Barcelona’s Laporta Makes Bold Statement Over Messi Decision

The Lionel Messi story is concluded, with the Argentine signing with Inter Miami on July 1. However, this does not prevent people from discussing the decision.

Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, reacted on the 35-year-old’s decision to depart Europe. The club president appeared on Spanish television Esport 3 and was asked about Messi.

Laporta also revealed details about his negotiations and conversations with Messi. He also revealed that Messi has expressed real interest in rejoining the club.

“Messi wanted to return to Barca,” Laporta explained (via RMC Sport). “In Paris, he had a very terrible time. His father told me he didn’t want to be under that kind of pressure. Catalans hold him with high regard. May he have a successful trip to Miami. Barca will always be his home away from home.”

Laporta’s statement sheds light on Barcelona’s complexity and challenges in securing Messi’s comeback. The Catalan side’s precarious financial circumstances almost certainly had a factor in the decision-making process.

Messi’s legacy at Barcelona is still very much intact. Nonetheless, a meaningful send-off from Camp Nou is unlikely to materialize anytime soon. For the time being, people will have to follow the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner’s MLS adventure.