Barcelona president Joan Laporta has committed to giving Lionel Messi some sort of tribute at the club, stating he deserves “eternal recognition” for his illustrious career.
The club’s all-time leading scorer left for free to join Paris Saint-Germain last year at the end of his contract, and Barcelona were unable to secure a renewal due to the club’s financial problems.
Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, Lionel Messi was unable to say goodbye to Barcelona fans in person and admitted in November that he was “injured” following his departure.
Laporta admitted during Barca’s Extraordinary General Assembly that he was “deeply saddened” by the series of events but vowed to still somehow respect the club’s legend, who won 45 trophies while playing for Blaugrana.
“I will support, lead and give back to anyone who finds solutions that lead to honoring Messi for everything he has done for Barca,” he said.
“We should respect him forever for all he has done.
“For me, Leo will always be there for Barca. Circumstances have made us do what we did but that will not detract from the respect we deserve and soon, I hope we will soon honor the player who gave us the hat. With us for so many years of glory.
Without him, Barca’s last 20 years would not have been understood.
Barcelona could choose to honor Messi in 2024, which marks the 125th anniversary of the club’s founding, which could coincide with the player’s exit from PSG as he has signed a two-year contract with another year-old option in the French capital.
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