The tension between Laporta and Font escalated when the discussion shifted to the club’s sporting direction and the role of Deco. Laporta defended his sporting director, labelling him one of the best in history alongside Txiki Begiristain, while warning that Font’s proposed changes would destabilize current first-team manager Hansi Flick. Font, however, dismissed the idea that Flick is tied to the current board, insisting the German is a professional who serves the club, not a specific president.
"What will you change, Deco? Where is the superstructure you talk about if you will continue with the coaches of all sections? The sporting project is at risk with you. If you are president you are going to fire Deco; and Flick is not comfortable without Deco."