Leo Messi could return to Barcelona before retiring. The Inter Miami player has one wish before hanging up his boots: to play at the new Camp Nou. The possibility of returning to what was his home for decades is on the table, after statements that the player has made to those closest to him in reference to stepping on the grass of what was once his stadium, once the deep renovation it is undergoing is completed.
The striker put an end to his time as a Barça player in 2021, after failing to reach an agreement for his renewal due to the serious crisis that Barça was going through and which made his registration impossible. After two years at Paris Saint-Germain, speculation once again arose about his return, which turned out to be impossible again. But in the not too distant future he could return, to play for the last time at the Camp Nou.
Messi wants to play at Barça 's stadium once the renovation is complete. The club is currently in the midst of rebuilding its stadium and, in the meantime, plays its games at Montjuic. Although the plan was to return last November, the delay in the works has postponed the return home of the Catalans, who will be, at least, until the end of the season in the Olympic stadium in Barcelona.
The construction of the Camp Nou is expected to be completed next season, but the Catalans will be able to start their season at the stadium, even if it is with a partial capacity. Leo Messi hopes to be able to play there before he retires, according to journalist Alex Candal on DirecTV Sports, revealing the statements that the footballer has made to those closest to him.
Messi's return to Barcelona is complicated
Despite Messi's wishes , Barcelona's situation is what it is. At the moment, it seems impossible for the Argentine to be able to wear the Barça shirt again, at least in an official match. Therefore, it is difficult for him to return to Barça, unless he is given a tribute match. Another option would be for the Argentine national team to play at the Camp Nou once the stadium is ready to host matches.
Leo Messi has a contract with Inter Miami until December 2025, which is when the MLS season ends . Until then, the footballer will remain linked to the American team, with which he will participate in the next Club World Cup, where they will go as hosts, despite not being league champions.
FIFA wanted to ensure that the Argentine star would participate in the event that will take place in the United States this summer, and to do so, it gave him the spot reserved for one of the MLS teams for being the best team in the League in the regular season. However, in the playoffs they were eliminated at the first opportunity.
At the World Cup, Messi will be able to face Real Madrid or Atlético de Madrid, as well as the two giants of his country, Boca Juniors and River Plate. He will not be able to face Barça, since the Catalans did not qualify for the event and will be one of the notable absentees.
