Messi in Miami shirt seems 'strange' - Barcelona president Joan Laporta
Barcelona President Joan Laporta revealed his feelings following Lionel Messi's move to MLS club Inter Miami.
The footballing icon spent over 20 years with the Catalan club after joining its youth set-up.
Speaking in an interview with ESPN, Laporta said (via Barca Buzz):
"It's a strange feeling to see Messi wearing Inter Miami shirt. But we respect his decision and we wish the best for him. We want the best for our players. He came to Barcelona as a kid and he spent 20 years with us. I hope he can be very happy in Miami."
There was speculation of a possible return to the La Liga club after the Argentina skipper exited Paris Saint-Germain this summer (via The Athletic). On the chances of a fairytale return, Laporta added (via Barca Buzz):
"He was very close to returning, but we understand the reasons why he decided to go to Miami. His father explained them to us and I thanked him. He spent time under a lot of pressure in Paris and in Barcelona, it would have been the same."
During his stay in Spain, Messi made a stunning 778 appearances, scored 672 goals and provided 303 assists across all competitions. He won the UEFA Champions League four times and La Liga ten times, among other honours, before moving to Paris in 2021.