Messi, Laporta, and Neymar: Barcelona’s Past Still Casts a Long Shadow
23 October 2025
Messi-Laporta Rift: A Reignited Debate at Barcelona
Jordi Mestre, the former Barcelona vice president for sports, resurfaces with fiery remarks about the strained relationship between Lionel Messi and President Joan Laporta, and revisits the Neymar saga that sent the Brazilian star to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.
He cites Marca as the source for revealing behind-the-scenes moments from his time at the club, insisting that Messi’s bond with Laporta is far from cordial and that the star and his family remain furious. Mestre calls for a historic tribute to Messi that goes beyond a simple farewell match.
Messi's place in Barça’s history
Mestre argues that Messi still holds an extraordinary status in Barça’s history, both on and off the pitch, and that what he achieved is unlikely to be repeated. He says the relationship between Messi and Laporta has reached a deep rift that may be beyond repair for the time being.
He adds, “Everything we did for Messi would be modest next to what he gave us, I don’t know if what he did will be repeated, because life is long, but what he achieved is amazing. Not just on the sporting level, but financially as well. The summer tours were different with Messi; when he wasn’t there, the numbers dropped significantly.”
He emphasizes that Messi wasn’t just a player but a huge economic engine for the club, noting that while his salary was high, he brought in far more money through sponsorships and star power. “He attracted global sponsors, and stars came to Barça to play beside him. He made a measurable difference—athletically, economically, and personally.”
Later, Mestre reveals the current president’s fraught relationship with Messi, saying: “I know from trusted sources that Messi and his family are very angry with Laporta. The anger is substantial, and I don’t think the relationship can be repaired right now.”
He recalls the 2021 summer exit when Messi left for Paris Saint-Germain after failed contract renewal, describing the handling of the situation as catastrophic.
“Barça should consider a special tribute worthy of a legend of Messi’s magnitude, not just a farewell match,” Mestre asserts, suggesting that naming the main stand at the Spotify Camp Nou after Messi could be a fitting homage as part of its redevelopment.
He insists Messi didn’t just win trophies; he gave Barça its identity during the era of beautiful football, changing the club’s narrative forever. “Messi didn’t just change Barça; he redefined it, and those who follow will live in his shadow for a long time.”
What happened with Neymar?
The interview also tackles Neymar’s departure. Mestre expresses regret that Barça failed to keep the Brazilian, who he believed could have been Messi’s natural successor.
He notes Neymar told him he wanted to return to Barça, explaining that when Neymar was with Messi, the team’s attack became fearsome. Mestre recalls his famous 2017 prediction: “I’m 200% sure Neymar isn’t going to leave,” just days before the transfer to PSG for a record 222 million euros.
He explains that over time, he understood how the deal unfolded—identifying the intermediary witness, and how the legal dispute with Neymar’s family played out, with Barcelona winning an appeal for 16 million euros. Laporta’s later decision to pardon the family, after the club’s victory, remains a point of disbelief for Mestre.
“Laporta’s handling of the crisis wasn’t in Barça’s best interest,” Mestre contends, criticizing the legal and financial stance that allowed a judgment to be overturned. He argues the club continues to live on Messi’s legacy, but has not learned from past mistakes in managing star players.
He concludes that Messi left, Neymar’s departure hurt, and that the club could have maximized Iniesta and Xavi’s post-retirement value. Barça must reconcile with its history, or risk remaining in Messi’s long shadow.
In closing, Mestre emphasizes the need for a reconciliatory path that honors history while steering Barcelona toward a more stable future.
Punchline 1: If Barça’s transfer market were a dating show, Messi would still be the only one getting a “like” from the trophy cabinet. Punchline 2: Barcelona’s history is a bestseller—great reviews, questionable Wi-Fi, and a plot twist at every transfer window.
