Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, has publicly expressed his sentiments regarding Kylian Mbappé’s recent transfer to Real Madrid. In a statement reported by Mundo Deportivo, Laporta, a self-proclaimed Barça enthusiast, admitted that seeing Mbappé join their arch-rivals was “not good news.”
Laporta’s Perspective on Barça’s Strategy
Despite the disappointment, Laporta emphasized his preference for Barcelona’s long-term strategy of developing talent through their famed La Masia academy. “But to be honest, I prefer our strategy to trust a project with players produced and made in La Masia,” he stated, underscoring the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent as opposed to relying heavily on high-profile signings.
Respect for Rivals and Adherence to Philosophy
Laporta also mentioned his respect for Real Madrid but reaffirmed his dedication to Barcelona’s core philosophies. “I respect our rivals but I keep our philosophy,” he declared, highlighting a clear distinction in approach between the two top Spanish clubs.
Background on Mbappé’s Transfer
Kylian Mbappé, a highly acclaimed forward, recently committed to a five-year contract with Real Madrid, as officially announced by the club. This move ended long-standing speculation about the player’s future, marking a significant acquisition for Real Madrid and a notable departure from Paris Saint-Germain. The transfer has been a major talking point in football circles, especially considering the historical rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid.