Barcelona President denies Xavi's accusation of blocking Messi's return

Barcelona President Joan Laporta refuted allegations from Xavi regarding preventing Lionel Messi's return to the club in 2023, while revealing controversial details behind the failed deal.

President Joan Laporta strongly rebutted accusations from former coach Xavi Hernandez concerning the obstruction of Lionel Messi's return to Barcelona in 2023.

Previously, in an interview with La Vanguardia, Xavi stated that Messi was very close to reappearing at Nou Camp after winning the 2022 World Cup with Argentina. According to the former Barcelona captain, the club even received approval from La Liga regarding financial matters, but Laporta later decided to halt the deal due to concerns about political repercussions within the club.

However, speaking during a debate ahead of the Barcelona presidential election on March 15, Laporta completely denied this accusation. He asserted that the management had sent a specific contract proposal to Messi's side, but it was the Argentine superstar himself who declined.

“We sent the contract to Jorge Messi. By May, he told me the deal could not happen because Leo would face too much pressure if he returned to Barcelona and wanted to go to Miami. I respect that decision,” Laporta stated.

Not stopping there, Laporta also openly criticized Xavi regarding his final period leading Barcelona. According to him, the legendary former midfielder struggled to balance family life and work, and frequently expressed dissatisfaction with the team's squad.

The Barcelona President also received support from La Liga President Javier Tebas, who stated that the league never gave the "green light" for Messi's return deal as Xavi mentioned.

Additionally, the debate between Laporta and opposing candidate Victor Font also revolved around the club's sporting direction, particularly the role of sporting director Deco. Laporta affirmed that Deco is one of the excellent sporting directors and warned that changing the management could affect the current coach.

Meanwhile, coach Hansi Flick declined to comment deeply on the controversies related to Xavi. The German tactician only confirmed that he and his predecessor maintain a good relationship, while emphasizing that some exchanges between them should remain private.