Barcelona President Joan Laporta has spoken extensively about the club’s summer transfer window, confirming the arrival of new signings and addressing the departures of key players. In a recent speech, Laporta detailed the club’s satisfaction with the transfer window, highlighting the signing of Dani Olmo and explaining the reasons behind Ilkay Gündogan’s exit.
Olmo’s Arrival and Project Focus
Laporta began by expressing satisfaction with the summer transfer window, emphasizing that Olmo was the club’s priority target. Our priority was Olmo, and we have achieved that objective. We are very satisfied with his arrival, he stated. The president also highlighted the club’s commitment to La Masia, Barcelona’s renowned youth academy, noting that coach Xavi had successfully integrated several young talents into the first team.
We have a core based on La Masia, and Xavi has proven this by promoting young players to the first team. We are excited about the future, but we do not want to get carried away, Laporta added.
Gündogan’s Departure and Economic Factors
Addressing the departure of Gündogan, Laporta categorically denied that economic factors played a role in the midfielder’s exit. Gündogan is an excellent player and a great person. We had a wonderful year together. After discussing and evaluating the squad with Xavi, he decided to leave. This was a sporting decision, Laporta explained.
Contrary to rumors suggesting that financial issues were behind Gündogan’s departure, Laporta clarified, I have heard that this was an economic decision, but that is not the case. This was a sporting decision between Barcelona, Gündogan, and Manchester City. Gündogan joined us as a free agent, so there was no transfer fee involved. Although there is an economic impact, the decision was based on sport.
Other Player Departures and Future Prospects
Laporta also touched upon other player exits, such as those of João Félix and João Cancelo, who were loaned out to Chelsea and Saudi Arabian clubs, respectively. In the configuration of coach Xavi and technical director De Jong, they decided not to use these players. Therefore, they have been loaned out and taken different paths, he stated.
Regarding potential new signings, Laporta mentioned that several players were interested in joining Barcelona. Many players want to join Barcelona, and we know this from their agents. However, they also understand that the club is going through an economic recovery process. Our efforts to reduce the salary cap have been recognized by the La Liga president, with a reduction of approximately 170 to 180 million euros, he said.
Current Squad and Expectations
The Barcelona president expressed confidence in the current squad, highlighting the club’s defensive strength and the potential of young players. We have a very compact defense, and once our injured players return, our midfield will be very strong. Our forwards are also of a high level. We also have the Barcelona B team. I believe our squad is well-configured, and our coach is very clear about our playing style. The work of the fitness coaches has also been very effective, Laporta commented.
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, Laporta spoke about the club’s expectations and the role of coach Xavi. We have clear requirements for Xavi – to work seriously and professionally, to be a coach full of passion every day, and to bring the football style we love. We have agreed on all aspects, and he has laid a solid foundation for achieving our goals. Although he sets high standards for himself, we have not set specific championship targets. What Xavi wants is exactly what we expect, and we will work hard to achieve it, he concluded.
With the transfer window now closed, Barcelona fans will be eager to see how the new signings and the restructured squad perform under coach Xavi’s leadership in the upcoming season.
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