President Joan Gaspart

[BLAUGRANA]

I've started this thread so that we can discuss one of the most colourful and powerful figures at the club. Mr. Gaspart is definately a recognizeable figure at the club and is often in the news. This thread will serve as a forum to discuss his reign past, present and future.

[Olesen10]

An okay move getting LVG to the club. He know's how to work for the club!

[BLAUGRANA]

I assume you mean LVG. Yes, he does.

I met some Spanish guys through work once and we began discussing football. They told me that Gaspart is very passionate about Barca and that he really loves the club. I think that point was driven home when I saw the last game of the 2000-2001 season vs Valencia. After Rivaldo scored that brilliant third goal, Gaspart went crazy. The Valencia president was sitting right next to him too. I think it's a bit unprofessional for someone in his position, but he definately was caught up in the moment and you could see his passion.

[Olesen10]

It's good that Barca has a good president, who doesn't just goes for the power of being in charge of a big club (like in Italy and some places in Spain) And after all, you can't blame the man of going crazy over that goal, it was beautiful!
Check it out! Click on the link!

http://dk.groups.yahoo.com/group/visca_el_barca/files/Soccer%20-%20Rivaldo%20Bicycle%20Kick.mpeg

[BLAUGRANA]

I don't think he's that great a president though. He worries to much about Real Madrid and it just makes Barca look bad. Also, I think he has too much of a hands on approach to the club. I'd like him more if were more quiet and less visible. He let's his emotions get the best of him.

[Olesen10]

See your point, but it would also be bad with a president who thought his job was boring.

[BLAUGRANA]

I know, but I just think he should show a certain level of decorum and be a bit more reserved. I thought it was fine when he celebrated after that Valencia match. I'd have done the same thing. I just don't like the jibes he takes at Real. Some of them are fine, but others are unwarranted and only make us look bad. For example, when Real sold their old training facilities to the city of Madrid for over 200 million to wipe out much of their debt, Gaspart moaned about it and said it was another example of corruption. I agree with Gaspart that it probably was a bit, but I don't think that's something you say in public. If you do, you say it a bit more subtlely.

[Olesen10]

See your point. FaTeam/fans should support their team, in stead of criticize other teams!

[BLAUGRANA]

Gaspart is starting to grow on me. He's been nothing but supportive of LVG. Also, he claims he wants Rivaldo to stay 'til he retires. He's not even moaned about Real for a long time.

[BLAUGRANA]

This from the official G 14 website:


Joan Gaspart - FC Barcelona

After 22 years as vice-president to Josep Lluis Nuñez, Joan Gaspart became president himself on 23rd July 2000, defeating his rival Lluis Bassat by 5,390 votes. With nearly half the club's 93,000 members voting, Gaspart won 25,181 votes (58.47%). Joan Gaspart i Solves, club member number 7.111, has dedicated a large part of his life to the club and as President has been able to place his vast experience at the club's disposal. Plans for his 5-year mandate focussed on organisational restructuring, to be headed by a general manager and split into 5 main areas - finance, sport, commercial activity, social activity and asset management, each of these areas headed by a club vice-president. Gaspart also created a new Board organisation as the club's principal decision-making body as well as setting up a committee to investigate possible changes to the club's statutes. On the sporting front, The President began his term of office by confirming Llorenç Serra Ferrer as manager of the football team, whilst appointing Carles Rexach as his own personal sports adviser, before appointing Rexach as First Team coach in April 2001.

Sr Gaspart has a wide range of business experience and is President of the Husa group of hotels, as well as of the Barcelona City Tourist Consortium. On the sporting front he has been Vice President of the Catalan Football Federation since 1981. He is married with five children and two grandchildren.

Professional and Sporting interests:

President of HUSA GROUP (Hotel trade and catering company)
President of CONSORCI DE TURISME DE BARCELONA (institution that promotes the tourism of Barcelona, made up of the Barcelona City Hall, Chamber of Commerce and private sector)
President of TECNOMEETING Hall
Vice-president of the BARCELONA HOTELS CORPORATION
Vice-president of the CATALUNYA HOTEL & RESTORATION BUSINESS
CONFEDERATION
Member of the Board of the SPANISH HOTELS FEDERATION
Member of MESA DEL TURISMO (Tourism Board)
Member of the Executive Committee of the BARCELONA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
Member of INSTITUT DE L'EMPRESA FAMILIAR
G-14 Spokesman
Vice-president of the CATALAN FOOTBALL FEDERATION (since 1981)
Member of the UEFA Administrative Experts' Panel
General Honorary Consol of the Seychelles Islands in Spain
Member of the Patronage of the MACBA Foundation (Barcelona Contemporary Art Museum)
Member of the Foundation ORFEÓ CATALÀ PALAU DE LA MUSICA
Member of CEOE Assembly (Confederation of Spanish business organizations)
Member of the Assembly and Council of Individual Associates of FOMENT DEL TREBALL (Confederation of Catalan business organizations)
Member of PYMEC-SEFES Assembly (Confederation of small and medium-sized companies)
Member of CERCLE D'ECONOMIA (Economy Board)
Executive vice-president of AMICS DE LA CLAU DE BARCELONA

[Bier]

Originally posted by azulgrana
I think that point was driven home when I saw the last game of the 2000-2001 season vs Valencia. After Rivaldo scored that brilliant third goal, Gaspart went crazy. The Valencia president was sitting right next to him too. I think it's a bit unprofessional for someone in his position, but he definately was caught up in the moment and you could see his passion.

That's exactly what I love this man for ... his passion for Barça. Profesional or not ... the fact that he is a passionate fan ensures us that he does everything with the best will and for Barça's wellfare. :star:

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Bier


That's exactly what I love this man for ... his passion for Barça. Profesional or not ... the fact that he is a passionate fan ensures us that he does everything with the best will and for Barça's wellfare. :star:

Just so long as his passion doesn't cloud his judgement.

[Juanele]

Originally posted by azulgrana


Just so long as his passion doesn't cloud his judgement.

Too late for that.

Gaspart has a tendancy to say one thing and do another. He and Nuñez are made from the same cloth. They need to meddle less with the actual futbol of the club and let the coaches do their job.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Juanele


Too late for that.

