Joan Laporta had among his plans the possibility of bringing back one of the great stars who have played for FC Barcelona. With the reopening of Camp Nou just around the corner, the Barça board dreamed of bringing back an iconic player to make the return to the stadium an unforgettable event.
However, the plans have changed radically and now everything points to that footballer continuing his path away from Barcelona, in the MLS, alongside Lionel Messi.
Laporta's Dream: Messi and the New Camp Nou
For months, there has been speculation about the possibility of Messi returning to FC Barcelona. The Argentine, considered by many the best player in history, has made it clear that his main goal is to be in the best condition for the 2026 World Cup.
With his contract at Inter Miami ending in December 2025, Laporta was confident that the Argentine star might consider a return to the Catalan city.
However, the reality is different. The American club intends to renew his contract and continue counting on him until the World Cup. This decision has been a blow to Barça's aspirations, which now must rethink their strategy to strengthen their squad.
Another Target Discarded
With Messi practically unattainable, the second major option the Catalan club was considering was Neymar's return. The Brazilian, who left a mark at Barça, was seen as a media and sporting signing that could generate excitement among fans, as well as help the team regain its competitive level.
However, his signing has also become a utopia. Neymar has suffered multiple injuries in recent years, and his physical condition raises many doubts. To this must be added that his future already seems to be set away from Barça, as Inter Miami wants to join him with Messi in the MLS.
The Florida club's idea is for the Brazilian to fully recover and be in shape for the 2026 World Cup, using the MLS as a platform for his return. This move has surprised Laporta, who was confident that Neymar would consider a return to Europe.
Laporta Changes Plans
With Messi and Neymar practically ruled out, Barça will have to look for other options to strengthen their squad and make an impact on their fans. Although the Barça president dreamed of a high-profile signing for the inauguration of the new Camp Nou, the sports project must continue without them.
The board is already working on new alternatives to strengthen the squad in key positions, especially in attack. With a market expected to be complicated due to the lack of financial resources, Laporta and Deco will have to be smart to find the best opportunities.
Barça's goal remains to build a competitive team that can fight for all titles. However, nostalgia for the past must be left behind, as neither Messi nor Neymar will wear the Barça jersey again. Meanwhile, Inter Miami is preparing to reunite the two great stars who marked an era at Barça.