A major controversy has erupted around FC Barcelona after former manager Xavi Hernández alleged that club president Joan Laporta personally stopped the return of Lionel Messi in 2023.
In an explosive interview with Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia, Xavi claimed that Messi’s return to Barcelona had already been agreed in principle after Argentina’s triumph at the 2022 World Cup. According to the former midfielder-turned-coach, negotiations with Messi and his father had progressed well, and the club had even received approval from La Liga to proceed with the deal.
For Barcelona supporters, the idea of Messi returning for a symbolic final chapter at the club—often described as a football “last dance”—would have been the perfect ending to one of the greatest player-club relationships in history. Instead, the dream never materialised, leaving fans with yet another “what if” in football’s long book of missed opportunities.
The “Wage War” Remark That Sparked Controversy
According to Xavi, the situation changed dramatically when Laporta suddenly decided to halt the move. The coach alleged that the president personally informed him that allowing Messi back could create internal conflict at the club.
In a striking claim, Xavi said Laporta told him “if Leo came back, he would wage war on him,” suggesting the president feared a power struggle within the club.
The statement has stunned many observers because Messi is widely considered Barcelona’s greatest-ever player. The idea that a club president would fear the influence of a club legend has added another layer of drama to Barcelona’s already complicated internal politics.
Messi’s Almost-Completed Return
Xavi insisted that the proposed reunion was not just speculation but an operation that had reached an advanced stage. He explained that he had personally spoken with Messi and his father, Jorge Messi, about the possibility of a return after the forward’s time at Paris Saint‑Germain F.C. was nearing its end.
The Barcelona legend even envisioned the move as a grand farewell season, comparing it to Michael Jordan’s famous final run with the Chicago Bulls. From a sporting perspective, Xavi believed Messi could still transform the team by adding goals, creativity and leadership.
However, the negotiations collapsed suddenly. Instead of returning to Barcelona, Messi eventually joined Inter Miami CF in the United States, beginning a new chapter of his career in Major League Soccer.
Tension Between Messi and Xavi
The collapse of the deal reportedly had consequences beyond the transfer itself. Xavi admitted that for a period of time, his relationship with Messi deteriorated because the Argentine star initially believed the coach had played a role in blocking the move.
According to Xavi, Messi temporarily stopped responding to his messages and calls. It was only later—after discussions clarified what had happened—that the two legends repaired their relationship.
For fans who grew up watching the pair dominate European football together, the temporary breakdown was almost as painful as the failed transfer itself. After all, Xavi and Messi were not just teammates—they were architects of one of the most celebrated teams in football history.
Barcelona’s Political Drama Behind the Scenes
The allegations have once again highlighted the complex politics that have long surrounded Barcelona. The club is not just a football institution but also a social and political entity in Catalonia, meaning leadership decisions often attract intense scrutiny.
Xavi’s comments also arrived during a politically sensitive moment in the club’s internal landscape, as debates continue about Barcelona’s direction and governance. Some analysts believe the controversy could influence future leadership discussions within the club.
In short, Barcelona may be famous for its tiki-taka football, but behind the scenes the club occasionally resembles a political drama—complete with plot twists, rival camps and headline-grabbing revelations.
The Legend of Messi at Barcelona Remains Untouched
Despite the controversy, Messi’s legacy at Barcelona remains untouchable. During his years at the club, the Argentine icon scored hundreds of goals and helped the team win numerous domestic and European titles.
His partnership with players like Xavi and Andrés Iniesta defined an era in football history, producing a style of play that mesmerised fans across the world. For many supporters, Messi represents the golden age of Barcelona’s identity.
Whether or not the truth of the failed transfer ever becomes fully clear, the debate has already revived nostalgia among fans who still dream about seeing Messi wearing the famous Blaugrana shirt one last time.
