Joan Laporta has broken his silence in a major interview as the campaign for the upcoming FC Barcelona presidential election continues to gather pace.
Appearing on RAC1’s Tu diràs, Laporta spoke publicly for the first time since officially becoming a candidate for the vote scheduled for 15 March.
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Laporta sounded calm and confident about his chances of remaining in charge of the Catalan club.
Laporta believes the overall mood among members is positive and that his candidacy has strong backing from supporters.
One of the first topics discussed was the signature collection process required for candidates. Laporta confirmed that his campaign had gathered the highest number of valid signatures among all candidates.
“Our issues were caused because the other two candidates had more than we did, with 14% and 21% of signatures rejected, and that possibly affected ours,” he said.
On Vitor Font’s comments
Laporta’s main rival in the election is Victor Font, who has argued that Barcelona require a different management structure.
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However, Laporta firmly defended the current model and believes the club has improved significantly during his leadership.
“The management model works, and therefore, it doesn’t need to be changed. It would be reckless.
“Making apocalyptic predictions, catastrophic proclamations, that this is about one model versus another.
“Ours works. I’m not saying it can’t be improved, but we are much better off than we were five years ago.”
On the complaint
Laporta also addressed a recent complaint filed against him by a club member who accused him of financial irregularities.
Laporta has hit back at Victor Font. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
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The Barcelona president dismissed the claims and suggested they were intended to influence the election campaign.
“He didn’t think twice and immediately went to the media to give credibility to this new associate.
“They jumped to conclusions, giving credibility to a person who was presenting newspaper clippings. There’s a clear intent,” he said.
The president also accused Font of attempting to interfere with club operations, including the registration process of Dani Olmo.
When discussing the sporting project, Laporta insisted that Barcelona do not need a major headline signing in the transfer market.
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“Deco is working to make the necessary adjustments, but there is no need for this type of operation.
“Keep in mind that this is a team with most of its players under contract, a team for the present and the future.”
Lewandowski’s future
Laporta also spoke briefly about the future of Robert Lewandowski, whose contract situation remains a topic of discussion.
“I would like him to stay, but that’s a decision for the sporting directorate.”
Finally, the Barcelona president was asked about transfer rumours linking the club with Julian Alvarez, but Laporta avoided giving any indication of interest.
“I like Barça’s players. As for players from other teams, at this point, there isn’t a single one I like; I wouldn’t give my teeth for anyone,” he commented.
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