Laporta says Barcelona must respond to Clasico setback as he calls Flick ‘ideal’ coach

Juan Laporta has described Barcelona’s defeat by Real Madrid in the La Liga Clasico as a “harsh blow”, but insists the club’s ambitions of winning major trophies have not changed.

Speaking to Movistar during the Ballon d’Or awards ceremony, Barcelona’s president acknowledged that his side had failed to impose its usual style of play and had been exposed by Real Madrid’s counter-attacking threat.

“It was a harsh blow for the fans, but the coach already knows what happened,” Laporta said. “We were unable to play our style and we have to accept that. Real Madrid have extremely strong counter-attacks.

“In any case, we are still top and we know this is a long race. Our ambitions have not changed.”

Laporta also offered strong support to Hansi Flick, describing the German as the right coach for Barcelona and explaining why the club appointed him.

“He is the ideal coach for Barcelona,” Laporta said. “He knows our system and he is a great admirer of Johan Cruyff. That is why we chose him, although every coach has his own imprint.

“Flick prefers vertical football and we enjoy that style a lot. The results speak for themselves.”

Barcelona’s president said the club’s main domestic objective was to win La Liga, while also approaching the Champions League with “humility” as they attempt to win a competition that has eluded them.

“Our goal is to win La Liga and to pursue, with humility, the Champions League, which has proved elusive for us,” he added.

Laporta said Flick understood the principles valued by Barcelona supporters, including possession, positioning and pressing. He also highlighted the team’s use of an offside trap, while acknowledging that the approach could leave them vulnerable.

“Hansi knows what Barcelona fans like, which is a style based on three pillars: possession, positioning and pressing,” said Laporta. “We also rely on the offside trap. It is producing good results, although it makes us suffer.”

Barcelona are scheduled to face Deportivo Alaves in La Liga on 31 October 2026. Real Madrid are listed to play Racing Santander in La Liga on 01 November 2026.

Before the Ballon d’Or result was known, Laporta also backed Lamine Yamal’s chances of winning the award. He said the Barcelona forward deserved recognition because of his ability and achievements.

“We believe he deserves it,” Laporta said. “If you look at the names put forward, and there are three, I think Lamine deserves to win because of his talent and the trophies he has won. He is extremely excited.”