Lionel Messi's decision to join Inter Miami has caused a lot of reactions in world football, but one of the most surprising came from one of the teams in the running to sign him after his spell with PSG came to an abrupt.

The team in question was none other than Barcelona, who were quick to react to Messi's announcement in quite a baffling manner. The Blaugrana side issued a press release where they acknowledged Messi's decision and even wished him well in his new professional move, but what really sparked controversy and criticism came later.

In the press release, Barcelona seemed to excuse president Joan Laporta from any wrongdoing in all negotiations to bring Messi back to Camp Nou, but while they did that, they ended up aiming a massive dig at the footballer, as their choice of words seemed to mock Messi's choice.

"President Laporta understood and respected Messi's decision to want to compete in a league with fewer demands, further away from the spotlight and the pressure he has been subject to in recent years," the document states.

Such comments in the press release sparked outrage from football fans, who slammed Barcelona for the words chosen to express their regret on Messi's decision. "Broke club," "finished club,"and "useless statement," were some of the comments this press release sparked, ultimately tarnishing the team's good name for what seems as a tacky way to show their discomfort over Messi's call.

The disrespect pic.twitter.com/8utn2NN6MB

— rageefffect - FUT trader (@rageefffect_) June 7, 2023

He rejected Bankruptlona

— Txrret (@AbzSemtex) June 7, 2023

This is low from Barcelona. Considering they are talking about their best player in club history.

Don't patronize his decision. He can do what he wants. Un poco de respeto. https://t.co/2dD6Zs2gfQ

— Nico Cantor (@Nicocantor1) June 7, 2023

Laporta just called Messi finished and unable to compete at the highest level of football. United didn't even disrespect Ronaldo this way https://t.co/YZFNZCUBE6 pic.twitter.com/svZ66MStrC

— LERRY (@_AsiwajuLerry) June 7, 2023

There are ways of honoring the best player to ever play for your Club.

This ain't one of them. It's not only a shot at MLS, but a direct shot at Messi.

Laporta continues to disappoint. #Messi