Laporta vs Bernabéu: Barça Ready to Seize Clasico Crown—Laporta’s Call to Finish the Job

Lead-up to the Clasico

Barcelona president Joan Laporta used his appearance at the 15th Barcelona supporters conference, held this year in the city of Huelva with stops in Andalusia, Ceuta, and Melilla, to boost morale ahead of the Clasico at the Bernabéu against Real Madrid on Sunday.

Legends at the event

He was joined by Barça legends, most notably Hristo Stoichkov.

A nod to the fans

In quotes picked up by AS, Laporta praised the electric atmosphere in Huelva, saying: "It’s indescribable. I see huge enthusiasm from Barça fans."

Message to supporters

He sent a clear message about the Clasico: "Our players are highly motivated, and I’m convinced we will win at the Bernabéu as we did last season. We will push for the top spot, and that’s extra motivation for everyone."

Training lunch and coaching notes

Laporta revealed he had lunch with the players after one training session, underscoring focus, and he praised coach Hans Flick’s mindset despite the suspension that will keep him off the bench.

On the suspension and the referee debate

On the punishment, he said: "I don’t want to criticize the referees, but there are things to review. Flick accepted it, but what happened wasn’t necessary."

Clasico memories and stakes

Laporte recalled Clasico memories at the Bernabéu, stressing its uniqueness: "People say it’s just a game, but it isn’t. The Clasico is the match that sets the tone and changes a lot. Winning at the Bernabéu is an incomparable feeling."

Miami cancellation controversy

Regarding the cancellation of Barça vs Villarreal in Miami, Laporta objected to the justification, saying: "We respect what La Liga decides, but I don’t agree that the game would spoil the competition. It was a chance to promote La Liga and both clubs’ image, and what happened ultimately harmed the competition more than it helped."

CAS ruling and bench plans

Mundo Deportivo reported that CAS rejected Barça’s appeal to overturn Flick’s suspension, upholding the disciplinary committee’s decision. As a result, Flick will miss the bench; his assistant Marcus Sorg will take charge on the touchline, with Flick staying connected from another area of the stadium.

Press conference and preparations

Barça said Sorg would also appear at Saturday’s press conference at the Joan Gamper Training Ground before the squad travels to Madrid in the afternoon.

Flick’s red card vs Girona and aftermath

Flick’s anger led to a red card in Girona, at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, in La Liga’s ninth round. Referee Jesús Gil Manzano showed the red in the 90+1 minute for strong protests over decisions and stoppage-time.

Late drama and celebrations

Moments after Flick’s sending-off, defender Ronald Araújo scored a stoppage-time winner to seal the points for Barça. Flick’s celebration sparked debate, with some deeming the gesture inappropriate.

Culture and explanations

Barça vice president Rafa Yusti explained Flick’s celebration referenced a traditional Catalan dish called botifarra, showing his growing integration into local culture. Flick himself said: "Football is emotion; my celebration wasn’t aimed at anyone. I was tense and happy, and I accept the referee’s decision, even if I didn’t direct anything at him personally."

Pre-Clasico mood and recent form

Ahead of the Clasico, Barça had played nine La Liga games: seven wins, one draw, one defeat (a 1-4 loss to Sevilla). Real Madrid had the same number of matches, with eight wins and one loss, including a 5-2 setback to city rivals Atlético Madrid.

Current standings and momentum

Barça sat on 22 points, second in La Liga, two behind Real Madrid, who had reclaimed the lead after beating Getafe. The Clasico loomed with both teams in strong form and big ambitions.

Seasonal clashes and silverware history

The 2024-25 Clasico season has seen Barça dominate in several meetings: a 4-0 league win in the previous campaign, a 5-2 victory in the Saudi Super Cup final, and a dramatic Copa del Rey final on April 26, 2025, where Ferran Torres leveled late before Jules Conde’s 116th-minute strike sealed the cup for Barça.

Final league clash and title race

The fourth Clasico of the period came in the second half of the league campaign, where Real Madrid led 2-0 but Barça staged a sensational comeback to win 4-3, helping Barça clinch the league title in style.

Punchlines

Punchline 1: If this Clasico were a coffee, it would be an espresso with extra adrenaline—double shot, zero cream.

Punchline 2: Barça and Real Madrid are like a power strip—so many outlets, yet someone always ends up getting the plug pulled at the wrong moment.