Barcelona’s presidential race is heating up as the club prepares for another election that could define its next era.
Recent months have seen intense scrutiny over the club’s finances, La Masia output, and sporting decisions, all areas that have drawn the attention of members and fans alike.
Off the pitch, former players and board members continue to influence opinion with public statements and proposed reforms.
Social media chatter has been buzzing with speculation on potential candidates, alliances, and strategic visions for returning Barcelona to its former glory.
Meanwhile, debates about transparency and leadership style have dominated conversations within the club’s community.
Amidst this backdrop, Xavi Vilajoana formally announced his pre-candidacy for the presidential elections on Thursday, unveiling his campaign under the slogan “Ready to recover our Barca.”
The presentation, held at the Hyatt Hotel in Barcelona, marked the launch of what he describes as “powerful, necessary, and focused on putting the members back at the heart of the club.”
Xavi Vilajoana explained his motivations by highlighting his long-standing connection with the Blaugrana: “It’s a natural step. My father was a board member, I was a futsal player and then a board member under the last three presidents (Laporta, Rosell, and Bartomeu) with responsibilities in futsal, youth development, La Masia, and the women’s team.
“That’s 21 years linked to the club, which leaves a huge mark on you,” he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Defining his project as a blend of “knowledge, experience, and passion,” Vilajoana said it was born out of concern that “the club is not the Barca we want today.”
He did not shy away from criticism of the current leadership, particularly president Joan Laporta, stating: “The club has become his stolen Masia.
“We have a man at the helm who is sailing aimlessly, without strategy or seriousness.
“I don’t see any of the values that have made us great.”
Further reflecting on Laporta’s tenure, he added: “Insane would be the adjective,” and raised concerns over financial transparency, noting: “The members are worried about the 4 billion. Nobody is explaining anything to them.
“They call and get no answer. The feeling is that the club is hiding, and there must be a reason for that.”
Regarding Victor Font, another potential candidate and who Barcelona legend Xavi will support, Vilajoana stressed that “alliances should be complementary,” but emphasised that “his project has its own identity,” signalling a clear and independent approach to the upcoming election.
With Vilajoana officially in the race, Barcelona’s members face a choice that could reshape the club’s philosophy, finances, and connection to its historic values.
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