It has been an unforgettable year for Catalan football. Once more, innumerable Catalan athletes have become world-renowned. This year, the most exceptional players were honored at the Gala of the Stars of Catalan Football, held at the ancient Antigua Fábrica Estrella Damm. The 12th edition of the gala, which featured a lot of Blaugrana talent, was another huge success. FC players received seven of the twelve prizes that were given out.
Similar to previous year, Aitana Bonmatí, who has had a remarkable year both individually and collectively, was the standout performer. It’s true that she has won everything. Her celebration of her second Ballon d’Or last October cemented her as the new world football queen. Being the mainstay of a Barça team that won every championship it pursued, including the Champions League in Bilbao, makes this accolade well-deserved. Similar to Barça’s 125th anniversary celebration, the best Catalan football player was unable to attend the gala since she was dedicated to the Spanish national team. But in a short video, she thanked everyone, praising “the work of the entire club” and highlighting the fact that this historic team includes a large number of female football players.
However, Dani Olmo, who won the award for best Catalan player of the year, also had a memorable evening. The Barça player, who is now a major player in Hansi Flick’s ambitions, began his journey at the club where he was raised. At the European Championship, he gave the Spanish national team an outstanding performance. “We are Barça; we have started very well,” said Olmo, who was the night’s audience favorite. We have a squad that can compete at the greatest level. Additionally, the Blaugrana won the prizes for the most promising young male and female players. Cèlia Segura won the female category, while Lamine Yamal defeated Joan Garcia and Pau Cubarsí to win the male category.
Joan Laporta, who regularly cheers on his players at these events, was the highest ranking Barça representative at the gala. In a succinct speech, the Catalan president praised Hansi Flick’s leadership, emphasized that “a lot was at stake yesterday,” and promised that “if no unforeseen circumstances arise, the plan for Spotify Camp Nou will continue as intended.”
Without much question, Pep Guardiola, another frequent winner at these galas, reclaimed his title as the finest Catalan coach. Gerard Moreno scored the most goals as a professional (10 goals), and Claudia Pina, who attended the tournament, scored the most goals as a woman (13 goals). The best male futsal player, Adolfo Fernández of Barcelona, the best female player, Laia Rojo of Las Corts UBAE, and the best coach, Xavi Closas of Industrials Santa Coloma, are also honored at this gala.
Ainara Acevedo, on the other hand, received the best referee award, and the club that qualified for the Champions League had a historic season and was awarded the Jury Award. This is just another honor for a team that over the past 12 months has grown to be one of Catalan football’s biggest prides.
