The president of FCBarcelona, JoanLaporta, left the Ballon d'Or gala in London with a message of pride and confidence. On the night in which the young striker LamineYamal finished third in the men's classification, Laporta defended the player's merits and assured that "he is convinced that Lamine will end up winning the Ballon d'Or" when the time comes. The leader also took advantage of the occasion to support the team after the defeat in the Classic and to celebrate the achievements of the club's women's football.
LamineYamal, who at 17 years old has been named the best young player in the world for three consecutive years, came in third place in the male vote, behind HarryKane and KylianMbappé. Laporta highlighted the forward's career, who "has done well to win the Ballon d'Or" and who, according to the president, "deserves everything." The president stressed that the result should be taken as motivation for the young man and his teammates, and that the club will continue to support him so that "the bad situation is quickly overcome."
The president also made reference to Barça's recent defeat against Real Madrid. “Accept it with sportsmanship and motivate us to move forward,” said Laporta, recalling the good start to the season and the team's ability to react. “We have started the season very well and we are going to continue like this,” he added, showing his confidence in HansiFlick's work and in the management of the club. The leader asked the fans to remain calm and continue supporting the team.
The gala was also a moment of celebration for Barça women's football. The club was distinguished as best club of the year, AlexiaPutellas won the women's Ballon d'Or, CataColl was awarded as best goalkeeper and VickyLópez as best young player. In addition, PereRomeu was awarded best female coach. Laporta expressed his pride in these recognitions and thanked the players and technical staff, remembering MarcVivés, technical secretary, for his work in the development of the club's women's football.
Overall, the night of the gala reinforced the image of a Barça with young talent and a solid structure in all its categories. Laporta concluded that the club will continue working with the same intensity and that confidence in the future of the team and its players remains intact.