroLeague, a stance that in his view damages football and reflects an arrogance unworthy of such a big club.

The Negreira Case and Barcelona's firm defense

The Barcelona president dedicated a significant part of his speech to the Negreira Case. He firmly recalled that the club was tried to be convicted before a verdict existed, an injustice he strongly criticized. Laporta said he was fully convinced that the final ruling will be favorable for Barcelona's interests.

In his view, those who keep the debate alive are trying to damage the entity's reputation. He stated that the case is not progressing anywhere and that the only goal of extending the legal process is to repeatedly discredit Barcelona.

The Negreira Case, I will never stop saying it, they tried to convict us before judging us, when it is being proven that there was nothing of what we were accused of. I fully trust in Barcelona's acquittal.

Lamine Yamal and the race for the Ballon d'Or

Laporta also discussed Lamine Yamal's candidacy for the Ballon d'Or. The president made no secret of his excitement about the possibility of the young Barcelona winger winning the most prestigious individual award in world football. He highlighted the excellent season completed by his player, including major titles such as LaLiga and the World Cup.

Laporta downplayed the controversy generated by the player's own statements, in which he openly declared himself the favorite. For the president, that boldness is a sign of honesty and the direct personality of a very young player, something that should be valued rather than turned into a problem.

The Barcelona executive also praised Hansi Flick's work in managing the dressing room, especially with the youngest footballers. Laporta believes the German coach is handling expectations and the growth of a squad with plenty of emerging talent to perfection.

Barcelona's sporting planning and praise for Deco

Laporta also had words of recognition for Deco, the club's sporting director. He highlighted that the former Portuguese footballer has done an outstanding job in building a highly competitive squad, working closely with Flick. The president stated that the team has two or three players per position, a squad depth he considers a luxury.

The Barcelona president did not forget the reserve team, which he considers an important part of the club's sporting structure. In his analysis, Barça B has talents that could be useful at any given moment of the season if the first team's needs require it.

The next challenge: a Getafe that demands total respect

Laporta also dedicated a few words to Barcelona's next LaLiga opponent, Getafe. Far from underestimating the Madrid-based side, the president showed absolute respect for a team he considers tough, well organized and led by a coach who knows how to read matches perfectly.

The match comes during a demanding stretch of the calendar for Barcelona, with an October full of high-stakes fixtures. Laporta accepts the challenge with calm and trusts that his team will maintain the level shown in recent weeks, taking advantage of the positive momentum of a squad that, he insists, is in a sweet moment.

Frequently asked questions about Laporta's statements