Gaspart has a tendancy to say one thing and do another. He and Nuñez are made from the same cloth. They need to meddle less with the actual futbol of the club and let the coaches do their job.

Gaspart has been much better since LVG has returned though. Let's hope it stays that way and he let's LVG get the job done.

[Bier]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA

Gaspart has been much better since LVG has returned though. Let's hope it stays that way and he let's LVG get the job done.
Great minds think the same :D ... nothing to add ;)

[DRUMan]

He is a donkey,he put Rivaldo out of the squad...

[nismo]

Gaspart has made some very smart moves in the transfer market with getting mendeita back from his hell hole at lazio, and finally getting the player capable of eclipsing ortega and co. in riquelme, but letting rivaldo go was a major headache for all barca fans and neutrals.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by DRUMan
He is a donkey,he put Rivaldo out of the squad...

Sounds more like you're the donkey. Rivaldo was more about the money than he was about the club. He wasn't going to renew his contract, so he was let go.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
Gaspart has made some very smart moves in the transfer market with getting mendeita back from his hell hole at lazio, and finally getting the player capable of eclipsing ortega and co. in riquelme, but letting rivaldo go was a major headache for all barca fans and neutrals.

I think the moves were more to do with LVG. Rivaldo as I stated wasn't interested in signing an extension, so they let him go. I say smart move. Besides Nis, now he may go to Inter. :D

[BLAUGRANA]

From the official website:



Gaspart presents annual report

Monday 22 July 2002 21:00 (BCN)




Club President Joan Gaspart gave a brief overview of the season when he presented the annual report to the General Assembly this evening.

Barca People

“We’ll be presenting an exciting new project, Barca People on August 15th , which will allow all our fans to join in and feel closer to the club. We aim to reach a million people during the season – there are so many fans who want to be members, but we just don’t have enough space , so this is for them. It’ll cost about thirty six Euros a year for the fan card and we’ll be pushing to achieve as wide a possible implantation, both here and abroad.





Football

“This hasn’t been a brilliant season and do you know why? It’s because we are so used to winning, that’s what we’re here for and when we don’t I can’t come here to this General Assembly feeling satisfied. Let’s put last season behind us and look forward to new and successful year which is just beginning.


Economic strength

“We are not in any financial difficulty. We have been offered two million pesetas a year for the next five seasons to put a sponsor’s name on our shirts, but we have to be coherent in our attitude to these things and I believe we can raise extra revenue through new channels. The easiest thing for me to do would be to come here and suggest cutting the basketball or handball sections, or maybe putting up membership fees, but I’m not going to go against our club’s most dearly held beliefs and do that.

Van Gaal

“I can assure you that he’s full of excitement about the prospect of being back here with us. We won two leagues in his first year and were on the point of reaching the Champions League final in his third, so I hope he can repeat that kind of record.

Rivaldo

“It would have been easy for me to persuade Sr. Pérez Farguell to draw out the negotiations so that I wouldn’t have to face you all today with the news that Rivaldo had gone, but he really didn’t want to stay at the club and although I offered to renew his contract, I think that finally we’ve made the best decision for the club. I’d also like to wish Rivaldo all the best in the future.


***Note what he says about Rivaldo and his UNWILLINGNESS to renew his contract!

[BLAUGRANA]

From the official website:

Club reveals profits

Monday 22 July 2002 13:15 (BCN)




Vice president Joan Castells, director general Javier Pérez Farguell, financial director Jaume Parés and treasurer Ramon Salabert revealed club profits of 7.2 million Euros for the last season at the presentation of the club’s annual report this morning. Castells also reported that the club had made investments of 109 million Euros, primarily in land and building, including the start of the club’s new training ground at Sant Joan Despi.

The board’s primary objectives have been to start building on the training ground, the renewal of the first team squad with the incorporation of seven new signings and increasing income. The club has been able to react to the increase in expenditure by improving income from merchandising and commercialisation, which had not originally been contemplated in the budget.




Next year’s budget sets out expenditure, and corresponding income, of 170, 732 million Euros, with the aim of increasing revenues by 10% and reducing expenditure by 8% on last season. The increase in income will be achieved through the agreements with Havas Advertising and Nike as well as the upcoming ”Barca People” campaign and through improved land use. Sr Perez Farguell stressed the importance of internationalising the club’s image to improve revenues and that the reduction in expenditure should come primarily through cuts related to professional sportsmen at the club.

The report will be subject to a vote of approval at this afternoon’s session of the club’s General Assembly.

[nismo]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA


I think the moves were more to do with LVG. Rivaldo as I stated wasn't interested in signing an extension, so they let him go. I say smart move. Besides Nis, now he may go to Inter. :D
yes, i know LVG and rivaldo never saw eye to eye, but i guess having rivlado fight with LVG on and off the field would created a bad vibe for the squad:(

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo

yes, i know LVG and rivaldo never saw eye to eye, but i guess having rivlado fight with LVG on and off the field would created a bad vibe for the squad:(

Probably, but we'll never know now. :)

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
From the official website:



Gaspart presents annual report

Monday 22 July 2002 21:00 (BCN)




Club President Joan Gaspart gave a brief overview of the season when he presented the annual report to the General Assembly this evening.

Barca People

“We’ll be presenting an exciting new project, Barca People on August 15th , which will allow all our fans to join in and feel closer to the club. We aim to reach a million people during the season – there are so many fans who want to be members, but we just don’t have enough space , so this is for them. It’ll cost about thirty six Euros a year for the fan card and we’ll be pushing to achieve as wide a possible implantation, both here and abroad.



This Barca people thing sounds kinda cool. I think I may have to sign up for it.

[nismo]

i won't sign up for it, the australian dollar is weak against the euro:smoking:

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
i won't sign up for it, the australian dollar is weak against the euro:smoking:

LOL. :D

[nismo]

hey Zul when the next elections for barca president????

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
hey Zul when the next elections for barca president????

