Following a decisive victory in the Barcelona presidential election, where Joan Laporta secured a 68% share of the votes against rival Victor Font, reactions have emerged from various figures within Spanish football. Laporta is set to commence his fourth term on July 1st, and the outcome has already sparked commentary regarding the club’s future direction.
Among those who have weighed in is Javier Tebas, president of La Liga, known for his past disagreements with Laporta. As reported by MD, Tebas expressed his hope for Barcelona’s continued progress through stability. He also made a lighthearted remark about the Catalan giants having “chosen” him over star player Lionel Messi.
“With the margin that he beat Font, there is nothing more to be said. As for La Liga, there is an initial Laporta and now a different Barcelona in terms of management. Barça have chosen continuity. Sportingly, you can ask them for little more.”
“Font said that it was a matter of choosing between Messi and Xavi or between Echevarría and Tebas. They have chosen Echevarría and Tebas. I say this in jest.”
Tebas Calls for Financial Prudence from Laporta
Tebas has strongly urged Laporta to swiftly address Barcelona’s financial issues, expressing his desire for the La Liga leaders to return to a state of fiscal normality.
“Barcelona won La Liga last year, reached the semi-finals of the Champions League, won the Copa del Rey, the Super Cup… sportingly you can ask for little more. Laporta, I ask that he continues in the line of recent years in compliance with fair play – that is what I ask of you.”
The upcoming months will prove pivotal for Barcelona, particularly with Rafa Yuste serving as acting president. The club is aiming to revert to La Liga’s 1:1 spending rule before the summer transfer window opens in early July, a goal that will require significant efforts and favourable circumstances to achieve.
