Barcelona have struggled to reproduce the same atmosphere for home games in Montjuic since leaving Camp Nou, but in the past month that problem has been exacerbated by the absence of the singing section. The dispute over fines continues with no end in sight, with Barcelona banning the singing section.
The club has demanded that the singing department collect the €21,000 fines for offensive songs before they are sent back into the ground. The singing department, a conglomerate of supporters' clubs, has refused, pointing out that they should not all be forced to foot the bill for individuals. Now Sport say the Blaugrana have no problem going without the singing section for the rest of the season.
They also note that the Blaugrana could adjust the singing section for their return to the renovated Camp Nou. The Catalan daily says they are reconsidering the role and function of the singing section and studying formulas to ensure support while eliminating offensive chants. They view these supporters as repeat offenders and want to break the cycle.
The more cynical view that has taken root in the Catalan capital is that President Joan Laporta is silencing the singing section for political reasons. Cries of 'Barca yes, Laporta no' have been heard on several occasions over the past year, which has not gone down well within the club's hierarchy.
Roughly a year and a half after the election, Laporta is undoubtedly aware of dissenting voices, as two clearly rival groups have emerged to oppose him. On the other hand, it is completely fair that Barcelona want to eliminate any discriminatory or offensive behavior. Another factor, however, is the atmosphere, with assistant manager Marcus Sorg noting that their noise is having a negative impact on the players.
Finally, it should be noted that this can also have a positive financial impact for the club. The singing department traditionally gets the cheapest tickets, but without those tickets the club can sell those same tickets at tourist prices. It wouldn't be a surprise if a fair number of those in the singing section went to the games as well.
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