The relationship between Joan Laporta and Lionel Messi seems to be at its worst since the Argentinian’s sudden departure from FC Barcelona in the summer of 2021. Guest on the airwaves of Catalunya Radiothe Blaugrana president recognized that “relations are strained” with the Catalan legend, even revealing a notable episode during the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
“My relationship with Messi is no longer what it used to be. There was an incident at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, where I went to greet him, and he felt that we shouldn’t greet each other. Since then, there has been a certain rapprochement, and I hope that this continues. The relationship is strained, but he remains a legend of FC Barcelona”recognized Joan Laporta, also confirming that he knew nothing about the Argentinian’s return to the Camp Nou last November: “I knew he was in Barcelona because the Argentinian national team was playing there, but I didn’t know the other reason. It is clear that if Messi wants to step onto the pitch, he must be able to do so as soon as possible. This is his stadium. And that’s what happened.”.
