Joan Laporta, the former president of FC Barcelona and a candidate for re-election, has responded to claims made by Xavi Hernández, the club's former midfielder and current coach, about Lionel Messi's potential return to the team post-2022 World Cup. Laporta explained that the decision to not sign Messi in 2023 was primarily economic, noting that bringing Messi back would have imposed significant pressure on the star player. The club had prepared a contract to bring Messi back, which was communicated to his father, Jorge Messi, who eventually conveyed that Lionel preferred to participate in the opportunity offered by Inter Miami, rather than returning to Barcelona under the spotlight of high expectations.

Laporta detailed the timeline of the discussions, confirming that in March 2023, the contract was ready and sent to Jorge Messi. However, during a meeting in May, Jorge expressed Lionel's apprehensions about the pressure associated with a return to Barcelona, especially when competing offers from Saudi Arabia were also on the table. Laporta indicated that he respected Messi's decision despite his hopes for a reunion, reflecting the difficult circumstances involving high-profile transfers in modern football, especially concerning a player of Messi's caliber.

This revelation sheds light on the intricate dynamics between club management decisions, financial realities, and player choices, especially regarding legendary figures like Messi. As Laporta seeks re-election, his handling of Messi's potential return may influence voter perception and reflect broader challenges faced by football clubs in balancing ambition with fiscal responsibility.