Updated by FFRNews on November 12, 2025
The long-debated Messi Barcelona return appears to be off the table — at least as a player. Club president Joan Laporta has ruled out the possibility, calling it “unrealistic” despite the Argentinian star’s emotional visit to Camp Nou earlier this week.
Laporta’s remarks came just days after Lionel Messi, now 38, made an unannounced appearance at Barcelona’s newly reopened stadium and told fans he hoped to “return one day.” The visit reignited global speculation about whether the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner could once again wear the iconic Blaugrana shirt.
Laporta: “Speculation Would Not Be Fair”
Speaking to Catalunya Radio, Laporta said:
“Out of the utmost respect for Messi, the professionals at the club, and our members, I believe that making speculation that is unrealistic is not fair or appropriate.”
Laporta, who was president during Messi’s departure in 2021, emphasized that while the club continues to admire its greatest-ever player, a return as an active footballer is not on the cards. “Barca is above everything,” he added.
Lionel Messi’s Surprise Visit to Camp Nou
Lionel Messi’s sudden appearance at Camp Nou on Sunday night stunned fans. The Argentine legend attended Barcelona’s open training session marking the stadium’s reopening — its first event in 895 days after major renovations.
In a heartfelt Instagram post afterward, Messi wrote:
“Last night, I returned to a place that I miss with all my heart. A place where I was immensely happy, where you made me feel like the happiest person in the world. One day, I hope I can return.”
The post quickly went viral, drawing millions of likes and prompting the official FC Barcelona account to respond:
“You’re always welcome at your home, Leo.”
A Career That Defined an Era
Messi left Barcelona in August 2021 due to the club’s financial troubles, which made renewing his contract impossible under La Liga salary rules. During his 21-year spell with the club, Messi scored 672 goals and made 778 appearances, leading Barcelona to 10 La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies, and three Club World Cups.
After leaving Spain, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) before moving to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), where he currently plays. He recently extended his Inter Miami contract in October 2025, suggesting that his professional career is now tied to the United States.
Laporta Open to a Tribute Match
While a competitive Messi Barcelona return seems unlikely, Laporta did express a desire to honor Messi with a tribute match once the Camp Nou is fully operational again.
“Things didn’t end the way we would have liked,” Laporta said. “If this tribute can make up for what wasn’t done, it would be right that he has the best farewell match in the world — in front of 105,000 fans.”
Laporta also confirmed that Messi’s recent visit was “spontaneous” and reflected his enduring affection for the club that shaped his career.
Messi’s Legacy and Love for Barcelona
Messi joined Barcelona at just 13 years old and became the symbol of the club’s golden generation, alongside names like Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, and Gerard Piqué. His emotional farewell press conference in 2021 — where he broke down in tears — remains one of football’s most iconic moments.
Now 38, Messi is still representing Argentina’s national team, currently in Spain for a friendly against Angola. Though fans continue to dream of a fairytale reunion, Laporta’s words signal that the legend’s future lies elsewhere — but his legacy at Barcelona remains eternal.
