The rift between Barcelona president Joan Laporta and club legend Xavi Hernandez has reached an all-time high. Reports reveal that Laporta has actively punished the iconic former midfielder in a manner many see as disrespectful to his legendary status at Camp Nou.
The tension, which traces back to Xavi’s abrupt sacking and Hansi Flick’s appointment in May 2024, escalated dramatically during the club’s presidential elections in March. Xavi openly backed Laporta’s rival, Victor Font, and took several public swipes at the current president—most notably claiming that Laporta intentionally blocked Lionel Messi’s return to Barcelona in the summer of 2023.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, Xavi has now been banned from the Barcelona Legends team due to his anti-Laporta stance.
Xavi had expressed a desire to participate in the Legends’ recent matches in Miami and Seoul. However, Alejandro Echevarria, the official managing the squad lists, blocked Xavi’s inclusion under direct orders from Laporta. When Xavi reached out to management, he was bluntly told he is “no longer welcome.”
While Xavi is reportedly furious and shocked by the treatment, sources close to Laporta claim the crisis is temporary, suggesting that time will heal the rift and Xavi will eventually be welcomed back to Camp Nou.
