Full Breakdown
Tensions Rise Over Lionel Messi's Failed Return to Barcelona
3/10/2026, 11:41:14 AM
Background of the Dispute
The ongoing conflict between former Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández and club president Joan Laporta has intensified in the lead-up to the club's presidential elections. Central to this dispute is the failed return of Lionel Messi, who left Barcelona in 2021 due to financial constraints and subsequently joined Paris Saint-Germain. Xavi claims that Laporta blocked Messi's return in 2023, alleging that the president feared a power struggle with the iconic player.
Xavi's Accusations
In a recent interview with La Vanguardia, Xavi asserted that negotiations for Messi's return were well underway after the Argentine's World Cup victory in December 2022. He stated, “Leo was signed. In January 2023, after winning the World Cup, we got in touch, and he told me he wanted to come back.” Xavi claimed that they had La Liga's financial approval and that Laporta was involved in contract discussions with Messi's father, Jorge Messi. However, Xavi alleges that Laporta ultimately halted the deal, fearing that Messi's return would lead to a "war" for control within the club.
Xavi expressed disappointment over the situation, noting that it damaged his relationship with Messi, who initially believed Xavi was part of the decision to block the transfer. “Did it take a while before I spoke with Messi again? Yes, because he thought I was part of the whole scheme,” Xavi explained.
Laporta's Defense
In response, Laporta has vehemently denied Xavi's claims, stating that the decision not to bring Messi back was not his but rather a choice made by Messi's camp. He remarked, “I sent a contract to Jorge Messi, who later came to my house and told me it couldn’t happen because he would be under too much pressure here and that they preferred to go to Miami.” Laporta has characterized Xavi's statements as stemming from bitterness over his dismissal as coach in 2024, asserting that he made the right decisions for the club's future.
During a recent debate with rival candidate Víctor Font, Laporta emphasized the success of current coach Hansi Flick, stating, “With Xavi, I saw that we were going to lose, and with Flick, I see that we are going to win.” This statement was intended to highlight the contrasting fortunes of the team under different management.
Messi's Camp Responds
Reports indicate that Messi's camp supports Xavi's narrative, suggesting that the truth about the failed transfer is beginning to emerge. Sources close to Messi have stated that he did everything necessary to return to Barcelona, and they believe Laporta's claims about financial constraints are misleading.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Xavi insists that the deal was nearly finalized, Laporta maintains that Messi's camp withdrew due to concerns about pressure and expectations. La Liga president Javier Tebas has also denied that the league granted any financial dispensation for Messi's return, further complicating the narrative surrounding the failed transfer.
Conclusion
The clash between Xavi and Laporta over Messi's potential return underscores deeper issues within Barcelona's leadership and its handling of iconic figures. As the presidential elections approach, the fallout from this dispute could significantly influence the club's future direction and its relationship with one of its greatest players. The ongoing saga reflects not only personal grievances but also the broader challenges facing Barcelona as it navigates financial and managerial complexities.