I don't know how that works. I wanna say soon though. I should become a member this year and then run a campaign against Gaspart. I'll promise to bring in Joaquin! :D

[nismo]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA


I don't know how that works. I wanna say soon though. I should become a member this year and then run a campaign against Gaspart. I'll promise to bring in Joaquin! :D
you got my vote.
but you'd have to promise never to sell anymore stars as well, no more 'figo-transfer' :D :smoking:

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo

you got my vote.
but you'd have to promise never to sell anymore stars as well, no more 'figo-transfer' :D :smoking:

So long as they arent' greedy mercenaries like Figo, they can stay.

[nismo]

i'd also wouldn't mind if barca blooded in more youth team players :D

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
i'd also wouldn't mind if barca blooded in more youth team players :D

LVG will. I expect Motta will play more this season. Navarro should get his chance too. Iniesta could be winning his spot in Norway.

[nismo]

what about babangida jr.
if what i heard is true, he could be overmars successor

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
what about babangida jr.
if what i heard is true, he could be overmars successor

Well, it originally sounded like he'd part of the squad as he started training with them this offseason. Now though, it was announced on the official website that he will sent out. They made it sound like a loan, but said transfer. I'm sure they meant loan though. If not, he can still play in the Barca B squad. He's still only 18. Who knows though, a few injuries and...

[nismo]

hey Zul
i'm just curious, u know what's Gaspart standing on youth players?? since his presidency has he invested more or less in the barca academy??

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
hey Zul
i'm just curious, u know what's Gaspart standing on youth players?? since his presidency has he invested more or less in the barca academy??

Dunno. I haven't read much on that. I'd assume it's no more or less as in the past. With LVG back though, i'm sure it'll be a focus. In fact, the current setup could have something to do with LVG's last reign as they wanted him to do the same thing he'd done at Ajax.

[nismo]

yeah the structure he had in place at ajax was a revolution. and with the club the magnitude of barca, LVG will be able to instill one of the best if not the best soccer academies in the world.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
yeah the structure he had in place at ajax was a revolution. and with the club the magnitude of barca, LVG will be able to instill one of the best if not the best soccer academies in the world.

Let's hope he does. I think the club's current financial situation will be a bit more incentive than usual for him to do so.

[nismo]

you know this financial crisis in europe could be a blessing in disguise. i mean clubs would be more encouraged to invest in youth academeie, and we could see more talented youngsters coming through ythe club's system.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo
you know this financial crisis in europe could be a blessing in disguise. i mean clubs would be more encouraged to invest in youth academeie, and we could see more talented youngsters coming through ythe club's system.

I agree. Also, there should be less of the usual transfer merry-go-round. That'd be nice cause then maybe we'd see a little more player loyalty too. Although with the homegrown Barca players, they always want to stay. Take Reina for example. He was transferred and all he could say was how his dream was to play for Barca again some day.

[DRUMan]

I prefer Rivaldo in my squad than Van Gaal...

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by DRUMan
I prefer Rivaldo in my squad than Van Gaal...

Thanks for sharing.

[nismo]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA


I agree. Also, there should be less of the usual transfer merry-go-round. That'd be nice cause then maybe we'd see a little more player loyalty too. Although with the homegrown Barca players, they always want to stay. Take Reina for example. He was transferred and all he could say was how his dream was to play for Barca again some day.
i'd also wouldn't mind if barca poached talent from other clubs as well :D take raul from atletico or giggs from man city
who knows, maybe the next nesta or raul is playing for a club in la liga or somewhere in europe.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by nismo

i'd also wouldn't mind if barca poached talent from other clubs as well :D take raul from atletico or giggs from man city
who knows, maybe the next nesta or raul is playing for a club in la liga or somewhere in europe.

Yeah, that'd be cool if we got lucky like that. I wonder if we'll go after Reyes from Sevilla. A bit later than your idea is suggesting, but he sounds good.

[DRUMan]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA


Thanks for sharing.
You're welcome...JERK!

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by DRUMan

You're welcome...JERK!

An even better post! WOW!!! I'm impressed.

[Bier]

C'mon DRUMan ... what's the point of this ... you are no newbie ... please don't behave like this. :) You are always welcome to talk about Rivaldo's glorious past and I am sure we would share many same opinions there about this incredible player, maybe the best in the world. But barking at us Barça fans because he laft is just not fair and it does not make the situation any better for you and for us. Most of us love Rivaldo and would have loved to have seen any solution to keep Rivo at the Camp Nou. :)

[nismo]

it's time to forgive and forget about rivaldo.
he was a legend in a barca jersey and in an ideal world most fans would've loved for him to stay but that;'s not the case to be. so let's just look towards the future and leave rivaldo's barca past where it should. in our memories

[DRUMan]

Azulgrana think that everybody have to agree with him,it is ignorance...

[nismo]

i don't want to get involved here, but i don't think Zul meant to offend you DRUman, i think the posts have been misinterpreted. Everyone's opinion in here are accepted and respected by everyone else. whether they have any proof or back-up is another matter, but like what Bier said let's not behave like this and start resorting to lame insults.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by DRUMan
Azulgrana think that everybody have to agree with him,it is ignorance...

I could care less if you agree with me or not. I just find it funny all of these Brazilian fans supporting the Brazilian players. Look at the Ronaldo situation at Inter. Who the hell is Ronaldo? He signed a contract, he can go when Inter let him and get what they want for him.

[BLAUGRANA]

Barca People card to be launched

Wednesday 21 August 2002 10:15 (BCN)

Barca’s new supporters’ card -Barca People is to be publicly launched next Monday after full details are to be revealed at the Barca Supporters Clubs Congress this weekend. The card will offer fans from all over the World the chance to enjoy a whole series of exclusive advantages. The first few cards have already been sold this week via a special stand which has been set up at the entrance to the club museum, as the final touches are put to the application and delivery processes. A new contact phone number, 902 22 05 05 for enquiries about the card, will also be launched this week.

With the launching of the club’s new website in September, it will be possible to apply for a card on-line.


Thought this was the best place to post this. I'm gonna check it out. It should be interesting.

[hollowi]

That Barca People card sounds nice.

