Joan Laporta criticises Real Madrid over Valdebebas land-use decision

Barcelona president Joan Laporta used the club’s 2026 General Assembly on September 19, 2026 to take aim at rival Real Madrid, linking recent municipal approvals in Madrid to a wider competitive imbalance between the clubs.

Laporta told members that big clubs must keep pushing forward and be alert to the strategies of powerful opponents. He warned against complacency and singled out rival clubs that, he said, turn to non-sporting solutions when they face problems.

He said: "A club the size of Barça always has big challenges. We always want to be better, there is no room for complacency. History demands that from us. We must continue the process of growth. We have to be brave, creative and innovative. We know we fight against rivals who are investment funds, state clubs… Our opponents, when they have a problem, will just repurpose some land and that's it," addressing what has been interpreted as a dig at Real Madrid after a recent municipal decision in Madrid.

Valdebebas land-use change in Madrid

The comments came after the Madrid City Council approved a change of use for 448,000 square meters within Real Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex, a move that will allow the development of new revenue-generating activities on that land.

Laporta also praised the playing form of the team coached by Hansi Flick and conveyed cautious optimism about the club’s direction, while stressing the need for careful institutional and financial management going forward.

He added: "Fans at Barça feel optimism because the club is moving in the right direction. As president, I share that feeling of collective joy, but I must also stress that it is time to take on again our responsibilities and obligations. The decisions we make today are essential for the financial and institutional stability for this project to have a long-term future."

Photo: press material from the event