Dudu Dahan Reveals Lionel Messi Blocked His Barcelona Transfer
Former Israeli goalkeeper Dudu Dahan has revealed that Lionel Messi was instrumental in preventing his transfer to FC Barcelona in 2006. Dahan, who played for several Spanish clubs during his career, stated that all the details for his move to Barcelona had been finalized. He was slated to become the second-choice goalkeeper behind Victor Valdes, competing with Jose Manuel Pinto for the role.
However, Dahan explained that the transfer ultimately fell through because Messi intervened. According to Dahan, Messi was friends with Pinto, and this relationship influenced the club's decision. Messi's alleged involvement led to Pinto being signed instead of Dahan, thus blocking his move to the Catalan giants.
Dahan shared this story during an appearance on the Champions League channel, recalling the near-transfer that would have seen him join one of Europe's top clubs. He concluded that Messi's influence was the decisive factor in the deal's collapse.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