To the point: Barcelona Maverick socios group Alternativa Blaugrana have launched a censorship campaign against Joan Gaspart. Their intention is to collect enough signatures by 22nd Sept. when Barca and Espanyol play in La Liga. Reports have been told that Gaspart would not be fired. So it looks that AB isn't getting what they wanted

After SoccerAge

[BLAUGRANA]

This from the club's official site. It sounds like the BARCAPEOPLE card will generate a lot of revenue for the club. Here's the article:

Gaspart praises supporters' clubs

Friday 23 August 2002 12:30 (BCN)

Speaking to a packed XXV Supporters’ Club Congress which is being held in Barcelona today, club president Joan Gaspart praised the “penyas” for their vital role in the life of the club: “the proof of how healthy our club is, can be seen in the fact that this hall is almost too small for you all. It’s on days like this that it’s clear we really are more than a club. We are not a limited company and this club belongs to all of us. That’s what differentiates us from other clubs and means that our biggest capital is our supporters.”

The club President went on to detail how the new BarcaPeoplesupporters card would work: “the card offers a fantastic series of services. The basic card is free to all our members and supporters’ clubs members and there’s a 50% discount on the full card, which we hope will encourage people to join the supporters’ clubs. It’s always dangerous to make predictions, but we’re hoping for more than a million card holders by 2003. With 100,000 season ticket holders and the same number of supporters’ club members, we only need each of them to bring in five new card holders to reach that figure.

Finally, Sr. Gaspart admitted: “we’ve made some mistakes in the past, especially with the football team, and we’re trying to put them right. We’ve also made a lot of progress on perhaps less spectacular fronts: the creation of new club statutes, the regularisation of the census, starting work on the new training ground, the professionalisation of the club and the putting of the club on a firm financial footing.”

[FC Barca11]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA

Finally, Sr. Gaspart admitted: “we’ve made some mistakes in the past, especially with the football team, and we’re trying to put them right....”

Well he certainly is headed in the right direction this time. When he first brought in Van Gaal, i wasn't too happy because i thought it would create a lot of unrest. Afterall, Rivaldo did leave. But the point is that the Van Gaal has won us titles before, and Gaspart thinks he can do it again. Also, the transfers or Riquelme and the deal with Mendieta were pretty damn smart too. I can't believe he got Riquelme for half of what he's really worth :) If all goes well with Medieta and Barca People, we can start seeing the light at the end of this desolate tunnel that has been our past 3 seasons.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by FC Barca11


Well he certainly is headed in the right direction this time. When he first brought in Van Gaal, i wasn't too happy because i thought it would create a lot of unrest. Afterall, Rivaldo did leave. But the point is that the Van Gaal has won us titles before, and Gaspart thinks he can do it again. Also, the transfers or Riquelme and the deal with Mendieta were pretty damn smart too. I can't believe he got Riquelme for half of what he's really worth :) If all goes well with Medieta and Barca People, we can start seeing the light at the end of this desolate tunnel that has been our past 3 seasons.

Hopefully Lazio are as generous with their final fee for Mendigol as they were for Nesta and Crespo, who's prices dropped considerably by the time they were sold.

I still think Barca needs to go after star players. We may not bring as many players if we do this, but we'll bring in quality. I also hope they go for younger star players. I'd love to see us make a move for Joaquin next summer. Van der Vaart and Chivu are two more I'd love to see in Barca shirts.

I think the club is really getting it's finances in order, which is a good thing. I also think with enough publicity and getting the word out there that BARCAPEOPLE can be very good for the club. Some strategic marketing in SE Asia would go a long way. We'll see.

[BLAUGRANA]

Here are his thoughts. This from Soccerage.com:


Serra Ferrer thinks current supremo Joan Gaspart is "selfish" and that he "only thinks about his own interests".

"He forgot what a club like Barcelona is in the first place", said Serra Ferrer in a parting shot.

[BLAUGRANA]

This from the club's official website. I sure hope he was asked 18 times whether or not they're going to get off their asses to give Puyol a new and improved deal.


Joan Gaspart kept his promise on Monday by opening the doors of his office to those club members that had previously requested the presidents personal explanations regarding certain matters. A total of 18 people attended this first session.

At the first of these meetings, which will be held on the first Monday of every month, Joan Gaspart spoke about the basic principles of his vision of how the club should be managed. It also gave him the chance to hear the views of those present and answer questions about the current state of the club.

The 90 minute meeting went ahead in a polite and respectful manner, and all those in attendance were given the opportunity to express their own opinions and ask the president whatever they wanted. The ethos behind this meeting is in keeping with the promise that Gaspart made when he was elected to the position that he wanted to open FC Barcelona up to its members and make everybody feel part of the club.

These meetings are not the only way in which Joan Gaspart keeps in direct contact with the club members. For example, at 19:00 tomorrow evening he will be presenting golden badges in the Museum Annexe.

[rshepherd1000]

so do we think there is any chance of gaspart actually resigning?

[rshepherd1000]

i think i may have found an answer to my own question, but i cant translate it properly using google - can any of you spanish speakers help?

Gaspart medita irse antes de la asamblea
(http://www.diariosport.com/Barsa/article.asp?id=58108)

[relejado]

ok, we're all convinced that gaspart failed. but how and why did he ? what did you wrong besides buying no topclass players ? what you guys think ?

[gnlvagosov]

He was just not to be your president, he wasn't the right one:D

[relejado]

yeahh, but why not ?

[Juan]

Elections in june!

[yks_barca]

I'm with Cruyff when he said :

"I also do not believe that Gaspart can be solely blamed for everything. There are many guilty parties ''

"It is not only president who has failed, many people at the club have failed in their duties ''

[J R R]

Adios gaspart!!!!!!!!!!:D
best thing ive heard all week is gaspart is going to resign!!!

[barça]

Gaspart dejará la presidencia del Barça el 1 de marzo


:) :D :silly: :D :) :rolling: :cool: :star: :thumbsup:

YEEEHHAAAAA!!!!!

I am breaking out the best bottle of my wine stach.

[BLAUGRANA]

Great news if he goes.

[Olesen10]

Yeah, it sounds like very good news! Enric Reyna is taking over untill the election in June if everything goes well.

[Atalla]

i know we have been calling for his head for god knows how long, but right now, the club is a TOTAL mess.........
god knows how many of our vice presidents have resigned, we are 3 points above relegation, and now we don't even have a pres....

le roi est mort, vive le roi
(le roi in this case is the club)

:(

[Juan]

Don´t worry too much. With someone as supportive as Gaspart and as intelligent as Nuñez, you will be back up where you belong. :)

[barça]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
Great news if he goes.

He is gone, is official. He will be our by the end of the February, New elections are in June, where already the early favorite is a group lead by Cruyff and his friends.

He is GONE.

[barça]

Originally posted by Atalla
i know we have been calling for his head for god knows how long, but right now, the club is a TOTAL mess.........


Are you nuts? Exactly for that reason, he should go, the club is a mess and he was mostly responsible. Leave before you make it worse.

[rshepherd1000]

from uefa.com

Gaspart ready to go
Friday, 07 February 2003
Joan Gaspart is to stand down as president of FC Barcelona. After a day of intense speculation about his future, Gaspart left a meeting of club directors to announce that he would be resigning from the post on 1 March.

Elections called
"I am Barcelona president until 1 March," he said. That is the day of the next general assembly of club members, when presidential elections will be called for June. Gaspart will not stand for re-election, while his immediate successor will be Enric Reyna, a club official who will oversee the leadership contest.

Traumatic season
Gaspart's decision follows a traumatic season at Camp Nou. Barcelona are currently 15th in the Spanish Primera División table, three points off the relegation places. Last week they parted company with coach Louis van Gaal, replacing him with Radomir Antic.

Called to resign
The onfield turmoil has reflected the situation off it, where Salvador Alemany recently became the sixth Barcelona vice-president to walk away from the job during Gaspart's two-and-a-half year reign. Gaspart beat Lluis Bassat in the race for the presidency in 2000 but Bassat subsequently led calls for the 58-year-old businessman to resign.

Good and bad
"I was a good vice-president and a bad president," Gaspart said tonight. "I honestly believe this [resignation] is the best thing for Barça." The Catalan media and many fans also railed against Gaspart's management of the club, believing it was the main reason for Barcelona's failure to win a trophy following his election.


at least he has the guts to admit he was bad and resign so fair play to him, a lot of people in his position would have kept going and not acknowledged their failure

lets hope cruyff can now put a great package together for the club!

[rshepherd1000]

could someone explain this to me please?

from the official website yesterday:

"No" to high risk qualification

Speaking to the press after tonight's board meeting, Joan Gaspart explained that he had asked the Spanish government representatives in Catalonia to change their decision to declare the game against Bilbao on Sunday as a 'high risk' game. According to the President: "our members" behavior cannot justify this qualification. Only in the sporting is it a high risk game for us."

:confused:

[barça]

When a game is declared high risk by the Goverment, the club has to pay for additional security and take other measures to assure the safety of players, officials and fans (probably on that order) It costs the club money, plus it brings bad press.

Gaspart is saying that there is no reason to do this.

[gnlvagosov]

Ronaldo added to the crisis at Barcelona by claiming that the club has always been badly run.

The Brazilian striker spent a season at Camp Nou where he won the Copa Del Rey and the European Cup Winners' Cup under Bobby Robson in 1996/97.

After the news broke that president, Joan Gaspart, is to resign in March, Ronaldo expressed little surprise by events in Catlaunya.

"This is nothing new," he chuckled. "This not a current problem, it goes back years.

"What I saw during my year with Barcelona was that things happened there that were very surprising.

"The things that went on are things that you would not expect at a great club like Barcelona."

[Atalla]

it's just like ronaldo to step on the club that brought him all his fame and fortune in the first place....
he will slam who he wants and when he wants to....
i despise his lack of allegiance to anyone or anything other than the brazilian NT

[Atalla]

Originally posted by barça
Are you nuts? Exactly for that reason, he should go, the club is a mess and he was mostly responsible. Leave before you make it worse.

while i really hate to play the blame game, i must conceed your point, Gespart has been the primary reason why things have faltered at barca.... oh well, better late than never....
:(

[BLAUGRANA]

As for Cruyff, if his "group" is successful in attaining the presidency, they better not screw up. If they do, I'll be all over Cruyff. I've grown very tired of his unconstructive criticism of every little thing over the years.

[rshepherd1000]

Originally posted by barça
When a game is declared high risk by the Goverment, the club has to pay for additional security and take other measures to assure the safety of players, officials and fans (probably on that order) It costs the club money, plus it brings bad press.

Gaspart is saying that there is no reason to do this.

thanks for your explanation - hopefully gaspart is right

[funky6]

Can somebody plz shoot this Ronaldo thing in the head?(yes,i'm bad).

I'm sick of anybody saying whatever he wants about Barça and getting away with it.Ronaldo,Figo,Valdano,stupid journalists, who the hell told them Barça need their words or criticism or whatever?We have turned into a target for everyone's complex and stupidity.

[BLAUGRANA]

Forget about Ronaldo. He's a lazy opportunist who doesn't even know how to spell loyalty, much less understand the word's meaning. If Barca was so mismanaged when he was there, then how come he said he wanted to come back this summer. :rolleyes:

[barça]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
If Barca was so mismanaged when he was there, then how come he said he wanted to come back this summer. :rolleyes:

Great point Azul
I think I know: $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$:mad:

[Atalla]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
As for Cruyff, if his "group" is successful in attaining the presidency, they better not screw up. If they do, I'll be all over Cruyff. I've grown very tired of his unconstructive criticism of every little thing over the years.

Cruyff himself has said that he is not interested in the presidency of barca...
but it seems to me that he is VERY interested in the post......
perhaps he is setting up a president to take over, while he runs things from behind the scenes.... you know, so that our president is a puppet on Cruyff's strings.....
lol that way, he can never take the fall
(these conspiracy theories are cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
hehehehehe

he might have been overly critical of barca, but he has been infuriatingly correct over the past few years with almost everything he said..... he blasted everyone and everything......
and still, he is the only one to remain standing after this whole debacle.....
all i know, is if Cruyff in some way or another manages to attain a post in barca, or becomes the man to run things, then good ol' Rexach will be the very first man to get the sack.......

i don't think that cruyff has ever forgiven him for the backstabbing of 96 (was it?)
oh well...... let's hope that he can actually accomplish something.....

and even though his criticism has been unconstructive, i think that he has a right to not want to step in and aid in the reperations of matters...


rexach's failure as a coach must've brought a huge smile to his face...
Van gaal leaving must have made him laugh out loud, and now that Gespart is leaving, i think he will host a party!!!!!!!!

lol

[Juan]

I wish some people over here would focus more on making Madrid win games...

