Joan Laporta talks Eric Garcia, Raphinha, Lamine, Mbappe, Real Madrid, Ballon d’Or, PSG | OneFootball

Barcelona president Joan Laporta used the European Football Clubs (EFC) Assembly as an opportunity to address several major issues surrounding the club, including his increasingly strained relationship with Real Madrid.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo at the event, Laporta discussed the concerns surrounding international breaks, the latest injury situations involving Raphinha and Kylian Mbappe, Barcelona’s legal dispute with Florentino Perez, and a potential Champions League final with Paris Saint-Germain.

Real Madrid were not present at the assembly, but Laporta was asked directly about the lawsuit Barcelona has filed against Perez following comments in which the Madrid president accused Barça of having stolen seven La Liga titles. 

A conciliation hearing between the parties is scheduled to take place in Madrid on November 25.

Laporta raises concern over international breaks and injuries

With clubs once again seeing their players leave for international duty, Laporta admitted there is growing concern about the impact of the FIFA breaks on players.

“Yes, whilst we compete passionately on the pitch, we share a common motivation, which is to work together, in some way, to improve the competitions, improve the financial health of our clubs, provide opportunities for young talent and, of course, protect our players.

“And there is now concern about these breaks, which are almost like a pre-season.

“As far as international football is concerned, there is some concern because injuries can very easily occur, as is currently the case and, unfortunately, at Barça, as we have already suffered what appears to be a minor injury to Eric Garcia.

“I have also heard that Raphinha had to be substituted whilst playing for Brazil because he felt some discomfort; we will have to see the extent of this injury,” said the Barcelona president.

Raphinha’s situation is particularly relevant for Barcelona with El Clásico approaching. 

The Brazilian was withdrawn at half-time during Brazil’s 4-2 win over Australia after experiencing discomfort in his thigh, although initial examinations have provided some relief.

Laporta was also asked about Mbappe, who has experienced his own injury concern while away with France.

Laporta expressed his concern over players returning from international duty injured. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“Yes, the same thing has happened to Real Madrid with Mbappe. I don’t know the exact extent of the injury, and let’s hope it’s nothing serious.”

Asked whether there was any drama surrounding the Real Madrid forward, Laporta refused to speculate beyond what was already publicly known.

“Well, in this regard, I have no more information than what has appeared in the media.

“We’ve all thought about it at one time or another, but the truth is that we want the players to be actively involved in our clubs and to be ready to play for us.

“As for the national team, we know they have to go – it’s an obligation, and we respect that – but we train and prepare them to play for our clubs.”

Barcelona president addresses Florentino Perez lawsuit

The discussion then turned towards Barcelona’s legal action against Florentino Perez and the deteriorating relationship between the two Spanish giants.

Laporta made it clear that Barça’s position centres on what he considers to be inaccurate public statements made about the club.

“What we cannot accept is a departure from the truth, and the fact that every time they speak publicly, they take a dig at Barça. Our legal department responds to these situations. 

“We’ve done so with everyone who has condemned us before putting us on trial and said things that weren’t true, and we’re continuing in the same vein.

“What I hope is that they will rectify the situation and that this matter is resolved.

“As for Real Madrid, as you know, relations have broken down; they appeared in the Negreira case, which we believe was solely to drag out the proceedings and justify their television coverage and a predetermined narrative.

Laporta expressed his confidence in Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or hopes. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“And that is where the confrontation lies, and our relationship with them is non-existent.”

The November 25 conciliation hearing will therefore be a significant moment in the dispute between the two clubs’ leaderships.

On PSG and Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or hopes

Away from Real Madrid, Laporta was also asked about a potential Champions League final against PSG. 

The Barça president revealed that he had spoken with the Ligue 1 side’s president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, about the fixture.

“We both think that our two clubs are currently the two teams in the best form in Europe. They are the reigning champions and we are playing some great football. I think it’s the match of the season in Europe.

“PSG v Barça. It will take place on 20 October. We’ve been in touch, and it will be a pleasure to go to Paris and meet up in the run-up to what will be an extraordinary match.”

Laporta was then asked about the Ballon d’Or voting, which has now closed, and whether he had any doubts over the eventual winner.

“As you know, as a Barça fan and as president of Barça, I want a Barça player to win it.

“There are many candidates, and we’re very proud of them all. And if it’s Lamine Yamal, well, I’ll be very happy, because he’s had a great season and is constantly entertaining the football world with his performances.

“He’s started this season very well too; he’s still performing at a high level.

“He’s one of those players who, as he himself says, entertains the spectators, and we’ll see what happens on the 26th, but we’re confident that justice will be done and that a Barça player will win. And if it’s Lamine, we’ll be very happy.”