Former Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández has made explosive claims about Lionel Messi’s failed return to FC Barcelona in 2023. In an interview with La Vanguardia, Xavi said the deal was ready, but Barcelona president Joan Laporta blocked it, fearing a power struggle with the legendary forward.
The revelation has sent shockwaves through the football world, reigniting debates about Barcelona’s internal politics and decision-making processes.
Messi’s Barcelona Exit and PSG Chapter
Messi left Barcelona in 2021 after a historic 21-year career at the club. Financial problems forced Barcelona to let their icon go, despite his desire to stay. Messi then joined Paris Saint-Germain, where he continued to perform at the highest level, winning domestic titles and adding to his impressive personal trophy haul.
After winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, Messi became a prime candidate for a sensational return to Barcelona. Fans, pundits, and former players, including Xavi, expected him to rejoin the Catalan giants.
Xavi: “Messi Was Signed, But Laporta Pulled the Plug”
Xavi claims that discussions with Messi began shortly after the World Cup. According to him, everything was set for Messi to return:
“Leo was signed. I spoke with him in January 2023 and he was excited to come back.”
Xavi added that he stayed in close contact with Messi until March 2023, coordinating all football-related aspects. He insists that financial restrictions imposed by La Liga were not the reason the deal collapsed. Instead, he points to Laporta’s fear of losing influence within the club.
The Role of Jorge Messi
Jorge Messi, Lionel’s father and agent, was actively involved in the negotiations. Xavi says Barcelona had financial approval from La Liga, and the contract proposal was ready. All that remained was Laporta’s go-ahead.
“Leo didn’t come because the president didn’t want him,” Xavi said.
The former coach claims Laporta worried that Messi’s return would shift power in the club and cause tension among the hierarchy. From an experience-based perspective, Xavi’s claim makes sense. Iconic players returning often disrupt internal politics and can challenge the president’s authority.
Laporta Denies Blocking Messi
Joan Laporta responded to Xavi’s accusations on RAC1, saying he was “surprised and hurt.” Laporta insists Messi’s camp chose not to return, citing pressure surrounding the club and the public expectations Messi would face.
“We sent the contract. Jorge Messi visited my house. In the end, Messi preferred Miami for a calmer environment.”
Laporta also emphasized that Barcelona tried everything to secure Messi’s return. The Argentine forward then joined Inter Miami CF, becoming the cornerstone of the club’s project in Major League Soccer.
Internal Politics at Barcelona
Xavi’s interview also highlighted wider issues at Barcelona. He accused Laporta of being heavily influenced by former brother-in-law Alejandro Echevarría, claiming the businessman holds significant control behind the scenes.
Xavi revisited his 2024 departure from Barcelona. Despite initially planning to leave, Laporta convinced him to stay. Later, Hansi Flick was appointed as the new coach. Xavi suggests that Laporta misled him and the squad about the reasons behind these decisions.
How Messi’s Return Could Have Changed Barcelona
From a sporting perspective, Messi’s return after the World Cup would have been monumental. Barcelona could have:
- Boosted La Liga title ambitions
- Increased Champions League competitiveness
- Energized the dressing room and fanbase
- Generated massive global media attention
Commercially, Messi’s presence would have enhanced sponsorship, merchandise, and international exposure. Experts agree that Messi could have single-handedly revived Barcelona’s brand image and financial prospects.
Reactions From Fans and Media
Social media erupted after Xavi’s interview. Fans largely supported Xavi, praising his honesty. Analysts noted the story exposes long-standing internal power struggles at Barcelona, highlighting how club politics sometimes outweigh football decisions.
Several pundits speculated that Messi returning could have improved squad morale, especially for younger players learning from a legend. Others argued the political tension between Laporta and Messi might have created more instability than benefit.
Messi’s Perspective
Messi has maintained discretion on the issue. During a surprise 2023 Camp Nou visit, he expressed nostalgia but never publicly blamed Barcelona. At Inter Miami, he seems focused on football while also embracing a calmer environment with less pressure.
Xavi’s Future and Barcelona Legacy
Xavi is currently enjoying time with his family but has received offers to return to coaching. He hinted at possibly taking a national team role in the future. His comments suggest he feels protective over the integrity of Barcelona, as well as frustrated with decisions that sidelined legends like Messi.
What This Means for Barcelona Politics
This saga underscores that Barcelona’s internal decisions often involve power, politics, and influence, sometimes over football logic. Messi’s potential return would have been historic, but politics and fear of losing control prevented it.
Fans and football experts now watch the upcoming Barcelona elections closely. Laporta faces a challenge from Victor Font, whose campaign promises include stronger ties with former legends and possibly reconciling with Messi.
