Xavi reveals why 'Lionel Messi opted to join Inter Miami' over Barcelona

The Argentine's dream of re-joining Barcelona didnt come true

Xavi has commented on Lionel Messi's choice to sign with MLS team Inter Miami rather than go back to Barcelona.

The Barcelona manager has been clear about how sad he is that Messi decided to go to the United States rather than return home.

After discussing the problem with Gerard Romero, Xavi gave him the following answer.

“The last days, weeks, I had noticed that he didn’t see his return clearly. You have to understand it, being Messi is not easy. Everyone is interested in you, he never has calm,” he said.

“Leo explained it, for the past two years he was unhappy. I can understand that he doesn’t want so much pressure anymore. I spoke with him a lot and we were all excited. But in the end it hasn’t happened. He has explained the circumstances very well. He wants a quieter and more family life."

“It’s Messi’s personal decision and you have to respect him because he’s the best player in history. I was convinced that we would do well with him. I respect Messi and I wish him all the best. It has not been an easy situation for him, of course.”

The legendary Argentine declared on Wednesday night that he planned to play for Inter Miami instead of Barcelona for the upcoming campaign, emphasising the desire to prevent what occurred to him two years ago after Barcelona retracted their contract offer just before he was scheduled to sign.

He did not want to take that chance again because Barcelona still needs to make deals this summer to ensure they can get Messi.

Xavi gave off the impression that he truly believed a transfer could take place, but his recent words have also undoubtedly put pressure on Messi to make a choice.

It is understandable that Messi would prefer a more laid-back career twilight after spending 16 years at the pinnacle of the football world, particularly following winning the World Cup.

Now that the transfer market has opened, Barcelona and Xavi will continue preparing for the upcoming campaign. La Liga has approved the club's viability plan, but sales are necessary if Barca wants to sign new players.