Barcelona president Joan Laporta attended the Royal Spanish Football Federation’s dinner ahead of the Supercopa de España final, sharing his expectations for the showdown and commenting on the relationship with rivals Real Madrid.
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez did not attend the dinner, with the club sending Emilio Butragueño as its representative. Laporta said: “We act with the utmost respect and sincerity. Florentino did not come to the RFEF event, and he is free to do as he pleases. We have the greatest respect for our opponents and their representatives.”
“There are several issues that have estranged our relationship. If we were once fierce competitors, the current situation has led to poor relations—even a breakdown, but that does not mean a lack of respect. We always hold respect, and no matter what the relationship is, we will act in this way. In football, everything can be mended, but it depends on all parties.”
Talking about the final, Laporta stated: “We are very eager to win this title, which is the first trophy of the season, and we deserve to be in the final. All Barça fans hope to start the new year with a victory. Usually, whenever we win this trophy, it tends to be a prelude to winning other championships later on. It points the way forward, and this is an important game.”
“The team is mentally prepared, and so is Hansi Flick. He will not allow anyone to be distracted. They have trained extremely hard, and I firmly believe we will win.”
“The entire team’s mentality is to win, not just out of rivalry. Everyone is full of expectations, eager to play good football and bring joy to Barça fans. Of course, the Barça players are professionals, and they know that certain things will happen.”
“There are no favorites in this final, and anything can happen. Both teams will use their strengths to fight for victory. We know we have a very united team, and the team spirit is superior to that of the opponent. Although Real Madrid also have the ability to win the game, they have proven that in their match against Atlético Madrid.”
“Atlético Madrid deserved more. The way to win is to play with higher intensity.”
"Real Madrid hopes to replicate the season we experienced last year, which was a historic one for us. To do that, they have to start by winning the Supercopa de España."
