The question “Did Laporta block Messi’s Barcelona return?” has resurfaced in 2026 after explosive claims from former Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández. According to Xavi, Barcelona president Joan Laporta personally stopped Lionel Messi from returning to FC Barcelona in 2023.
However, the situation is disputed, and different sides have offered conflicting explanations.
Xavi’s Claim About the Blocked Return
Xavi said that Messi was close to rejoining Barcelona after leaving Paris Saint‑Germain in 2023. According to the former coach, the deal was progressing and even had approval from La Liga financial rules.
But Xavi claimed Laporta ultimately stopped the move because he feared a “power struggle” inside the club if Messi returned.
Xavi said the president believed Messi’s influence could create conflict within Barcelona’s leadership structure and affect internal dynamics.
Laporta’s Response
Laporta strongly rejected those accusations. He said he was “surprised and hurt” by Xavi’s comments and insisted the situation was different.
According to Laporta, the decision not to return to Barcelona came from Messi’s camp, including his father and agent, who preferred a move away from the intense pressure of European football.
After leaving PSG, Messi eventually joined Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer.
Political Context Around the Claims
The debate has intensified partly because Barcelona is preparing for the 2026 club presidential election, where Laporta is running for another term.
Opposition figures, including presidential candidate Víctor Font, have called on Messi to publicly explain what really happened, arguing that fans deserve clarity about why the return failed.
What Actually Happened?
Right now, there is no universally confirmed version of events. Two main explanations exist:
| Claim | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Xavi’s version | Laporta blocked the transfer to avoid a power struggle |
| Laporta’s version | Messi’s camp chose not to return |
| Political view | The story is being used during Barcelona elections |
Because Messi himself has not publicly detailed the full situation, the exact reason the reunion never happened remains debated.
Outlook
The story of Messi’s potential return to Barcelona continues to spark controversy among fans and analysts. While Xavi claims Laporta blocked the move, the club president denies it and says the decision came from Messi’s side.
Until Lionel Messi or other key figures reveal more details, the question of whether Laporta truly blocked the Barcelona comeback will likely remain unresolved.
