FC Barcelona continues to captivate fans on the pitch with a string of impressive performances, showcasing both emerging talents and seasoned players in top form. However, off the field, tensions within the club’s hierarchy are intensifying as the Catalan institution approaches its pivotal presidential election on 15 March.
One of the main contenders in the upcoming vote is Catalan entrepreneur Víctor Font. He has made a bold declaration: if elected, his first course of action will be to reconnect with the club’s legendary former star, Lionel Messi. Font emphasises that restoring ties with Messi is a central pillar of his campaign. “If we win, the first call goes to Messi,” Font stated. He further claimed to have a clear strategy to reach the Argentine icon, whether directly or indirectly, and considers re-establishing connections with Barcelona’s historic legends a top priority.
Messi’s legacy at Barcelona is unparalleled. Over 17 seasons, he scored an astonishing 672 goals and collected 35 major trophies, cementing his place as arguably the club’s greatest player ever. Financial constraints, however, forced Barcelona to let him depart in 2021, leading him to Paris Saint-Germain. Font argues that Messi is the very embodiment of Barcelona’s identity, and reinstating his association with the club would honour that legacy.
| Achievement | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Goals for Barcelona | 672 |
| Appearances | 778 |
| Major Trophies | 35 |
| Ballon d’Or Awards (while at Barcelona) | 6 |
| Year Departed | 2021 |
Criticising the current president Joan Laporta, Font highlighted that losing contact with a player of Messi’s calibre — both a global icon and brand ambassador — has been detrimental to the club. He stressed that renewing this relationship is essential not only for footballing reasons but also for commercial and institutional stability. He acknowledged, however, that bringing Messi back would not be an easy task.
Currently, Messi plays in Major League Soccer for Inter Miami, having extended his contract with the club until 2028. While many speculate that he may end his career in the United States, Messi has repeatedly expressed his desire to eventually return to Barcelona with his family in his retirement years.
Font’s pledge to restore Messi’s place at Barcelona has already sparked considerable debate ahead of the election. Ultimately, the results of the vote will determine whether Barcelona’s future revolves once again around the club’s most iconic figure.