Barcelona president Joan Laporta did not respond to Xavi Hernandez’s accusation that he sabotaged Lionel Messi’s return to Barça in 2023, but instead launched an attack on the Catalan club’s former coach.
Xavi was dismissed from his position in the summer of 2024 after a disagreement with Laporta, who then appointed Hansi Flick. The German quickly made a difference, leading the club to a domestic treble last season.
The relationship between Laporta and Xavi is strained, and the Barça legend supports Victor Font’s bid for the presidency. He even made statements aimed at persuading the club’s fans not to vote for Font just days before the election.
Laporta responded, saying, “What Xavi said surprised and hurt me at the same time. The position of Barcelona president requires making difficult decisions, such as dismissing Xavi, which events have proven to be the right decision.”
He added, “The facts prove I was right, because we would have continued losing with Xavi.”
He continued, “I understand he’s hurting, because with the same players he had and lost with, Flick is winning now.”
He concluded, “Xavi had a desire to cause trouble. He was used by Victor Font, who is behind him and wants to taint the process.”
