Barcelona president talks Xavi, Lewandowski, Fermin, Eric, Luis Suarez, Mbappe, January signings

Barcelona president Joan Laporta recently spoke on various topics concerning Barcelona, providing insights into the club’s strategy, its players, and the future.

When asked about Barcelona’s ability to sign new players in January, Laporta expressed optimism. He mentioned the club’s plan to achieve a 1:1 ratio earlier, which would simplify the registration of new players.

Laporta emphasised that Barcelona are not in a precarious financial situation and have planned accordingly. He also praised the current squad and expressed confidence in Deco and his team, who are working towards the club’s medium and long-term goals.

When asked if the team can sign players normally in January, he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo),

“Yes, because we plan to get to 1-1 earlier. It makes it easier for you to register. If you are not in a precarious situation, we have planned for it.

“We are happy with the players we have. I am sure that Deco and his team are working for the medium to long term. We plan to get to 1-1.”

Laporta on Xavi, Fermin and Eric Garcia

Laporta also discussed his relationship with Xavi, noting that he greatly appreciates him. He explained that the decision to bring in Hansi Flick was a collective one, made to give the team a new push.

While acknowledging Xavi’s contributions, especially during challenging times, Laporta felt it was necessary to make a change. He believes that Flick possesses the right qualities to drive the team forward and bring about the needed changes.

“Xavi is a person I really appreciate. I thought, along with my fellow board members, that we had to give the team a new impetus. It was a club decision. I have always been grateful to Xavi.

“He came at a difficult time, won a league and a Super Cup, but last year things didn’t go so well. I still have the same relationship of appreciation that I have with Xavi. We had to make this push. I think that Flick has the conditions for this new push.”

Regarding Eric Garcia, Laporta expressed his happiness at having him in the squad. He mentioned that Flick values Garcia, especially after Bernal’s injury, and sees him as a useful midfielder.

“We are very happy to have him. Flick values ​​him as a midfielder after Bernal’s injury. Girona wanted Eric, but so did other clubs. If Flick wants him, we are delighted. He is an excellent lad.”

On the topic of physical training, Laporta deferred to Deco for a more detailed explanation but noted that the current regime is more movement-based. He highlighted the dynamic nature of the training sessions and the emphasis on strength work.

“Deco can explain this better. I see a lot of intensity. When I spoke to Julio Tous, he told me that they use a different system, much more based on movement. It’s true that the training sessions are very dynamic and they work a lot on strength. 

“The physical trainers are very satisfied with the results and are convinced that they will be able to meet the coach’s demands. I have been able to see this. 

“When we played against City, I asked Flick if he was happy and he said no because we only pressed until the 70th minute.”

Laporta also addressed Fermin Lopez’s injury with a sense of understanding and respect for the Spanish coach. He acknowledged the challenges of managing player workloads and the unfortunate nature of injuries.

“We have a very good relationship with the Spanish coach. We have to respect him. We always try to ensure that the players are not overworked. 

“They would have liked Lamine to have gone to the Games. What happened with Fermín is a shame, football is a nightmare. 

“At first, you get angry, but then you understand that everyone is doing the best they can.”

On Luis Suarez, Real Madrid and Mbappe

Commenting on the football calendar, Laporta stressed the need to regulate player effort. He highlighted the importance of carefully managing playing time and workload to maintain a balance and avoid injuries, particularly for the younger players who require special attention.

Furthermore, Laporta also paid tribute to Luis Suarez, who recently announced his international retirement. He described Suarez as an extraordinary player and a kind person, noting his good relationship with the club.

“He is an extraordinary player and a very nice person, very kind. I didn’t have him when I was president. He helps us. He has a good relationship with Deco and people at the club, and also with Araujo. 

“I hope he does very well in his new life. Barça is his home and we will be delighted to have him as part of the 125th anniversary. I send him my regards from here,” noted Laporta.

When asked about Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid, Laporta focused on Barcelona’s strong start to the season, particularly the impressive 7-0 win against Valladolid. He expressed optimism about the team’s future, noting the quality and intensity of their play.

“I’m focusing on Barça. We started well, as expected. Now I have the pleasure of the 7-0 against Valladolid. We showed great football, with quality and intensity. We are hopeful and excited, convinced that things will go well.”

Laporta shared that he receives various requests from fans regarding transfers but mostly encounters support and encouragement.

“People ask for everything. On most occasions, I find words of encouragement and support. Coming here I met a father and a son and they were very excited.

“I want to be close to the people. Players from all over the footballing world have asked me. At the moment, the words are of support. I respect those who criticise. I prefer that they speak well, but if some don’t, I respect that.”

Laporta also expressed satisfaction with Hansi Flick’s understanding of La Masia’s significance to the club. He praised Flick for integrating La Masia players into the first team and commended his courage in making bold decisions.

Laporta reiterated that La Masia remains central to Barcelona’s project and is pleased with the progress being made under Flick’s leadership.

“I am more than satisfied because Flick has understood that La Masia is our treasure. La Masia has many players, but he has been brave in putting them in the first team. 

“The centre of our project is La Masia and I am very happy that he has put them in the first team. He is a coach who does not look for excuses. 

“It is a real decision. He has seen the talent we have at La Masia, which is greater than the rest.”

Laporta also shared his opinion on Robert Lewandowski, saying, “I see Robert as more motivated than ever. Robert needed this new boost, he’s in great physical shape and I see him very excited.

“He’s a player committed to the club and I can assure you of that. When he heard that we could make some efforts to achieve fair play, he offered his contract. I’m very grateful to him, but I told him it wasn’t necessary.

“He’s very committed to the club and he’s also demanding of the team, of himself and of his teammates. We’ve gotten a good performance out of him and I’m sure that this will be Lewandowski’s best year.”

Lastly, regarding Aramark’s financial contributions, Laporta explained a technical issue that prevented reaching the expected €25 million mark due to a €10 million deduction by La Liga.

“There was a partner who had put in €10 million, but LaLiga discounted it. We didn’t reach €25 million because we had to do €30 million. 

“It was a technical reason. I’m happy to have an agreement with Aramark that will help us fulfil what we planned in Barça Vision.”