Lionel Messi's potential return to Barcelona has been firmly downplayed by club president Joan Laporta, who labeled the prospect as "unrealistic". Laporta's comments followed Messi's surprise visit to Camp Nou on Sunday, where he expressed his desire to return to the club "one day".
The 38-year-old Argentine, currently playing for Inter Miami, spent over two decades at Barcelona, joining their youth academy at the age of 13. He became the club's all-time leading scorer with 672 goals in 778 appearances and won 34 trophies, including 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns. Messi's departure in 2021 to Paris Saint-Germain was attributed to Barcelona's financial difficulties, which made it impossible for them to keep him.
"Out of the utmost respect for Messi, the professionals at the club, Barca, and the Barca club members, I believe that now, for me to make speculation that is unrealistic, nor do I think is fair, well, I believe that is not appropriate," Laporta told Catalunya Radio on Wednesday. He acknowledged that Messi's exit wasn't ideal but insisted that the club's interests take precedence. Laporta, who was also president at the time of Messi's departure, stated he doesn't regret how things transpired because "Barça is above everything".
Messi's recent visit to the newly renovated Camp Nou, where he hopes to "return, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to," ignited excitement among fans. However, Laporta's statements have dampened those hopes, emphasizing that a competitive return is not a realistic possibility. Messi himself extended his contract with Inter Miami in October and has suggested that the Major League Soccer (MLS) club will likely be his last.
Despite the unlikelihood of Messi playing for Barcelona again, Laporta is open to honoring Messi with a testimonial match at the Camp Nou once renovations are complete. The stadium is set to expand its capacity to 105,000. "Things didn't end the way we would have liked... if, in some way, this tribute can make up for what wasn't done, I think it would be a good thing," Laporta explained. He added, "It would be right that he has the best tribute (match) in the world, and it would be wonderful to have it here, in front of 105,000 fans".
Laporta recognized Messi's surprise visit to the stadium as a "spontaneous" expression of his affection for the club. Currently in Spain with the Argentina national team for a friendly against Angola, Messi's presence served as a reminder of his lasting connection to Barcelona. While a return to the pitch may be improbable, the club aims to celebrate his remarkable career in front of the Barcelona supporters. In response to Messi's visit, FC Barcelona posted on X, "You're always welcome at your home, Leo".
