The former president recounts the circumstances surrounding the Argentine’s exit
On Tuesday, Joan Laporta released his new book titled “How we saved Barça”, wherein he offers a detailed narrative of his five-year tenure as the club’s president. Currently a pre-candidate, Laporta delves into the complexities he encountered managing a precarious financial landscape, which compelled him to devise innovative strategies to restore stability. The news outlet MARCA obtained early access to the publication through editorial channels and highlights the pivotal aspects revealed within the book.
The Departure of Messi
Laprorta sheds light on the intricate process that culminated in the departure of the legendary Argentine player. He recounts how he personally handed the draft contract to Messi’s father, awaiting a response that lingered—first for a week, then two, extending to a month—without resolution. This prolonged silence underscored the challenging negotiations and the emotional weight surrounding the separation.
The book portrays the financial turmoil that Barça was entangled in, emphasizing the urgency and creativity demanded from Laporta’s administration. His recounting reveals the multifaceted crisis, which extended far beyond the pitch, affecting the very fabric of the club’s operations. Through his lens, readers gain insight into the daunting obstacles that shaped the decisions, including that of Messi’s exit.
By sharing these reflections, Laporta not only retraces the steps leading to the club’s economic recovery but also conveys the personal and institutional struggles inherent to his leadership period, offering a candid window into an era marked by both turmoil and hope.