A new era begins. The Gamper of illusion will mark the beginning of a cycle that aims to be triumphant. The revolution that Laporta has carried out at Barça (not without much sacrifice and even with controversial decisions) should serve to change the recent history of the Blaugrana club. After too many years of disappointments and failures, the president has made a total bet on the transformation of the workforce. The objective is none other than to build a champion team that allows the virtuous circle 2.0 to rotate. With Xavi at the helm, this Barça is called to win titles. It is the mission to which Laporta has devoted all his efforts. He has had to activate up to four financial levers to get out of the crisis. But he has succeeded.
There is still work to be done. How to close the transfer of Frenkie De Jong to Chelsea for 80 million euros (the fifth lever). Or the additions of Marcos Alonso and Bernardo Silva (Azpilicueta has escaped), who will join those of Lewandowski, Koundé, Christensen, Kessie and Raphinha. The profound renovation of the locker room was essential to start this stage with guarantees of success. There are still ‘sacred cows’, but they will lose prominence (especially Piqué) due to the coach’s firm decision to bet on the most fit footballers, without taking into account their name or their career. Xavi will impose meritocracy with all its consequences. And only those who really deserve it will play. It is the first step to see a competitive Barça again.
A Barça that, without a doubt, generates enthusiasm. It’s been a long time since so much enthusiasm was seen among the Catalans. The presence of more than 57,000 fans at Lewandowski’s presentation is just one more example of the euphoria unleashed. This unleashed optimism is an added pressure for Xavi. But the Blaugrana coach will know how to manage it. He, better than anyone, knows what Barça is. And what it means. That is why he accepts the challenge with both respect and passion. He is aware that titles are going to be demanded of him. The partners, the environment and, of course, the president himself, who has already spent 150 million euros (and those that are missing) on the signings that the coach had requested. Xavi has very clear ideas. And he understands that he is facing a historic opportunity to become a legendary manager. Tonight, at the Gamper, Barcelona fans want to start being happy. Again.