'Barcelona is above everything, even the best player in the world', says Laporta about Messi

The 5 clubs where Messi would do the best, according to Varsky 1:19

(CNN) -

Barcelona president Joan Laporta said on Friday that the club and Lionel Messi wanted to sign a new contract, but ultimately the salary conditions under the Spanish league's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules. they prevented an agreement from being reached.

Speaking at a press conference, Laporta said that current salaries represent 110% of the club's total income, which means there was no "room" for movement.

Does FC Barcelona say goodbye to Messi?

Varsky tells us 5:37

"Renewing Messi carried certain risks [...] but we cannot put the club at greater risk," Laporta said.

"Barcelona is above everything, even the best player in the world," he added.

Laporta said the club and Messi had initially agreed to a two-year contract to be paid over a five-year period, and then a five-year contract.

This is how Argentina reacts to the goodbye of Messi and FC Barcelona 4:42

Even with Messi's reduced salary, Laporta said that salaries would still represent 95% of the club's income, leaving little room for maneuver.

advertising

The Barça president said that he realized two days ago (Wednesday) that re-signing Messi was no longer a possibility.

“I don't want to create false hopes.

The player also has other options open to him.

There was a time limit, for us and also for Messi.

“Leo wanted to stay […] We all wanted him to stay, so now he's like us, facing reality.

I wish you the best wherever you go.

Barça will always be his home, "Laporta said.

The most iconic moments of Messi with FC Barcelona 1:58

Laporta added that a recent audit showed that the club's finances inherited from the previous administration were "much worse" than expected.

Laporta said Friday heralded the beginning of a new era and said he was convinced the post-Messi era would be successful.

"We are more motivated than ever, a high level will be demanded of us and we are ready to take on the challenge that, without Messi, Barça continues to give joy," said Laporta.

Lionel messi