Barcelona Presidential Race Heats Up as La Masia Takes Center Stage

Barcelona presidential elections are fast approaching, putting the spotlight on La Masia and the club’s future direction. The contest has intensified as Xavi Vilajoana, a candidate with deep roots at the club, openly criticized current president Joan Laporta’s management and emphasized the need to nurture homegrown talent over expensive transfers.

Barcelona Presidential Elections: Candidates and Key Issues

The Barcelona presidential elections, expected in April 2026, have generated intense debate within the club and among fans. Joan Laporta, seeking re-election, defends his tenure as a period of challenging yet necessary decisions for the club’s recovery. He highlights successes such as player registrations and financial stabilization, describing his leadership as brave and committed to Barça’s long-term interests.

However, several rivals—including Victor Font, Joan Camprubi Montal, Marc Ciria, and Xavi Vilajoana—are challenging Laporta’s approach. Font, who finished second in the previous election, has called out Laporta for alleged financial mismanagement and lack of transparency regarding €80 million in losses. He insists on urgent elections and a return to responsible, member-focused governance.

La Masia vs. Big-Money Signings: Vilajoana’s Vision for the Club

A central theme in Vilajoana’s campaign is the prioritization of La Masia, Barcelona’s world-renowned youth academy. He argues that “our Erling Haaland isn’t at Man City, he’s at La Masia,” suggesting that the club’s future lies in developing its next superstar internally rather than chasing costly transfers.

Vilajoana has pledged to freeze season ticket prices until the completion of the Camp Nou renovation and to allocate €40 million—within a €1 billion budget—to ensure member interests are protected. He promises to reverse Laporta’s 37% budget cut to La Masia and boost sponsorship revenues by 30%, positioning youth development as the cornerstone of his presidency.

Defending Club Identity and Member Interests

Drawing on two decades of experience as a player and board member, Vilajoana criticizes Laporta’s leadership as improvised and disconnected from the club’s members. He vows to ensure all Barcelona sections, including women’s sports, are represented and to restore the club’s identity through transparency and strong governance. “Being president isn’t about handing out positions,” he said, warning that any unlawful actions during Laporta’s term must face scrutiny.

Laporta Responds to Criticism Amid External Pressures

Laporta has dismissed the criticism, stating he is focused on what’s best for Barcelona and is undeterred by detractors. He contends that his administration has steered the club through adversity and that continuity is vital for Barça’s resurgence.

Yet, the pressure continues to mount. Font’s accusations of financial mismanagement have struck a chord with members concerned about the club’s future. With potential silverware at stake and questions over recent decisions, Laporta’s path to re-election is anything but secure.

La Masia’s Role and the Messi Factor in Presidential Politics

The legendary La Masia academy is once again at the heart of Barcelona’s vision debate. Vilajoana’s advocacy for youth development resonates with fans longing for the days when the club’s best talents emerged from within. “We must invest in La Masia, our greatest asset,” he insists, framing youth promotion as essential for long-term success.

Adding to the intrigue, reports suggest Lionel Messi could influence the upcoming elections, though not in support of Laporta. Vilajoana blames Laporta for Messi’s 2021 exit and insists that club icons should remain assets for the members, not bargaining chips for political gain.

Financial Scrutiny and the Call for Change

As the elections approach, calls for transparent financial reporting and responsible management are intensifying. Font’s allegations about hidden losses and overvalued assets have fueled concerns among members. Many believe that returning to Barça’s roots—focusing on La Masia and prudent leadership—is the key to restoring the club’s stature.

For more news and updates on Barcelona’s presidential race and football developments, visit for more news.

Opinion: The La Masia Model Must Be Barcelona’s Future

Barcelona’s identity has always been built on homegrown talent, with La Masia producing legends like Messi, Xavi, and Iniesta. The current debate underscores a critical choice: invest in youth and sustainable growth, or risk club culture with short-term, high-profile signings. Vilajoana’s vision, focused on La Masia, offers a promising path back to Barça’s roots and a more stable future.