Laporta's nervy night: 'Finals should make you sweat a bit'
Barcelona president Joan Laporta reflects on the perfect script after Barça's Supercopa triumph over Real Madrid, praising Flick's squad and Raphinha's standout performance.
Barça president Joan Laporta was all smiles after watching his side lift the Supercopa, admitting the nail-biting nature of the victory made it all the sweeter.
‘Part of the perfect script’
The Barcelona bigwig couldn’t hide his delight as he chatted to the media following another Clásico triumph. Despite the nerves that come with facing their eternal rivals, Laporta seemed to relish the rollercoaster of emotions.
“In a final, you have to experience certain nerves for it to be worthwhile,” the president told reporters, suggesting the drama only enhanced the victory.
The match followed what Laporta described as the perfect script - Barcelona struck first before Madrid quickly equalised, only for the Blaugrana to regain their composure and ultimately secure the trophy.
Praise for Flick’s family
Laporta was quick to shower praise on Hansi Flick and his coaching staff, who’ve made an immediate impact since arriving at Camp Nou. The German gaffer has Barcelona playing some proper champagne football, blending homegrown talent with international stars.
“We have a team that plays spectacular football and puts on exhibitions like today’s,” Laporta beamed, clearly chuffed with what he’s seeing.
The president spoke warmly about the squad’s generosity and family-like atmosphere - qualities that seem to be translating into on-pitch success.
Raphinha takes a bow
While celebrating the collective effort, Laporta couldn’t help but single out Raphinha for special praise after his brace against Los Blancos.
“He scored two, could have scored another. He sets the intensity, rhythm… but it’s a unit,” noted the president, highlighting how the Brazilian exemplified the team’s spirit.
Laporta also expressed delight at Ronald Araujo’s return from injury, suggesting they’ll take it steady with the Uruguayan’s reintegration.
Respect between rivals
Despite the fierce rivalry, Laporta revealed that Florentino Pérez had congratulated him after the final whistle - a touch of class between the two powerhouse presidents.
With one trophy already in the cabinet, Barcelona’s brass is clearly hoping this Supercopa triumph is just the appetiser for what could be a repeat of last season’s success… “and a bit more,” as Laporta put it. The gaffer’s in dreamland, and who can blame him?