FC Barcelona has never forgotten Leo Messi, and the culés haven't stopped dreaming of his return. His departure in 2021 left a deep wound that still remains open among the fans. Since then, the Argentine has built a new sporting chapter on the other side of the Atlantic.
In Miami, he has found peace, family stability, and a project that lets him enjoy himself without excessive pressure. At 37 years old, Messi has taken on a legendary role in MLS and at Inter Miami. In addition, the American schedule fits perfectly with his ultimate goal: to arrive in top form for the 2026 World Cup.
The World Cup, last great challenge
The tournament will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, and it will be the last major event for Leo Messi. The Argentine national team awaits him as its undisputed leader, hoping for another golden ending to his story. That's why everything indicated that he wouldn't leave Miami before that marked date.
The past few months have reinforced that idea: active contract, happy family, and an ideal environment for the final stretch. At no time had he considered a return to Europe, not even as a tribute or farewell. However, a recent statement has rekindled the flame that seemed completely extinguished.
Leo Messi | @leomessi
An unexpected hint that gives hope
The phrase came from someone who knows Messi very well, both on and off the field. It wasn't an executive or a journalist, but a former teammate with deep personal ties. His testimony was as spontaneous as it was powerful in fueling the culé dream.
The protagonist is Cesc Fàbregas, current coach of Como, a team competing in Italy's Serie A. In a recent interview, he was asked about a possible Messi signing in the future. What he answered surprised everyone and left the door slightly open to an unexpected outcome.
Messi and Fàbregas have kept a friendship that goes beyond the professional for years. Their families are very close, they've shared vacations, and they even often talk about soccer and life. That's why Cesc's comment has had such an impact in the international press.
The phrase that changes everything
"I was at my vacation home. We're friends, our wives and children are too, Never say never," Fàbregas said with a smile that sparked all possible theories. Although he said it in a relaxed tone, his closeness to Leo makes those words more than just an anecdote.
Immediately, many culés fans began to fantasize about one last Messi performance in Europe. There was even speculation about a reunion in Italy as a final tribute to an unrepeatable career. But the reality, at least for now, remains the one everyone knows.
Messi at Barça | @FCBarcelona
Leo Messi remains committed to Inter Miami, where he is the club's great star and symbol. His contract ends in 2026 (2026), and his absolute priority is to reach the World Cup with competitive rhythm. Unless there's a surprise, he won't return to Camp Nou or any European stadium as a player.
Even so, gestures like Fàbregas's remind us that soccer is unpredictable and the doors never fully close. Meanwhile, Barcelona fans keep dreaming of seeing the greatest in history set foot in his home once again. Because as his friend said: "never say never".
