Tensions at FC Barcelona have increased following an exchange of accusations between president Joan Laporta and former head coach Xavi Hernandez, ahead of the club’s presidential elections.
Xavi had claimed that in 2023 the return of Lionel Messi to Barcelona was almost finalized, but according to him it was Laporta himself who blocked the deal.
The club president responded sharply to these accusations in an interview with the radio station COPE,
“I’m not afraid that Messi might say the opposite. His father, Jorge Messi, would confirm my version.”
Laporta also explained that Messi’s own family had suggested it would be better for the player to continue his career at Inter Miami CF, rather than return to Barcelona or move to Saudi Arabia, because of the enormous pressure he would face.
In the end, the Catalan president directly criticized the club legend.
“Xavi has been manipulated by Victor Font. His words are false and do not help the electoral debate. His behavior is disappointing.”
This public clash has further increased tensions within the Catalan club and in the campaign for the presidential elections, once again bringing the issue of Messi’s failed return to Camp Nou back to the center of attention.
