Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, has tackled yet another challenge in his second term: managing his health, which had taken a hit due to weight gain. Recently, he’s faced a lot of criticism for his increased weight, a problem he’s openly acknowledged and addressed several times.

About a year ago, Laporta confided to those close to him that his lifestyle wasn’t helping him maintain a healthy weight. In a chat with former vice president Sandro Rosell, Laporta even joked about his situation, saying, “M’estic posant com un bacó” (I’m turning into a pig).

Last year, he started a diet to combat the weight gain. Although the initial results weren’t quite what he hoped for, it seems he’s come back with more determination to improve his health. Laporta shared, “I’m working on it. We live such an intense life, and it’s true that some friends worry and tell me, ‘One day you’re going to crash.’ But don’t worry, I’ve got plenty of energy left.”

The key to Laporta’s diet is pretty straightforward: “Eat breakfast like a king and dinner like a pauper.” Despite the pressure and criticism about his appearance, Barcelona’s president has been trying to focus on his well-being, though the club’s responsibilities and the stress that comes with them also play a significant role in his current situation.

Enric Masip, a former handball player and member of Barcelona’s sports commission, has been a crucial support for Laporta throughout this process. Masip has been trying to positively influence Laporta’s habits, advising him on diet and exercise. “When I’m around, I tell him ‘don’t drink Coca-Cola’ and I move the sweets away from him. I try to take care of him like I would a close family member,” Masip explained in an interview.

Additionally, Laporta has had to cut down on his travels with the team due to medical advice after suffering from a thrombosis, which has worsened his health. Despite these challenges, Laporta remains committed to improving his physical condition, staying focused on both his duties at the club and his own well-being.