Laporta’s latest remarks represent a sharp change in tone compared to earlier in the year, when he had attempted to calm relations with Perez. At that stage, the Barcelona president suggested dialogue and restraint, but the continued references to the Negreira case appear to have pushed him into a more confrontational stance.
Up until early 2023, Barcelona and Real Madrid maintained relatively stable institutional relations, despite their fierce sporting rivalry. That balance shifted dramatically once the Negreira investigation became public, with Los Blancos later entering the legal proceedings and increasing public pressure through statements and media coverage.
Laporta believes the renewed attacks are not accidental. From Barcelona’s perspective, the president has framed them as part of a sustained effort to discredit the club’s history, values and recent sporting recovery; while Real Madrid continue to fall behind the Catalans despite their constant funding towards major players. Another reason for Los Blancos only bringing up the Negreira case this late into proceedings stems from Perez's fury towards Laporta after Barcelona left Real high and dry with the European Super League, making their way back to UEFA.