Cruyff: "If Laporta doesn't win, Barça lose because they need to clean up their image"

Joan Laporta has received the backing of one of the most significant symbols of FC Barcelona. After Pep Guardiola's affectionate words a few days ago, Johan Cruyff has now added his name to Laporta's campaign to be named Barça president in next month's elections. 

"I like that there is more than one candidate, it's better that there are two or three," Cruyff said on Tuesday, in reference to the amount of people capable of winning the elections on July 18. 

"But if Laporta does not win, Barça lose because what the club need to do is clean up their image. All these courts cases are damaging FC Barcelona." 

Cruyff was joined by Laporta at the latters campaign headquarters in the Catalan city. He was very happy to count on the Dutchman's support. "I have the privilege of being about to count on the advice of Johan," he explained. 

"I will speak with him about all sporting decisions, and those that aren't [sporting decisions], if I am voted president."

After then revealing that he will explain his project for La Masia on Wednesday, Laporta then recognised the importance of the club's youth academy for the future: "We have to lay the bases for the next decade so that we can continue to win things." 

On Pogba, he added: "Mino Raiola is the key to the signing of Pogba and I have a good relatonship with him, although good relationships don't close agreements." 

The ex-president also suggested the interim board are going beyond their authority by negotiationing with Juventus: "I think that the signing of Pogba has to be done well, because it will be for an important amount of money. 

"He is a player of great quality. If Bartomeu, Rosell and Co. have sent the interim board to negotiate with Juventus, that's crossing the line. Juve won't make an agreement until Barça have a new president."