In the past 24 hours, significant developments have emerged that could impact the upcoming presidential election of Barcelona. Joan Laporta is currently viewed as the frontrunner for re-election; however, recent statements from club legend Xavi Hernandez may influence the momentum in favor of Victor Font.
In a startling interview released over the weekend, Xavi claimed that his dismissal in the summer of 2024 was not instigated by Laporta, but rather orchestrated by his advisor, Alejandro Echevarría, whom he accuses of operating behind the scenes at Barcelona.
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During a debate with Font (as reported by Sport), Laporta took the chance to respond to Xavi’s allegations. He firmly denied them and elaborated on why his decision was justified.
“It was painful. Seeing those statements made me think of Flick. Being president is challenging because tough choices must be made. With Xavi, I felt that we would continue to struggle (if he remained), and I find reassurance in how things have turned since his departure. The same players who underperformed with Xavi are now achieving victories under Flick.
“What truly pains me is that people have been maliciously used against me, particularly by someone I trusted (Echevarría). They defended Xavi even when it was unreasonable for him to stay, and so did (Rafa) Yuste. Xavi is trying to create chaos, but behind him is someone orchestrating events, and I believe that to be Víctor Font. He is attempting to tarnish this electoral process. It is unfortunate for him that there is a member filing a complaint filled with falsehoods. This is not a style I endorse.”
Laporta briefly addresses Xavi’s Messi claims
Laporta also refuted Xavi’s assertion that he had recruit Lionel Messi in 2023, due to concerns over a potential power struggle with the Barcelona great, with whom he has a strained relationship.
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“We have proposed to erect a statue of Messi and hold a tribute match once the stadium is complete. When we could not renew Messi for financial reasons, Xavi approached me in March 2023 expressing his desire for Messi’s return. However, in May, Jorge Messi informed me that it would create too much pressure and that they preferred to go to Inter Miami.”