Barcelona chiefs defend the work of Ariedo Braida

Ariedo Braida is back under the microscope after not having participated in any of the signings made this season. During the presentation of goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen, Albert Soler and Jordi Mestre, club chiefs, were asked about the Italian and leapt to his defence. 

"Braida is in contact with the scouts and gives his opinion to Robert, that his his job from the first day to the last," said Mestre. 

Soler added: "He's in contact with Pep Segura (Chief of Barcelona B and the Juvenil sides), he follows the market, and you have to remember that the new FIFA rules only allow you to sign from 16 years old from your community, and 18 years old from other communities. His work is involved with these areas, in the market of 16 and 18 year olds." 

Mestre added: "Braida has a great reputation in the footall world, he's a very respected person, everyone would pick up the phone to him."