Lionel Messi has officially announced his intention to make a triumphant return to Barcelona, expressing his regret over the bitter taste left by his departure in 2021.
In the summer of 2021, the beloved Argentine football legend bid an emotional farewell to Barcelona, as the club’s financial woes prevented them from extending his contract.
Despite speculation about a potential comeback to Camp Nou after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain concluded in the summer of 2023, Messi chose an alternative path, signing with MLS team Inter Miami. Regrettably, he never had the opportunity to bid a proper farewell to Barcelona fans.
Now, following his record-setting eighth Ballon d’Or win in Paris on Monday night, the 2022 World Cup champion has confirmed his determination to rectify that situation and provide Barcelona supporters with the farewell they deserve.
“There was a bitter taste when I left and I don’t like that. I’d like to change the way the story ends. I deserve to say goodbye to the people who gave me so much joy. If it happens, I’ll be very happy to be there, of course,” he told reporters.
Barca president Joan Laporta, has insisted that their prodigal son would be welcomed with open arms at some point in the future and mooted two possible dates for the much-anticipated reunion.
He revealed that the club is in discussion with stakeholders to hold an official event for Messi either in June 2026, when Camp Nou renovations will be completely finished, or in November 2024, when the first team will officially return to their home stadium for matches.
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Messi will return to action with Inter Miami in 2024 and play a part in pre-season preparations ahead of the new MLS campaign, which is due to kick off in February.