Barcelona Bound: Lionel Messi Plans to Return to Catalan Giants, Says Report

Lionel Messi plans to return to Barcelona when his contract with Inter Miami expires, according to journalist Yanina Latorre, a family friend of the Argentine football legend.

Lionel Messi, now 37 years old, is reportedly eager to end his illustrious career back at Barcelona, the club where he spent 17 incredible years. Currently playing for Inter Miami in the MLS, Messi has been making waves since joining the team in the summer of 2023, following a two-season stint with PSG.

Messi's desire to return to Barcelona stems from his deep connection with the club and its fans. He has expressed his regret over not being able to bid a proper farewell to the supporters when he left in 2021. Messi has stated, “I think I deserve to be able to say goodbye to people who I shared so many good and bad moments together during my career.”

Throughout his career, Messi has achieved unparalleled success, winning eight Ballon d'Or awards and leading Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022. His time at Barcelona was nothing short of phenomenal, with 672 goals in 778 appearances, as well as numerous titles, including 10 La Liga championships and four Champions League trophies.

While Messi's immediate plans involve playing for Inter Miami, with a potential contract extension on the horizon, his long-term goal is clear: to return to Barcelona and bring his career full circle. As Argentine journalist Yanina Latorre, a family friend of Messi's, has stated, “He will return to Barcelona.”

Messi Eyes Return to Barcelona

According to Yanina Latorre, an Argentinian journalist and family friend of Lionel Messi's, the football legend has expressed his desire to return to Barcelona. Latorre revealed that Messi had confided in her, saying, “Messi told me that when he is finished in Miami, where he is happy, he will return to Barcelona.” This statement suggests that Messi's long-term plan is to return to his former club.

The timing of Messi's potential return to Barcelona is uncertain, but his current contract with Inter Miami is set to expire in December 2025. The new MLS season is scheduled to start at the end of February and conclude in November. There have been reports that Messi may not want to continue with Inter Miami beyond his current contract. Additionally, Inter Miami is exploring options to renew Messi's contract, including a special clause that would allow him to play in Europe for a few months to maintain his fitness.

Latorre asked Messi directly if he would extend his contract with Inter Miami, and his response was unequivocal. “No, my place is there (at Barcelona),” Messi said, leaving no doubt about his long-term intentions. This statement suggests that Messi's heart remains in Barcelona, and he is eager to return to the club where he spent the majority of his career.