[Atalla]

lol, why would we wanna do that?????????????????????
this is BARCA forum, not madrid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[funky6]

Juan
I wish some people over here would focus more on making Madrid win games...

?

[Juan]

I mean Figo, Ronnie....

It´s not adequate, what they´ve been saying!

Sorry for any misunderstadings.

[BLAUGRANA]

Gaspart has officially resigned early. He's done, TODAY!

[J R R]

yeah gaspart has gone!!!:D
thats great news and what ive wanted but there are still members of his board around that should go with him
best thing is to get rid of the lot and start again then maybe
the club can start to recover from the damage gaspart has done

but at last GASPART ES HISTORIA!!!!!:D :cool: ;) :D chau gaspart

[Juan]

What are your thought on Enric Reyna, who will be in as an interim until the elections? Being the one that didn´t leave raises suspicions, but he could have a business acumen Barça gravely needs.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Juan
What are your thought on Enric Reyna, who will be in as an interim until the elections? Being the one that didn´t leave raises suspicions, but he could have a business acumen Barça gravely needs.

From what I've heard, Reyna is just another one of Gaspart's droogs. I think the best option would be to bring in the guy from Cruyff's contingent. I can't for the life of me think of his name.

[BLAUGRANA]

This from the club's official website. I never really like him in charge, but I don't really wish him ill. He does love the club after all. This from the club's official website:


12, FEB 03 22:45

Gaspart: "I'm leaving proud and happy"




With these final words of farewell, club President Joan Gaspart announced that he was leaving his post and handing over the reins to his vice president Enric Reyna.


Accompanied by the new interim President, Gaspart also confirmed that the scheduled assembly of members' representatives for March 1st would now be cancelled.

"I love this club more than anyone can imagine and I am leaving my post in an attempt to help improve the situation here", explained an emotional Gaspart, who went on, "I'm not leaving because of my health. I'm happy, not because I'm leaving before my time, but because of the 25 years of service I've given to the club."

Gaspart also revealed: "this leaves the board free to call elections when they see fit, always bearing in mind the importance of not affecting the team."

Gaspart predicted: "Reyna will be a sensational President. He won't have long in the post, but he'll be sensational. I'm sure he'll carry out a correct and sensible transition period, backed by the full support of the board."

Gaspart also announced the resignation of board member Fèlix Millet, who is considering throwing his hat into the ring for the elections. Millet will, however, continue as vice president of the Foundation, at Gaspart's personal request. Josep Isanta and Josep Maria García Maranges, who were both adopted members have now joined the full board, as has lawyer Josep Soria y Sabaté. Gaspart also proposed that Nicolau Casaus be named honorary vice president for life.

Gaspart promised: "if the club needs me, I'll be available and I'll be on the terraces cheering the team on as well as being the first man to support the new President. Only I know what you can suffer in this post and I'll certainly never protest at a future President. I'll put aside the sporting enemies I've got and just keep the memory of the great friendships I've found."

Gaspart apologized to the club members: I've not been up to the job, though I'm leaving with my conscience clear because the mistakes I've made have just been because I don't know better and never in bad faith. I feel worse for them than for me about any mistakes I might have made, though I'm sure Barca will bring us a lot of good moments this season."

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/footballcentral/FootballCentral/53913_600X400.jpg

[J R R]

imo they should all go reyna is not blameless he was assistant to gaspart. i heard there will be alot of pressure on him and the rest to resign
they took barcelona one of the biggest clubs and nearly destroyed it
gaspart may be gone but until his board go to its like hes still around, barca need to get rid of them all and start again

[Veritas]

Originally posted by J R R
imo they should all go reyna is not blameless he was assistant to gaspart. i heard there will be alot of pressure on him and the rest to resign
they took barcelona one of the biggest clubs and nearly destroyed it
gaspart may be gone but until his board go to its like hes still around, barca need to get rid of them all and start again

you can't even imagine how much I agree with you

[Juan]

I just read a Don Balon column, criticizing the lack of planning and too much improvisation by the potential candidates. It points out at the lack of a cule version of Florentino Perez.... what do you think?

I could do a translation if you want.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Juan


I could do a translation if you want.


Please do!

[Juan]

oki doki, here it comes:

Barça: Imperfect Future
by Pedro Riaño (translation by Juan)

Florentino Perez won the Real Madrid presidential elections in July, but with his homework done. He knew what he wanted and how to achieve it. That´s why his strategy was more effective than the one of his rival, who showed up with 2 European Cups in hand.

That is Real Madrid. Barça is something else. In Camp Nou the lesson hasn´t been learned yet, blaming the one outside, who they´re scared of; and covering their errors with the traditional and boring victimism that started blaming Nuñez for all the disgraces of humanity, followed by demonizing Van Gaal and isn´t done with Gaspart´s end yet, because the new statutes are not popular, and neither is the accidental president or the elections date. Every step forward that is done is followed by the general rejection of those who desire protagonism, the self-called "catalan civil society", who should be all with desire to be important that aren´t part of the church or militia.

In Camp Nou everyone is distressed by the election date. No one looks capable of rising to Perez standards in July and present a candidacy with face and eyes, capable of returning optimism to cules from the first year.

"The season can´t be planned in July" they all cowardly say. And I imagine a cule version of Florentino Perez, promising a blaugrana Raul and with Beckham tied up, with a proyect settled with authorities to build Disneyland in Miniestadi grounds, and an agreement with Aznar to stop the wars and pour all the bullet budget into Camp Nou. All this, of course, is unthinkable of in Barça. There things are done with "seny" (catalan term probably, don´t know what it means). And that´s how it goes.

