Argentine football legend Lionel Messi is set to return to Barcelona this Friday to attend a ceremony celebrating the club’s 125th anniversary, according to media reports.
This symbolic visit comes despite the strained relationship between Messi and Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, following the star’s controversial departure in the summer of 2021. According to Radio Catalunya, the celebration will be held at the iconic « Gran Teatre del Liceu, » with Messi playing a central role alongside club legends such as Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, and Pep Guardiola. Laporta reportedly extended a personal invitation to Messi, signaling an effort to mend the rift that has overshadowed their relationship.
Messi’s departure from Barcelona in 2021 marked a painful chapter for both the player and the club. The football star attributed his exit to pressures from certain club officials, describing the experience as a « wound that hasn’t healed. » Nevertheless, the bond between Messi and Barcelona remains iconic, symbolizing a golden era in the club’s history.
The relationship between Messi and Laporta wasn’t always this strained. During Laporta’s first term as president (2003-2010), Messi made his debut for Barcelona, with their rapport described as « ideal. » However, this relationship soured after Laporta’s return in 2021, as the club’s financial struggles forced Messi’s departure.
Tensions peaked in 2022 when Messi publicly snubbed Laporta at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, refusing to pose with him and accusing Laporta of making « false statements. » However, the invitation to this anniversary event appears to be an attempt at reconciliation and a chance to honor one of the club’s greatest players.
Even if temporary, Messi’s return rekindles memories of Barcelona’s golden era and raises hopes of a renewed, positive relationship between the football legend and the club’s management.
