Since leaving PSG as a free player in the summer of 2021, there has been much speculation about the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to Barcelona one day.
The first time was when his contract with PSG ended in 2023. The second time is before the current season with Inter Miami. Now, for the third time, this seemingly endless story has once again appeared in the media.
A few days ago, famous journalist Alex Candal released a blockbuster report: Leo Messi confessed to him that he wanted to return to Barcelona and play at the new stadium after Camp Nou was renovated. Journalist Candal revealed that Messi told him "not to retire if he is not playing at Camp Nou".
Fans immediately noticed that Alex Candal was a fairly reliable source, having been one of the first writers to announce Messi's departure from Barcelona. Later, when Messi was preparing to go to the US, Candal also gave the news very early.
Notably, Messi's current contract with Inter Miami ended in December 2025 and there is still no news about the possibility of a contract extension.
Messi's love for Barcelona is undeniable. It is not surprising if the Argentine star wishes to return to his former team. However, at the age of 37, this deal is very complicated.
In fact, journalist Guillem Balague - who has a good relationship with Barcelona - denied the above news. He provided some important details, including: Messi has no intention of returning to Barcelona when Joan Laporta is still the club's president.
Laporta had promised to solve Messi's problem in 2021 but in the end did not do so. According to Football Espana, Mr. Laporta ran for the presidency with the promise not to let Messi leave.
But when he returned to the team after the 2021 summer break to discuss a new contract, Laporta informed Messi's agent that they would withdraw the offer due to the club's financial situation and salary limitations. That caused a rift in the relationship between the two sides.
On the other hand, Inter Miami are confident that they can keep him at the club after this season. Journalist Balague also concluded that the possibility of staying in the US for another year was the most feasible for Messi.
In 21 years of association, Messi has become a legend of Barcelona. He has won 34 titles, including 4 UEFA Champions League and 10 La Liga. The Argentine has scored 672 goals and 303 assists in 778 appearances for the club.
Messi's surprise departure in the summer of 2021 still left many regrets for fans. Many people are still looking forward to seeing the 37-year-old superstar retire in the club shirt that he has made a name for himself with and the glorious years of his career.
