Joan Laporta has once again made it clear that FC Barcelona is experiencing a moment of international vindication. In an interview with RAC1, the Barça president did not hide his satisfaction with the nominations of several blaugrana players for the 2025 Ballon d'Or.
For Laporta, these recognitions are a direct consequence of last season's great performance, in which Hansi Flick's team established itself as the admiration of the entire world.
"It's a source of pride to see that our footballers are among the best in the world. This isn't given away; it's the result of hard work, talent, and a solid project. Barça is back where it deserves to be," he stated, visibly satisfied on RAC1.
The president emphasized that it's not just about individual awards, but rather the reflection of a collective success that has brought smiles back to Barcelona fans.
"I believe the Ballon d'Or has to go to a Barça player. Lamine is at a genius level, he shows it in every match and every training session, he gives everything and gets better every time. As president, I wish one of our players wins the Ballon d'Or."
A direct message to Florentino Pérez
Laporta did not miss the opportunity to send a message that, although without names, was clearly directed at his counterpart at Real Madrid. "There are no favors or marketing campaigns here, there are merits. When things are done well, recognition comes on its own," he pointed out.
A comment that many have interpreted as a jab at Florentino Pérez. Also at the media strategies that, in his opinion, have favored white-clad players in these votes in the past.
This phrase has ignited social media and fuels the eternal debate among fans about whether international awards are decided on the field... or in the offices.
The challenge of registering the signings
But the interview was not only about the awards. Laporta also addressed one of the issues that most concerns the Barça environment: the registration of signings for the start of LaLiga.
"We're working to register them before the match against Mallorca. LaLiga has its requirements, but we trust we'll meet them this week," he assured.
The president was cautious and acknowledged that not everything is finalized, hinting that there are still financial operations to close in order to free up salary cap space.
The situation is reminiscent of recent summers in which Barça struggled until the end to comply with financial fair play.
"We're working to make this happen. With Marc's situation, we hope to register Joan García. With the others, we also hope to register them this coming week."
Regarding Iñigo Martínez's departure, he said: "We had five center-backs and one had to leave. Words of gratitude for Iñigo. He made a good decision, both individually and for his family, and he helps us with Fair Play."
A year that could be historic
Laporta's optimism is based on a squad that combines youth, talent, and a recognized football identity. Players like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, or Gavi have been key for the club to appear again on the major international lists.
"Barça is alive, very much alive. We're going for more titles and will keep showing that we're a benchmark in world soccer," he concluded. A message that, beyond sports, also seeks to strengthen the club's image in front of its rivals and public opinion.
The season that's starting will be key to consolidating this moment. On the horizon, in addition to titles, there's the possibility that a Barça player will win the Ballon d'Or... something Laporta doesn't hide he'd love.