Barcelona presidential candidate Marc Ciria: ‘We need Messi, he’s fundamental to the club’s present and future’

Earlier at this time, Marc Ciria, one of many pre-candidates for the upcoming FC Barcelona presidential elections, unveiled a large banner that includes membership legend Lionel Messi.

The banner depicted the enduring picture of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner holding up his Barça shirt to the group on the Santiago Bernabeu.

The banner additionally included a QR code permitting supporters to ship video messages of affection and help to the previous captain.

The goal was for Messi to obtain first-hand the love of the individuals of Barcelona, reminding him that he’s not forgotten and that he’s nonetheless awaited with open arms.

Marc Ciria explains banner

Following the response generated by the banner that includes Messi, Ciria introduced the electoral headquarters of ‘Moviment 42’ in Barcelona.

Simply metres from the Spotify Camp Nou, in a room named the “Messi Room”, Ciria described the banner initiative as a tribute to the Argentine legend.

“We do issues proper. That’s what I’ll let you know. It is a tribute. The tribute he didn’t obtain when he was expelled from the membership, and which he deserves. We hope to stay as much as it,” stated Ciria.

“We hope that every one the movies being despatched by members and followers from around the globe will make him see that there isn’t only one voice. Each time we meet with members, they inform us that we now have to present it our all to deliver Leo Messi again.”

Persevering with, he added: “Since 2021, we’ve been saying that one of many largest strategic errors within the membership’s historical past was expelling Leo Messi. And we’ve been saying since 2021 the necessity for Leo Messi to return.

“We want him. He’s elementary to Barça’s current and future.”

Trying ahead to seeing you once more ❤️ pic.twitter.com/papPkddCVB

— Marc Ciria and Roig (@CiriaMarc) February 18, 2026

“This tribute comes from ardour, emotion, and the knowledge that we’re the correct individuals. Nearly all of members wish to recapture the joy of getting one of the best participant in historical past again dwelling, the place he ought to by no means have left,” Ciria additional acknowledged.

Nevertheless, Ciria additionally harassed that Messi would solely return as a participant if the sporting division authorized it.

“Marc Ciria can’t and shouldn’t resolve to signal or launch gamers; that’s the duty of an expert sporting director,” he famous.

Taking a dig at Joan Laporta, who lately stepped down as president to contest within the elections, Ciria added:

“Certainly one of them places his face on it, and we put up one of the best participant within the historical past of soccer.”

As for the previous president’s feedback about inexperienced candidates probably ruining the membership, Ciria acknowledged:

“When he talks about inexperienced individuals who may break the membership… Spoil? We’re already ruined, we’re already ruined! 850 million bought, losses of 230 million, no truthful play compliance, and refinancing debt.”

“In 2003, individuals additionally got here in with out expertise. If we put it on the desk who has extra expertise to show the membership round, we win arms down,” he asserted.

Supply: SPORT