Khaberni - Joan Laporta, the president of FC Barcelona, has ruled out the possibility of the Argentine star Lionel Messi returning to the team at this time, even on loan.
Laporta held an interview with Catalonia Radio where he spoke about the latest developments at Barcelona, and among the most prominent topics he discussed was Messi's surprise visit to the Spotify Camp Nou stadium.
Laporta Settles the Debate on Messi's Return to Barcelona
Laporta said, "The club welcomed him warmly. It was a spontaneous visit that shows his bond with Barcelona. Actually, I did not know he would come."
He added, "Messi considers this place his home. He was walking with his friends after dinner and decided to stop by all of a sudden. I did not send him any messages. We have a good relationship, and he is now playing with Inter Miami."
Laporta continued, "Messi knows he is loved here and that his place is reserved, he will always be welcome. It's only fair that he receives the best recognition in the world, and it would be great if this tribute could take place here (Camp Nou) in front of 105,000 fans."
When asked about the possibility of Messi's return to Barcelona at this time, Laporta answered, "Out of deep respect for him and for the staff at the club, I will not engage in unrealistic speculations. It is inappropriate."
Laporta defended his stance regarding Messi's departure from the Catalan team in the summer of 2021 by saying, "I do not regret what happened nor how he left because Barcelona is above everything."
He emphasized that "his continuation with us was not possible," before adding, "but if the tribute helps him in any way, that would be wonderful."
Surprise Visit from Messi
Messi surprised Barcelona fans after he posted on his official Instagram account last Monday, several photos of him inside the under-renovation and renewing Camp Nou stadium, and others where he is looking at it from outside.
Messi accompanied the photos with an emotional comment saying, "Last night I returned to the place that I miss from the depths of my soul. A place where I was incredibly happy."
He added, addressing the Barcelona fans, "Here where you made me feel thousands of times the happiest person in the world."
Messi concluded his touching message by saying, "I hope I can return one day, not just to say goodbye, but to say farewell as a player, something I couldn't do before."
Laporta Praises Lamine Jamal
On the other hand, Laporta lavished praise on the young Lamine Jamal describing him as a "genius in football" despite his young age.
He said, "Lamine enjoys life and football; he is very mature for his age and I am not concerned about his lifestyle. We must protect and support him, as well as his family. He is more mature than many his age, has gone through a lot, and handles it all calmly. He is a true professional and trains very seriously."
Laporta added, "Lamine suffers from pubalgia and it's amazing that he continues to play despite the recovery phase. I am very happy with him. He's a genius in football, and we need to protect him. He hasn't yet reached the peak of his abilities, but he is on his way to becoming the best globally in his position."
