Legendary Barcelona midfielder, Xavi Hernandez, has lifted the lid on why Lionel Messi never made his anticipated return to the Catalan club.
After a decorated career at Barcelona, Messi left for Paris Saint-Germain, sparking speculation about a potential homecoming.
Xavi has now revealed that the deal was actually finalized, but financial concerns ultimately blocked the move.
“Leo Messi back to Barcelona was a done deal after that World Cup won by Argentina. It was done,” Xavi told Vanguardia (via Fabrizio Romano).
“We also had La Liga’s green light and Messi wanted to return… but Laporta stopped the signing.”
Xavi explained the reason behind former president Joan Laporta’s decision: “Laporta told me that if Leo came back, there would be a wage war and he couldn’t afford that.”
Messi and Xavi shared a trophy-laden era at Barcelona, lifting La Liga, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup together.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner now continues his career in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami.
