Barcelona is set to pursue their first title of the season as they face Real Madrid in the Spanish Supercup final this Sunday. Last year, the Catalans decisively triumphed over their El Clasico rivals in the same event, and they are eager for a repeat performance in Jeddah.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed confidence in Hansi Flick’s team ahead of the match, conveying his thoughts to the media on Saturday (via Marca).
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“We’re excited about the chance to secure this title, our first of the season. We’ve earned our place in the final, and all of us want to kick off 2026 with a victory. Historically, winning the Super Cup has led to more titles for us. The season unfolds as it does. We feel mentally prepared,” he stated.
Although Barcelona has achieved 10 consecutive domestic victories, including an emphatic 5-0 win over Athletic Club in the semi-finals, Laporta refrains from labeling Barcelona as favorites against Real Madrid.
“In a final, there are no favorites; anything can happen. I could share many examples. Both teams will bring their strengths to the match. While our team spirit is better than that of our opponents, Real Madrid also has the capability to win, as we witnessed in the semi-final. We are entering the final with momentum after a fantastic performance against Athletic, and we’re confident that if we maintain our intensity, we can secure the win. Atlético Madrid deserved more in their match. My point is that there are never favorites in a final,” he added.
Image via Alex Caparros/Getty Images
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Laporta Addresses Deteriorating Relations with Real Madrid
Laporta was also questioned about the state of institutional relations with Real Madrid, particularly in light of the ongoing Negreira case between the two clubs. He acknowledged the tensions but reaffirmed his respect for Florentino Perez, his counterpart at Real Madrid.
“Relations with Real Madrid are strained and broken. Various issues have driven us apart. While the rivalry has always been fierce, the current situation has exacerbated it. Nevertheless, there is still respect between us. Like anything in life, it’s manageable, but it relies on both parties,” he explained.
“I hold the utmost respect and cordiality towards him. I’m not sure if Florentino will attend or not; he has not shown up for the Federation’s event, but he is free to decide. Our respect for the rival and his representatives remains intact, and we have consistently acted with institutional integrity.”