Barcelona’s already turbulent offseason has taken a dramatic turn with explosive allegations from former coach Xavi Hernández. In a wide-ranging interview with La Vanguardia, Xavi claims that president Joan Laporta actively prevented Lionel Messi’s return to the club in 2023, despite a deal being “practically signed.” The revelation throws a new light on Messi’s eventual move to Inter Miami and raises serious questions about the decision-making process at the Catalan giants.
The potential homecoming of the club’s all-time leading scorer had been a recurring topic of speculation following Messi’s departure for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021. Xavi’s account suggests that a genuine opportunity to bring the Argentine superstar back to Camp Nou materialized after Messi’s World Cup triumph with Argentina in December 2022. The situation is particularly sensitive as Barcelona prepares for upcoming presidential elections, adding fuel to an already heated political landscape.
According to Xavi, discussions with Messi began in January 2023, with the player expressing a clear desire to rejoin Barcelona. “Leo was practically signed,” Xavi stated. “In January 2023, after winning the World Cup, we spoke again and he told me he would like to return.” The former coach detailed weeks of conversations, culminating in an agreement in principle. “We talked until March. Then I said to him: If you give me the okay, I’ll talk to the president.” Crucially, Xavi asserts that La Liga did not present any financial obstacles to the transfer, and that the club had secured a “green light” financially.
However, Laporta reportedly intervened, ultimately halting the deal. Xavi alleges that the president even initiated negotiations with Messi’s father, Jorge, before abruptly changing course. “But in the end it was the president who threw everything overboard,” Xavi explained. The most startling claim is that Laporta feared a power struggle with Messi, stating he would “declare war” on the player if he returned. This alleged concern, according to Xavi, stemmed from a belief that Messi’s presence would overshadow Laporta’s authority.
Barcelona President Joan Laporta and former coach Xavi Hernandez. (Photo by Adria Puig/Anadolu via Getty Images)
The fallout from Laporta’s decision reportedly strained Xavi’s relationship with Messi, with the Argentine initially believing Xavi was complicit in blocking the move. “Leo suddenly stopped taking my calls because he was told it wasn’t possible,” Xavi revealed. “He thought I was involved. That put a lot of strain on my relationship with Leo, but now it’s good again.” Xavi emphatically denied that financial constraints or demands from Jorge Messi were factors in the failed transfer, stating, “Leo didn’t return to Barca because the president didn’t seek him – not because of the league and not because Jorge Messi (father and agent) supposedly asked for more money. That’s simply not true.”
Laporta responded to Xavi’s accusations on Monday, expressing surprise and hurt, according to ESPN. He insisted that it was the Messi camp who ultimately pulled out of the 2023 return, and suggested Xavi’s comments were motivated by his dismissal in 2024. However, Messi’s entourage has reportedly corroborated Xavi’s version of events, according to Barca Universal.
The timing of Xavi’s revelations is particularly noteworthy, coming ahead of Barcelona’s presidential elections. Xavi has publicly endorsed Victor Font in the election, and his statements are likely to resonate with supporters who believe the club mishandled the Messi situation. The controversy adds another layer of complexity to an already contentious election cycle, with the future direction of Barcelona hanging in the balance.
Messi ultimately signed with Inter Miami in July 2023, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career. The MLS move, although successful on the field, continues to be a source of regret for many Barcelona fans who envisioned a triumphant return for their greatest player. The full extent of Laporta’s motivations and the internal dynamics that led to the failed transfer remain a subject of intense debate.
As Barcelona heads towards its presidential elections on March 15, these accusations are certain to dominate the conversation. The outcome of the election could significantly impact the club’s strategy for attracting top talent and restoring its position as a European powerhouse. The coming weeks will reveal whether voters prioritize stability under Laporta or seek a new direction with a candidate like Font.
What are your thoughts on Xavi’s claims? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the discussion.
