The 38-year-old Argentine icon made an unexpected appearance at Camp Nou on Sunday, where he told supporters, “I hope one day I can return, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to do.”

Messi, who holds the record as Barcelona’s all-time top scorer and appearance maker, left the club in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain after financial difficulties made it impossible for Barca to renew his contract.

“Out of the utmost respect for Messi, the professionals at the club, Barca, and the Barca club members, I believe that now, to speculate on something unrealistic, nor do I think it is fair, is not appropriate,” Laporta said during an interview with Catalunya Radio.

Laporta, who was president during Messi’s departure, insisted he had no regrets about the decision, adding that “Barca is above everything.”

He also shared his intention to organise a tribute match for Messi once the newly renovated Camp Nou is ready.

“Things didn’t end the way we would have liked… if, in some way, this tribute can make up for what wasn’t done, I think it would be a good thing,” he said.

Laporta continued, “It would be right that he has the best tribute (match) in the world, and it would be wonderful to have it here, in front of 105,000 fans.”

He described Messi’s recent visit as a “spontaneous” act that showed his enduring affection for the club.

Currently, Messi plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and is in Spain with the Argentina national team as they prepare for a friendly match against Angola.