Joan Laporta criticizes Florentino Perez and Real Madrid: 'They are experiencing a feeling of Déjà Vu'

Joan Laporta made several criticisms of Real Madrid in his inauguration speech after officially starting his new term as Barcelona president. Although he did not directly mention Real Madrid president Florentino Perez by name in each instance, Laporta used his speech to compare Barcelona's current direction with the turmoil he said was growing at their biggest rival.

Reflecting on Barcelona's sports project, Laporta praised the work being done under coach Hansi Flick before criticizing Real Madrid. "Elsewhere, they are very nervous and hold humorous press conferences; they do not have a clear direction and are experiencing a feeling of déjà vu," Laporta said, according to Mundo Deportivo newspaper. He later compared that situation to Barcelona's prospects, saying: "We have a more consistent path with Hansi Flick leading players who inspire the whole of Barcelona, a squad built by Deco, which is not easy in this volatile world of football."


Laporta also mentioned Barcelona's ownership model, which again appeared to draw comparisons with Real Madrid, amid speculation that Perez is considering selling part of the club's ownership to an outside investor. "We want to continue to be a member-owned club, and that forces us to be creative to compete with clubs that are commercial enterprises," he said. After a short silence, he added another comment that seemed aimed at Real Madrid. "There are people who are not like that, but they want to be like that."

At the end of his speech, Laporta spoke about defending Barcelona's interests against external criticism and attacks, referring to Perez's statements regarding the Negreira case. "We feel strong to continue to protect the club," he said. "There are people who never rest, and in the face of attacks on Barça and our honor, they will always find a strong president and board committed to defending the organization against everything and everyone; that is our commitment." Although he did not specify who he was referring to, the comments were interpreted as another message aimed at Real Madrid and president Perez following recent tensions between the two organizations.