Laporta: 'Messi is Barca's 20 -year history'
"We are sad because we cannot be grateful to Messi, the star gave Barca everything," Laporta said at the Barca General Meeting on June 16. "We will come up with initiatives to do this. For me, Messi is always in Barca. The situation makes us break up but that does not harm the recognition for him. No Messi, no Who knows what Barca's last 20 years will be. He is the foundation for success. We permanently recognize that. "
Messi left Barca last summer, after Laporta could not meet the salary of superstar Argentina. The farewell ceremony was incomplete, due to the development of Covid-19 translation, the Camp Nou could not open the door for the fans. Messi only had a press conference to share with the media, say goodbye to his teammates and fans, then join PSG.
The relationship between Laporta and Messi hasn't been quiet in a year. Laporta used his point of keeping Messi at the race of chairman of the club, but then he didn't keep his word for Barca's financial trouble. Last month, Spain's report from Messi called Laporta to request that Chairman Barca didn't mention your name in press conference. Laporta earlier frequently sent Messi back to Camp Nou, with terms of events.
Also at the Barca convention, Laporta spoke about the situation of midfielder Gerard Pique. The 59-year-old politician said Pique is a great player and person, so Barcelona need to help him. The 35-year-old midfielder was under pressure when the media reported he was separated from singer Shakira to partner with other pink balls. Marca reported that manager Xavi suggested Pique leave Barcelona this summer and confirmed that he did not use his plan.
Laporta wants to protect Pique, confirming that Barca will not leave the person who has devoted his career, bringing countless glory. Pique is considered the most powerful figure of the Camp Nou dress. He helped Barca connected to the Rakuten brand since 2017, signed a $ 253 million auction sponsor contract. Pique also directed the division of the Spanish Super Cup bonus organized in Saudi Arabia, as the head of Kosmos Holding Sports Brokerage Company.
Barca is facing financial challenges from a 1 debt,5-billion USD. They're about 500 million dollars in 2021-2022. Laporta so he's selling some stars, including Frenkie de Jong and Ousmane Dembele, to release the funds.
