Kevin-Prince Boateng says Messiâ??s approval was key to Barcelona move

Former Ghana international Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed that Lionel Messi’s approval was the final condition for his 2019 move to FC Barcelona.

Speaking on the “Unscripted” podcast, Boateng explained that despite agreement from the club’s hierarchy, the transfer could only proceed once Messi gave the green light.

Boateng stated that during negotiations, he received confirmation of Barcelona’s interest from both sporting directors, including Eric Abidal, as well as the club president and head coach. However, he was told the deal would not be completed until Messi, described by Boateng as the club’s most influential figure at the time, endorsed the decision.

"At that time, there were two sporting directors. One of them, Eric Abidal, told me: 'Yes, we want you.' The second one told me: 'We want you.' The president wanted me, and so did the coach. So I said: ‘Great, let’s sign tomorrow!’ But they replied: 'No, we have to talk to Leo first,'" Boateng recounted.

He admitted the situation left him anxious as he awaited the Argentine star’s verdict. "I went to sleep hoping that Leo would want me to come. I told myself I might become a Barcelona player the next day, but if Leo said no, I wouldn’t sign that contract."

Boateng eventually joined Barcelona on loan in January 2019, becoming the first Ghanaian to represent the club. He made four appearances before his spell ended six months later and went on to feature for Fiorentina, Besiktas, Monza, and Hertha Berlin before retiring in 2023.

 

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