In the ever-evolving world of football, Lionel Messi has once again found himself at the centre of swirling rumours suggesting a return to FC Barcelona. The Argentine maestro, currently plying his trade at Inter Miami, has prompted talk of a temporary return to Europe, possibly on loan, as he eyes sharpening his prowess ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has addressed these rumours, maintaining a stance of caution. “I won’t make unrealistic or unfair speculations,” he remarked, as the football universe holds its breath over a potential Messi comeback to the Camp Nou, a ground he graced with unparalleled success.
Having notched up an astounding 792 goals across 972 club matches, alongside a formidable tally of 115 goals for his national side Argentina, Messi’s legacy is cemented. He has been showered with accolades including eight Ballon d’Ors and has lifted trophy after trophy during his illustrious career with Barcelona.
Speculation intensified following Messi’s surprise visit to the redevelopment site of Camp Nou, coinciding with Argentina’s friendly clash against Spain. The visit stirred emotions, further fuelled by a heartfelt social media message where Messi expressed hope for a future return, not just to say goodbye.
Barcelona’s presidential hopeful, Victor Font, has also thrown his hat into the mix, indicating that reaching out to Messi would be a priority should he be elected. “Personally, as a Barca fan, I get goosebumps,” Font expressed. He candidly acknowledged past missteps in handling Messi’s legacy, promising a fresh approach aimed at collaboration without exploitation.
Laporta, while avoiding fuelling any undue hype, has promised an extraordinary tribute to Messi when the day of retirement beckons. “We want to give him the most beautiful tribute ever seen,” he asserted, suggesting a grand spectacle with a packed stadium to honour Messi’s monumental contributions to the club.
Meanwhile, Messi, when quizzed on his potential participation in the 2026 World Cup, remained hopeful yet cautious, stating, “I hope I can be there. At worst, I’ll be there watching it live.” He lauded Argentina’s current squad, highlighting their winning mentality and unity under Lionel Scaloni’s tutelage—qualities that have reinvigorated Argentina’s footballing pride.
The narrative of Messi’s career is an ongoing saga, one that fans and pundits alike follow with fervent anticipation. Whether he dons the Barcelona shirt again remains a question, but his indelible impact on the game is beyond dispute.