Lionel Messi’s return to the team is “unrealistic,” according to FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who also announced plans to honor the Argentine superstar with a special memorial game.
In an unexpected visit to the Nou Camp this week, 37-year-old Lionel Messi expressed his desire to come “not just to say goodbye as a player.”
Messi reportedly moved to Inter Miami in 2023 after leaving Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021. There, he recently signed a contract that will last until 2028.
“For me to make speculation that is unrealistic, nor do I think it is fair, I believe that is not appropriate,” Laporta stated to Catalunya Radio.
He acknowledged that Messi’s exit from Barcelona did not go as planned. Messi’s contract could not be extended due to the club’s financial difficulties at the time, leaving both the player and the supporters with unresolved issues.
Laporta is keen to give Messi the farewell he deserves, despite the likelihood that he will return to the team. When the Nou Camp reopens following renovations, he intends to host a commemorative game.
Laporta remarked, “It would be wonderful to have it here, in front of 105,000 fans, and it would be right that he has the best tribute in the world.”
Messi has a famous record at Barcelona. Among many other accolades, he helped the team win four Champions League trophies and ten La Liga titles with his 672 goals in 778 games.
