Robert Lewandowski was presented in style at the Camp Nou as a new Barcelona player. He did it before 60,000 fans and with number nine on his back. The Pole was accompanied at all times by a euphoric John Laportawho whenever he could, tied the microphone to spur on the Barça stands, in a trance with their new star.
Almost scripted by fate, the scorer’s presentation took place 365 days after Messi’s tearful farewell ceremony. Barça, after a year of hardship, breathe easy and excited. Already at a press conference, both Laporta, Lewandowski and Mateu Alemany, director of football, reviewed all the current points of the Barça team.
registrations
Laporta: «We have worked to register all the players. We’ve done well to qualify for enrollment and if an operation is needed, we’ll do it, but we’re waiting. It is a decision of LaLiga. We are confident that you can register.
new lever
Laporta: “We have approved the sale of part of Barça Estudios because of what we had planned. If there was any problem we would have foreseen it. If you can consolidate the enrollment better. Operations have been carried out and we have the positive fund and the income statement as well. There have been benefits. Assets have been sold in a controlled manner and recovered over time. It has worked very well in the line of cleaning up the entity ».
Negotiation with Lewandowski
Laporta: «We spoke several times with Lewandowski by video call during the negotiation. He and his agent were wondering if we could sign him up, but we told him he would be the first. He had much more powerful offers from other clubs but Robert said that he would play for Barça and that’s what happened. We have made a great effort and he has reciprocated with the will of the player. We are very satisfied”.
Xavi’s call
Lewandowski: «I spoke with Xavi and I understood perfectly what he wanted from me. I felt a connection with him. He has a clear idea of what he wants and I really appreciate that.”
More signings
Laporta: «It is a historic day for Barcelona. In addition to the signing of Lewandowski, we see that there is a lot of desire on the part of the players to come to this team. It could be because of the badge, because of the country, because of the league here… Let’s hope we can sign something else. A year ago we said goodbye to Messi. Now we have left the hospital, we are increasingly healthy but we cannot lose caution.
Azpilicueta
Alemany: «Azpilicueta interested us. It was very complicated and in the end they didn’t want to transfer the player. They are on the right of him. We are calm with what we have but always aware of the market.
Renewed illusion
Laporta: «We are making a great team. We have worked very well, withstood the pressure and now we are very satisfied. We continue to work so that the club picks up cruising speed, achieve the necessary stability to win titles again and compete at a high level. I’m not unleashed, I’m happy like all the culés, I’m one more. See 60,000 people shouting Lewandowski’s name…».
