Joan Gaspart, the 82-year-old former president of FC Barcelona, recently delivered a strong message to Lionel Messi, who is now 39, regarding the lack of an official farewell ceremony for the Argentine star from the Catalan club.
Gaspart, who led the club from 2000 to 2003, acknowledged Messi’s significant contributions but stressed that the club’s legacy must take precedence over any individual player, regardless of their achievements.
During an appearance on the show “El Chiringuito,” he expressed his views on Messi’s relationship with Barcelona, where the player made history before leaving in the summer of 2021.
Gaspart believes it is crucial for Messi to return to Camp Nou to say goodbye to the Catalan supporters, irrespective of who currently leads the club.
Gaspart’s Direct Message to Messi: “Barcelona is Above Him”
He considers Messi to be the best footballer in the world, yet he cautioned the star that part of his success is attributed to Barcelona. “Leo, as a player, is undoubtedly the best in the world and an exceptional athlete. However, he must never forget that Barcelona is above him,” Gaspart remarked.
“He should be careful; I say this out of love for a player I brought in when he was 13. Barcelona transcends any individual,” he added. Gaspart expressed hope that Messi would not ignore an invitation to return and bid farewell to the fans, regardless of the current president’s identity.
“He should come to say goodbye to Barcelona, regardless of who is president. If he conditions his return based on whether Laporta is in charge, that would be disappointing,” he stated during the program.
Gaspart Opposes Messi Conditioning Return on Laporta’s Presidency
Discussing Messi’s relationship with current president Joan Laporta, Gaspart articulated his disapproval of the player possibly refusing a tribute ceremony because of Laporta’s leadership. “He shouldn’t refuse to say goodbye simply because Laporta is president. If he waits until Laporta is not in charge, I will not attend that gala,” Gaspart added.
Messi left Barcelona in August 2021 after the club couldn’t extend his contract due to financial difficulties and La Liga restrictions. He departed without a farewell match, leading to ongoing discussions about a potential official tribute.
Gaspart Shares Humorous Anecdote Involving Messi and Lamine Yamal
During his appearance, Gaspart also shared a lighthearted moment involving his great-grandchildren, who preferred Lamine Yamal over Messi when asked which name they wanted on their Barcelona jerseys. “I have four great-grandchildren and told them I would buy them Barcelona shirts. I asked, ‘Should we print Messi or Lamine?’ They replied, ‘Lamine. Who’s the other one?’” he recounted.
Gaspart then explained, “I told them, ‘Leo Messi.’ They asked, ‘Oh, was he a good player?’ I said, ‘He was a colossal player. The best I have ever seen.’”
