Xavi: Messi has upper hand as negotiations continue

Xavi: Messi has upper hand as negotiations continue

Barcelona head coach Xavi has expressed his belief that Lionel Messi has the upper hand as negotiations between the player’s father and Barca president Joan Laporta continue. Fans’ hopes of Messi returning to Camp Nou remain high, and Xavi provided an update after his team’s 2-0 friendly victory over Vissel Kobe on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Xavi said: “The situation is in the hands of the president and Leo’s father, so we’ll see how it turns out, but ultimately Leo has the upper hand.”

Messi’s father, Jorge, met with Laporta in Barcelona on Monday to continue negotiations. The player himself has reportedly made it clear that returning to Catalonia is a priority over other offers, such as those from the MLS and the Saudi Pro League. The Barca board, however, are working hard to ensure any agreement adheres to La Liga’s strict financial controls.

After a quick turnaround from their final league game to play an exhibition match across the world, Barcelona’s players now have some time off before returning for pre-season training. Hopefully, they will be able to welcome back Messi upon their return.