Joan Laporta: “I will see Messi in Paris on Monday.”

Barcelona president Joan Laporta gave an extensive interview to Barça TV ahead of the Clásico against Real Madrid on Sunday. One of the topics he was asked about was the possible return of Lionel Messi to the club next summer.

Laporta acknowledged that “we will certainly do something to recognise what has been the best player in Barça’s history”, but did not want to comment on the possibility of Messi returning to the club next season.

“The Culés will always have him in our memories. This Sunday will mark 18 years since he made his debut for Barça, and we are thinking of doing something private. We know all about his successful career. I will probably see him on Monday in Paris for the Ballon d’Or gala. He is a PSG player and we wouldn’t be doing anyone any favours and we have to respect him. The recognition of Leo is very much on our minds. There are many Culés who still wear Leo’s shirt,” said Laporta in quotes reported by Catalan outlet Mundo Deportivo.

Messi’s contract with PSG expires next June, and it is not clear what his future will be. Barça are keeping an eye on players who will be free agents and the Argentine will be exactly that on July 1, 2023.

GSFN

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