“I am happy because our fans and supporters have behaved properly, with much respect, and have supported the team all the way despite the rain. Our players were marvellous, they were phenomenal, and it was even more special for Abidal, and we also have some fantastic coaches. Football was the winner and Barça’s values have triumphed” said president Rosell after the team beat Madrid to reach the final. He remembered everybody.

He went on to say, in no less euphoric fashion, that “this game makes the history of this club even grander still, with most of the lads having been taught here. It’s amazing. It’s sheer happiness.” Beyond this match, he spoke in more general terms about how “I’d like to make a historical analysis. This is a a magic night for Barça. You just can’t ask for more than this”.

But president Sandro Rosell has not forgotten that “now we have to think about the league, because we still have to win it. Remember that competition is the priority for us”.