Joan Laporta on Lionel Messi returning to Barcelona
Barcelona president Joan Laporta partook in a discussion at the Círculo Ecuestre de Barcelona, and has opened up about a potential reunion with Lionel Messi.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been linked with a return to Camp Nou ever since his exit in 2021. With the Argentine’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain expiring at the end of this season, the Catalan giants are hoping to bring the 35-year-old back. Many in the club believe that a partnership with Robert Lewandowski in the attack with Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Sergio Busquets in the midfield could be a recipe for Champions League glory.
While the Spanish side must fix their financial issues amidst a transfer ban imposed by La Liga, Laporta remains optimistic about bringing reinforcements this summer. The club president recently opened up about meeting the Argentine in Paris. When asked about meeting Messi’s father,
"“We have seen each other, yes. We talked about the situation, I congratulated him because he won the World Cup in Argentina. We talked about the tribute to Leo, who has extraordinary affection for Barça, but don’t make me talk anymore because he is at PSG and I want to respect him. No I won’t talk about whether he could return as a player because he plays in Paris.” said LaportaSource Sport"
When asked if any conversation took place regarding Leo’s return, Laporta said
"“Luckily they haven’t even given us a shot, Leo’s isn’t about money, we’re talking about a tribute.”"
It remains to be seen what the club legend decides regarding his future, with PSG keen on renewing his contract for at least one more season. With Barca needing to sell many players in order to comply with the Financial Fair Play regulations, it might be impossible to see maestro in Blaugrana colors ever again.
Next. Barcelona chief Joan Laporta on Xavi Hernandez’s future. dark
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