Laporta confirms Barcelona–Real Madrid relations are broken

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has openly acknowledged that relations between Barcelona and Real Madrid at an institutional level have completely broken down. Speaking ahead of the Spanish Super Cup final, Laporta admitted that ongoing off-field conflicts have pushed the two clubs into a state of deep tension that now extends far beyond their traditional rivalry on the pitch.

Laporta explained that while Barcelona and Real Madrid have always been fierce competitors, recent events have significantly worsened the relationship. According to the Barcelona president, a series of unresolved disputes have created distance between the clubs’ leaderships, making cooperation increasingly difficult and ultimately leading to a breakdown in institutional harmony.

Despite the admission, Laporta was careful to distinguish professional conflict from personal respect. He stressed that his relationship with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez remains respectful and cordial, even if the clubs no longer see eye to eye on key issues. Laporta suggested that while institutional relationships may be damaged, personal conduct should still remain professional.

The comments came as Barcelona prepare to face Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final, with Laporta expressing optimism about his team’s mental readiness. He noted that Barcelona have earned their place in the final through strong performances and believe they are capable of starting the year with silverware.

However, Laporta rejected any suggestion that Barcelona should be considered favourites. He insisted that finals are unpredictable by nature and that Real Madrid’s ability to rise to major occasions makes them a constant threat. Laporta highlighted that experience and individual quality can often decide games of such magnitude.

The Barcelona president also praised his squad’s collective spirit, pointing to unity and intensity as crucial strengths. He suggested that team cohesion has played a major role in Barcelona’s recent form and could be decisive against an opponent known for its individual brilliance.

Laporta referenced Barcelona’s dominant semi-final display as a sign of momentum but remained cautious, acknowledging that performances in previous rounds do not guarantee success in a final. He reiterated that focus, discipline, and emotional control would be essential against a rival capable of exploiting the smallest mistakes.

With relations between the two clubs confirmed as broken, the Spanish Super Cup final carries added significance. Beyond the pursuit of a trophy, the clash reflects the broader strain between Spain’s two biggest institutions, turning the match into a symbolic showdown shaped as much by off-field tension as by footballing ambition.