The Negreira Case has entered a new stage. Judge Alejandra Gil, head of Barcelona’s Court of Instruction No. 1, has officially summoned Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, and former manager Ernesto Valverde to testify as part of the ongoing investigation into payments made to José María Enríquez Negreira, former vice president of Spain’s Referees’ Technical Committee (CTA).

Why Was Joan Laporta Called to Testify?

The Spanish Prosecutor’s Office requested Laporta’s testimony, considering it “especially relevant” due to his two terms as Barcelona president, including the 2003–2010 period in which several of the questioned payments were made. Although Laporta was initially under investigation, the Barcelona High Court later dismissed charges against him due to statute of limitations. He will now appear strictly as a witness.

Prosecutors believe Laporta may be able to clarify the reasoning behind payments made to companies linked to Negreira, such as Dasnil 95, Nilsad SPC, and Soccercam SL.

What Does the Prosecutor Expect From Valverde’s Testimony?

In addition to Laporta, Ernesto Valverde—who managed FC Barcelona between 2017 and 2020 and now coaches Athletic Club—has also been summoned. Prosecutors are seeking insight into whether Valverde received referee-related reports during his tenure and how useful those materials were in preparing for matches.

When Will They Appear in Court?

An official court date for both testimonies has yet to be confirmed, but the sessions are expected to take place in the coming weeks. Their statements could prove pivotal in determining the scope of the payments and whether they had any sporting impact during the years under investigation.