Laporta's Pep Talk Sparks Barça Before the Atletico Showdown
3 April 2026
Barcelona are set to face Atlético Madrid on Saturday, as La Liga's 30th round kicks off.
Match Context
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona president Joan Laporta made a surprise morning visit to the training ground to motivate the squad.
Jules Conde and Alejandro Balde returned to training with the group and are expected to feature in coach Hans Flick's plans.
Team News
Laporta's visit aimed to boost players ahead of this decisive phase after the blow of Rafinha's absence.
Frenkie de Jong has not yet recovered and continues individual training away from the group; he is hoped to be ready later, but not for the Atletico match.
Barcelona sit atop La Liga with 73 points, four clear of Real Madrid, while Atlético are fourth with 57.
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