Two years ago, Barça came close to a reunion with Lionel Messi. After his departure from PSG, fans' excitement soared at the idea of seeing the Argentine star wearing the blaugrana jersey again. However, the economic and sporting circumstances, along with Leo Messi's personal decision to embark on a new adventure, meant that this desired return never materialized.
It was a moment of some disappointment for Barcelona fans, who kept hoping to enjoy their idol at Camp Nou once more. Despite everything, the bond between Messi and Barça remained intact, and both the board and the player made it clear that their relationship with the club is good.
A tribute worthy of Leo
Today, Barça no longer thinks about Messi's return as a footballer, but they do want to keep his connection with the club alive. Joan Laporta is very clear that when the Argentine ends his professional career, Camp Nou will open its doors for him again. The idea is to organize a tribute, an event worthy of the legend who marked a turning point in history.
Laporta considers it essential that Messi's legacy is immortalized with an unforgettable tribute. Not only for what he meant on the field, but also for what he represented as a symbol of a golden era in which Barça conquered the world. The tribute would also be a way to close the circle in the way the best player in the club's history deserves.
Julián Álvarez, the new main target
While looking to the past with gratitude, Barça also plans for the future with ambition. The sporting management has highlighted one name as a priority to strengthen the attack for next season: Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward from Atlético de Madrid has established himself as one of the emerging stars of world soccer thanks to his goal-scoring instinct, versatility, and work ethic.
The club sees him as the ideal heir to lead the blaugrana attack in the post-Lewandowski era. At just 24 years old, he combines youth and elite experience, and his profile fits perfectly with the offensive style Hansi Flick seeks. For Barça, signing Julián would be an immediate step up in quality and, at the same time, an investment in a long-term project.
Messi's friend for whom Barça will give everything
In addition, Julián Álvarez is not just a sporting target: his personal bond with Messi adds a very powerful emotional component. Both shared a locker room with the Argentine national team that won the World Cup in Qatar 2022, and they keep a close relationship. For Laporta and his team, it would be almost symbolic for Messi's "heir" in the Albiceleste to arrive at Camp Nou.
According to sources close to the club, Barça will give everything in 2026 to complete his signing, even if it means a major financial outlay. The goal is to build an exciting future with a world-class forward, while keeping Messi's legacy alive through one of his great friends.