Joan Laporta opens up on Real Madrid tensions and Florentino Perez relationship | OneFootball

Joan Laporta has once again stepped into the spotlight, offering a candid and revealing insight into Barcelona’s current position on their long-standing rivals, Real Madrid.

In a detailed interview (h/t AS), the Barcelona president addressed multiple topics, ranging from past collaborations to the increasingly strained relationship between the two Spanish giants. 

Naturally, one of the first points of discussion was the controversial European Super League project, an initiative closely associated with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

Reflecting on Barcelona’s involvement and his own role in maintaining dialogue with Madrid during that period, Laporta said,

“I did what I had to do. I don’t regret reaching out to Real Madrid. I consider that matter closed.”

Relationship with Perez

While that chapter may be over, the current relationship between the two clubs is far from stable. 

Laporta explained that, although there remains a level of personal respect between himself and Florentino Perez, the institutional connection has suffered significantly in recent times.

“We now have a relationship based on mutual respect. 

Laporta has talked about his relationship with Perez. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“It’s true that there was more contact regarding the Super League issue, but it has faded since he appeared in the Negreira case. 

“Every time the judge tries to dismiss the case, Real Madrid presents conclusive evidence—such as a statement on the radio or in the media—which ultimately amounts to nothing. 

“There’s a very shady agenda here. They want to drag out this proceeding to justify what their TV channel says, namely that the judges favour Barça. 

“All of this has been damaging our relationship. On a personal level, there is mutual respect, but at the institutional level, relations have deteriorated significantly.”

Thoughts on Real Madrid

The Barcelona president did not stop there. When addressing Real Madrid more broadly, he delivered a statement that will undoubtedly fuel further debate around the rivalry.

“They’ve got ‘Barcelonitis.’ It’s not about playing the victim—I’ve never been one for that. We’re going to keep moving forward, with pride and our heads held high,” he concluded.