Barcelona president attacks Real Madrid TV just ahead of El Clasico – ‘Not the right way’ | OneFootball

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has added fuel to the fire ahead of today’s El Clasico with his comments on Real Madrid TV. 

Speaking at a Barcelona supporters’ club meeting, Laporta criticised Real Madrid, claiming they were “influencing the referees” through their media presence.

He suggested that this strategy aims to unsettle the Blaugrana team and create an unfair atmosphere around them. 

“It’s not the right way to proceed,” Laporta said, emphasising that Barcelona do not intend to play the victim. 

“With what their television network is doing, they’re influencing the referees; it’s a strategy for winning that shouldn’t exist.

“They can’t say the referees are hurting them or favouring Barça. We’re not playing the victim; we’ll try to win at the Bernabéu once again.”

However, these remarks appear more like an attempt to deflect attention from Barcelona’s own struggles this season. 

Real Madrid, with a full squad and consistent form, have shown no need for such theatrics. 

“Let’s prepare for a great match where we’re all convinced our team will give us great joy. Our opponent has created an atmosphere around the refereeing team that is out of place,” he added.

Madrid’s advantage despite Barça absences

Joan Laporta has attacked Real Madrid TV. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Looking ahead to the Clasico, Laporta insisted Barcelona is confident, saying, “We feel very good and we’re going in with a winning mentality.” 

Yet the reality tells a different story. Barcelona will miss key players like Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, which significantly weakens their squad against a well-prepared Real Madrid.

In contrast, Real Madrid have shown consistency on all fronts, both in La Liga and European competitions. 

With a fully fit squad and the confidence of recent victories, Madrid enter the clash in a position of strength. 

The comments from Laporta, rather than boosting his team, highlight the pressure Barcelona face and the narrative they are trying to control.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, remain focused on the pitch. History shows that the Bernabeu is where the team often thrives under pressure, and with Barcelona grappling with injuries and internal distractions, Madrid have the edge going into the much-anticipated fixture.

Source: MARCA