Joan Gaspart Regrets Criticism of Lionel Messi's Return

Joan Gaspart, the former president of FC Barcelona, admitted that his criticism of Lionel Messi, particularly concerning Messi's lack of interest in returning to the club, may have been excessive. Gaspart, who was president when Messi joined Barcelona at age 13, had previously questioned Messi's relationship with the current president, Joan Laporta.

Following financial difficulties, Messi departed from Barcelona in 2021 without a proper farewell at Camp Nou. Gaspart stated on the Sólo para Culés podcast that he believed Barcelona was larger than any individual and insisted Messi should return, regardless of the president.

However, he later recognized that his remarks were taken out of context and expressed regret, stating, "I was kind enough to be really wrong in that." He conveyed his love for Messi, whom he helped bring to the club. The plans for Messi's send-off remain uncertain, with Laporta mentioning a potential ceremony after the renovation of Camp Nou in 2028.

Messi, now with Inter Miami, is under contract until 2028.