Joan Laporta already planning Lionel Messi’s grand send-off into retirement

Joan Laporta is seemingly planning ahead for Lionel Messi’s retirement, and spoke out about his intentions recently. 

“I feel indebted to Leo Messi. I’d love end of his career to be at Barcelona with a standing ovation in every stadium. I think we can make it happen”. 

“That’s our aspiration, my intention with Leo is clear”, Laporta added in quotes carried by Toni Juanmarti. 

Joan Laporta speaks on a potential farewell for Lionel Messi 

The Argentine had an emotional departure from Barcelona last summer, owing to contract problems. He has since joined PSG, and has a contract until the end of the 22/23 season. The French club are looking at ways of extending his contract for another season. 

But, the player is not willing to commit to a renewal just yet. His main goal right now is the 2022 World Cup. Argentina are in exceptional form, and are the favourites to win the World Cup this year in Qatar. 

Regardless of the outcome, there is a chance that Lionel Messi could hang up his boots on the other side of the tournament. However, the forward has not confirmed his intentions just yet. 

Joan Laporta also spoke about his desire to bring back Messi to Camp Nou for a second spell recently. While the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is currently under contract at PSG, things could change in the near future if he wants the move to happen as well.