Joan Laporta, the president of FC Barcelona, has publicly acknowledged the widening rift between himself and legendary player Lionel Messi. During a recent Ballon d'Or awards ceremony in 2023, Laporta attempted to greet Messi, who responded coldly, indicating a significant shift in their once close relationship. This situation conveys the deep emotional impact recent events have had on Messi, highlighting the declining rapport between the two figures once united in their quest for footballing excellence.

The context of this strained relationship dates back to the summer of 2021, a pivotal moment for FC Barcelona when it was believed that Messi would renew his contract with the club. Laporta campaigned on the promise of keeping Messi, instilling hope in both the player and the fans that a renewal was imminent. However, a shock announcement came in August 2021, revealing that Barcelona was unable to afford Messi's contract renewal due to dire financial circumstances, leading to his unexpected exit and a traumatic period for the club.

This disregard from Messi at the Ballon d'Or, seen through the lens of the previous promises and events, underscores the emotional scars left by the club's financial turmoil and leadership decisions. The growing distance between Laporta and Messi not only reflects personal disenchantment but also signifies the challenges that FC Barcelona continues to face in reconciling its past with its present, as it seeks to restore its standing in the world of football.