Laporta accuses Real Madrid of exploiting Negreira case to harm Barcelona
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has intensified his attack on Real Madrid, accusing the club of keeping the Negreira case in the spotlight in an effort to damage Barça’s standing.
Speaking at a tribute event in Sitges on Saturday, Laporta said Barcelona are confident the investigation will end with the club cleared. The case concerns alleged payments made to a former refereeing official and has remained a major issue in Spanish football.
“In Madrid they bring up other subjects to shift the focus,” Laporta said. “They wanted to find us guilty before any trial. It is becoming evident that the accusations had no basis, and this will finish with Barcelona being exonerated.”
Laporta claimed the legal process was being prolonged deliberately so that the allegations could continue to affect Barcelona’s public image.
“People who have repeatedly tried to harm Barça’s reputation will have to take back what they said,” he added. “They are extending the proceedings to keep the matter alive, but it is not leading anywhere. It is an attempt to discredit Barcelona, and I do not think it is accidental.”
Laporta also questions Madrid’s institutional stance
The Barcelona chief also criticised Real Madrid’s absence from recent meetings involving European Football Clubs and the EuroLeague, referring to gatherings connected with both football and basketball.
Laporta said Madrid’s approach was costing the club respect and credibility at home and abroad.
“It tells you a lot about a club that is losing prestige, recognition and credibility nationally and internationally,” he said. “They have chosen a very proud, arrogant position. They will know why, but they should examine themselves.”
What happens next
Barcelona will continue to await the outcome of the Negreira proceedings while Hansi Flick’s side pursue their domestic and European objectives. Laporta’s message was clear: the club expect their defence in court to succeed and want the team’s form on the pitch to define the current campaign.
