Re-elected as head of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta used his speech to send a message to Lionel Messi. After several years of tension following the Argentine’s departure in 2021, the Catalan president is now showing a willingness to ease relations.
Although the relationship between the two men has significantly deteriorated, Laporta wants to reopen dialogue with the club legend, who is currently playing for Inter Miami.
Laporta Signals Willingness to Rebuild Ties with Messi
The Blaugrana leader clearly expressed his intention to restore the connection with Messi. “Leo will always be linked to FC Barcelona in the way he chooses. The doors of Barça are always open for him to continue strengthening and enhancing the greatness of this institution.”
This statement marks a shift in tone, especially considering that the Argentine’s return was reportedly rejected in 2023, according to Xavi.
Laporta also acknowledged that relations with Messi remain complicated. “The relationship with Messi is no longer what it used to be. There was also an incident during the Ballon d’Or ceremony—I went to greet him, but he felt that we shouldn’t have done so.” Despite these tensions, the Barcelona president remains hopeful for improvement. He even plans to honor Messi’s immense contribution with a tribute at Camp Nou and a statue in his likeness—gestures that could mark a new step toward reconciliation between Barça and its greatest player.
Related Posts:
