Newly-Elected FC Barcelona President Praises Messi for Taking Part in Vote, Sees Leo Staying at Club

Following his victory in the FC Barcelona presidential elections, Joan Laporta has highlighted the role forward Lionel Messi plays at the club and praised the Argentinian player for taking part in the vote.

"Seeing Lionel Messi coming to vote today, seeing him taking part, that is very telling", The Goal cited the newly-elected president as saying.

Laporta expressed confidence that Messi is going to stay with the club, stressing it has been 20 years since the Argentinian striker made his debut with Barcelona's youth team.

"The best player in the world loves Barca and I hope that is a sign that he will stay at Barcelona, which is what we all want". Laporta told a news conference. 

Elections for the FC Barcelona presidency followed a raid at the club's offices last week when the former president of the club, Josep Bartomeu, was arrested on corruption charges. Bartomeu was earlier accused of hiring social media company I3 Ventures to attack and criticise current players and protect the reputation of the club's managing board.  

Joan Laporta is no stranger to Barca. He was at the helm for around seven years, from 2003 to 2010. The 58-year-old boss was highly revered by the club's fans for successful transfer campaigns, which included signing deals with then-superstars Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o. During Laporta's seven-year stint at the Camp Nou, FC Barcelona enjoyed one of the best times in its history, scooping up two Champions League titles, four La Liga titles, and the Copa del Rey.