Lionel Messi admits he 'misses' Barcelona and is planning to return as club sent message
Messi has spoken out on his admiration for his former club.
Lionel Messi admits he 'misses' Barcelona and has opened up the possibility of a return to his former club at some point in his career.
The 37-year-old superstar will forever be remembered as a Blaugrana legend given his terrific 17-year spell at the Nou Camp.
Having left Barca in 2021, Messi has enjoyed spells at both PSG and Inter Miami respectively and has added further silverware to his already impressive trophy cabinet from his time in Spain.
But the Argentina international has insisted he is not yet ready to turn his back on the club for good and has hinted at a potential reunion in the future.
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"I miss the club a lot, the city, the people, the affection. I hope we continue to do well and we can continue to make this club bigger and bigger,” he confessed.
Barcelona recently celebrated their 125th anniversary and his comments to celebrate the landmark could be interpreted as a come-and-get-me plea.
The 2022 World Cup winner refused to rule out the prospect of making the move back to the place where he kicked off his career.
“I intend to return because that city and that club will always be a part of me,” Messi said.
“That this club, which is so special and different, continues to grow and represent us as it always has.
"It’s an honour to see how the first team reflects the values we love so much.”
Messi's current deal in Miami expires in December 2025 and his future beyond that point remains a mystery.
Having linked up with former Barcelona stars Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, fellow former teammate Javier Mascherano was announced as the new Inter Miami head coach earlier this week.
“Throughout his career as one of the world’s best players and as an experienced coach, Javier has always demonstrated what makes him great—relentless determination, backed by knowledge, instincts, and understanding,” said Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham.
Mascherano expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “To be able to lead a club like Inter Miami is an honour for me, and a privilege I will strive to make the most of.”
Messi has already helped Inter Miami to one piece of silverware during his stay so far having lifted the Leagues Cup but will be undoubtedly keen to add more trophies before ending his stay in the US.
Topics: Lionel Messi, Inter Miami, Barcelona, FC Barcelona
Matthew Holt