Laporta Reflects Back on Messi’s Barcelona Exit: ‘I Believe I Made the Right Decision’

Tunis – Joan Laporta is standing by his decision to let Lionel Messi leave FC Barcelona in 2021, saying it was necessary for the club’s future.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper El País, Laporta addressed the circumstances behind Messi’s departure and made it clear he has no regrets. “I did what I had to do. Leo was approaching the end of his career and we had to build a new team,” he said. “I don’t regret anything. For me, Barça is above players, presidents and coaches.”

Messi’s exit came during a severe financial crisis at Barcelona, with La Liga regulations preventing the club from renewing his contract despite both sides wanting to continue.

Laporta said the decision helped stabilize the club and allowed a new cycle to begin.

“I had to make a decision, and I believe I made the right one; the results are the best proof,” he said. “We managed to save the club financially and build a competitive team.”

He also admitted he would have preferred to keep Messi during the transition. “Would I have liked to build the new team with Leo’s help? Yes. We tried, but it wasn’t possible.”

No regrets, but door remains open

While firm on his decision, Laporta stressed that Messi’s place in the club’s history remains unchanged. “He is a key player of his generation, like Kubala and Cruyff. He deserves a statue and a tribute match,” he said.

Laporta added that a future reunion has not been ruled out. “The relationship in the future will be what Leo wants and what Barça wants. At some point, our interests will come together again. Barça is his home.”

After leaving Barcelona in 2021, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami CF in 2023.

Laporta’s comments come shortly after his re-election as Barcelona president in March 2026, where he secured 68.18% of the vote.

He also responded to criticism from former coach Xavi Hernández, who had suggested the club blocked a potential Messi return in 2023. Laporta dismissed those claims, pointing instead to the team’s current progress under Hansi Flick.