In the final part of his exclusive interview with Mundo Deportivo, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta opened up about the club’s summer strategy, squad depth, transfer market objectives, and future ambitions — including his long-term dream of winning the Champions League.
Squad Stronger Than Last Season?
“Our main goal was to keep last season’s squad intact because they achieved something historic,” Laporta said. “We wanted to preserve the team spirit that brought us so much success, so we didn’t even consider many of the offers we received. Coach Hansi Flick wanted more options up front, and we delivered with Marcus Rashford. Deco’s plan regarding Ter Stegen was also key — we needed to strengthen the goalkeeping position. Joan Garcia is doing spectacularly in training. I believe fans will really like him.”
Transfer Window Done and Dusted?
When asked whether Barça fans could expect more arrivals before the window closes, Laporta was clear: “We’ve achieved our transfer targets. Roony Bardghji excites us a lot. He’s an explosive player I love watching. For this transfer window, we’re done.”
On possible further reinforcements, Laporta added, “In principle, no. The squad is set. The coach wants to integrate players from Barça Atlètic, so no new signings are expected at this stage.”
What About Departures?
“There will be salary savings. Pablo Torre has already left, and more departures will follow, but I don’t foresee major sales,” Laporta explained. “Selling key players would break the spirit that made our fans fall in love with the team. We want to protect that magic.”
On whether painful exits — like a possible Ronald Araújo transfer — could happen, he was cautious: “We’ve decided to avoid such scenarios. I won’t name names, but some changes will be made in overstaffed positions. That’s up to the coach and Deco.”
Financial Fair Play and the 1:1 Rule
Barcelona continues to work toward complying with La Liga’s 1:1 rule, which allows clubs to reinvest full revenue from sales and savings. Laporta believes the club is on the right track:
“We need to reduce our wage bill, and there are parts that still need to be finalized. But it’s progressing well. Our interpretation of La Liga’s financial regulations is under review. We’re focused on making player registrations possible without stress, unlike previous years.”
One key piece in that financial puzzle is the €100 million deal to lease VIP boxes at Spotify Camp Nou. “We’ve already collected €58 million, meeting La Liga’s requirements,” Laporta said. “Due to media pressure, the auditors now want us to go further. I find that questionable, but I respect it. Still, we must push back — we’re a club with nearly €1 billion in revenue.”
Stadium Return and VIP Access
Although Barcelona is still playing at Montjuïc, Laporta confirmed that the VIP seat agreement remains active. “Even for the Gamper match, we’re activating one zone for VIPs. It’s in the contract. We will meet the requirement — even if it’s at another venue.”
2026 Elections Still a Distant Thought
On the topic of the next presidential elections in 2026, Laporta said it’s too early to discuss: “Right now, I’m focused on registering new players and returning to Camp Nou. I haven’t thought about how the elections will be organized. But the legal department likely has some plans in place.”
According to the club statutes, elections must be held between March 15 and June 15. Laporta admitted that could disrupt the season but concluded, “It will depend on how the season unfolds.”
Winning Mentality and Club Philosophy
Despite high approval from club members — with 86% backing his performance — Laporta emphasized that the work isn’t finished:
“We have to reopen the stadium, finish the renovations by summer 2026, and decide the right time to install the roof. On the sporting side, we need to win trophies and continue with the Barça way of life. We’ve brought joy back to the fans. I’m proud — but we must keep working at this level.”
