Xavi Herndez has revealed that Lionel Messi was close to returning to FC Barcelona in 2023, but claimed that club president Joan Laporta ultimately blocked the move.
In an interview with La Vanguardia newspaper, the former Barcelona manager said the club has already made great strides towards Messi’s return after the Argentina star won the 2022 World Cup. According to Xavi, negotiations with Messi began in January 2023 and lasted several months.
“We signed a contract with Leo, but the president withdrew the contract,” Xavi said, adding that Messi had expressed excitement at the possibility of returning to the club where he became a global star.
Xavi claimed that Barcelona had also received approval from La Liga regarding the financial framework of the deal while negotiations were ongoing with Jorge Messi, Messi’s father and agent. But he said the decision to break the agreement was ultimately made by Laporta and his aides.
Laporta was responsible for Messi’s departure.
“My interest is to tell the truth: Leo returned to Bara not because of La Liga, not because Jorge Messi asked for more money, not because the president didn’t want it,” Xavi said.
Messi ultimately did not return to Barcelona and instead joined Inter Miami CF.
Beyond the Messi situation, Xavi looked back on his time coaching Barcelona and defended the foundations he believes his staff laid before leaving.
He cited the rise of young talent such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Alejandro Balde, Pau Cubars and Fermun Lupez as one of the legacies he is most proud of, along with the two titles the team won during his tenure.
“We have laid a very good foundation for continuing the project,” Xavi said.
Xavi’s departure was also mired in controversy.
The former midfielder also criticized the circumstances surrounding his departure, suggesting that Laporta had not adequately explained the reasons behind his sacking, and claiming that club figure Alejandro Etxevara had great influence within the organization.
Xavi further denied claims that his physical preparation under Barcelona’s staff was inadequate, stating that statistical data showed that the La Liga winning team covered more distance than any Barcelona team since 2003.
Despite the controversy, Xavi said his purpose in speaking publicly was simply to reveal what happened behind the scenes.
The club needs to change in structure and professionalism from top to bottom.
