CONFIRMED: Messi is definitely returning to Barca

According to sources in Spain, Lionel Messi is continuing to outline plans for a future tied to Barcelona.

Reports from SPORTstate that Lionel Messi intends to return to Barcelona after his contract with Inter Miami ends. The Argentine superstar reportedly expressed his desire to come back to the club deeply connected to his career and life. After retiring, his family has agreed to settle back in Barcelona, where Messi still owns a home. At that time, he is also ready to consider taking a more active role in the club's operations, initially hoping to join the sports management department led by a president he truly trusts.

Messi, winner of 8 Ballon d'Or awards, once aspired to be a one-club man after rising through the renowned La Masia academy. Wearing Barcelona’s jersey, he rewrote history by breaking numerous records. Over 778 appearances, Messi scored 672 goals, playing a crucial role in helping the Catalan team win 10 La Liga titles and 4 Champions League trophies.

However, that bond ended when Messi’s contract expired. Financial difficulties at Camp Nou prevented Barcelona from renewing his deal, forcing him to leave and join PSG on a free transfer. His time in France did not bring much comfort to his family, and after two seasons at Parc des Princes, he decided to seek a new direction.

In 2023, Messi accepted David Beckham’s invitation to play in the United States for Inter Miami. There, he continued to assert his status as the most decorated player in history by winning the Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and MLS Cup. Messi’s family has now settled in South Florida, and he recently signed a new contract with the club

At the end of last year, Messi made a quiet visit to Camp Nou to see the iconic stadium undergoing renovations. The possibility of him returning to play for Barcelona has been ruled out, given the strained relationship with the current president Joan Laporta.

Nevertheless, multiple sources suggest that Barcelona might organize a friendly or testimonial match to allow Messi one last appearance at Camp Nou and to properly say farewell to fans who still regard him as the greatest player in history. The idea of creating a Messi statue to honor his contributions has also been mentioned but no concrete progress has been made yet.

While awaiting the day to return home, Messi remains focused on winning more major titles with Inter Miami and aims to help the Argentina national team defend their World Cup title in the summer of 2026.