Catalan Giants Aim to Reunite with Legendary Star for New Stadium Opening and Proper Farewell
Barcelona are reportedly laying the groundwork to bring their greatest-ever player, Lionel Messi, back to the Camp Nou before he retires. The Argentine icon, who left the club in 2021 amid financial turmoil, could make a fairytale return to the place where he became a global superstar.
Messi’s departure from Barcelona three years ago marked the end of an era. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who spent 17 glorious years at the club, was forced to leave due to the club’s economic struggles, joining Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami in 2023. However, according to Maximiliano Grillo of TNT Sports Argentina, Barcelona are now exploring the possibility of reuniting with their legendary number 10 after the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States.
The club’s motivations are deeply sentimental. Messi’s final game for Barcelona—a 2-1 defeat to Celta Vigo in May 2021—was played in an empty stadium due to COVID-19 restrictions, depriving fans of the chance to bid him a proper farewell. Barcelona reportedly want to correct this by bringing Messi back for the opening of their newly renovated stadium and giving him the send-off he deserves.
While Messi, who will turn 38 this summer, is currently thriving in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, rumors of a return to Barcelona have persisted. Family friend Yanina Latorre told Argentine newspaper La Nación that Messi has expressed a desire to return to Barcelona after his time in Miami concludes. “He told me that when he finishes here [in Miami], where he is happy, he will return to Barcelona,” Latorre revealed. Messi himself reportedly emphasized, “No, my place is there [Barcelona],” when asked about extending his stay in Miami beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of the 2025 MLS season.
However, Inter Miami remain hopeful of retaining their star player. Managing owner Jorge Mas has expressed confidence that Messi will continue his American journey, stating, “Leo and I will sit down to discuss the future. I fully expect that in the opening of our new stadium in 2026, and the start of another successful MLS season, Leo Messi will be our No. 10.”
Messi’s legacy at Barcelona is unparalleled. During his time at the club, he scored 672 goals and provided 269 assists, leading the team to 10 La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey trophies, and four Champions League crowns. His 2022 World Cup triumph with Argentina in Qatar cemented his status as one of football’s all-time greats.
For Barcelona fans, the prospect of Messi returning to the Camp Nou is a dream scenario. While logistical and financial challenges remain, the emotional pull of seeing their hero don the Blaugrana jersey one last time could make this a story worth following in the coming years.
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