Former Xavi Hernández has sparked a major controversy after revealing that Lionel Messi was close to returning to FC Barcelona in 2023, but the move was ultimately blocked by club president Joan Laporta.
In a recent interview, Xavi claimed that the Argentine superstar had already shown strong interest in rejoining Barcelona shortly after winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup. According to the former Barça coach, discussions had progressed significantly and even received approval from La Liga’s financial controls. However, the transfer suddenly collapsed.
“The President Stopped It”
Xavi revealed that the deal appeared almost certain before the club president decided to halt the process. He insisted that financial issues were not the main reason the move failed.
The Barcelona legend stated that the president feared Messi’s influence at the club could create internal tension and a potential “power struggle.” As a result, the plan to bring the iconic forward back to Camp Nou was abandoned despite the positive negotiations earlier in the year.
Messi’s Barcelona Exit Still a Sensitive Topic
Messi’s emotional departure from Barcelona in 2021 shocked the football world after the club was unable to renew his contract due to severe financial restrictions. The Argentine legend later joined Paris Saint-Germain before eventually moving to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Xavi said he maintained a strong personal relationship with Messi and even spoke with him about the possibility of a return. But according to the former manager, the situation changed abruptly once the club leadership decided to abandon the plan.
Tensions Around Barcelona Politics
The revelations come at a sensitive time for Barcelona, as the club heads toward presidential elections and internal politics continue to dominate headlines. Xavi’s comments have reignited debate among fans over the leadership decisions that shaped one of the most dramatic chapters in the club’s modern history.
While Messi continues his career in the United States, the idea of a romantic return to Barcelona remains one of football’s biggest “what-ifs.” Xavi’s comments have now added a new layer to that story, suggesting that the dream reunion may have been closer than many believed.
