The Festa del Gamper Estrella Damm is always a special moment for the Barça family to come together, celebrate, welcome the new faces and hear from the leading voices in the dressing room. And none carry more authority than coach Hansi Flick and first captain Raphinha. As Flick himself explained, the Brazilian is serving as captain alongside Pedri and Eric Garcia due to Frenkie de Jong's injury, until the squad is finalised and the internal vote is held.

Flick gives heartfelt thanks... in Catalan!

Both the coach and the Brazilian had some heartfelt words for the fans. Flick also made an impressive effort to speak in Catalan, beginning with “It’s a pleasure to be here and thank you very much for your support” and ending with “Together we are stronger. Visca el Barça i Visca Catalunya.” In between, he “welcomed the new signings, who have helped give me a great team. Thanks to Deco, the president and everyone responsible. We are ready to fight for every trophy and we need all of you.”

However, the most emotional moment of Flick’s speech came when he thanked the culers for all the affection he received following the death of his father last May. “When my father died, I received tremendous support and love from the whole Barça family. You were there for me and my family, and it was incredible.”

Switching back to Catalan, he reiterated his gratitude: “From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much.”

Words from Raphinha

Raphinha's first thoughts were for the only player unable to be there. “I want to wish Roony a speedy recovery. He is going through a difficult moment in his career and needs your support. He’s a fantastic lad and whatever he needs, we’ll be here for him. He’s one of us.”

He also congratulated the players who won the World Cup with Spain and welcomed his new team-mates, telling them that “wearing this shirt and this badge is a huge responsibility. But it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever experienced, and I’m sure it will be the same for them. We’ll do everything we can to make them feel at home.”

Finally, the captain delivered a message of optimism: “We keep growing as a team and we keep fighting as a team. The players and coaching staff will give everything to bring you joy this season. Together we are much stronger, and together we can fight for everything. Visca el Barça i Visca Catalunya.”

The words of the captain and the coach. Time to dream, culers!

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