• Laporta clings to tribute as Font plans to make Messi “honorary president”

The image of Argentine legend Lionel Messi has once again taken center stage in Barcelona’s political and sporting arena, turning the star into the focal point of intense debate during the recent electoral debate between current president Joan Laporta and his fierce challenger Víctor Font.

With the Barcelona presidential elections approaching, the “Messi legacy” and how to address the pain of his departure has become the key issue both sides are using to sway club members (socios).

Laporta: Historic Tribute and Refusal of “Electoral Exploitation”

In statements published by Spanish newspaper Sport, Joan Laporta confirmed that the club is preparing a grand tribute ceremony to reunite Messi with fans at the renovated Camp Nou, emphasizing that Messi remains an integral part of the club’s history.

However, Laporta sought to separate past from present, saying: “I have the utmost respect for Messi, but now is the time to focus on Lamine Yamal, Kobarzi, Pedri, and Hans Flick.”

He accused Font of attempting to exploit Messi’s name for electoral gain, insisting that attention should remain on the current squad showing promising performances rather than dwelling on the past in a way that could distract young players.

Font Attacks, Promises Grand Plan for Messi

Víctor Font, meanwhile, launched a scathing attack on Laporta’s administration, accusing it of downplaying Messi by treating him as a “statue of the past.”

Font revealed a major project he has been developing for two years aimed at a “full reconciliation” with Messi.

Key Points of Font’s Plan to Bring Messi Back:

• Honorary Presidency: Appoint Messi as honorary president of the club, following in the footsteps of legend Johan Cruyff.

• Global Commercial Partnership: Tie Messi’s brand permanently to Barcelona, a project Font claims will generate millions for the club’s treasury.

• Return to the Pitch: Suggest Messi plays a few matches in the coming months before final retirement, coordinated with coach Flick and the sporting management.

Font also reminded club members of Laporta’s 2021 “failure” to renew Messi’s contract despite election promises, arguing the wound remains unhealed and requires new leadership that recognizes Leo’s true value.

Dispute Extends to “Haaland Deal”

The debate did not stop with Messi but extended to future transfers. Laporta denied Font’s claims of having “priority rights” to sign Norwegian star Erling Haaland from Manchester City, clarifying that the player’s agent completely refuted these reports and dismissing Font’s statements as “ridiculous lies” intended to mislead voters after legal and fan backlash.

Between Laporta’s planned tribute and Font’s “Jordanian project,” Messi remains the present yet absent figure in every corner of Barcelona, awaiting the ballot box to decide who will bring the “prodigal son” back to his first home—and how.