Laporta talks Flick, Raphinha, Rashford, Cancelo, La Masia, Camp Nou development | OneFootball

Joan Laporta has offered a revealing insight into Hansi Flick’s future at Barcelona, while also addressing key issues ranging from transfers to injuries and La Masia’s growing influence.

Speaking in a recent interview (h/t AS), the Barcelona president made it clear that Flick himself has chosen to delay any contract discussions. 

Laporta explained that the German tactician wants clarity before committing his future.

“He prefers to analyse the situation at the end of the season and decide what to do,” Laporta stated.

Expanding further on the coach’s position, Laporta emphasised that there is no urgency from Flick’s side, despite the club’s willingness to extend his stay.

“At the end of the season, when things have settled down, we’ll talk about it. He doesn’t feel the need to rush it. 

“I think he’s earned a contract extension, but he prefers to discuss it at the end of the season, assess the situation, and decide what to do. 

“If we go for another year, he’s already got it.”

Transfer strategy

Away from the managerial matters, Laporta also addressed Barcelona’s transfer strategy, hinting at a more cautious approach rather than aggressive spending.

Barcelona will not go overboard in the transfer market. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“There’s no need to go into the transfer market just for the sake of it, and we must continue to look at what we have in-house so that, if necessary, we can improve the roster.

“Despite our financial situation, we have managed to bring the signings that our managers have wanted.

“Xavi asked for Gündogan, and he was brought in.”

Laporta then revealed optimism about improved revenue streams, which could unlock greater flexibility in the market.

“All La Liga clubs have been facing this issue. The economic control is very strict.”

“We have to talk with the committee and explain our proposals to them. Right now, we’ll achieve revenues of 1.1 billion euros, more than expected.

“This will help us a lot in obtaining the fair play needed to make signings.”

“I hope they take that into account and grant us the necessary fair play to sign without restrictions this summer.”

Raphinha’s injury

On the sporting front, Laporta did not hide his frustration over Raphinha’s recent injury setback, which occurred during international duty and will sideline him for weeks.

“It’s really frustrating when one of your best players gets injured in a friendly match. 

“You can’t blame the player because he’s a professional, and besides, he’s playing for his country and has to give it his all. 

“It’s outrageous that FIFA sets such tight schedules and doesn’t take official competitions into account.”

The Barcelona president also touched upon the future of loanees Marcus Rashford and Joao Cancelo, making it clear that sporting director Deco and Flick will have the final say.

“Deco and Flick have to decide. Rashford is having a good season, and Cancelo is playing extraordinarily well.”

Praise for La Masia

Laporta isn’t too pleased with Raphinha’s injury. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Importantly, Laporta reinforced the significance of La Masia, highlighting a new generation of talents shaping Barcelona’s identity.

“Bernal, Lamine Yamal and Cubarsi were the backbone of their team in La Masia. Xavi Espart also comes from that batch as well.

“And then before them we have Gavi, Fermin, Balde, Eric Garcia.

“La Masia is the base of our project. We rely on the market only in special situations.”

Update on Camp Nou

Finally, attention turned to the long-awaited redevelopment of Spotify Camp Nou, with Laporta outlining a projected completion timeline and contingency plans.

“The goal is for the Camp Nou work to be completed by early 2028, with the roof installed.

“While we install the roof at the Camp Nou, our initial intention was not to go back to Montjuïc, but it will depend on how long the construction takes and whether we need a temporary solution.

“If the delay is short, just a few matches, the Johan Cruyff Stadium would be ideal, but if it is longer, we may have to return to Montjuïc again,” he said.