Jorge Messi: Leo grew up with Barcelona and loves the club
by TomConn | Posted on Saturday, December 21st, 2013
Jorge Messi, the father of Barcelona’s four-time Ballon d’Or winner, Leo Messi has defended his son’s recent comments criticising club vice president, Javier Faus and insists that the Argentine captain is not trying to start a rift with Barcelona and wants to remain there for his career.
In an interview with Argentinean newspaper, Ole, Messi spoke about Leo stating Faus knows nothing about football and that the club should have better directors, wishing to close the chapter while insisting that the 26-year-old has no desire to leave the Camp Nou.
“I think we should close this brief chapter right now. It was nothing more than a direct response from Leo about public statements by Mr. Faus. It was said, full stop. We need to look forward, not backward. When Lionel says something, it always generates news. We don’t want this to generate conflict with the club or the president, let alone the Barca fans, and everyone at the club should be as professional as Leo.
“Leo comments were very strong and have snuffed out a lot of rumours that were completely unfounded. Although it was not necessary, I appreciate it. It’s a very important year for LMM and the Leo Messi Foundation because of the new projects that we are beginning this year and the projects we are looking into. This year my dedication to the Foundation will be complete and crucial.
“Leo has grown up with Barcelona and loves it. His total commitment is to FC Barcelona and his love for it goes beyond what anyone may think. There is no way that anyone can doubt that Leo is at Barcelona because of the way he feels about it and what the club represents.”
Jorge went on to add that Leo’s recent statements are not indicative of a rift with the current board and he has nothing to do with rumours that Messi wants a renewed contract.
“There are no problems whatsoever with the current board. In recent months, president Rosell has offered his support at all times, we appreciate these gestures and given the entity that is FC Barcelona, we may need them at some point. The support is indicative of the esteem they have for Lionel. Their goals are our goals, we want to achieve the maximum amount of titles for an institution which we both represent.
“I can say with absolute conviction that we had nothing to do with a proposed renewal or improved contract. We don’t wish to generate any tension regarding this topic. If the Club calls on us, we will sit down with their directors. On the topic of Leo’s future at Barcelona, Barcelona fans should know that his future is tied to this club.”
Jorge went on to wish all ‘Cules’ a very happy holidays and prosperous new year.
“As it’s that time of year, I would like to wish everyone, but especially all the Cule family a very happy holidays and a new year with good results, and above all, health.”