Lionel Messi’s Return to Barcelona Unlikely, Says Club President Joan Laporta

Lionel Messi’s return to Barcelona seems unlikely, says club president Joan Laporta. The 38-year-old Argentine legend made a surprise visit to Camp Nou on Sunday. During his visit, Messi shared his wish to come back one day not just to say goodbye, but to reconnect with the fans.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, left Barcelona in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain. The club’s financial troubles at that time made it impossible to renew his contract. He remains Barca’s all-time top scorer and record appearance holder.

Laporta’s View on Messi’s Future

Laporta explained his position clearly. “Out of respect for Messi, the club, and its members, I prefer not to create unrealistic expectations,” he told Catalunya Radio. He added that speculation about Messi’s return would not be fair to anyone involved.
The president, who led the club during Messi’s emotional exit, said he has no regrets. “Barca is above everything,” Laporta stated firmly. However, he expressed hope to organize a tribute match once the new Camp Nou is complete. Such an event, he said, would celebrate Messi’s incredible journey and his deep connection with the club.
For fans, this may not be the comeback they dreamed of. However, a tribute match could offer a fitting farewell to the player who defined an era.