“It’s a strange feeling” – Barcelona president Joan Laporta makes honest admission about Lionel Messi at Inter Miami
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has said that seeing Lionel Messi in an Inter Miami CF shirt is a "strange feeling" but wished the Argentine well for his MLS adventure.
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, Messi was linked with a return to Barcelona, whom he had called home for 21 years. He's their record appearance holder (778) and top scorer (672 goals). He helped them to four UEFA Champions League and 10 La Liga titles, among other honours. He also won the Ballon d'Or six times during his time at Barca.
Messi, though, turned down a Barcelona return and moved to the USA instead, joining Inter Miami CF on a two-year contract. He made his debut on July 21, coming off the bench to score a free-kick winner as Inter beat Cruz Azul 2-1 in the Leagues Cup.
On Tuesday, July 25, the 36-year-old made his first start for Miami, captaining them against Atlanta United. He scored twice and assisted once to help his new team to an emphatic 4-0 win.
In an interview with ESPN, Laporta admitted that it's strange to watch Lionel Messi play for Inter Miami, as he will always be identified with Barcelona.
Following Messi's move to Miami, his former Barca teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have also joined the club. Luis Suarez was also close to joining them before it was reported that he will remain at Gremio.
Laporte reckons Lionel Messi, along with Busquets and Alba, will help the MLS grow.
Joan Laporta also said that Barcelona were very close to signing Lionel Messi after he parted ways with Paris Saint-Germain.
While he admitted that the club had to sort their financial issues to facilitate the move, they did so and also got the league's permission to pursue the move.
Laporta also added that Lionel Messi was
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