Former Barcelona president criticizes Messi, says club bigger than any player

Former Barcelona president Joan Gaspart has launched a scathing attack on Argentine star Lionel Messi, insisting that Barcelona will always be bigger than any player, no matter how great.

In comments reported by local media, Gaspart described Messi as the best in the world and a great player, but stressed that there is one thing Messi should never forget: Barcelona comes before everyone. He added, "He needs to be careful."

Gaspart, who signed Messi when he was just 13, said his view comes from a long-standing affection for the player, emphasizing that Messi's global success is partly thanks to Barcelona, though he did not specify to what extent.

He called on Messi to return to Barcelona to bid farewell to the fans, saying he would give him some time, but would be disappointed if Messi made no effort to do so, regardless of who is currently president of the club.

Messi's popularity waning among younger fans

During his remarks, Gaspart cited an incident with his grandchildren, noting that Messi's popularity has declined in favor of young player Lamine Yamal. He recounted asking his grandchildren whether they preferred a Messi or Lamine Yamal shirt, and they chose the latter without hesitation, even questioning who Messi was.