Joan Laporta: Our relationship with Atletico is good; no more talk of Alvarez

In LaLiga Matchday 12, Barcelona played away against Atletico Madrid. Before the match, Barcelona president Joan Laporta arrived at the pre-match luncheon for the senior executives of both clubs and spoke to reporters. He discussed the relationship between the two clubs, the transfer rumors surrounding Alvarez, and Raphinha's performance as a No. 9.

Reporter: How is the relationship between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the moment?

Joan Laporta: Very good. The relationship is very good, both institutionally and personally. There was a difficult period before, it's true, but we have kept a good relationship, with mutual respect and appreciation.

Reporter: Joan, is this matter completely behind you now?

Joan Laporta: Yes, yes, yes.

Reporter: So there will be no more talk about Julian at today's luncheon?

Joan Laporta: As for the relationship... well, that question... Julian is an Atletico Madrid player, not ours. As our coach said, and I think Simeone also played the matter down yesterday, this topic has clearly been settled.

Reporter: But won't you try again in the winter transfer window? Since you can't sign Alvarez, Raphinha has now proven to be a very strong No. 9, right?

Joan Laporta: The two things are unrelated. Raphinha is a very good No. 9, but he can play not only as a No. 9 but in several attacking positions, covering the whole pitch. Raphinha is one of the best players in the world in his position, and he is very versatile.

Reporter: Has the dispute with Atletico Madrid died down?

Joan Laporta: Yes, yes, yes. We hope it stays that way because, institutionally, we have always had a very good relationship.

Reporter: Are you optimistic today?

Joan Laporta: Yes.

Reporter: Mr. President, is Alvarez still a target for Barcelona?

Joan Laporta: I won't talk about Alvarez. Enough has been said on this subject, which previously caused some friction between the two boards and the two clubs. We have an excellent institutional relationship with Atletico Madrid and we want to keep it that way, so I won't comment further on these topics.

Reporter: But won't you try again in the winter transfer window?

Joan Laporta: Thank you very much. If you keep asking this, I won't say anything.