The once-unbreakable bond between Lionel Messi and FC Barcelona has shown visible cracks ever since the Argentine icon's emotional departure from the club in the summer of 2021.
Although it was something that no one wanted, the club's severe financial constraints and La Liga's strict salary cap regulations forced it to happen.
Meanwhile, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has dropped a truth bomb while the relationship between the two had strained. The most unfortunate public moment came during the 2023 Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris, where he attempted to greet the World Cup winner, and instead was met with a clear refusal.
Barca president reveals Messi ignored him at Ballon d'Or ceremony
In a recent interview with Catalunya Radio, Laporta openly addressed the incident for the first time, describing their relationship as "strained" and "not what it used to be."
Laporta recounted approaching Messi to say hello, but the forward made it evident that a greeting wasn't welcome at that moment. He said:
“The relationship with Messi is not what it used to be. There was also an incident at the Ballon d'Or awards where I went to greet him, and he felt that we didn't have to greet each other.”
Despite the acknowledged tension, Laporta continues to speak of Messi with deep respect, calling him a true Barcelona legend who remains welcome at the club and deserves lasting tributes, including a potential statue at the revamped Camp Nou.
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