Lionel Messi playing for Inter Miami in MLS action
If there’s one dream Barcelona fans refuse to let die, it’s the idea of Lionel Messi returning to Camp Nou wearing the famous No.10.
But according to club president Joan Laporta, that dream needs to be gently packed away in a box labeled nostalgia.
Laporta once again shut down rumours of a sensational loan move from Inter Miami, saying bluntly that anyone hoping for Messi’s return “lives in the past” and that such a scenario simply isn’t “realistic.”
Barça may honour Messi forever — but his playing comeback?
Case closed.
Messi isn’t exactly sitting around waiting for Barcelona to call.
The Argentine legend is fully invested in his MLS journey and recently signed a three-year extension with Inter Miami — a deal that runs through the 2028 season and past his 40th birthday.
And with MLS restructuring its calendar to align with the global football schedule, winter loan stints in Europe (like the ones some players pull off) are becoming less feasible.
In short:
Messi is a Miami man for now.
Barcelona’s leadership is focused on building a competitive, youthful squad for the future.
And while Messi remains the greatest footballer in the club’s history, Laporta insists that bringing him back as a player doesn’t fit the club’s reality.
“Leo Messi’s return as a player is just not realistic. He has a contract with Inter Miami. The club is building a project for the present and future.”
Still, Barcelona does plan to celebrate Messi properly:
✔️ A planned friendly/exhibition match at Camp Nou once renovations are complete
✔️ A statue of Messi outside the stadium
✔️ Permanent institutional recognition for their greatest ever player
Messi may not return in the dressing room — but he’ll return in history.
Here’s where the story gets emotional.
Messi has made it clear that while his playing boots remain in Miami, his heart still sits in Barcelona.
In a recent interview, he revealed that he and Antonela — along with their children — fully intend to move back to Catalunya.
“We miss Barcelona a lot… We constantly talk about the idea of moving back. It’s our home.”
He also said he can’t wait to step back into the finished Camp Nou — this time as a supporter.
Imagine Messi in the stands, cheering the team like any other Culé.
Goosebumps.
Messi’s story with Barcelona is complete — glorious, emotional, and immortal.
But his playing future is firmly with Inter Miami, where he continues expanding his legacy in new ways.
Barça has moved forward.
Messi has moved forward.
And the fans?
Maybe it’s time they do too — while still celebrating the magical past.
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