Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has explained their record shirt deal with the Qatar Foundation.
Club legend Johan Cruyff spoke out against the deal that will earn 165 million over a six-year period, claiming that Rosell has foregone tradition and heritage by securing the contract.
But the president explained: "We concluded that it was better that the payroll get paid rather than not.
"This is to plug holes. The economy was worse than what we thought and what they told us."
Responding directly to Cruyff, Rosell continued: "This is a myth of Barcelona, because five years ago I argued against it, and I was right then. Now is the right time.
"The [Qatar] foundation is intended to provide resources, the government of Qatar has a company that promotes the sport, and that is who will pay us. This was the only way to remedy the debts of the club. This was the only marketing option, and it is understandable that this is the option that we have chosen.
"Qatar Foundation and UNICEF are dedicated to helping those who need help and are not trademarks. We are very pleased to maintain the appearance of solidarity on the shirt."
