Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, did not take long to express his frustration after the recent elimination of his team in the Champions League semifinals. In an appearance on the club's official television, Laporta stated: "Yesterday it couldn't be. We fought to be in the Munich final, but it couldn't be. Basically, it couldn't be due to refereeing decisions that harmed us." These words reflect the indignation of the culé leader, who did not hold back in criticizing the officiating of Marciniak, whom he considers responsible for the painful defeat.
However, the president did not stop there and made it clear that the focus now is on the next big challenge: the Clásico against Real Madrid. Laporta emphasized the importance of this match, stating that "it is a decisive game" and making a call to the fans to fill Montjuïc and provide their unconditional support to the team. "The team needs support more than ever. I call on the Barcelona fans to win the match against Real Madrid on Sunday, which is key to winning LaLiga", he highlighted.
FC Barcelona arrives at this match after a narrow victory against Real Valladolid (1-2), which has allowed them to remain in first place in LaLiga, four points ahead of their eternal rival. With the team led by Hansi Flick in good form, the culés are preparing for what Laporta has described as a 'final' in the fight for the domestic title.
Laporta also expressed his gratitude to the fans, especially to those who have been supporting the team throughout the season. "The more than 4,000 fans who traveled to Milan deserve everything", he stated, acknowledging the effort and passion of the culé supporters. With a message of optimism, the president assured that "next year we will compete with everything to conquer the sixth", making it clear that the fighting spirit and ambition of the club remain intact.