For the first time in a long time, Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, has opened up on the relationship of Leo Messi with the club.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has shared heartfelt remarks about his relationship with club legend Lionel Messi, revealing that the bond between the two has been gradually improving after a difficult period following Messi’s departure from the club in 2021.
Speaking recently, Laporta reflected on the emotional chapter that saw Messi leave Barcelona: “With Leo Messi, we had a great relationship that got strained when we couldn’t renew his contract… but it’s improving again,” Laporta said.
Messi’s exit marked the end of an era for Barcelona, where he spent over two decades and became the club’s all-time top scorer. The Argentine’s move to Paris Saint-Germain, and later to Inter Miami, left an emotional void at Camp Nou, one Laporta admits still resonates deeply with both the club and its fans.
Laporta also spoke about the club’s plans to properly honour Messi’s extraordinary legacy, “We hope he can receive the great tribute he truly deserves,” he added.
The comments come amid ongoing discussions within Barcelona about organising a formal farewell for Messi, potentially at the newly renovated Spotify Camp Nou once it reopens.
Messi, who won 35 trophies with Barcelona, including four UEFA Champions League titles and ten La Liga crowns, remains widely regarded as the greatest player in the club’s history.