Major League Soccer
Newell’s Old Boys Target Lionel Messi Return As Face Of Ambitious Argentine Football Project
Lionel Messi could be set for a dream return to Newell’s Old Boys in 2027, according to the club’s vice-president Juan Manuel Medina. The Inter Miami superstar, who began his football journey in the youth ranks at Newell’s, is being eyed as the centerpiece of a “project for the city of Rosario” and Argentine football at large.
Newell’s Chase Messi Homecoming
Messi, who recently extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2028, remains in top form at the age of 38. Despite this, speculation linking him with a return to his boyhood club has persisted, fueled by statements from Newell’s head coach Favio Orsi, who told ESPN last month:
“Everyone at Newell’s, including us, thinks it would be wonderful if he had the chance to play for his club and in his city.”
Now, Medina has confirmed that the club is actively exploring a move, potentially during the MLS offseason in 2027:
“We are working on Leo playing for Newell’s in the first half of 2027, but for now, there is nothing more than that. It’s a project that goes beyond Newell’s. It’s a project for the city of Rosario, the province, and Argentine football.”
Logistics And Talks Underway
Medina hinted that any potential deal would depend on what Newell’s can offer in terms of infrastructure and a competitive sports program. Initial contact has reportedly been made with Messi’s entourage, but no formal decisions have been reached:
“There was talk, the idea was raised, but today there are no decisions,” he added.
Former Newell’s president Ignacio Astore also weighed in on Messi’s potential return, emphasizing the club’s long-term desire to see him back:
“The institution will always want Messi, even if it’s just one tournament, eight matches, six, four, one match… to play it in a Newell’s jersey. That’s the reality.”
Even the Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia has given approval for the move, though Messi himself has yet to publicly confirm whether he would be open to the return.
What It Means For Argentine Football
A Messi homecoming would not only be a fairy-tale moment for Newell’s, but also a massive boost for Argentine football, inspiring young players and elevating the profile of the Liga Profesional. Medina’s vision positions Messi not just as a player, but as the face of a wider project aimed at developing the sport in Rosario and beyond.
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