Laporta talks Cancelo, Ter Stegen, Deco, Flick, facing Real Madrid in Super Cup final | OneFootball

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has given a detailed update on Joao Cancelo’s situation, confirming that the Portuguese defender will undergo his medical on Friday, which is today. 

While the team continues its preparations in Saudi Arabia, the club is closing key files behind the scenes to strengthen Hansi Flick’s options for the decisive stretch of the season.

Laporta first wanted to reassure fans about Cancelo’s transfer, revealing that the full-back is booked in for his medical. 

“I’m confident that everything will go well and that he will be ready for the upcoming matches,” the president said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

Praise for Deco

Laporta then moved on to highlight the work done by the sporting department to secure Cancelo’s transfer on terms that suit the club’s financial reality. 

He stressed how complex it remains to close deals mid-season, and used this case to underline the role of his sporting director. 

The president assured that the signing of the Portuguese full-back is “another success for Deco.” 

He noted that “it’s not easy to sign players in the winter transfer window” and that both the player and his agent, Jorge Mendes, did their part by agreeing to a considerable pay cut. 

Laporta highlighted Cancelo’s versatility and revealed that “Hansi has given his blessing to the deal.”

Ter Stegen’s return

Ter Stegen will rejoin his teammates. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Attention then turned to the dressing-room leaders, with Laporta underlining the commitment of his captain on the eve of another Super Cup final. 

He explained that Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who recently had a fitness scare, will still be by the team’s side for the showpiece. 

Ter Stegen will be present at the final, having flown back to Barcelona for medical tests after suffering a scare. 

“He wants to be with his teammates. We are grateful that the captain is coming, and Gavi is also on his way,” explained Laporta. 

All set for the final

Finally, Laporta shared his feelings ahead of the clash, mixing calm with ambition as Barça look to add another trophy to their recent collection. 

He made it clear that the club trusts Flick’s work and believes this group can again rise to the occasion in a final. Laporta described his mood ahead of the Super Cup final as “moderately optimistic.” 

“I see Flick very focused on winning this final. We want another Super Cup, we’re the ones who have won the most lately,” he said. 

Laporta encouraged his players to play with the same intensity as against Athletic. 

”We have to focus on ourselves, do the things we’re doing. It will be a great final and we have a chance to win because we’re in good shape,” concluded the president.