Messi Not Returning to Barcelona: Laporta Has No Regrets Over His Exit
Laporta Ends All Rumors About Messi’s Return
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has finally spoken clearly about Messi and the never-ending talk about his return to the club. Laporta said he has no regrets about how Messi left Barcelona in 2021. He also added that a comeback is not going to happen. The president made it clear that Messi has moved on and so has the club.
Messi’s Emotional Exit from Barcelona
Back in 2021, Messi left Barcelona after more than 20 years with the team. The club’s financial troubles made it impossible to renew his contract under La Liga rules. Fans around the world were heartbroken. Messi also showed tears during his farewell press conference. Later, he joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) before moving to Inter Miami in the United States in 2023.
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Laporta Says Decision Was Painful but Necessary
Laporta said letting Messi go was one of the hardest decisions he ever made. However, he believes it was the right one for the club’s future. “I will always thank Messi for everything he gave us,” he said. “But at that time, we had no other choice. The club’s financial situation was critical.” He also added that both sides have mutual respect and there are no bad feelings.
No Plans for Messi’s Return to Barcelona
Fans have long hoped that Messi would return to play one final season with Barcelona or take an official role at the club. However, Laporta shut down those dreams. He explained that Messi is happy in Miami and enjoying his time with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS). “He is now an ambassador of the sport in the United States,” Laporta said. “He deserves peace and happiness after giving so much to football.”
Barcelona Focused on Building a New Era
Laporta emphasized that Barcelona now focuses on young stars like Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal. The club actively rebuilds its legacy and strengthens its finances. “Messi will always remain part of our history,” Laporta said. “But we must move forward and create a new chapter.”
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