Xavi responds to scathing Joan Laporta attack, says he stands by the truth | OneFootball

Xavi has responded amid an increasingly heated Barcelona presidential race, posting: “With the truth in front of me, always! With Barça in our hearts, always! Long live Barça!” Marca reports that the message appeared on his social channels.

His intervention follows claims this week that Joan Laporta vetoed Lionel Messi’s return in the summer of 2023. Xavi also said Laporta failed him over his dismissal 12 months later, weeks after he had been persuaded not to resign at the end of the 2023-24 season.

Laporta responded the next day, accusing the former manager of holding a grudge. He also denied sabotaging any Messi comeback, saying La Liga had not given the green light for a deal.

The timing, with Sunday’s vote imminent, means Xavi’s remarks will be fresh in the minds of Barcelona members and could influence who becomes the club’s next president.

Laporta still appears the favourite to secure a fourth mandate, although Xavi’s comments could aid Victor Font, the candidate he has endorsed.

Source: Football Espana