3rd September, 2024
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Barcelona President Joan Laporta has declared that the club is now in a stronger position financially, socially, and sportingly, following extensive efforts to achieve economic recovery.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Laporta reflected on the challenges faced in recent years, stating, “Three years ago, the club was in a situation of risk and out of control. We have worked on economic recovery, and the club is now better financially, socially, and sportingly.”
Addressing the team’s management, Laporta praised coach Hansi Flick for his winning mentality, emphasizing the club’s satisfaction and pride in its squad.
“We see that La Masia is the core of our project. We’re also very happy with Deco, who did an excellent and magnificent job, including bringing Hansi Flick to the club,” he added.
Laporta also commented on the signing of Dani Olmo, highlighting it as evidence of the club’s ability to attract high-calibre players.
“The arrival of Dani Olmo proves what I said a few months ago: Barça is ready to sign players with high-level contracts,” he affirmed.
Explaining the departures of Joao Felix and Cancelo, Laporta stated that the club had decided to approach squad planning differently.
“They were on loan and later joined other clubs, so it’s normal,” he explained.
On İlkay Gündoğan’s exit, Laporta clarified that it was a decision made purely for sporting reasons.
“Following the signing of Dani Olmo, Gündoğan’s role became unclear due to their similar positions. However, he remains an excellent person and player,” Laporta noted.
Laporta also had special praise for Robert Lewandowski, lauding his commitment to the club.
“Lewandowski deserves a special mention. When he learned that we needed to make adjustments to meet Fair Play regulations for player registration, he offered to lower his contract to help the club,” Laporta revealed.
