Joan Laporta makes scathing comparison between Barcelona and Real Madrid
The Barcelona-Real Madrid rivalry is one of the most popular and fierce rivalries in world football. El Clasico is easily the most viewed football match on the calendar.
Off late, Barcelona have had the rub of the green with El Clasico dominance over Real Madrid in the 2024/25 campaign, coupled with their domestic treble triumph.
So riding the high, Barcelona president Joan Laporta made some strong remarks around the long-standing rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid during the latest episode of their 125th anniversary celebration.
Addressing a room full of children at the programme, Laporta highlighted the difference between the two Spanish clubs.
“Madrid has a sense of power, and we have a sense of freedom, a sense of identity,” he began, denoting Los Blancos' tendency to sign superstar players.
"They’re more about signing players, and we have more players from La Masia. I’ve enjoyed some incredible generations of footballers and had a great time.”
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What Laporta highlighted may sound harsh, but it is true when you see Real Madrid sign players this summer to fortify their defence. Whereas, Barcelona continue to trust La Masia to produce players for them.
What did Laporta say about Barcelona's 125th anniversary campaign?
Led by Hansi Flick, Barcelona played free-flowing football throughout the 2024/25 campaign. They were one of the contenders to win the Champions League until they lost to Inter Milan in the semifinals.
Despite the UCL outcome, Laporta was pleased with the glorious 125th anniversary campaign as the Blaugrana finished with three titles.
“We want the ball to enjoy, to win. We don’t give up on being the leader. That’s what defines us.
“We’ve faced all the difficulties, and this has been one of the toughest seasons."
Barcelona have been active in the transfer window as well, having already signed Joan Garcia from Espanyol.
They are also chasing a couple of more targets, with Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams continuing to be one of their top priorities among other players.
Barcelona would need quality and depth to their roster as they look set to defend the La Liga crown whilst contending for the UCL title in the 2025/26 season.