Despite ongoing financial uncertainties, Joan Laporta, President of Barcelona, has confidently stated that the club will be in a position to secure a significant signing this summer. As the presidential election at Camp Nou approaches, Laporta also warned that voting for his opponent, Victor Font, could jeopardize the role of head coach Hansi Flick.
Font has expressed intentions to remove Director of Football Deco if elected, a move Laporta strongly criticizes. Laporta emphasized that Flick enjoys working with Deco, and their coordination is excellent. Speaking later, Laporta reiterated that Flick’s continued presence is tied to his own presidency, presenting this as a key argument in his campaign.
Laporta dismissed any concerns, stating, “I’m not one for warnings. Flick has already spoken. He’s happy and content working at Barca, in Barcelona, with the people in the dressing room. Victor Font says he’s going to get rid of Deco, and the coordination with Flick is very good. He’s said he won’t be comfortable. We’ve done everything to make this work.”
He further labeled Victor Font as “the number one threat to Barca,” asserting that Font “has no project” and intends to replace Deco with “three people who will do the work of one.” Laporta deemed this an “insult,” arguing that these individuals are not on Deco’s level and Font’s proposal endangers a successful sporting project.
Laporta on Xavi Hernandez’s Sacking
The current president also questioned Font’s vision for Barcelona, especially given Font’s pledge to prioritize financial restructuring. Laporta commented, “I don’t see anything new in Victor Font’s proposal. I don’t see any freshness or change. What’s going to change? The stadium? The future? It’s the stadium, La Masia, which continues to develop players. We’re already riding into the future. We’re the ones who built this.”
Laporta addressed recent claims by Xavi Hernandez regarding the alleged sabotage of Lionel Messi’s return in 2023 and the influence of advisor Alejandro Echevarria in his sacking. Laporta clarified that the decision to part ways with Xavi was influenced by Xavi’s own requests for “substantial changes to the squad.” He added that Hansi Flick had been eyeing the Barcelona job since 2021 and became more seriously interested after Xavi announced his departure following the Villarreal loss.
Laporta Assures Barcelona Can Sign Big This Summer
Laporta firmly reiterated Barcelona’s capacity to make significant signings, pointing to successful efforts in reducing the sports wage bill from 98% to 54% of revenue. He explained, “This is very good because both La Liga and the oversight committee see that Barça is continuing its positive evolution. Deco has done an excellent job.”
‘I would love Lewandowski to stay’ – Laporta
Regarding striker Robert Lewandowski, Laporta expressed a strong desire for him to remain at the club, despite Director of Football Deco confirming that a new centre-forward is a priority. “I would love for Lewandowski to stay. I would do everything I could if he wants to stay; he’s earned it,” Laporta stated. He acknowledged Lewandowski has offers from Saudi Arabia and the United States but believes “Robert doesn’t want to leave,” and he intends to convey this perspective to Deco.
Barcelona’s presidential elections are scheduled for Sunday, where Joan Laporta seeks his fourth term in office.
