Laporta’s right-hand man talks Flick, Pedri, Raphinha, Yamal’s renewal, Messi’s tribute | OneFootball

Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s advisor, Enric Masip, strongly backed the current club project during an appearance on the Sergio Gonzalez Show podcast (h/t SPORT).

Masip took the opportunity to criticise opposition voices, praise the work being done by Laporta, and spotlight the physical transformation of the team under new head coach Hansi Flick as a key reason for optimism ahead of the new season.

Masip was clear about the crisis Barcelona faced back in 2021, describing it as “an absolute ruin.” He reminded listeners that just a few months ago, there were still people suggesting the club might collapse completely.

“Today, those claims sound like a joke,” Masip said. “We’ve turned the situation around, and the fans have reconnected with Barça. Now the club is alive again—it has that special feeling once more.”

Flick’s arrival changed the physical tone of Barcelona

Hansi Flick physically transformed Barcelona. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

One of Masip’s strongest messages focused on the physical condition of the squad and how that has improved with Hansi Flick’s arrival.

He pointed out that many players used to lose steam by the 65th minute, which is often the most decisive part of any game. That has now changed.

“We realised there was a lack of intensity and physical preparation. Flick came in and embraced the challenge immediately. Today, you can see players like Pedri still sprinting in the 90th minute.”

He also praised the German manager’s relationship with key players. Raphinha was one name Masip singled out. “Last season, many wanted him gone. But Flick trusted him, and that trust went both ways. He’s now found his role, his rhythm, and he’s thriving.”

Masip spoke in favour of Laporta. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Masip took a moment to shut down recent criticism from former president Sandro Rosell, who suggested Laporta should focus more on the club.

“Laporta lives and breathes Barça. From morning to night. If anyone has always been there for the fans, even for peñas with 25 or 50 years of history, it’s him,” Masip said. “That wasn’t the case with presidents in the past.”

Updates on Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi’s tribute

On the topic of Lamine Yamal’s contract, Masip didn’t reveal much but expressed full faith in the board and Deco. “It’s all being handled well. Quietly, without making every step public,” he said.

When asked about a possible tribute match for Lionel Messi, Masip made the club’s intentions clear:

“The president has always said that he admires Messi deeply and would be thrilled to organise a farewell at the new Camp Nou, in whatever format Messi chooses. He’s the greatest player of all time, and he deserves that honour,” he noted.