Joan Laporta stated that the door remains open for Lionel Messi to return to Barcelona following his re-election as club president until 2031.
Laporta won a decisive victory over rival Víctor Font, securing 68.18% of 48,480 votes from club members in the election held on Sunday.
Throughout the campaign, Font highlighted Laporta’s strained relationship with Messi, emphasizing his role in the Argentina star’s departure in 2021 and unsuccessful return in 2023. However, this strategy failed to influence the voters in favor of Font.
“Leo will always be connected to Barcelona in any way he chooses,” Laporta told TV3 when discussing the role the Inter Miami CF forward could play during his tenure.
“He deserves a tribute match and a statue, which would hold great significance. Only Ladislao Kubala and Johan Cruyff have statues at the stadium.”
“The doors at Barça are always open to him, whenever he wishes, so he can continue to strengthen and enhance this great institution.”
During the campaign, Messi became a focal point when former Barça coach Xavi Hernández accused Laporta of being a “liar” and claimed he had obstructed Messi’s return in 2023.
Font urged Messi to share his side of the story, but Messi chose to remain silent and allow the campaign to unfold naturally.
Having scored 672 goals in 778 appearances for Barcelona, Messi has expressed his desire to return to the club at some point in the future.
Meanwhile, Laporta assured Barça supporters that the best years are on the horizon following their choice to re-elect him.
Laporta, serving his second term as president after previously holding the position from 2003 to 2010, pointed to the team’s improvement under Hansi Flick and the anticipation of returning to the revamped Spotify Camp Nou as reasons for optimism.
“We aim to build a great team with Flick as the coach and [sporting director] Deco,” Laporta told Mundo Deportivo, outlining plans for the next five years.
“We want to win titles, which our fans cherish, while also playing attractive football. Additionally, completing the stadium midway through my term will ensure the club’s financial stability and provide a venue befitting spectacular performances.”
“We will also focus on keeping the women’s team competitive and strive for economic growth. The best years of our lives are yet to come.”