Build-up to the El Clasico is always likely to feature flashpoints, but behind the scenes, the tension does not fundamentally change the nature of Barcelona’s and Real Madrid’s relationship at an executive level.
Both football giants share common ground these days, particularly their backing of the European Super League project, uniting them against La Liga. Recent events have highlighted the strength of their relationship despite fan sentiments.
There was a reminder of the strength of that relationship this Monday, when Madrid director general Jose Angel Sanchez, Perez’s right-hand man, warmly embraced Laporta at a meeting of La Liga club representatives.
But this meeting caused an outcry and that guides the optics by the management of the clubs. The Negreira case explains why.
In the Negreira case, new charges against Laporta, including a potential new offense of bribery, have emerged. While the original corruption charges remain, the case's direction has shifted.
The Spanish press suggested Aguirre Lopez had started to lose hope of finding evidence to support the original charges in recent months.
Laporta has asserted that there are no grounds for investigation. The situation reflects a complex web of politics and power. Barca along with individuals involved in the case, deny any wrongdoing.
As things are always political, Laporta said: “Barca, sooner rather than later, will be acquitted. And, unfortunately for ‘sociological Madridismo’, we will once again repeat the best Barca in history.”
After hearing this, and then seeing Sanchez and Laporta hugging days later, many Madrid fans began calling on Perez to follow the example of Sevilla’s leadership, who on September 29 refused to attend a directors’ lunch with their Barcelona counterparts.
At their La Liga fixture at Barca that day, Sevilla president Pepe Castro did not take up his invitation to watch from the VIP box, either.
While relations between Barca and Real Madrid remain intact, there is growing fan pressure on Perez to take a more confrontational stance.
A deleted tweet criticizing Vinicius Junior from a Barca board member, Mikel Camps, fueled tensions. There was initial speculation that Perez would attend the Clasico, but due to the tweet and internal issues, Perez chose not to attend.
The tweet read: “It’s not racism, he deserves a slap for being a clown. What do these unnecessary and meaningless stepovers represent in the centre of the field?”
Referees have also become a point of contention, with secrecy surrounding their selection. Jesus Gil Manzano was appointed as the referee, prompting analysis of his past performances.
However eventful, El Clasico remains more than just a match. The intensity and drama surrounding it will only elevate the on-field action. Despite the absence of pre-match meals, the relationship between the clubs’ management hasn't hit a breaking point by any means…so far.
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