Barça: Laporta violently attacks the refereeing and Real Madrid

Joan Laporta, the president of FC Barcelona, broke his silence last night in an exclusive interview with TV3, delivering sharp criticism against Spanish refereeing and taking aim at arch-rivals Real Madrid. Speaking amid a turbulent season marked by off-field controversies and on-field challenges, Laporta did not hold back in addressing the difficulties his club has faced.

Laporta began by acknowledging the hardship the club endured this season, describing it as “the most difficult season we have experienced.” He pointed to multiple adversities, including the complex issues around player registration and the shadow of the Negreira affair, which has embroiled Barcelona in a scandal over alleged payments to a former senior referee. Despite these hurdles, Laporta emphasized that the team’s focus remains on performance: “Yes, the refereeing was not in our favour, but our priority remains the game. To win, we have to be much better.”

On the sensitive topic of the Negreira case, Laporta was resolute in defending the club. He labeled the accusations a “smear campaign” and confidently asserted that Barcelona will eventually be cleared of all wrongdoing. This stance reflects the club’s determination to restore its reputation amid the ongoing investigation.

When asked about Real Madrid’s frequent public criticisms of refereeing decisions, Laporta maintained a diplomatic tone. He declined to engage in a tit-for-tat exchange, stating, “I do not want to expand on that. Each club has its own strategy. For us, football comes first.” However, he made it clear that Barcelona will adopt a more proactive approach behind the scenes, seeking to influence refereeing standards constructively to protect the club’s interests during crucial moments.

Laporta also raised a more profound issue he described as “madridismo sociologique,” suggesting a systemic influence of Real Madrid within Spanish football’s institutional framework. He hinted at an entrenched bias that Barcelona has historically had to overcome by being “much superior” on the pitch. “Complaining won’t help,” Laporta said, emphasizing that Barcelona’s legacy is built on excellence rather than reliance on external factors.

Amid ongoing reforms in refereeing policies across Spain, Laporta revealed that Barcelona has been invited to participate in discussions, despite not holding an official seat on the refereeing committee, which includes representatives from Real Madrid, Betis, and La Liga officials. “We have been invited to contribute, and we will do our part,” Laporta affirmed, signaling the club’s intention to engage constructively in shaping the future of Spanish refereeing.

The interview also touched on the broader context of this season’s challenges, where Barcelona had to navigate significant financial constraints and administrative hurdles. Laporta acknowledged these as part of the adversity but urged fans and critics alike to keep their focus on the team’s progress and potential.

Throughout the interview, Laporta’s tone balanced frustration with determination. He recognized that Barca’s resurgence requires not just overcoming off-field distractions but improving performances on the pitch. “Our focus remains winning games and titles,” he said firmly.

Critics and fans alike have reacted strongly to Laporta’s statements. Some see his remarks as a necessary wake-up call to address deeper issues within Spanish football’s governance, while others view it as a strategic move to unite the club’s supporters behind a shared cause in the face of adversity.

As the season progresses, Laporta’s outspoken comments are likely to fuel further debate about fairness, power, and influence in La Liga. Barcelona’s leadership appears ready to confront these challenges head-on, both on and off the field, as they aim to restore the club’s status as Spain’s premier football institution.

With the summer transfer window approaching and the club preparing for the next chapter under head coach Hansi Flick, Laporta’s interview serves as a reminder of the complex landscape Barcelona must navigate — a mix of sporting ambition, political battles, and institutional reform.

In conclusion, Joan Laporta’s fiery remarks underscore the pressures facing Barcelona in this critical period. His call for better refereeing, fairer treatment, and more proactive engagement signals that the club is not just fighting for trophies, but also for respect and influence in Spanish football’s power structures. How these battles play out will be crucial in determining Barça’s future trajectory.