Xabi Alonso Strikes Back at Barcelona President's Real Madrid Attack: "It Goes Both Ways"

Barcelona president Joan Laporta faced criticism from Xabi Alonso following his remarks about Real Madrid having a "sense of power."

Despite the upcoming El Clásico being several months away, Real Madrid and Barcelona continue their rivalry beyond the football field. While Los Blancos are currently on a different continent participating in the FIFA Club World Cup throughout the United States, the animosity between these two Spanish giants remains as intense as always.

During a recent Barcelona gathering, Laporta ignited the legendary rivalry by telling Mundo Deportivo, "Madrid possesses a sense of power, while we embody a spirit of freedom and identity.

"Their approach focuses more on acquiring players, whereas we develop more talent through La Masia."

These remarks followed Hansi Flick's success in guiding a youthful Barcelona squad, filled with academy graduates, to achieve a domestic treble. La Masia alumni such as Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí powered the Catalans' supremacy in Spain during the previous season, overcoming Real Madrid in four Clásico encounters across four different tournaments.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid struggled to secure any significant silverware in Carlo Ancelotti's concluding season, despite acquiring Kylian Mbappé on a free transfer during the summer.

The responsibility now falls to new manager Alonso to restore Los Blancos to Spanish and European success while overthrowing Barcelona's dominance. His initial challenge arrives at the Club World Cup, where journalists questioned him about Laporta's comments during a pre-game media session.

"I understand the situation, and I prefer not to engage in that discussion, but we maintain a democratic spirit [at Real Madrid], along with freedom, and I suspect they also have some connection to power. The sentiment works in both directions," Alonso responded.

Alonso won't have the opportunity to answer on the field until the 2025–26 La Liga campaign begins. For now, the new manager concentrates on returning trophies to the Spanish capital.

"[Real Madrid represents] the most distinguished club globally. Its legacy is self-evident, no matter where you travel. This is what elevates Madrid's greatness," Alonso continued.

"These elements assist Madrid in achieving excellence and propelling the organization forward. Being associated with this institution is both a privilege and an honor. I will strive to accomplish our objectives and strengthen our legacy."