Barcelona reacts bitterly: we respect Messi’s decision to play in a competition with less demands and no pressure

Lionel Messi will not return to Barcelona. The Argentine footballer has decided to leave for Inter Miami in the USA, where he will finish his career in the MLS. The Catalan club understands this decision.

When it became clear that Messi would not be continuing at PSG after two years, speculation about a return to Barcelona immediately started. The club’s top brass even publicly stated that they would do everything possible for his return.

Even Messi wanted to return. But for various reasons, it didn’t work out. “I really wanted to. I was excited to be allowed to return, but after what I experienced when I left, I didn’t want to face the same situation. To wait to see what happens, to have my future in someone else’s hands,” Messi explained in an interview with Mundo Deportivo.

Afterwards, he also took a dig at Barcelona. “I’m not sure if Barcelona did everything possible for my return. I honestly only know what Xavi told me… I’m sure there are people at the club who don’t want my return to Barcelona and consider it a negative for the club,” Messi added.

Barcelona also came out with an official statement about Messi’s departure to MLS. Perhaps a little unconventional, usually clubs don’t comment on players who are not part of the club, but president Joan Laporta felt the need to convey his thoughts to the fans.

Barcelona’s statement

“On Monday, June 5, Jorge Messi, the player’s father and representative, informed club president Joan Laporta of the player’s decision to sign with Inter Miami, even though Barça had made a proposal in light of the desire expressed by both FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi to return to the blue and red colours.

President Laporta understood and respected Messi’s decision to play in a competition with fewer demands and away from the spotlight and the pressure he has been subjected to in recent years.

Joan Laporta and Jorge Messi also agreed to work together to promote Barcelona’s great tribute to a player who was, is and always will be loved by Barcelona.”

Barcelona fans were especially interested in the part where Barcelona talks about competing with lesser demands. It’s true, of course, MLS can’t match European competitions, but you can sense a bit of annoyance at Messi’s decision.

Source: FC Barcelona