FCBARCELONA.CAT

13.05.2009 23:58

Laporta: “We have touched glory”

Jordi Clos

The Barça president was delighted to win the Copa del Rey and also with the way it happened. “The team deserves this Thursday to be a fiesta in Barcelona when we return”, he said.

“Today we have touched glory” said Joan Laporta after Barça conquered the Copa del Rey. The president said “we now have 25 and I am thrilled for all Barça supporters and especially for the younger generations that have never seen us win it.”

Faithful to their style

Laporta was especially happy with the way the win came about. “It’s fantastic. We remained loyal to our way of understanding football as managed by Pep Guardiola and executed by all the players like an art form … I congratulate them all from number one through to the very last, including Txiki Begiristain.”

Two great sets of fans

The president was also impressed with the atmosphere created by both sets of supporters. “I said that Barça and Athletic Club are both of major social importance in our countries and if we are something, it is that we are a public expression … both sets of supporters were exemplary. I want to praise and congratulate the Basque fans, worthy finalists. They have made this a historic final.”

Hoping for triumphal return

The Barça squad will return to Barcelona on Thursday, and Laporta said “they deserve a fiesta in Barcelona when we get back tomorrow.” The president announced that “we will be leaving Valencia at noon, and will be arriving around one o’clock.”