‘The relationship is strained’ – Joan Laporta reveals Lionel Messi snub at Ballon d’Or gala

BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 08: Lionel "Leo" Messi during his press conference to talk about his departure from FC Barcelona at Camp Nou stadium on August 08, 2021, in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Marc Gonzalez Aloma/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images

Joan Laporta has spoken about his relationship with Lionel Messi and admits the relationship between the pair is still “damaged” and that the GOAT snubbed him at the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony.

“The relationship with Messi isn’t what it used to be. There was also an incident at the Ballon d’Or ceremony where I went to greet him, and he felt we shouldn’t greet each other,” he told Catalunya Radio.

“Since then, there has been some rapprochement, and hopefully, this will continue in the future. The relationship is strained, but he’s a Barcelona legend.”

Laporta also spoke again about Messi’s emotional departure from the club.

“They wanted us to sign a 50-year agreement with CVC to register Leo. We couldn’t do it. The club is bigger than any individual. That’s what has saddened me the most,” he added.

“These are difficult decisions. We couldn’t have it all. If we renewed his contract, we couldn’t afford his salary.”

Laporta is currently on the campaign trail and hoping to continue as Barcelona president. The elections are due to take place next month on March 15th.

Source: barcablaugranes.com