The debate around Lionel Messi’s departure from Barcelona refuses to fade, and Joan Laporta has once again offered his version of events.
Speaking on the Catalan programme ‘Café d’Idees’ on 2 CAT (h/t SPORT), the Barcelona presidential candidate addressed the emotional and controversial episodes surrounding the Argentine legend’s exit in 2021 and the failed comeback attempt in 2023.
Laporta admitted that he was unable to prevent Messi’s move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, nor could he bring him back two years later.
What’s the story?
When asked directly whether Messi could still finish his career at Barcelona, Laporta clarified the situation from 2023.
He explained that “at the time, an attempt was made in 2023, but Messi preferred to go to Inter Miami for various reasons.”
The pre-candidate added that “he made this decision, which is very respectable” and that he did not want it to sound like “a criticism.”
Laporta also reflected on the mutual legacy shared between the club and its greatest-ever player.
“Messi gave a lot to Barça and Barça gave a lot to Messi,” he said, stressing that in his view, “He deserves a tribute match, which couldn’t happen given how things turned out.
The relationship between Laporta and Messi is not good. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
“He has been such an iconic player, the best in the world, that he deserves a statue next to Kubala and Cruyff, and Ronaldinho could fit in too if you push me.
“Messi has been the best,” he added.
A troubled relationship
The relationship, however, was not without strain. Laporta described it as “strained” after the non-renewal, explaining,
“The environment was not averse to going to PSG. It was a very tempting offer, but I am convinced that he wanted to stay.”
He went further by admitting, “We tried, but Barça’s finances could not support it. I am convinced that you can always do more in life. Everything can be improved, even though the situation was dire.”
Beyond Messi, Laporta also touched on his current campaign and the future of the club.
He suggested that coach Hansi Flick “feels more comfortable if I continue as president.
“He came to the book presentation and so everything is more than understood,” he noted.