Debate around Lionel Messi and his potential return to FC Barcelona has resurfaced ahead of the club’s upcoming presidential election, sparking a fresh wave of controversy inside the Catalan giants.
Presidential candidate Victor Font has publicly called on Messi to clarify what really happened during discussions about a possible return to the club in 2023. Font believes the Argentine superstar was interested in rejoining Barcelona after his triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, but claims the move was ultimately blocked by current club president Joan Laporta.
The debate intensified after comments made by former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández, who revealed that he had spoken to Messi about returning to the club. According to Xavi, Messi had shown genuine interest in rejoining Barcelona following Argentina’s World Cup victory and discussions were even progressing at one stage.
However, Xavi suggested that despite initial financial approval from La Liga, the transfer never materialised because the club’s leadership decided not to move forward with the plan.
Victor Font has since argued that supporters deserve clarity before they vote in the upcoming election. He expressed hope that Messi would eventually speak openly about the situation so club members are not influenced by what he described as misleading narratives surrounding the issue.
Meanwhile, Joan Laporta has rejected the claims and hinted that Xavi’s remarks could be influenced by frustration after leaving the club’s managerial role. Laporta also pointed to the team’s current direction under new coach Hansi Flick, suggesting that the squad is performing better under the current leadership.
The debate has added another layer of tension to Barcelona’s presidential race, with the topic of Messi’s possible return continuing to spark discussion among fans and club members. While Messi has not publicly commented on the matter, the controversy highlights how his legacy remains deeply connected with Barcelona’s future and leadership decisions.
