Speaking to the media ahead of FC Barcelona’s La Liga clash against Elche, club president Joan Laporta hit out at Real Madrid over their meddling in the Negreira case investigation.
Having presented themselves as private prosecutors in the case, Los Blancos had requested documents pertaining to Barcelona’s finances and audit reports for the period of 2010 to 2018.
However, their request for access was shot down by the investigating judge, in what came as a blow for the Spanish capital club.
Reacting to that, Laporta insisted he was happy with the decision made by the judge, as he said: “I’m glad the judge has slammed the door in Madrid’s face.”
Hitting out at Real Madrid, he added: “It was not normal, it is improper that a competing club had the documentation of FC Barcelona. We all know that what they are trying to do is prolong the case when nothing is going to happen.”
Real Madrid's president Florentino Perez and Barcelona's president Joan Laporta (C,R) talks during the Spanish league football match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on April 21, 2024. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO / AFP) (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)
Real Madrid were dealt a judicial blow in Negreira case investigation. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)
Turning to other matters, Laporta also welcomed the renewal of Fermin Lopez until 2031, saying:
“Fermin is a lad with extraordinary talent, who feels the colours like no one else, and the coach, Hansi Flick, always speaks wonders of him, so it’s great news that he has renewed until 2031.”
Regarding the progress of the team this season, the Barça president highlighted: “For now, having already won the Super Cup and having qualified among the top 8 in the Champions League is a sign that things are being done well.”
Looking ahead to the match against Elche, Laporta praised the overall performance of the opposition and warned of the challenge ahead.
“We’re facing a team that does things very well and has a coach with excellent staff; it will be a very difficult match,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo