Barcelona interim president talks Alvarez, Atletico, Real Madrid, Super League: ‘Common sense prevailed’ | OneFootball

With Joan Laporta stepping down as FC Barcelona president on Monday, in order to contest in the upcoming elections, Rafa Yuste has taken over as interim president until 30 June.

Tonight’s game against Atletico Madrid will, thus, be Yuste’s first game as the club president and earlier today, he attended the club executives’ lunch along with the board members of Los Rojiblancos.

Yuste on Atletico Madrid clash, Super League

Just before he entered the restaurant in Madrid, Yuste spoke to the media gathered at the venue, discussing the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, as well as the recent developments surrounding the European Super League.

Starting off, the acting club president discussed what was said in the Barça locker room on Tuesday when Laporta said goodbye to the players.

“They were words of encouragement, explaining that everything remains the same. We spoke with the manager, Deco, Bojan, and Alejandro Echevarria. We will continue doing things as the team we are, with the necessary rigour and prudence,” he said.

Talking about tonight’s cup tie, Yuste remarked: “All matches are important, but this one isn’t just any match. If we do well, it could lead us to a possible Copa del Rey final. I already have experience.

“During the first spell, with Rijkaard and Guardiola, my colleagues joked that I could leave. Back then, the players did very well. I have a lot of confidence in the team.”

Rafa Yuste is acting president of FC Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

“They are in great shape in every way and are coming with a tremendous desire to do well for the fans, to play a good match, and to respect the opponent, which is what it’s all about,” he added.

Asked about Real Madrid stepping away from the Super League and the agreement reached with UEFA, Yuste stressed that Barcelona had already taken the lead on the matter.

“We distanced ourselves from the Super League days ago. As president, I’m glad that common sense prevailed, and that’s what makes things happen,” he said.

When asked whether it was a defeat for Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Yuste sidestepped the query, saying:

“Barça did its homework. We have a very good relationship with all the organisations. We always have, always exchanging opinions to be more constructive and look after the interests of our club.”

Finally, when asked about a possible signing of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez next summer, Yuste avoided controversy, saying:

“There’s a very good relationship. More than just board members, they’re friends. We’ve known each other for many years, and it will be a very pleasant lunch.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo