No talks between Messi and Barcelona over tribute as relationship with Laporta remains ‘cold’ | OneFootball

On Friday, news broke that Barcelona plan for the grand reopening of the Spotify Camp Nou, scheduled for summer 2026, to also serve as a tribute to former captain and club legend Lionel Messi.

It was claimed that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and his camp had given the initial approval for the same.

No talks

However, now, according to MARCA, there does not appear to be any truth to these claims.

While it is clear that Barcelona wish to honour Messi after the painful way in which he left, there is one small but critical issue: no one has actually spoken to the player.

So far, Messi or his camp has not been contacted regarding his participation in such a tribute match at the grand reopening of Camp Nou at full capacity next year.

Poor relationship

And it will not be easy. Messi left the club in 2021, deeply hurt. His tears during the farewell press conference said it all.

Since then, there has been no conversation between club president Joan Laporta and Messi. The relationship remains completely cold.

No talks between Messi and Barcelona. (Photo by Winslow Townson/Getty Images)

In fact, the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner wants nothing to do with Laporta after the way his departure was handled, as well as the failed attempt to bring him back to the club.

Laporta previously tried to involve Messi in the club’s 125th anniversary celebrations. However, the Argentine never received an invitation to the event. Despite this, he did choose to take part through an interview and a video that was shown during the celebrations.

Messi has always made it clear that he carries Barcelona in his heart, something he repeats whenever given the chance. His issue lies solely with the club’s current leadership.

For now, the opening match at the new Spotify Camp Nou cannot be considered a tribute to Messi, as the player has not given his approval, despite what the club may be suggesting publicly.

And securing his participation will not be easy, as there are still things Messi finds very difficult to accept.