The Dream of Many FC Barcelona Fans Could Come True: Lionel Messi is closer to returning to the club where he made history. According to journalist Álex Candal from DIRECTV Sports, the Argentine has decided to return to Barça once his contract with Inter Miami ends in December 2025.
After his surprising departure in 2021, when he had to leave the club due to the entity's financial problems, Messi went through PSG and currently plays in MLS. Despite this, his desire has always been to say goodbye to European soccer wearing Barça's jersey, something he couldn't do at the time. Although Camp Nou isn't ready yet, the Argentine would be willing to play at Montjuïc or any stadium the club chooses, as long as he can close his career at the elite level with the team of his life.
At 38 years old, Messi still maintains an exceptional level and remains pivotal for both Inter Miami and the Argentine national team. His primary goal is to reach the 2026 World Cup optimally, and for this, he considers one last season in Europe necessary to remain at the highest competitive level. Barcelona, under the direction of Hansi Flick, is currently undergoing reconstruction, cultivating young talents like Lamine Yamal, Gavi, and Pedri. Messi's return could furnish experience, leadership, and quality to this project, becoming both on-field and off-field reference.
But is his return to Barça feasible? While excitement abounds at the prospect of Messi’s signing, there are pressing economic factors FC Barcelona must assess. The club is still struggling to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. The feasibility of bringing back the Argentine star hinges on whether Joan Laporta's administration can find ways to register him without compromising the club's financial stability. It is worth noting, though, Messi has never prioritized money when it concerns Barça. Although his MLS contract figures are astronomical, he might accept salary reductions to facilitate his return.
Beyond salary logistics, Messi’s return would significantly boost Barcelona’s commercial and marketing revenue, as the club leveraged during his golden years. Since his departure, fans have yearned for another chance to see Messi donned once more in the blue and garnet jersey. Although his move to PSG was disheartening, he has consistently expressed love and respect for the club and the city. His return would allow the football icon to close his chapter with Barcelona on the best terms possible, fitting for his legendary status.
Meanwhile, recent reports suggest Messi is not only willing to return but also has specific conditions. He’s reportedly demanding three last-minute signings for securing his contract with Barça when he arrives. Messi, who recently turned 37, has opted not to extend his contract with Inter Miami, which gives Barcelona the opportunity to sign him free by the end of 2025. According to reports by 'e-Notícies', Messi expects the club to fulfill these requests before finalizing any deal.
Laporta, the Barça president, recognizes the significance of bringing Messi back, considering it to be one of the unfinished business from years past when financial restrictions forced his departure. The player himself dreams of ending his storied career wearing the Barça kit and has stressed the need for guarantees before returning. This means the club is not only focused on the logistics of his contract, but also on creating a conducive atmosphere for Messi's return.
To make Messi’s arrival successful, Barcelona needs to fulfill demands beyond the financial aspect. The legendary athlete expects the club to recruit his personal adviser, Pepe Costa, along with physical trainers who assist him daily. This personal touch is significant for Messi’s comfort as he transitions back to the club where he spent so many successful years. It’s indicative of Messi’s commitment to ensuring both his and the team’s success.
The situation offers insights not just about Messi's career path but also what it might mean for FC Barcelona’s future ambitions. The prospect of Messi’s return only fuels excitement but also raises questions about the club's financial strategies moving forward. Can they successfully maneuver around existing limitations to accommodate one of their greatest players?
While this saga continues to develop, one undeniable fact is Messi’s deep-rooted connection to FC Barcelona. Barring any dramatic shifts, it seems increasingly likely the football icon might once again grace the field wearing the colors of the club he helped define. The excitement builds as fans and stakeholders await to see how this story concludes. Could 2025 be the year Messi finally returns home to cap off his illustrious career? The coming weeks will be pivotal as more developments are anticipated, but for now, both Messi and Barça seem set on reuniting, marking what could become one of the sport's most significant comebacks. The culé fans wait with bated breath as the dream of Messi’s return inches closer to reality.