Joan Gaspart: “Barça is bigger than Messi”
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
In an interview, former president Joan Gaspart insisted that Barca must always come before any player, including Lionel Messi. He also spoke of the tensions between Messi and current president Joan Laporta, likely to explain the Argentine star's reluctance to return to the club for an official farewell.
Why it matters
Joan Gaspart's statements underline the importance of FC Barcelona as an institution, even in the face of legends like Lionel Messi. This reminds fans that the club must stay above individuals, which could influence fans' perceptions of Messi's return. The tension between Messi and Joan Laporta could also have implications for the future of relations between the player and the club.
Key points
- Joan Gaspart: “Barça is bigger than Messi”.
- In an interview, former president Joan Gaspart insisted that Barca must always come before any player, including Lionel Messi.
- Cựu Chủ tịch Joan Gaspart: 'Barca vĩ đại hơn Messi'.
This statement comes in a context where the Argentinian legend recently formalized his departure from the Argentina national team without uttering a single word about his former club. The debate was moderated by Jota Jordi, a former player trained at La Masia and now an agent, who questioned Toni Freixa, former member of the Barcelona management, and the journalist Lluis Carrasco, both guests on the show.
Toni Freixa has stressed that in his eyes, Messi remains the greatest player in the history of football, highlighting his profound influence on the game despite his departure from Barca. He also recalled that he has no hard feelings despite the fact that Messi did not directly thank the club during his national farewell, explaining that the affection between the Argentine and Barça is still intact.
However, Freixa clearly recalled that "Barça is always above any individual". This comment sparked a discussion on the possibility that Messi refused to return to the club for a tribute, precisely because of the presence of Joan Laporta as president. Jordi suggested that this refusal would be motivated by this tension, a version confirmed by some close to the Argentine star.
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Joan Gaspart went further in her comments, saying Messi should show more caution and respect towards the institution that shaped his career. The historic president recalled that it was he who signed Messi at just 13 years old and that he considers that Messi's greatness was partly built by Barça. He insisted that despite the differences, Messi should return to the Camp Nou for an official tribute, regardless of who the current president is.
Freixa completed by recalling the club's continued support for the Messi family, especially after the tragic loss of Jorge Messi, father of the player, and insisted that Barça never turned its back on its former captain.
Finally, the majority of speakers explained that Messi's return ceremony to the Camp Nou is already planned for once the stadium renovation works are completed, which should coincide with the end of his career in 2028. However, Gaspart expressed skepticism about a possible return if the latter waits for Laporta to leave his post.
This passionate debate reflects the complex feelings between Messi, considered a world football legend, and a club which, according to its former leaders, must remain an institution above all individuals. Barça, bigger than any player, remains awaiting an official farewell to one of its greatest heroes.
The rest
The current situation could make Messi think more about his connection with FC Barcelona and his legacy at the club. If tensions with Joan Laporta persist, an official return for a tribute could be compromised. Discussions around Messi and his role in Barça's history will continue to fuel debate among fans and football experts.
Frequently asked questions
What did Joan Gaspart say about Lionel Messi?
Joan Gaspart claimed that FC Barcelona is bigger than any player, including Lionel Messi.
Why didn't Lionel Messi return to Camp Nou?
It is suggested that Messi refused to return to the club for a tribute due to the presence of Joan Laporta as president.
Who confirmed the tension between Messi and Barça management?
Those close to Lionel Messi have confirmed that his refusal to return to the club could be motivated by tension with Joan Laporta.
What is the context of Joan Gaspart's statement?
Joan Gaspart's statement comes
after Messi formalized his departure from the Argentine selection without mentioning his former club.
What are the opinions on Messi expressed during the show?
Toni Freixa says Messi remains the greatest player in football history and has no hard feelings despite his lack of thanks at Barca.