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Dreams of seeing Lionel Messi play for Barcelona again have been squashed

Lionel Messi’s dream of returning to Barcelona before retiring has been a persistent topic of discussion among fans and football insiders.

However, despite speculation about a potential reunion, the legendary Argentine is unlikely to don the Blaugrana jersey again.

Messi unwilling to return to Camp Nou despite earlier promise

Messi, now 37, is currently focused on his career with Inter Miami, with his contract running until the end of 2025.

While there has been no official extension talks yet, his past comments about returning to Camp Nou have fueled speculation of a return to Barcelona.

Given his iconic status at Barcelona and the club’s willingness to welcome him back, a move might seem plausible.

However, Spanish journalist Guillem Balague has dismissed the idea, stating that a return is “impossible” as long as Laporta remains in charge.

The fractured relationship between Messi and Laporta stems from the dramatic events of 2021, when the Barcelona president failed to uphold his promise of securing a new deal for the club’s greatest player. Messi had even returned from holiday expecting to sign his contract, only for Laporta to inform his father and agent that the club could not afford to keep him due to financial constraints.

Messi unlikely to return under Laporta

This betrayal left a lasting impact, making a professional reunion highly unlikely. Despite Barcelona’s interest, Messi does not have a return to Europe on his mind and is more focused on continuing his career in Major League Soccer.

If Messi does return to Camp Nou, it may not be in a competitive capacity. Instead, the most realistic scenario would be a friendly match or an official farewell tribute organised by the club.

According to reports, if any former star is more likely to make a comeback, it might be Neymar Jr., whose name has been floated as a potential returnee when his Santos contract ends in the summer.