The Lionel Messi saga is over, with the Argentine choosing to sign with Inter Miami on July 1. However, it doesn’t stop anyone from talking about the decision.
FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta commented on the 35-year-old’s decision to leave Europe. The club chief appeared on Spanish television Esport 3, where the question about Messi came up.
Additionally, Laporta shared insights into his negotiations and conversations with Messi. Furthermore, he revealed that Messi had shown genuine interest in reuniting with the club.
“Messi wanted to return to Barca,” Laporta said (h/t RMC Sport). “He had a very difficult time in Paris. His father told me that he didn’t want to have that pressure. The Catalans respect him. May he do very well in Miami. Barca will always be his at home.”
Laporta’s revelation offers a glimpse into Barcelona’s complexities and challenges in attempting to secure Messi’s return. The Catalan side’s delicate financial situation likely played a significant role in the decision-making process.
Messi’s legacy at the club remains firmly intact at Barcelona. Nonetheless, having a proper send-off from Camp Nou likely isn’t happening anytime soon. For now, many will have to follow the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner’s journey in MLS.
At barça there would have been too much pressure to be the same messi as before I respect his decision