Is Lionel Messi returning to FC Barcelona? According to the most recent sources, this is the case. Days after his previous club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), announced Messi’s departure after two seasons in charge, Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, broke the news. Messi’s father recently revealed that after visiting Barcelona President Joan Laporta, the Argentine star is eager on returning to Camp Nou this summer, despite suspicions of him signing a lucrative Saudi Pro League deal.
“Leo wants to return to Barcelona, and I’d love to see him back to Barça. I can say that we are confident — as Barça move is an option for sure. But you will know the future soon,” said Jorge Messi, as quoted by multiple outlets.
Lionel Messi leaves PSG after two years, Barça interested in return
Lionel Messi, Argentina’s World Cup winner, left Barcelona in 2021 after the club refused to extend his contract owing to LaLiga’s Financial Fair Play rules. Messi left Camp Nou after nearly two decades and signed a two-year contract with Ligue 1 heavyweights PSG. There, he joined his former Barcelona teammate and close friend Neymar.
Following PSG’s conquest of the French League and appearance in his final league game this week, the board announced Messi’s departure in a statement.
“After two seasons in the capital, Leo Messi’s adventure with Paris Saint-Germain will come to a conclusion at the end of the 2022-23 season,” the club said in a widely expected announcement.
“I would like to thank the club, the city of Paris, and its people for these two years. I wish you all the best for the future”, said Lionel Messi.
Meanwhile, Barça coach Xavi Hernandez and President Laporta have insisted on returning the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner to his rightful place.
Messi’s future at Barcelona uncertain, other clubs interested
Since Barcelona devised a ‘viable plan’ to resign Messi while taking into account all FFP concerns, the official bid has yet to be made. Jorge Messi was solely at Laporta’s house to discuss this agreement.
The Spanish Football League must yet approve Barcelona’s plan for this to happen. According to multiple reports, the blueprint includes contract renewals for a few players as well as a highly expected mega-deal for Lionel Messi’s signing.
Apart from Barcelona, there are allegations from the Gulf that Messi is being courted by a few teams in the Saudi Pro League, including Al Nassr, where his former rival Cristiano Ronaldo plays. Inter Miami, a Major League Soccer (MLS) club, has also expressed interest in signing Leo.
Lionel Messi will make a decision on his future soon.