Barcelona President Joan Laporta Sets Tentative Plan for Lionel Messi’s Tribute Ceremony

• Barcelona were linked to former star Lionel Messi after his departure from PSG
• The Spanish champions missed out on his signing due to their financial situation
• Joan Laporta has since revealed preliminary plans for Messi’s tribute ceremony

Barcelona president, Joan Laporta remains confident that Lionel Messi will return to Camp Nou at some stage, with a date set for a potential tribute.

Messi was forced to leave the Catalans in August 2021 after reported complications over financial issues, which saw him join Paris Saint-Germain up until the end of last season.

Messi has already agreed to join MLS side, Inter Miami, where he will link up with former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets.

Due to the circumstances of his exit, however, the Argentine never had a tribute ceremony, which is customary for all long-term servants of La Blaugrana.

Caicedo hints at next club after Arsenal withdraw from race to sign him

Football

Messi was reportedly displeased with this matter, although Laporta has now announced preliminary plans for a ceremony paying the star his dues.

Laporta speaks on Messi’s tribute

Speaking on when Messi could return to Spain in an interview with TV3, the Barcelona chief said:

“Barca will always be his home. I met with them to make a tribute. The opening day of the Spotify Camp Nou would be an excellent date.”

Laporta also tried to explain why the reigning La Liga champions had missed out in the race for the highly sought-after signature of the veteran:

“Messi wanted to return to Barca. He had a very tough period in Paris. His father told me he didn’t want to have this pressure. We, the Culers, respect him. May he do very well in Miami.”

The Barca boss added that he remained sad at having to bid farewell to Messi back in 2021, due to the Catalans being unable to fund a new contract for the all-time great.

Trent Alexander-Arnold compared to Lionel Messi after masterclass vs Malta

Football

As reported by Marca, the Camp Nou revamp is scheduled for completion towards the latter stages of 2024.

Laporta is hopeful of having Messi back at the club for the grand unveiling of the new stadium so that Barcelona can finally pay a proper tribute to their greatest-ever player.

Laporta makes bold Messi claim

In a previous report by Sports Brief, Laporta explained why Messi snubbed Barcelona for a move to MLS side, Inter Miami despite long-standing rumours of his fairy-tale return to Spain.

In the wake of the Argentine's blockbuster move to America, the Barca chief stated their former star preferred some time away from the spotlight owing to his difficult two years with PSG.