Since his debut in 2004, Lionel Messi left an indelible mark on FC Barcelona's history. For more than a decade, he led the team through one of its most glorious eras, accumulating titles, records, and unforgettable moments for the fans. His ability to tip the balance in matches and his vision of the game made him a legend in world soccer.
However, in 2021, his time at Barça came to an abrupt end due to the club's economic crisis. His move to PSG marked a turning point in his career, although his time in Paris didn't reach the brilliance he had in Barcelona. After two seasons in Ligue 1, he decided to change scenery and joined Inter Miami in 2023, where he began a new chapter in MLS.
Messi's Contract and His Eye on the 2026 World Cup
Since his arrival in the United States, Messi has been the star figure of Inter Miami, sharing the locker room with old acquaintances like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez. In his first season in MLS, he led the team to win the Leagues Cup and the Supporter's Shield, reaffirming his impact on American soccer.
Nevertheless, his contract with Inter Miami ends in December 2025, and his future remains uncertain. With his sights set on the 2026 World Cup, the Argentine wants to stay at the highest competitive level until the big event.
David Beckham's club has already put the option to extend his contract until 2026 on the table. But in recent hours, an unexpected alternative has emerged that could change the course of his career.
Messi Is Going to...
Various sources close to the player's circle have revealed that Messi is considering returning to Argentina to play for Newell's Old Boys, the club where he began his training before leaving for Barcelona.
This decision has caused surprise at Barça and among its fans, who still harbored hope for one last dance of Messi in Barcelona. However, the '10's desire to end his career in his home country and prepare in the best way for the 2026 World Cup could be key in his choice.
Impact on Barça
For the Barça fans, the possibility of seeing Messi in the blue and garnet jersey again seemed like a distant dream, but not impossible. However, with this new decision, the scenario changes completely, leaving Barça out of the equation.
Joan Laporta has always shown his respect and admiration for Messi, but he has also made it clear that any possibility of return had to be viable both sportingly and financially. Now, with the possibility of the Argentine returning to Argentina, the Catalan club will have to focus its efforts on other projects to strengthen its squad.
If his return to Newell's is finally realized, Messi would put an end to his time in European soccer. He would close a cycle that made him the greatest player in history.
Camp Nou, barring a major surprise, will not see him dressed in blue and garnet again. Meanwhile, Barça's management continues with its planning, and among the rumors, Neymar reappears on the scene as a possible addition.
With the Brazilian regaining his best form in Brazil, Laporta maintains the expectation about his evolution, and who knows if in the future another dream return for the Barça fans could happen.