Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that his relationship with Lionel Messi has significantly improved since the Argentine’s departure from the club in 2021. Speaking in an interview with Catalan media, Laporte expressed deep admiration for Messi and confirmed that the club is preparing a grand tribute to honor the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner for his unparalleled contributions to Barcelona’s history.
When Messi left Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain three years ago due to financial complications, reports suggested a strained relationship between the player and Laporta. Many fans believed that Messi’s emotional exit marked a painful chapter in the club’s history. However, Laporta now insists that time and open communication have helped rebuild the bond between them.
“My relationship with Leo is much better now,” Laporta said. “There was a period of disappointment and misunderstanding after his departure, but we’ve talked, and everything is clear. There is mutual respect and affection, I’ve always considered him part of Barcelona’s family.”
Laporta added that Messi’s love for the club has never faded despite his departure, noting that the Argentine continues to follow Barcelona closely and remains in contact with several players and staff members. “He will always be a Barça man,” Laporta stated. “You can see it in the way he speaks about the club and how much it still means to him.”
A Grand Tribute in the Works
Laporta also confirmed that Barcelona are in the planning stages of organizing an official tribute to celebrate Messi’s career and legacy. While no date has been set, he emphasized that the event will be “something truly extraordinary” worthy of the player who transformed the club into a global powerhouse.
“Leo deserves a tribute like no other,” Laporta said. “What he gave to this club, his talent, his loyalty, his passion, is beyond measure. We want to give him a farewell that reflects the love and gratitude of every Barcelona supporter around the world.”
The tribute, according to sources close to the club, may take place at the newly renovated Spotify Camp Nou once construction is completed. Laporta suggested that the event will bring together former teammates, coaches, and iconic figures from Messi’s two-decade spell at the club.
Messi’s Eternal Legacy at Barcelona
During his time with Barcelona, Messi became the club’s all-time top scorer with 672 goals in 778 appearances, helping the team win 10 La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League trophies, and numerous domestic cups. Beyond statistics, Messi’s influence redefined an era of football, with his performances under Pep Guardiola and later managers etching unforgettable memories for fans worldwide.
Laporta reflected on those years with great pride: “The Messi era was a golden age for Barcelona, a time when we played football that inspired the world. We were privileged to have the best player in history wear our colors.”
While Messi now plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Laporta made it clear that the door to Barcelona remains open for him in whatever capacity he chooses. “Barcelona will always be Messi’s home,” he affirmed. “He knows that whenever he wants to return, as a player, ambassador, or in any role, he will be welcomed with open arms.”
As plans for the tribute continue, fans across Catalonia and beyond eagerly await the day when Messi returns to the Camp Nou to receive the standing ovation he richly deserves. For Laporta, it’s not just a ceremony, it’s an opportunity to mend the past, celebrate the present, and immortalize the legacy of a player who changed Barcelona forever.
