Former Barcelona supervisor Xavi Hernández has revealed that Lionel Messi was near returning to the membership in 2023, however the transfer was personally blocked by president Joan Laporta.
The revelation challenges the general public perception that Messi’s transfer to Inter Miami was solely his personal choice. Talking on Romário’s channel, Xavi defined the work finished behind the scenes to deliver his former teammate again. Switch skilled Fabrizio Romano shared the quotes on his official X deal with:
Fabrizio Romano reported;
Xavi: “We tried to deliver Messi again to Barça in 2023. We talked for five months, and all the pieces was prepared…
…however in the long run the president mentioned no, and the deal collapsed”, informed
@RomarioOnze
Xavi defined that he spoke instantly with Messi for months, beginning in January 2023 after Argentina’s World Cup win. He mentioned the sporting employees and even La Liga had given approval for the transfer. Nevertheless, Laporta reportedly stopped the deal, fearing it might create inside issues throughout the membership.
This isn’t the primary time Xavi has spoken about his affect on transfers. He has additionally mentioned that he personally pushed for the signing of Raphinha, insisting the Brazilian was vital for his type of play due to his skill in one-on-one conditions and his sturdy mentality.
As Barcelona seems to be again at this missed alternative, consideration is now turning to future signings. Atlético Madrid ahead Julián Álvarez not too long ago responded to switch rumours linking him to Barcelona. He denied stories that his household was house-hunting within the metropolis, calling them a “snowball of lies,” and mentioned his focus stays on Atlético.
Softfootball believes that when the membership’s monetary state of affairs is absolutely resolved and confirmed by the league, the actual causes behind blocking Messi’s return might turn into clearer to the followers.
Xavi’s feedback have introduced contemporary consideration to how the membership handles its legends. With the summer time switch window approaching and Julián Álvarez seen as a doable alternative for Robert Lewandowski, the strain is on Laporta to indicate the membership can nonetheless appeal to high gamers.
