The timing challenges. While Lionel Messi is preparing to meet Paris Saint-Germain at the Club World Cup, a news from Catalonia brings his past back to the fore. This time, it is neither the trophies nor the tears of his departure that make people speak … but a transfer.
A XXL payment signed by Barça
According to the Sport Journal, FC Barcelona has just regularized its debt towards Lionel Messi. The club formalized the payment of 16 million euros, the final branch of a reimbursement plan started in December 2021. This payment is part of a series of compensation intended for twenty ex-players still creditors, including Dembélé, Umtiti, Ansu Fati or even Pedri. An accounting but also symbolic maneuver.
During the Pandemic of Covid-19, Barça had postponed part of the wages of its executives. At the time, Messi was still the club icon. By accepting this sacrifice, the Argentinian had helped to avoid immediate collapse. But budgetary errors under Bartomeu – inflated contracts, wage bill out of control – had left deep traces.
Messi-Barça: the big balance before Atlanta
A discreet messi, but still central
This reimbursement marks an important step in the economic reconstruction of the club. By adjusting its debts, even late, Barça seeks to restore its institutional credibility. He balances a painful page, restoring consistency to his promise of a new, healthier cycle.
Occupied by the Club World Cup, Messi did not react publicly. But on the eve of a highly anticipated confrontation against its former club, this transfer of 16 million clearly does not hurt. The link between Barça and its icon fades slowly … but in style.
