There are speculations going around in the football world that Lionel Messi will be returning to FC Barcelona ahead of the 2026-27 season. His departure from the club in 2021 was both emotional for him and the club. He was signed as a free agent by the Paris Saint Germain after Barcelona's inability to structure a new contract for their all-time greatest player. Now, there are reports suggesting that there might be a potential return.Β
Following his emotional farewell, Messi spent the last year and a half playing for MLS side Inter Miami, where he continued to break records and attract number of audiences to the ground. This was the first time he embarked on a mission outside Europe. However, since moving to the US to play in the MLS, there have been rumors of him making a potential return to Barcelona.Β
Lionel Messi to potentially return to Barcelona?
According to TNT Sports, there might be a transfer in the near future which could be feasible. The club's reported intention to make a move in the near future highlights the club's determination in making this blockbuster transfer happen.
FC Barcelona is 'slowly preparing' a deal to bring back eight time Ballon d'Or back to Spain. The contract will have multiple conditions which further suggests that a great deal of negotiation is expected.Β
The club have set their eyes on the summer of 2026, just after the World Cup which will be hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico. The timing is perfect as it would coincide with the start of La Liga season and by then, Messi would be 39.Β
Before joining Inter Miami, Messi has expressed his desire to return to Barcelona, but a deal couldn't be reached at the time. Messi further mentioned that he doesn't want to be part of any restructuring that would require selling of players or salary reductions.Β
Barcelona's financial difficulties still pose a threat to the club as they have sought government assistance to temporarily register new players. The club's financial limitations have hampered their ability to compete with other clubs in the past.Β
The current contract of Lionel Messi expires at the end of 2025 as the club is confident of retaining the World Cup winner. Inter Miami's co-owner Jorge Mas believes that Messi would be back for the 2026 season, when the clubs new stadium opens and the start of the new MLS season.Β