Some complain their hearts off because they don´t want to postpone the elections until summer. Other, who still subsist in the club, think that events can´t be rushed and a coincidence of the elections with the team´s sporting compromises should be avoided. Like the multimillionaire Barça players could do any worse than they are doing, with elections in the middle.

One thinks that, with all the peace in the world, they have become the winner of the mishonor of making possible Barça´s worst league season ever, it´s difficult that the social situation (that they have generated with their results) of elections could bend the performance. In every case, as things are now, any circumstance that can alter the on-the-pitch performance could only improve it.

It´s curious, in this sense, Luis Enrique´s reasoning answering to a board member that said that the ones that win or lose are the ones that play and get paid for it, very well by the way. Luis Enrique said that "who have signed our contracts are the board members themselves". What he doesn´t say is that those contracts were signed for them to perform in concordance to them, not for shameful performances.

They´re lucky that it´s football we´re talking about. In other places we would be talking about contract breaches.

[BLAUGRANA]

I've read that Johann Cruyff is considering a return to the club. He talked about it in an interview in the French magazine L' Equipe. Does anyone have a translation of the interview?

[Shady]

wow..that will be the best news. i love this man and i feel even if he didnt deliver as much as we expect still he will bring the class he has always had.

[FC Barca11]

Originally posted by Shady
wow..that will be the best news. i love this man and i feel even if he didnt deliver as much as we expect still he will bring the class he has always had. \


If he didn't deliver, I would be all over him :mad: . Sometimes he annoys the hell out of me by criticizing the team every chance he gets, yet he's never ready to take the helm. He always vents his anger at the club and management, but if asked if he would take up the post, he always plays the notion down. I agree that he was an amazing player and a equally amazing coach; after all we did win many trophies and had the famous dream teamunder him. But rather than help the club by suggesting solutions he just turns around and castigates every move they make. I think the appoint of Antic and the resignation of Gaspart and Van Gaal, have brought out the first positive comments out of him in something like 3 years. I hope in the forth coming elections there are some decent candidates worthy and capable of taking Barcelona in a positive direction and I sure as hell hope Cryuff gets his loquacious self involved with the new management and actually do what he preaches and "help" for a change.

[soccer fanatic]

Cruijff is more than just a legendary football player and coach, he also is a great analist, if he critisises Barca it isn`t too offend but too help, he is always critical on things he loves, lately he is positive about Ajax, there is not a doubt in my mind he is sincere with it, that makes him so good. If deserved he will be positive, he just won`t act too remain his popularity. He has a heart condition and I don`t see him taking such a job, it isn`t weak of him but smart. But whatever he says listen too him, you can`t doubt the quality of his judging, although sometimes can hurt since he is brutally honest with inmense high standards. He expects a lot and if that is realistic I think he should expect a lot.

[FC Barca11]

Originally posted by soccer fanatic
Cruijff is more than just a legendary football player and coach, he also is a great analist, if he critisises Barca it isn`t too offend but too help, he is always critical on things he loves, lately he is positive about Ajax, there is not a doubt in my mind he is sincere with it, that makes him so good. If deserved he will be positive, he just won`t act too remain his popularity. He has a heart condition and I don`t see him taking such a job, it isn`t weak of him but smart. But whatever he says listen too him, you can`t doubt the quality of his judging, although sometimes can hurt since he is brutally honest with inmense high standards. He expects a lot and if that is realistic I think he should expect a lot.


Thats what I mean. Sometimes his comments are beyond unrealistic. How can he hold such high expectations anyway? Not everyone is a freakin Cryuff. Agreed that he is sincere, but what does he expect? Barcelona to turn their fortunes around in a week??? This Barcelona side is not the same one he left and times have changed drastically and for the worst. Barcelona needs to be rebuilded from the ground up and thats why some of his comments infuriate me. There is a difference between brutal honesty and complete arogance. I understand his health is a big problem and one of the reasons why he wouldn't take up the post but he still could inject some optimism into the crowd. He knows very well how much people revere him and at times he seems to take it the the max. I'm not trying to degrade his achievements or him as a person. I'm just saying that sometimes his "analist side" goes a bit too far, brutally honest or not. He is a great guy but his comments come at the worst time.

[soccer fanatic]

Originally posted by FC Barca11
Thats what I mean. Sometimes his comments are beyond unrealistic. How can he hold such high expectations anyway? Not everyone is a freakin Cryuff.


Hey, he just advises, I mean you have too start somewhere. Most people who are Barca fan on this board also moaned and complained on how the club was handling things, as a man with Barca too his heart, so did he. Expectations are realistic for a team with big fanbase and big name, he realises it can`t be done in a week, but he needs too see improvement ofcourse.


This Barcelona side is not the same one he left and times have changed drastically and for the worst. Barcelona needs to be rebuilded from the ground up and thats why some of his comments infuriate me. There is a difference between brutal honesty and complete arogance.


He isn`t an arrogant man at all. He knows what is needed, he is just on football area always full of ideas and plans, he wants too see improvement, he wants too go forward, because he loves Barca so much, you can`t held that against him. If Barca like a short time are just above relegation you can`t expect him too say: "Oh my, this is going dandy".


He is a great guy but his comments come at the worst time. [/B]

Comments would be pointless if Barca were number 1 in the league undefeated in CL and financially booming, don`t you think. He says it harsh but perhaps people take everything too easily for harsh. That is the way Cruijff is, because he just is a genious on the football area, I hear it everytime he speaks about matches in CL or read one of his books.

It must be difficult for him too see others screwing up, like chess player Kasparov must have when he plays against a chess nitwit.
If it is so obvious that there is underachievement, it s so difficult not too say anything, and be glad he does, I mean, people criticise what they love the most.

[FC Barca11]

Originally posted by soccer fanatic



Comments would be pointless if Barca were number 1 in the league undefeated in CL and financially booming, don`t you think. He says it harsh but perhaps people take everything too easily for harsh. That is the way Cruijff is, because he just is a genious on the football area, I hear it everytime he speaks about matches in CL or read one of his books.

