Lionel Messi visiting Camp Nou stadium
Barcelona have confirmed that they will not fuel controversies or speculation about a possible return of Lionel Messi to Camp Nou, but the La Liga giants are planning a beautiful tribute for their all-time leading goalscorer.
Messi, who left Barcelona in 2021 to join Paris Saint-Germain, has since chased the American dream with Inter Miami, signing a contract extension through 2028. Despite the speculation of a potential playing return during the MLS offseason, Barcelona have made it clear that such a scenario is unlikely.
Club president Joan Laporta reiterated that Messi will always remain in the collective memory of Barcelona fans, explaining plans for a potential exhibition or friendly match to celebrate the Argentine legend.
“The tribute should take place at a time when we can thank him for everything he’s done for Barca. A tribute with a full Camp Nou, with 105,000 Barca fans thanking Messi for everything he’s done for the club, could be a beautiful thing,” Laporta said.
The club is also considering immortalising Messi in statue form, potentially alongside other icons like Kubala, Johan Cruyff, and Ronaldinho.
Messi recently visited the renovated Camp Nou, sharing a heartfelt post on social media:
“Last night I returned to a place I have missed with all my soul. A place where I was extraordinarily happy, where a thousand times you made me feel like the happiest person in the world. I hope one day I can come back, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to.”
While Messi and his wife Antonela plan a return to Barcelona at some stage, it is not expected that he will feature in a match wearing the iconic No.10 jersey again.
Sporting director Deco also weighed in on the speculation:
“I don’t think it’s possible because Leo is under contract and it was never even considered. Leo is always Leo, and he could still contribute something; he’s a great player, but it’s not something we’re going to talk about. The current situation is entirely speculative.”
Barcelona’s focus is clear: honour Messi’s legacy without fueling unrealistic expectations. For fans, it’s a chance to celebrate the player who defined an era at Camp Nou.
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