Barcelona president in confident mood ahead of Newcastle clash – ‘Balancing caution and optimism’ | OneFootball

Rafa Yuste, acting president of FC Barcelona since the resignation of Joan Laporta in order to run in the club’s presidential elections on March 15, spoke to the media outside the Blackfriars Restaurant.

The venue hosted the official lunch between Barcelona’s board and the directors of Newcastle United, ahead of their UEFA Champions League Round-of-16 first leg tonight at St James’ Park.

Rafa Yuste on Newcastle game, elections

Before the first leg of the Champions League Round-of-16 clash, Yuste emphasised the approach the team will take heading into the match.

“We are approaching the match with the necessary caution that a Champions League game requires,” explained the interim Barça president.

“Hansi Flick is enjoying his daily work, and this approach to the routine is transmitted to the team and the staff, balancing caution and optimism, which allows everyone to have the necessary elements to face the tie with confidence,” he added.

With Barcelona in the middle of an intense election week, Yuste stressed that his priority as acting president is to maintain stability within the club.

“My mission as president is to bring calm to the institution I represent. This calm must reach all members of the club, including Hansi and the entire group, so that it translates into a good result and into success in the upcoming matches,” he remarked.

Rafa Yuste became interim Barça president after Laporta stepped down to contest in the elections. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

He also highlighted the importance of the upcoming presidential elections, saying:

“It is an important day that should be an example for all Barça fans; we ask the fans to go out and vote, because we are playing for five years of the presidency and it is a decisive moment for all Barça fans who feel this club as their own.” 

On Camp Nou expansion

Yuste also welcomed the recent approval granted by the City Council allowing Barcelona to open additional sections of the Spotify Camp Nou.

The 1C license will allow the stadium’s capacity to increase to 62,000+ spectators, a move that Yuste believes will benefit both the team and the electoral process.

“This is great news, as it will allow 60,000 members to be present on Sunday supporting the team, and it will also help with voter turnout on election day,” admitted the president of the Catalan club.

Meanwhile, Yuste chose not to comment directly on the recent statements made by Xavi Hernandez regarding the failed return of Lionel Messi to Barcelona in 2023.

“My main objective today is to ensure the team has complete peace of mind and can take to the field with every guarantee, without anything or anyone hindering Hansi Flick’s work,” Yuste said.

“He enjoys his job every day, and now we’re just waiting for the match so we can get an important result. I have to be respectful of everyone.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo