Barcelona president Joan Laporta has defended the club’s decision to let Lionel Messi leave in 2021, citing the financial challenges the team faced at the time.
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Barcelona’s history, had to depart because of the club’s economic constraints and LaLiga’s salary regulations. After leaving Barcelona, he signed with Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami two years later.
Speaking to Marca, Laporta explained why parting ways with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was necessary:
“I had to make a decision, and I believe it was the correct one; the outcomes are evident.
“We managed to restore the club’s financial health, assembled a competitive team, and it was time for a generational shift.
“Leo was nearing the end of his career, and we needed to build a new team. Would I have preferred to create a new team with Leo’s assistance? Yes. We attempted that, but it was not feasible.”
Despite speculation in 2023 about a possible return to Barcelona, Messi ultimately chose Inter Miami.
Laporta’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about the club’s strategy to refresh the squad while remaining competitive in LaLiga and European competitions.
