‘Will always be part of the shield’: Araujo, Laporta, Yuste pay tribute to Lewandowski at Barcelona team dinner | OneFootball

Barcelona recently celebrated the success of the ongoing season with a special team dinner with the players, coaching staff, the president and even Hansi Flick.

It was a special night that included speeches from notable members, an honour for Robert Lewandowski, who was handed a jersey signed by all his teammates, and Barcelona’s stand-in president, Rafa Yuste, singing the club’s anthem.

What made it more special was the presence of the close family of players, with most turning up with their spouses or girlfriends at the ‘red carpet’ before the event.

Yuste speaks on the occasion

As relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Rafa Yuste, Joan Laporta and even Ronald Araujo spoke to the team with passionate speeches at the gathering, both with the intention of celebrating successes and bidding farewell to Robert Lewandowski.

Yuste, the club’s stand-in president, first praised the team for the season they delivered, saying,

“We have won the League and the Super Cup. It is a source of great pride. As president, I want to tell you that without this group we would not have gained anything.”

“It’s not something of today, but of a long time. This is an incredible group and is building a team that can become legendary. We always know how to get up, especially in difficult times,” he added.

Yuste, Laporta spoke highly about Lewandowski. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

He then spoke kindly of Fermin Lopez, who suffered a gut-wrenching fracture that will keep him out of the World Cup next month.

“Today I want to remember those who have overcome adversity, for those who have suffered pain and have had injuries. In that sense, I want to give recognition to Fermín.”

“I also want to highlight friendship, which is a very precious value. My best friend has given me the option to be president of Barça, and I will never forget it,” he added, thanking Laporta.

He then spoke highly of Robert Lewandowski and wished him luck.

“Finally, I want to address a few words of gratitude to Lewandowski and tell you that you will always be with us.”

Laporta’s address

Joan Laporta, Barcelona’s president-elect, was the next to speak to the media and began by thanking the team for a special season.

“Congratulations and thank you all. It was a fantastic season. A legendary team is being built. Last season was historic, just like the current one.”

“I want to thank Hansi, the staff, the players, and the board members, among many others, for their effort,” he added.

Praising the team’s character, ability to fight back and personality, Laporta said,

“We have a group with a great extraordinary human level, with talent and a great character. The spirit is the key to success.”

Lewandowski is leaving as a free agent. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Laporta then praised Robert Lewandowski and thanked him for all his contributions to rebuilding the team into what it is today.

“Finally, I want to dedicate a few words to Lewandowski: you left a great club to come here. For us, it was an extraordinary moment.”

“You will always be part of the shield. Barcelona is your home and we want to see you here soon,” he concluded.

Araujo’s honest words

Finally, Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo had heartfelt words for Lewandowski, as a tribute from the dressing room that will miss his presence from next season.

“I want to have a few words of thanks to Lewandowski. You came at a very difficult time and we are very grateful.”

“From your arrival, with your effort, discipline and attitude, we grew a lot as a team,” he added.