Former President Joan Gaspart doesn't usually hold his tongue when he shares his thoughts about current events at FC Barcelona. Always direct and unfiltered, he says out loud what many only dare to think in silence.
In an interview with Catalunya Ràdio, he addressed one of the major controversies of Barcelona's summer: the failed signing of Nico Williams and the recent arrival of Marcus Rashford. Far from hiding or choosing the institutional discourse, Gaspart delivered a direct and uncompromising message.
The comparison between both players, inevitable at this moment, has allowed Gaspart to speak clearly. He did so in terms that many fans quickly applauded.
An opinion that represents many
"For me, Rashford is better than Nico Williams," Gaspart stated with absolute calm. The statement has been interpreted as a direct response to Nico's entourage and the pressure that built up around his possible arrival at Barça.
In Barcelona, neither the financial demands nor the attitude of the Athletic player's entourage were well received. Nor were the maneuvers of his agent, who offered him several times even though the deal never convinced everyone at the club.
Deco was especially reluctant. Not so much for sporting reasons, but because of everything surrounding the footballer. Joan Laporta and Hansi Flick were more supportive, but the lack of consensus and high costs ultimately ended the deal.
Now, with Rashford already on the team, the atmosphere seems to have calmed down.
Gaspart is clear about it: "For me, Marcus Rashford is better than Nico, and from there, I don't care much about what Iñaki Williams might say. The player has used us in a good way, he's secured a good contract and I'm happy for him."
He added: "I don't understand Athletic's disappointment and anger. I've signed many important players from Bilbao like Zubizarreta and I always got along well with the president."
Barça, more at ease with Rashford
Rashford's arrival, under very different conditions, has been seen as a relief by the sporting management. The Manchester United player arrives on loan, with a purchase option, and without generating media noise or disproportionate financial demands.
He's a profile Flick likes, who values his versatility, experience, and commitment. In addition, the player already expressed his desire to wear the Barcelona jersey last winter, something that didn't go unnoticed.
While Nico Williams renewed with Athletic with an impossible clause, Rashford agreed to come to Barça without guarantees of a starting spot, but with the ambition to earn his place on the team.
An unexpected but timely endorsement
Gaspart's intervention has helped reinforce the idea that Barça made the right choice. The clarity with which the former president spoke has been well received in the Barcelona community.
Not everyone will say it publicly, but many inside the club and among the fans think exactly the same.