By any measure, Felipe Perrone is one of the greatest to ever play the game. A cerebral architect in the pool, a ferocious competitor, and a born leader — for two decades, he’s been the heartbeat of every team he’s led. But as Atlètic-Barceloneta prepares for another Champions League Final Four, questions remain: is this the final chapter for the Spanish-Brazilian legend?
If it is, he’s writing it his way.
A Different Role, the Same Purpose
“It’s been an incredible season for the team,” Perrone reflects. “We’ve won all the national titles and secured our spot in the Final Four. Now we’re preparing to compete for the most important club trophy in the world.”
This year has looked a little different for the 38-year-old. With fewer minutes in the water, Perrone has embraced a mentor’s role — watching more, guiding more, influencing in quieter ways.
“I’m really happy to be contributing in a different role,” he explains. “I can observe the game from a different perspective and learn other aspects and skills. It’s also a privilege to support the new leaders of the team and to help guide the rising stars of water polo.”
The Long Road Back
For Barceloneta, returning to the Final Four carries added meaning. After missing out last season, they’re back where they believe they belong.
“I remember joining Barceloneta back in 2005, when our goal was simply to win a game in the Champions League. In 2013, the club reached its first-ever Final Four. Therefore, to now be considered one of Europe’s top clubs is a huge achievement.”
“Barceloneta has been among the top six teams in Europe for the last decade, so our ambitions have grown. Reaching the Final Four is now just one step in the journey toward achieving our bigger dreams.”
Facing Novi Beograd
In Malta, CNAB will take on Serbian powerhouse Novi Beograd in the semi-finals — a team loaded with experience and known for its tactical discipline.
“They lost some top players, but they’re still playing at an exceptionally high level,” Perrone notes. “Competing in the Regional and Serbia League means they’ve faced tough opponents all season, which gives them great coordination and experience in high-pressure situations. Without a doubt, their biggest strength is their well-organized defense.”
A Young Team, with a Legend Among Them
This Barceloneta side is brimming with youthful energy — and Perrone, knowingly, finds himself the elder statesman.
“Who’s the exception? Hahaha,” he jokes when asked about the squad’s age profile.
Still, he sees promise in the unpredictability that youth brings. “Barceloneta has always been known for its counterattack and dynamic style of play. This year, though, I think we’re more unpredictable. We have a lot of offensive strikers and different ways to attack. However, we had more ups and downs on defense than before, as we are assuming much more risks in the game.”
The Experience That Counts
Few players know the pressure of high-stakes water polo better than Perrone. Olympic finals, World Championships, Champions League knockouts — he’s seen it all.
“Staying focused on the present and being calm,” he says when asked what makes the difference. “It sounds simple, but it’s very hard to do when you’re under pressure — even for me after all these years.”
Barceloneta’s recent history in the Champions League has been defined by strong group-stage showings and heartbreaking exits in the knockouts. Perrone doesn’t shy away from that reality.
“Absolutely, we’re aware of it. The knockout rounds are a different level. You’re facing only the best teams of the Champions League, and the intensity and quality of the games is much higher than the group phase. Everyone gets more nervous, and usually the game becomes a man-up and man-down battle — just like we saw at last year’s Final Four.”
What Comes Next?
And then, the question everyone is asking.
Is this the end?
“I’m still working on that,” Perrone replies with a wry smile. “Let’s see.”
Whether or not Malta is his final appearance, the reflection already has the tone of a farewell.
“I remember playing against clubs like Partizan, Jug Dubrovnik, Pro Recco, Mladost… in the beginning of my career,” he says. “I used to watch those legendary clubs and admire their histories, the trophies, the photos, the iconic players.
“Now, I’m proud to be part of Barceloneta’s story as it has grown into one of Europe’s top clubs. I hope that, just like those other great teams, Barceloneta will continue to build and elevate its place on the water polo stage in the following years.”
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