Is a Messi Return to Barcelona Really Possible? Font Stakes Campaign on ‘Last Dance’
The Barcelona presidential race is heating up, and Lionel Messi’s name remains central to the debate. Victor Font, a prominent candidate, is once again positioning himself as the key to bringing the Argentine legend back to the Camp Nou, but with a significant caveat: Joan Laporta must not be re-elected.
Font’s Vision: An Honorary Presidency and a Farewell on the Pitch
Font isn’t simply promising to sign Messi; he’s outlining a comprehensive plan that extends beyond playing time. He proposes an honorary presidency for Messi, recognizing his immense contribution to the club, coupled with a lifetime commercial agreement designed to leverage the Messi brand for Barcelona’s economic benefit. This echoes successful partnerships like the one between Michael Jordan and Nike.
Central to Font’s vision is a proper farewell for Messi. He believes the Argentine deserves to say goodbye “wearing shorts at Spotify Camp Nou after the World Cup to receive the tribute he deserves,” a stark contrast to his unceremonious departure in 2021 due to the club’s financial difficulties.
A History of Broken Promises? Font Attacks Laporta’s Record
Font is directly challenging the current president, Joan Laporta, accusing him of mishandling Messi’s departure and failing to maintain a positive relationship with the player. He claims Laporta “deceived Messi twice, in 2021 and in 2023,” fueling the narrative that a reconciliation is impossible under Laporta’s leadership.
Font argues that the previous board prioritized relations with Real Madrid over maintaining a strong connection with its greatest player. “We did not break relations with Florentino. We broke them with Messi. It is extremely serious,” he stated.
The 2026 Election: A Repeat of Past Battles
This isn’t the first time Font has campaigned on a Messi-centric platform. In the previous Barcelona election, his manifesto revolved around securing Xavi Hernandez as coach and keeping Messi at the club. While Xavi did eventually develop into manager, financial constraints led to Messi’s exit. Font is hoping to capitalize on the perceived failures of the current administration and present himself as the candidate who can finally deliver on the promise of a Messi return.
Economic Implications: The ‘Messi-Barça’ Brand
Font envisions a powerful synergy between the Messi and Barcelona brands, aiming for a partnership that mirrors the success of the Jordan-Nike collaboration. He believes this could unlock significant economic potential for the club, though the logistics of such a partnership, given Messi’s existing deal with Adidas and Barcelona’s partnership with Nike, remain complex.
FAQ
Q: What is Victor Font’s main promise in the Barcelona presidential election?
A: To bring Lionel Messi back to Barcelona and give him a proper farewell.
Q: What role does Joan Laporta play in Font’s plan?
A: Font believes Messi will not return to Barcelona if Laporta is re-elected.
Q: What is Font proposing for Messi beyond playing time?
A: An honorary presidency and a lifetime commercial agreement.
Q: When did Font first present his idea to the Messi family?
A: Mid-2023.
Did you know? Victor Font’s campaign is heavily reliant on the idea that Messi’s values – commitment, leadership, honesty, and love for Barcelona – align with the club’s identity.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the economic feasibility of Font’s proposed commercial partnership between Messi and Barcelona, given existing sponsorship deals.
What are your thoughts on Font’s plan? Share your opinions in the comments below! Explore more articles on Barcelona’s presidential election and the future of La Liga on our website.
