Laporta Pays Emotional Tribute to Cruyff at Ceremony

Next Sunday marks eight years since the passing of Johan Cruyff. The Dutch genius was honored in a heartfelt ceremony on Wednesday at l’Escola La Sagrera in the Barcelona neighborhood of Poble Nou. The location was chosen deliberately as it was where the first Cruyff Court in Barcelona was inaugurated in 2012, with the presence of the former player and coach of Barça.

In addition to the schoolchildren, the event was attended by Johan Cruyff’s widow, Danny Coster, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta, Fundació FC Barcelona director Marta Segú, and Fundació Cruyff director Pati Roura. Eusebio Sacristán also participated in the event, joking with Laporta about the 1992 Wembley final and the foul he suffered that led to Koeman’s goal.

“Johan has not left us. We always remember him. He is the person we look up to for his mastery. He gave us life lessons. He was always available to those who needed him most and used sport as a tool for solidarity,” said an emotional Laporta, reflecting on Cruyff’s legacy. He also referred to Wembley and the possibility of repeating that success this season. “He transformed football into art. With him, we won our first European Cup. As you know, this year the final is being played there… We are very excited.” “He taught us to believe that you can win by doing things right, striving for excellence. This message is very present in the board of directors because it leads you to achieve dreams,” concluded the Barça president, who was greeted with chants of “Laporta, Laporta.”

The event began with words from Cruyff himself: “Children have every right to have fun at all times. There is a lot of immigration, and integration is easier through sports.” These words resonated throughout the schoolyard, moving all those present.

Following the speeches and photographs, a 6×6 tournament commenced, with Laporta and Eusebio performing the ceremonial kickoff.