Barcelona President Declares War on Champions League Holders: "We're Ready for Battle"
Barcelona's primary goal for the upcoming 2025–26 campaign is clear: overthrowing Paris Saint-Germain as the reigning Champions League champions.
The Catalan giants were eliminated from the Champions League semifinals last season in devastating circumstances by Inter Milan, who subsequently endured a crushing defeat in the final against PSG. In a recent interview with CNN, President Joan Laporta discussed the tournament and expressed his belief that both clubs have matters to settle.
"Regrettably, we weren't able to face them [last season]," Laporta explained. "It's a match that remains outstanding for the football community. I believe we were the two most competitive sides and the two clubs in peak form. We'll see what happens – I'm hopeful we can meet them this season to determine which team truly reigns supreme.
"Everyone who appreciates football acknowledged last season that Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain were the clubs in finest form, delivering the world's most exceptional football, but sadly we never got the chance to clash."
Laporta refrained from declaring Barcelona definitively superior to PSG, acknowledging the merit of the rightful Champions League victors.
"Paris Saint-Germain performed exceptionally last season," he acknowledged. "They claimed the Champions League title, secured the French championship, and simultaneously displayed excellent football under an outstanding manager with exceptional players. A truly impressive squad."
Following an impressive three-and-a-half-month undefeated streak to begin 2025, many considered Barcelona the frontrunner to claim the Champions League crown last season. PSG maintained a comparable streak, and an enticing final showdown appeared within reach, but Hansi Flick's team failed to deliver on their promise.
Barcelona is now preparing to pursue European supremacy in Flick's sophomore season as manager. Having achieved the club's inaugural domestic treble in 2024–25, the objective is to break an 11-year Champions League title dry spell in 2025–26.