Messi’s Return to Barcelona: A Future Possibility Amid Current Challenges

While FC Barcelona concentrates on their present challenges, the shadows of their past and future loom large. Central to this narrative is Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who, despite his current tenure at MLS club Inter Miami, remains a prominent figure in the hearts of Barcelona fans.

Messi recently embarked on a private tour of Camp Nou, which has undergone significant renovations. He has expressed his aspiration to return to Barcelona, alongside his wife Antonela and their three sons, potentially participating in a friendly or exhibition match that would allow him to reconnect with the fans following his departure to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021. However, as of now, no date has been confirmed for such an event, despite ongoing speculation. Deco, a Barcelona official, acknowledged uncertainty surrounding Messi’s potential reunion, stating, “Those decisions are usually made when people aren’t around, and I think that makes it more complicated.”

There are also whispers that current Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski may soon join Messi in the United States, as his contract approaches its conclusion and free agency this summer. Deco commented on Lewandowski’s situation, noting, “Robert is enjoying his time at Barça; he’s one of the best strikers of recent years and key for us. It will depend on him; he has a year left on his contract. We don’t know what his plans are yet. We’ll have to sit down and talk frankly. We’re focused on important moments of the season right now, so I don’t think it’s the right time.”

Regarding manager Hansi Flick, who recently secured another trophy with the team, Deco praised his leadership and emphasized the necessity of stability within the squad. “The manager is a great coach and a great person. A change in management was needed; we had a young squad and experienced players. We should enjoy the moment. He has another year on his contract, and now is not the time to talk about it, as we need to focus on winning the next titles. It’s too early to discuss it.”

In contrast, goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen’s future remains uncertain due to his injury struggles and loss of form. Deco remarked on the situation, stating, “At the moment there’s nothing. The truth is we’re happy with Marc; the first priority was getting him back to full fitness and he’s available. The coach makes the sporting decisions; we don’t interfere. If there’s a player who isn’t happy and asks to leave for more playing time, we’ll listen to them.”

Deco also addressed Brazilian forward Raphinha, who has recently silenced transfer rumors by performing at a high level and becoming a Ballon d’Or contender. He remarked, “Raphinha is returning to his best level; he is very important for the team. He drives the team, presses, inspires, works hard, and scores goals. He is a key player for us.”

On the topic of Raphinha’s potential exit, Deco reiterated the club’s commitment to maintaining a competitive squad, affirming, “We’ve been saying for two years that this team needs to improve, not get worse. The idea has always been to keep this team together because we knew the quality they had. We had no interest in selling any player. Raphinha was in our plans and has always shown that he wants to be at the club to make history here.”

Currently, Barcelona sits four points ahead of their Clasico rivals, Real Madrid—whom they defeated in Saudi Arabia to claim the Super Cup—while also vying for success in the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.