In a heartfelt statement, Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed his deep regret that despite their utmost efforts, the club was unable to secure the return of their legendary player, Lionel Messi, this summer. The anticipation for a reunion with Messi, who had left Barcelona in 2021, had soared high as his contract with Paris Saint-Germain had come to an end.
"We did everything we could. It was very close. We had to manage our financial fair play situation so we needed time. In the end, we reached an agreement with LaLiga that authorized us to add him to the squad," Laporta explained, shedding light on the complexities involved in the negotiation process.
The departure of Messi in 2021 had been a major blow for Barcelona, and they had hoped to bring back their prodigal son this season. Talks had indeed taken place between the parties, but unfortunately, Barcelona's financial difficulties and concerns about registration created delays that ultimately played a part in Messi's decision to join Inter Miami in the MLS.
"He decided to go to Inter Miami, and we respect his decision. Given the circumstances, he felt it was the best option for him, and we believe he can make a significant contribution to Inter Miami and football in the United States," Laporta said, showing support for Messi's choice.
Messi had expressed his reservations about waiting for Barcelona to figure out a formula to sign him due to their financial situation, which led to his emotional departure in the past. Clearly, he didn't want history to repeat itself.
Nevertheless, Messi's arrival at Inter Miami was met with a bang, as he scored a stunning trademark free-kick on his debut, securing a thrilling 2-1 win over Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup. He continued to display his brilliance by netting two goals in a 4-0 triumph over Atlanta United in his first full start for the team.
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Regarding Messi's new chapter, Laporta expressed contentment, emphasizing that as long as Messi is happy, Barcelona is happy for him. He believes that with the addition of Messi, along with other seasoned stars like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, Luis Suarez, and possibly Andres Iniesta, Inter Miami will possess a team of immense quality, a team that has achieved greatness in world football.
When asked about the possibility of Messi returning to Barcelona in the future, Laporta acknowledged the deep bond Messi has with the club. He said, "Barça will always be his home, and that is something that we will see when the time comes. It depends on a lot of things, on whether he wants to and if the circumstances are right."
Laporta concluded with a heartfelt assurance that Barcelona's doors would always be open for Messi, as it has been for all the great players in the club's illustrious history. The love and respect between Messi and Barcelona seem to be everlasting, leaving the door of hope slightly ajar for a potential homecoming in the future.
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