2 min read
Football Insider

Joan Laporta's Re-election: Barcelona's Doors 'Always Open' to Lionel Messi

Joan Laporta secures a landslide victory to remain Barcelona president until 2031, with a message to Lionel Messi about a place at Camp Nou. Laporta dispels Xavi's claims and promises a golden age for the club.

Joan Laporta's Re-election: Barcelona's Doors 'Always Open' to Lionel Messi

Joan Laporta has secured a landslide victory to remain Barcelona president until 2031. Following his re-election, he immediately sent a message to club legend Lionel Messi, insisting that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will always have a place at the Spotify Camp Nou.Laporta has been re-elected as Barcelona president until 2031, securing a landslide victory that sets the stage for a second consecutive term. Laporta defeated rival candidate Víctor Font by claiming 68.18% of the 48,480 votes cast by club members, a result that provides him with a powerful mandate to lead the Blaugrana through their stadium transition and ongoing financial recovery.In the direct aftermath of his win, Laporta addressed the elephant in the room: the potential return of Messi. "Leo will be linked to Barcelona in whatever way he wants to be," Laporta told TV3 via ESPN."He deserves a tribute [match] and also a statue. That would be hugely significant. Only Ladislao Kubala and Johan Cruyff have statues at the stadium. The doors at Barca are always open to him, whenever he wishes, so that he can continue to strengthen and bring greatness to this institution."The presidential race was far from a quiet affair, largely due to explosive comments from former Barca manager Xavi. During the campaign, Xavi labeled Laporta a "liar" and alleged that the president had actively blocked Messi’s potential return to Catalonia in 2023. Laporta, however, used a fiery debate to dismantle these claims, suggesting that the legendary former midfielder had relaxed and couldn't balance his family and professional life as manager.Laporta maintained that Messi's decision to join Inter Miami was entirely down to the player, rather than any boardroom interference. He stated: "He [Xavi] said our team wouldn't be competitive in Europe. He was constantly dissatisfied with the squad he had. And regarding Messi, in 2023 I sent the contract to Jorge Messi, who was very polite. And in May he told me it couldn't happen because he would be under too much pressure here and that he preferred to go to Miami. And I told him I respected that."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingThe president concluded his post-election address with a grand promise to the Barcelona faithful, insisting that the hardships of the past few years are coming to an end. With the Spotify Camp Nou set to return to full capacity during his mandate and the team leading the way in La Liga, Laporta believes the club is entering a golden age that can rival his first successful stint in the mid-2000s."To win titles, which is what the fans love, but also to play well. And to finish the stadium halfway through the mandate, because that guarantees the club's future on a financial level but also a venue fitting for putting on a show on the pitch. The best years of our lives lie in wait," Laporta told Mundo Deportivo.

1

A Landslide Victory for Joan Laporta

Barcelona's iconic figure, Joan Laporta, has clinched a resounding victory in the recent presidential election, securing his position until 2031. With 68.18% of the club members' votes in his favor, Laporta now stands at the helm of the Blaugrana with a strong mandate for the future.

2

A Welcoming Gesture to Lionel Messi

In the wake of his re-election, Laporta wasted no time in extending an olive branch to Lionel Messi. He expressed that Barcelona's doors are always open for the legendary player, offering tribute matches and the possibility of a statue, showcasing a deep respect and admiration for Messi's contributions to the club.

3

Disputing Xavi's Claims

Amidst the campaign heat, former Barcelona manager Xavi stirred controversy by accusing Laporta of impeding Messi's return to the club. Laporta addressed these allegations head-on, refuting Xavi's claims and highlighting the player's personal decision to move to Inter Miami as the primary factor. Laporta emphasized mutual respect and understanding in handling Messi's departure.

4

Promising a Bright Future

Looking ahead, Laporta outlined ambitious plans for Barcelona's resurgence. With goals to complete the stadium renovation, cultivate competitive squads, and deliver exciting football, Laporta envisions a golden age for the club. Assuring fans of both success on the field and financial stability, Laporta aims to lead Barcelona into a prosperous era.

Published on Mar 17, 2026