"According to Xavi, the president told him directly that if Messi returned, the player would 'wage war against him' and that he could not allow such a situation. Messi's entourage stands by Xavi's version, with journalist Sique Rodriguez confirming that people close to the Argentine validated that Laporta halted the transfer when it was already agreed."
"What Messi's entourage is saying is that the truth is coming out, little by little, and there's still more to come. Messi accepts Xavi's version of events. According to what his entourage is saying, yes. The statements made by Xavi and the fact that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's entourage has validated them could represent a significant political blow for Laporta."
"Laporta defended himself, stating that Messi's move fell through because the Argentine himself decided not to return. He explained: 'I sent the contract to Jorge Messi, who later came to my house and told me that he would have too much here - pressure.' This contradicts Xavi's account of events regarding the failed transfer."
Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez disclosed that Messi nearly rejoined the club in January 2023 when all parties had agreed to the transfer. However, president Joan Laporta halted the deal, telling Xavi that Messi's return would create conflict against him. Messi's entourage confirmed Xavi's account, validating that Laporta stopped the transfer despite prior agreement. This revelation emerged during Barcelona's election campaign, potentially damaging Laporta's political standing. Laporta countered by claiming Messi himself decided against returning due to pressure concerns, stating that Jorge Messi told him his son would face excessive pressure at the club.
Read at Barca Universal
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