Xavi Bartolo, CEO

From sports director to president. Xavi Bartolo will take on additional responsibilities at Atlético Lleida, replacing Josep Maria Olomi, as decided at the last members’ meeting.

Bartolo, a former coach with Reus, Nastic and Atlético Lleida, will take on a new dimension in the office. The biggest responsibility in a club that has to fight against all adversity to gain a foothold in the city. “Mr. Josep M. Olomi initially assumed the position as his successor.

The new president has vowed not to make too many changes, but he intends to “organize the club a bit more. Define areas more clearly and put responsible people in each area.”

At least five autograph sessions will be held.

On a sporting level, Bartolo will continue to make decisions unless there are new players in the field. Despite the team’s delicate situation (second to last in Group 3 of the second federation, just two wins and six points), there is no doubt that coach Gabriel García will change the bench. “I don’t really believe in managerial changes. I’ve had a lot of experience and in the long run, in 80% of cases it doesn’t help. We have endured a lot and the manager understands that and appreciates it.” But that doesn’t mean there’s no movement. “We are already working on hiring five or six starters who will be available for the next game on January 4, which we intend to sign. We definitely need centre-backs, midfielders and strikers. With these reinforcements, I think the team has every chance to save itself, despite the situation.”The first player is already signed, Marc Vargas. The former Indian Super League player will be able to start playing in the new year.

The office is not closed these days, but the staff will be on vacation until next Saturday, December 27th.