You’re pained – Joan Laporta hits back at Xavi over Messi allegations

Barcelona President Joan Laporta has expressed disappointment in Xavi Hernández for making serious allegations about Lionel Messi’s inability to return to the club for a second time.

The Spanish coach disclosed that Laporta prevented Messi from rejoining Barcelona, despite an agreement being reached with the Argentine star regarding salary and other financial details.

In response, Laporta accused the ex-midfielder of speaking out of envy, pointing out that Hansi Flick is now winning with the same players Xavi previously managed.

Xavi reveals how Laporta blocked Messi from returning to Barcelona

Laporta fumed over the allegations, accusing the coach of deliberately damaging his reputation with such comments at a crucial moment.

“I understand that Xavi might be hurting, because Flick achieved victories with the same players that Xavi was defeated alongside. I understand his feelings about that. But what pains me is that he allowed himself to be used, and in seeking to harm me, he attacked someone from my inner circle, Alejandro Echevarría, and that bothers me.

"Echevarría and Yuste were among the staunchest defenders of Xavi’s continuation until the moment when defending him was still possible. There is a desire to poison the atmosphere and stir up controversy,” he said.

The allegations come at a crucial time, as FC Barcelona prepares for upcoming presidential elections, with Joan Laporta seeking to retain his position as club president.

Read the post below:

🚨🚨🎙️| Joan Laporta: “I understand that Xavi might be hurting, because Flick achieved victories with the same players that Xavi was defeated alongside.. I understand his feeling about that.

But what pains me is that he allowed himself to be used, and in seeking to harm me, he… pic.twitter.com/c8X5RZX1ez

— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) March 9, 2026

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