Gaspart admits he “spoke from the heart” about Messi

“I spoke from the heart”: Joan Gaspart has revisited his controversial comments about Lionel Messi. The former president of FC Barcelona acknowledges that his wording was unfortunate, while maintaining that his affection for the player shaped what he said.

A few days ago, Gaspart told Messi: “Who does he think he is? He must be careful, because the institution of Barça is bigger than him.” He was referring to the possibility of a tribute to the player in the city of Barcelona. A few days later, he spoke publicly to clarify his position.

On the programme “Solo para culés”, Gaspart said he did not apologise to his children when he criticised them, even if he might be wrong, as long as he believed he was acting in their best interests. He then stressed how much he cared for Messi: “You can love Messi as much as I do, but you cannot love him more than I do.” He nevertheless acknowledged that, after rereading his comments, he realised he should not have expressed himself that way.

Gaspart also described their bond as similar to that between a father and son, in which a father may reprimand his child when he believes the child has acted badly. “Because I care for him so much, I went a little too far in my reaction,” he added.

The former executive conceded that he had mixed up several ideas. He reiterated that FC Barcelona should come before any individual, not just Messi. Gaspart also rejected the interpretation that his comments were intended to support the club’s current president.

Gaspart led the club between 2000 and 2003, leaving his position under pressure from angry supporters in circumstances he described as dramatic and sad.