In an exhilarating announcement that’s sure to send shockwaves through the football world, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed plans for a statue of none other than Lionel Messi at the iconic Camp Nou! This move isn’t just a tribute; it’s a grand spectacle to honor a player who has supposedly changed the course of football history forever. Laporta's declaration showcases the overwhelming admiration and emotional attachment that the club and its fanatical supporters have for Messi, a man many herald as the greatest footballer of all time.

Messi, now a stunning 38 years old, made a surprise appearance at Camp Nou recently,just as he was preparing to represent Argentina on the international stage. In a dramatic twist, he took to social media to share heartfelt images and a touching message, expressing his longing for a proper farewell that he was tragically denied when he left Barcelona. His words struck a chord with fans, a clear indication of the deep emotional bond he shares with the club and its devoted supporters.

During the presentation of a book about La Masia, Barcelona’s illustrious youth academy, Laporta didn’t hold back, stating, "Messi deserves the tribute at Can Barça, the most beautiful in the world." It sounds more like a theatrical performance than a statement! “We always think that more has to be done for Messi,” he declared, emphasizing the club’s apparent commitment to recognizing its former stars' contributions,though one has to wonder if it’s more about image than sincerity.

Laporta went on to draw comparisons between Messi and other club legends like Ladislao Kubala and Johan Cruyff, who already have their own statues gracing the grounds of Camp Nou. "I think Messi should have a statue at Camp Nou. He’s one of those iconic players who have defined an era for all of us," he proclaimed. 

Messi’s exit from Barcelona in August 2021 was nothing short of a dramatic saga. Forced to leave as a free agent amid a financial crisis, the lack of a proper farewell due to COVID-19 restrictions left many in tears. After spending a staggering 21 years at Barcelona and amassing an almost unbelievable 34 titles, Messi holds the title of the club’s all-time leading scorer. 

In reflecting on his departure, Messi acknowledged the less-than-ideal circumstances under which he left. His relationship with Laporta cooled post-exit, causing endless debates among fans and analysts. 

Laporta teased that discussions about the statue are ongoing, emphasizing the necessity of involving Messi’s family in the process. "When the time is right and we have the design, we’ll bring it up. We would be very pleased; all Barcelona fans would love to have a statue of Leo Messi where the great figures in Barça’s history are," he stated, almost as if he were orchestrating a grand unveiling for the ages.

Meanwhile, Messi is living the good life across the Atlantic with Inter Miami, after a notable stint with Paris Saint-Germain and a recent contract extension that keeps him in Florida until 2028. Despite his new beginning, the looming statue at Camp Nou serves as a constant reminder of Messi's extraordinary legacy and his seemingly unmatched impact on FC Barcelona.