Barcelona president Laporta opens up on Messi’s future and strained Real Madrid rivalry

Barcelona president Joan Laporta gave a wide-ranging interview on Catalunya Radio, discussing Lionel Messi’s surprise visit to the city, the possibility of a future return to the club, Barça’s tense relations with bitter rivals Real Madrid, Lamine Yamal’s recent controversy, and much more.

Laporta in the dark about Messi’s Barcelona return

Laporta admitted he hadn’t known in advance about Messi’s recent, unexpected trip to the ongoing construction at Spotify Camp Nou but said he wasn’t upset.

“I know how it happened. It was a spontaneous act, full of Barcelona pride. I didn’t know about it beforehand. When they explained it to me, I thought it was a charming, spontaneous gesture,” Laporta said.

Messi’s departure and possible return

He added that the club hasn’t reached out to Messi about the visit, emphasizing the warmth of their relationship. “He’s always welcome here, this is his home. We want him to have the most beautiful tribute in the world, and I think it will be wonderful,” he said.

Regarding Messi leaving the club, Laporta was candid. “Given how everything unfolded, I have no regrets. Barcelona comes first. It didn’t happen the way everyone wanted, but at that time, it wasn’t possible. If we can organize a proper tribute now, we’d be very happy,” he said. He also stressed that a return to playing for the club is not realistic.

Tense ties with Real Madrid

Laporta addressed the state of relations with Real Madrid, Barcelona’s eternal rivals. “The meeting was respectful and cordial. We’ve never been married, so there’s no divorce here. Relations aren’t good because of the Negreira case. They keep presenting irrelevant and inconclusive facts. Having the case open obviously interests them. It’s a tense situation, but we’re eternal rivals, and we handle it with respect.”

He also touched on the planned Miami match against Villarreal, noting opposition from the players’ union and other clubs, but said, “I don’t believe the competition will be compromised.”

Lamine Yamal’s controversial Spain withdrawal

Laporta spoke about Lamine Yamal and the national team. “As soon as we knew, we informed the national team. Our doctor recommended 10 days of rest. We respect all parties and don’t get into controversies. Everything is proceeding smoothly, and we want Lamine available for the club.

“He’s living life at 18 and already very mature. I’m not concerned about his lifestyle. He needs protection and support from both us and his family. He’s a professional, training as hard as anyone. He has pubalgia, and it’s impressive he continues to play while recovering. His commitment shows true Barcelona spirit. He’s a genius, and we need to guide his development carefully. He’s not yet at his peak, but he’s the best in the world in his position,” Laporta said.

Hansi Flick and team morale

On coach Hansi Flick, Laporta said, “He’s calm, motivated, and fully invested in Barcelona. We have a contract and will work it out. He lives and breathes Barça, and we’re thrilled to have him. He has character, sensitivity, and is enjoying the intensity of the club.”

Evolution of Spotify Camp Nou

Laporta shared updates on the stadium renovations. “We’ll play as soon as possible. I like setting deadlines to add pressure, as specified in the construction contract, but unforeseen issues can arise. The stadium is ready for 27,000 fans. Hansi got goosebumps, and the players were amazed.”

He praised the contractor Limak for quality work and commitment to safety, noting this is the largest construction project in Southern Europe. “The third tier should be ready by next season. This project started 15 years ago, but little was done for 11 years. When we arrived in 2021, we knew we had to make the club financially sustainable. We’ve been away for two and a half years and want to return quickly,” he said.

Barcelona elections and club ownership

Laporta downplayed speculation about upcoming elections. “We just started the season. By statute, elections must be held between March 15 and June 15. We’ll choose the timing that benefits Barça most. I want the team focused, not distracted. I hope we’re competing in all competitions until the end.”

He reaffirmed the club’s member-owned model. “While I’m president, Barcelona belongs to its members. It’s more than a profit-seeking business. We’re Catalan, open to the world, sustainable, inclusive, and committed to freedom, democracy, and our culture for over 125 years. Reducing this to a company is inaccurate. From a financial perspective, our model is strong, attracting investment for the stadium while remaining a national symbol.”

Laporta’s rock & roll lifestyle

Reflecting on his personal life, Laporta said, “I’ve lived a rock & roll life for years. I stay active, enjoy what I do, and try to have fun despite the complexity of my responsibilities.”

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