Lionel Messi Reportedly Open to Sensational Barcelona Return After Inter Miami Spell

28 Jan 2025 ScoreWaves Staff view

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When it comes to players who define Barcelona, Lionel Messi stands head and shoulders above the rest. The Argentine icon carved an unparalleled legacy at the club, cementing his place as the greatest player in its history. However, his stint with the club ended on a sour note after Barcelona failed to renew his contract due to financial constraints. That was – and still is – the biggest heartbreak Barcelona fans have witnessed.

However, according to a close family friend, Lionel Messi has his heart set on a return to Barcelona once his time at Inter Miami comes to an end. In an interview with La Nacion, Yanina Latorre shared some insights into Messi’s plans, saying, “He (Messi) told me that when he finishes here (in Miami), where he is happy, he will return to Barcelona.” When asked if Messi might consider extending his stay in Miami, Latorre revealed the Argentine’s firm stance, quoting him as saying, “No, my place is there.”

However, Inter Miami’s co-owner Jorge Mas seems to have other plans for his superstar. Reflecting on Messi’s future during an interview at the end of 2024, Mas expressed his optimism about the player staying longer in Miami. “Leo and I will sit down to discuss the future,” Mas said. “I fully expect that in the opening of our new stadium in 2026 and the opening of our 2026 MLS season after a trophy-laden 2025 season, that Leo Messi will be our No. 10.”

Lionel Messi has taken MLS by storm, guiding Inter Miami to the 2024 playoffs and securing two trophies along the way. Moreover, Messi will also lead Inter Miami at the revamped Club World Cup, which will take place in the United States. But while his impact on the pitch has been undeniable, the idea of a return to Barcelona has always lingered in the background. Whether as a player or in another capacity, a reunion with the Catalan giants feels inevitable.

That said, coming back as a player might not be straightforward. Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles could complicate such a move, even though Messi would undoubtedly be greeted like a hero. A more realistic option might see the Argentine take on an ambassadorial role, continuing his deep connection with the club in a different way. For now, Messi is gearing up for what could be his final season in MLS, where he’ll look to build on an already impressive stint with Inter Miami. Whatever happens next, his next chapter will be one to watch.

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