Barcelona president Joan Laporta admitted that his relationship with Argentine legend Lionel Messi remains “damaged,” revealing behind-the-scenes details of a cold encounter between the two during the 2023 Ballon d'Or awards ceremony, reflecting the depth of the rift caused by “La Pulga’s” shocking departure from the Catalan club in the summer of 2021.
In recent remarks to Radio Catalunya, Laporta didn't hesitate to describe the relationship as no longer what it once was, recalling a notable incident in Paris when he approached Messi to greet him, but the latter showed no interest in shaking his hand. Laporta said: "The relationship isn't what it used to be. I went to greet him at the event, but he felt we shouldn't exchange greetings. Despite everything, Messi is a Barcelona legend, and we hope for a rapprochement in the future.".
Background to the shocking departures of 2021
The roots of this strained relationship trace back to the summer of 2021, a pivotal moment in modern football history. After months of optimism and Laporta's return to the club presidency with campaign promises, most notably renewing Messi's contract, the world was stunned by Barcelona's official announcement that registering the new contract was impossible due to the strict financial restrictions imposed by La Liga and the crippling economic crisis inherited by Laporta's administration from the previous one. This decision led to Messi's departure after a career spanning more than 20 years. He appeared in an emotional farewell press conference, shedding tears and expressing his shock and his desire to stay.
The importance of the relationship and its ongoing impact
This tension represents more than just a personal dispute; it affects the club's legacy and its relationship with the greatest player in its history. For Barcelona fans, Messi's departure remains a raw wound, and many hold Laporta's administration directly responsible for failing to find a way to keep him. Globally, this incident has damaged the club's image and its ability to retain its legends. Any future reconciliation between the two parties carries immense symbolic weight, not only to mend the personal relationship but also to pave the way for a fitting tribute to Messi at the Camp Nou, something Laporta has repeatedly promised.
An uncertain future and a postponed honor
After leaving Barcelona, Messi spent two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami in the United States. Last summer, there were attempts and negotiations for his return to Barcelona, but these failed again due to financial reasons, further complicating the situation. Despite the current lull, Laporta affirmed that the doors of Camp Nou will always remain open to Messi, stating, "It's his home." He also reiterated his promise to erect a statue of the Argentine legend alongside those of Johan Cruyff and László Kubala, emphasizing that this tribute will take place after the completion of the stadium's renovations, befitting the player's stature in front of more than 100,000 fans.