It must be difficult for him too see others screwing up, like chess player Kasparov must have when he plays against a chess nitwit.
If it is so obvious that there is underachievement, it s so difficult not too say anything, and be glad he does, I mean, people criticise what they love the most. [/B]



Then why doesn't he take up the presidency? Yes he has a heart problem, but the way he runs his mouth, the only thing it seems that would appease him is if he takes up the post and runs the whole club himself. When offered the job, he conveniently shys away from it. Nothing anyone does will ever please him because it can and never will be perfect; we can only come close. People can be tolerant only for so long. After a while, harsh comments are going to get to them. For the club to move forward, constructive criticism has to to be utilised; not blatant malevolence for anyone and everyone who steps up into the management. The pride that was once associated with this club has long gone. Its not as if people are lining up to coach or play for the club. As of this moment we can't even guarentee Champions League football to players, and look how big of a club we are. Even if we were Number 1, we'd still never be perfect. Real Madrid does not win every game and it is possible for them to lose. They have won the Champions League TWICE and are MUCH MORE FINANCIALLY SECURE than we are and look at them, they still get heavily critisized for not knowing how to defend!!!!!! In this world it does not matter if your are #1, critics need to be paid and they will always have something to say about you. Comments are opinions and you wouldn't be human if you didn't have opinions.

Many board members have messed things up, yes Gaspart wasn't the best president but does Cryuff think that by blasting everybody at the club things are going to change. At times it seems as if all he does is throw water on our efforts to change. Look at what Antic has done. Van Gaal had a military regime under him and the atmosphere was comparable only to hell within the squad. But when Antic came in and presented a breath of fresh air and most important of all, a philosophy that has instilled positivity into the players, he is slowly turning (and I hope he keeps going :) ) the tide around. Thats what Cryuff needs to do. He is one of the most revered figures in Barcelona. Imagine what a few positive comments and maybe a few helpful hints would do not only for the fans but for the club as well. Van Gaal is a tactical genius, and as far the CL is concerned he did a wonderful job. But look where it has left us in the La Liga.

Sorry for the long post, but I very much respect the points you have made and wish to address them as they deserve to be addressed.

[barça]

No need to apologize for the long post. zzzzzzz:sleepy: :yawn:

Just kidding. I think that Cruyff himself understands that he could not be the president as he lacks diplomacy. Something that Gaspart also lacked.

I do think that Cruyff understands better what is needed and will not advise from the heart and wishing, but from what makes sense even if the decision is unpopular.

[BLAUGRANA]

IMO, Cruyff has every right to criticize. I think he is too critical at times though and seldom offers any suggestions as to what should be done instead. Also, I too find it annoying that he conveniently shys away from a return to the club despite the fact that he criticizes it so often.

[soccer fanatic]

Originally posted by FC Barca11
Then why doesn't he take up the presidency? Yes he has a heart problem, but the way he runs his mouth, the only thing it seems that would appease him is if he takes up the post and runs the whole club himself.


The guy has a family, and I heard his wife doesn`t seem too like the idea Cruijff starting again. Besides he has other jobs.

I don`t see the problem as he talks always too help not too break down, but if it is crap, Cruijff will tell you it is crap, he won`t lie.


When offered the job, he conveniently shys away from it.


Absolutely, having had his heart attack a few years ago must have been a blessing for him. :)
I know what you meant though and can imagine you see it that way. But I hear more from him in interviews and he isn`t the guy you seem too think he is.


Nothing anyone does will ever please him because it can and never will be perfect; we can only come close. People can be tolerant only for so long. After a while, harsh comments are going to get to them. For the club to move forward, constructive criticism has to to be utilised; not blatant malevolence for anyone and everyone who steps up into the management. The pride that was once associated with this club has long gone.


He isn`t only negative, just full of critic, when Van Gaal was fired he seemned too be getting more positive, sand about the club he is always positive, just not about how it is runned and how the team is balanced and plays, he has a right too say and if listened too him Barca would already would be further in progress, I can say that without blinking, I`m very convinced in Cruijffs knowledge, and so is Cruijff. :)


Even if we were Number 1, we'd still never be perfect. Real Madrid does not win every game and it is possible for them to lose. They have won the Champions League TWICE and are MUCH MORE FINANCIALLY SECURE than we are and look at them, they still get heavily critisized for not knowing how to defend!!!!!!



So you see too that Cruijff has a right too have his doubts about Barca, cause we all have them or had them, and we all spoke trhem out here on board in public, Cruijff uses media for it, since he can. If even Real gets critised in a reasonable succesfull time, then I think it is not more normall Barca gets his fair share of critic too. I mean constructive critisism is needed, but the club coach can do that, let Cruijff make clear what should be improved, he might have the name and influennce too change things.


In this world it does not matter if your are #1, critics need to be paid and they will always have something to say about you. Comments are opinions and you wouldn't be human if you didn't have opinions.


Then why be so harsh on a man who loves the lcub and give critic when Barca deserve it more than ever?


At times it seems as if all he does is throw water on our efforts to change. Look at what Antic has done. Van Gaal had a military regime under him and the atmosphere was comparable only to hell within the squad. But when Antic came in and presented a breath of fresh air and most important of all, a philosophy that has instilled positivity into the players, he is slowly turning (and I hope he keeps going :) ) the tide around.


I can`t tlak asbout what is in the media in Spain, but in Hollnad he said more than once things are looking up again and that he was happy with the change of coaches. Perhaps the problem is more that the spanish media only uses negative comments of Cruijff too fill their tv programns and papers. Even when Cruijff is negative, always with respect too people and club, and he loves the Barca fans, so perhaps people should accept who he is, cause also as player and coach he was the same man, only in a position too change things himself


Thats what Cryuff needs to do. He is one of the most revered figures in Barcelona. Imagine what a few positive comments and maybe a few helpful hints would do not only for the fans but for the club as well. Van Gaal is a tactical genius, and as far the CL is concerned he did a wonderful job. But look where it has left us in the La Liga.


He gives enough of helpfull tips. Perhaps it is a difference in culture, cause I can`t see what is so bad about what he does, really I can`t. He is strong in his beliefs and talks about them in public, but in my eyes he isn`t unfair or belittles people.


Sorry for the long post, but I very much respect the points you have made and wish to address them as they deserve to be addressed.

Good post, no apology needed.