Messi’s Legacy and Barcelona’s Presidential Election: A New Era Awaits

Lionel Messi emerged from Barcelona’s prestigious La Masia academy in 2004, quickly establishing himself as one of the greatest football players in history. His ascent reached new heights under Pep Guardiola, who redefined his role to that of a false nine, allowing Messi to thrive and revolutionize modern attacking play. Over a remarkable 17-year tenure at Camp Nou, Messi led Barcelona to 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League victories, while personally amassing seven of his eight Ballon d’Or awards during his time at the club.

In 2021, financial challenges compelled Barcelona to part ways with their most iconic player, resulting in Messi’s transfer to Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer. Following two successful seasons in France, he made another significant move in 2023 by signing with MLS club Inter Miami, where he continues to enhance his global legacy.

Despite signing an extension with Miami until 2028, Messi expressed a desire to return to Camp Nou for one last appearance. In a heartfelt social media post, he stated, “I hope one day I can come back, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to.”

In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, presidential candidate Victor Font announced that his first call after winning the election would be to Messi. “As a Barca fan, I feel a surge of emotion, but this ultimately depends on him, and we must avoid using him for political gain,” he remarked when discussing Messi’s potential return before retirement. “I believe Laporta has mishandled this in the past, particularly during the election campaign. However, I want Messi to know that he will be the first person I call when I win.”

Font emphasized the importance of engaging with influential figures for the club’s future while advocating for a constructive approach rather than exploiting relationships with club legends.

The campaign for the 2026 Barcelona presidential elections, set to unfold between March and May, is gathering momentum. Font has officially declared his candidacy against Laporta, with his campaign receiving a notable boost from Xavi’s public endorsement at a recent event.

As the campaign progresses, Font has intensified his criticisms of Laporta, accusing the current board of concealing €80 million in losses and questioning the transparency of the decision to award the Camp Nou redevelopment project to construction company Limak.

One of Laporta’s primary campaign promises during the 2021 election was to retain Messi at Barcelona, a commitment that ultimately went unfulfilled, leading to accusations of dishonesty from former director Xavier Vilajoana.

Font further asserted, “We must embrace Leo Messi and do everything in our power to facilitate his return to Barcelona in a capacity that he desires and that all Barca fans would celebrate. A statue for him would only scratch the surface of what he deserves.”

Laporta’s presidency has faced scrutiny due to his failure to deliver on several promises made during the 2021 elections. With ongoing issues surrounding the stadium’s completion and financial challenges, Font’s candidacy is gaining significant traction. As the elections approach, Barcelona fans will have the opportunity to choose between extending Laporta’s leadership or allowing Font to usher in a new era for the club.

On Saturday, Hansi Flick’s team is set to play their first match at Camp Nou in over two years against Athletic Club.