Josep Maria Bartomeu insists Barcelona are ready to prove their ‘more than a club’ motto and engage in talks over the situation in Catalonia.
Barca displayed a banner that read Dialogue, Respect and Sport during their 3-1 win against Olympiakos on Wednesday, three weeks after the ugly scenes of the Catalan independence referendum, which resulted in the Blaugrana playing Las Palmas behind closed doors.
“Barca, historically, are more than a club, and that means talking, which is key to finding solutions,” the President said after the game.
“The banner is the one we wanted to display, but it’s nothing new because we’ve already positioned ourselves in that sense and we’ll keep working on that line.”
The banner was also prompted by the leaders of two Catalan institutions being imprisoned on charges of inciting public disorder.
“It’s not normal for two people to be imprisoned for their ideas,” Bartomeu added.
“It’s clear that the situation in Catalonia is extraordinary and different. Therefore, we’re asking for because talking lets people understand each other.
“We respect everyone and all entities, and we’ll continue to play and compete in professional and amateur competitions.
“Solidarity with the victims of the fires of Galicia, Asturias and Portugal? We’ve already sent a message of support to the victims, but minutes of silence are difficult to agree on with UEFA.
“Olympiakos? Barca had a huge amount of possession. Pique’s handball? When you see it at first, it doesn’t look like a yellow, although we always insist on respect for referees.
“Iniesta’s new contract? He deserved it because he’s been a benchmark for all of us and the young lads of La Masia since coming here.”
