Joan Laporta meets former Real Madrid presidential candidate hours before El Clasico

Joan Laporta meets former Real Madrid presidential candidate hours before El Clasico Relations between Barcelona and Real Madrid are at an all-time low following Los Blancos ‘ actions in the Negreira proceedings against the Catalan club. Florentino Perez and Joan Laporta have both maintained that there is no love lost between the two clubs, and the former even refused to travel to Barcelona for the Clasico later today. Thus, it is quite interesting that Laporta crossed paths with former Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme on Saturday. Just hours before the two clubs meet in a crucial La Liga encounter at the Spotify Camp Nou , Laporta and Riquelme met. According to Mundo Deportivo , the meeting took place during the traditional annual gathering hosted by Catalan businessman Luis Conde. Laporta and Riquelme cross paths ahead of El Clasico Riquelme, president of Grupo Cox and a former candidate for the Real Madrid presidency, attended the event alongside several prominent figures from Spanish society. The gathering marked the 13th edition of Conde’s traditional annual lunch, which has become a meeting point for influential personalities across different sectors. Enrique Riquelme met with Joan Laporta earlier today. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) The report reveals that Riquelme attempted to take a photograph with Laporta during the gathering. Riquelme is also expected to attend Sunday’s Clasico , where Hansi Flick’s side will look to strengthen their advantage at the top of La Liga . Former Barcelona president Sandro Rosell also attends Another notable attendee was former Barcelona president Sandro Rosell, who exchanged greetings with Laporta. The presence of both Barcelona presidents, alongside a figure previously involved in Real Madrid’s presidential politics, provided an interesting subplot to the match this weekend. However, this meeting has no sporting significance for either club. Relations between Joan Laporta and Florentino Perez are at an all time low. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO / AFP) (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images) The relationship between Barcelona and Real Madrid tends to extend beyond the pitch, with influential figures associated with both clubs often crossing paths. In the past, even presidents Perez and Laporta have enjoyed a cordial relationship and shared customary dinners on the eve of matchdays. However, Real Madrid’s actions and statements against the Catalan club seem to have burned bridges between Spain’s two biggest institutions. Regardless of what happens off the pitch, the focus should remain on the football and what happens on the field later today. With Barça holding a six-point advantage over Madrid, Flick will understand the importance of securing another three points and going nine points clear of Mourinho’s team. However, Los Blancos will come to the Camp Nou with a plan to prevent just that, and it remains to be seen how the game plays out.