Lionel Messi Will Join Barcelona?

Lionel Messi is said to have a new destination in mind after his stint at Inter Miami. As for some of the clubs associated with Messi, media reports indicate that the Argentine legend’s heart has not left its boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys as well as possibly returning to Europe and more importantly, Barcelona.

Lionel Messi’s Love for Barcelona

Argentine media personality and close family friend of Messi, Yanina Latorre, has quoted that the football icon wants to go back to the Catalan city where he spent most of his career. She spoke about her conversation with Messi when she visited his Florida home.

“He told me that when he finishes here [in Miami], where he is happy, he will return to Barcelona,” Latorre revealed. When asked about the possibility of extending his stay in Miami, Messi reportedly said, “No, my place is there.”

Messi, who signed with Inter Miami in 2023, has one season left on his Major League Soccer (MLS) contract. However, his sentiment towards Barcelona has reignited speculation about a potential homecoming. The Catalan club holds immense sentimental value for Messi. who spent over two decades there, becoming one of football’s greatest players.

A Homecoming to Barcelona?

The departure of Messi from Barcelona in 2021 due to financial difficulties was heartbreaking for the player as well as fans. A return to Camp Nou would be a full-circle moment where the Argentine would be able to complete his career where it started.

Barcelona President Joan Laporta has hinted at the possibility of a reunion, but that remains to be seen as the club’s financial situation and plans for the squad align with the intentions of Messi.

Inter Miami’s Hope to Retain Lionel Messi

Despite Messi’s aspirations, Inter Miami’s co-owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas are determined to keep their star player. Speaking in late 2023, Mas told ESPN: “Messi is under contract through 2025. Leo and I will sit and discuss the future. I fully expect that in the opening of our new stadium in 2026, Leo Messi will be our No. 10.”

Inter Miami is optimistic about extending Messi’s stay, especially with their new state-of-the-art Miami Freedom Park stadium set to open in 2026.

The MLS side has significant milestones ahead, including their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup and the 2025 MLS season, where Messi’s leadership will be pivotal.

Messi’s Current Focus

For now, Messi remains focused on his responsibilities with Inter Miami. His impact on the team since joining in 2023 has been transformative, leading them to silverware and increasing global attention on MLS. Fans in Miami are enjoying every moment of Messi’s magic, even as rumors of his Barcelona return swirl.