Barcelona President Provides Update on Lionel Messi’s Possible Return to the Club

Ever since Lionel Messi abruptly and brutally left Barcelona in the summer of 2021, many supporters have hoped that the Argentine will one day return to the club.

In recent weeks, the rumors of a possible return have intensified, and several Spanish media report that Messi is getting closer to the club he ravaged for a number of years.

Now Barcelona’s powerful president Joan Laporta also comes with a new update on the superstar, who is still under contract with Paris Saint-Germain. And for Barcelona fans, the statements are uplifting.

– I have spoken to Leo. It was very nice and we have restored the relationship. Messi wants to go to Barcelona, ​​and he feels the club is his home, says Laporta to Spanish TV3.

Clear Messi message

It was the same president who had to deliver the crushing message to Messi in 2021 when it was clear they could not extend his contract for financial reasons.

Since then, both camps have been open about the relationship not being the best. The president has nevertheless emphasized that he and the club are working to get the relationship with Messi back on track. Now he claims that they have achieved just that.

However, it is not just Barcelona who want his services. In addition to the Catalans, the Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal is also said to be interested in signing him.

– Barca is Barca. This club can compete with anyone. In Saudi Arabia they are doing a good job with the investments. But I insist – Barca is his home. We want Leo, says Laporta.

Strict financial rules

He nevertheless emphasizes that they still have strict financial guidelines hanging over them, and they must send a financial plan to La Liga which must be approved before they can possibly sign Messi.

The Argentine will then meet some new line-mates. Among them, he can form a strong duo with super striker Robert Lewandowski. Laporta does not fear it will be a big problem.

– It is up to Xavi where he plays. But it is never a problem with the world’s best player, says the Barcelona president.

The Spanish big club has plenty to do at the moment. Recently, the club has been investigated for the transfer of 1.4 million euros to referee José Maria Enriquez Negreira. Barcelona have denied that they have bribed Negreira, which the referee himself has also denied.

They are also still in a financial predicament, and the club itself has admitted that they will get rid of players in order to improve the economy. Players such as Ferran Torres, Raphinha and Ansu Fati could be sacrificed, according to several media outlets.