Former Barcelona president talks Rashford, Camp Nou and UCL – “Rashford is better than Nico”

Rashford Reigns: Former Barcelona President Weighs In On Transfers and Camp Nou Delays

Gaspart Believes New Signing Outshines Nico Williams; Champions League Remains Priority for Barcelona

Former Barcelona president Joan Gaspart has shared his candid thoughts on the club's upcoming season, highlighting the excitement surrounding their ambition and new signings.

"Barça excites me," he said. "What excites me most is the ambition; they started as they finished, the desire, with a similar style of play. We have a squad that has to bring a lot of joy, with important additions like the goalkeeper (Joan Garcia)."

While optimistic about another successful campaign, Gaspart keeps expectations realistic: "In four days, we’ll be in the middle of the season, and I would sign the same as last year – if it could be with the Champions League," he stated. He acknowledged Barcelona's near-miss in Europe last season, losing to Inter Milan in the semifinals: "Last year, we came close; we were in the final for a few minutes. Other teams have also improved, but yes, the players know they owe the Champions League to their fans. I’d like to win it, but I’d also be happy with a season like the last one,” he added.

Rashford vs Nico: A Clear Choice?

Gaspart believes Barcelona's acquisition of Marcus Rashford surpasses missing out on Nico Williams. "First of all, for me, Marcus Rashford is better than Nico. From here on, I don’t care what Inaki might say," he asserted.

Despite this preference, Gaspart harbors no ill will towards Williams: “The player has used us in a good way – he’s gotten a good contract, and I’m happy for him. I don’t understand Athletic’s anger. I’ve signed many players from Bilbao like Zubizarreta and always got along with their president,” he said about Nico. "This is in the past. We have to focus on the season and trust the squad and the exceptional coach we have," he added.

Camp Nou Construction: A Slow Return Home?

Gaspart addressed the ongoing Camp Nou renovation project, which may delay the team's return to their iconic stadium beyond September. "We want to return home as soon as possible, but there’s little talk about the economic consequences of playing at Camp Nou with more people instead of Montjuic," he said.

He emphasized the stark difference in capacity: "From 60,000 season ticket holders to 15,000 at Montjuic – the numbers are crystal clear." Gaspart attributed the delays to strict regulations imposed by the City Council: "It’s not up to us. It’s the firefighters’ decision, the city council. Rules have to be followed. The president should show the passion that members want, but sometimes dates are set that can’t be met – and that’s misleading," he stated.

"I’ve told the president to say we’ll return when circumstances allow, because it depends on the council’s discretion. Let’s not commit to something we can’t control,” Gaspart concluded.