Barcelona president Joan Laporta has described the prospect of Lionel Messi returning to the club as “unrealistic,” though he expressed his desire to organize a tribute match in honour of the Argentine legend.
Messi, 37, who now plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, made a surprise visit to the Nou Camp last week and expressed his wish to return to the club “not just to say goodbye as a player.”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner spent 17 seasons at Barcelona, scoring a record 672 goals in 778 appearances and helping the team win 10 La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies, and numerous other honours.
Messi left Barcelona in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain after the club’s financial troubles prevented a contract renewal. He later joined Inter Miami in 2023 and recently extended his contract there until 2028.
Laporta, speaking to Catalunya Radio, said it would be inappropriate to raise hopes of a return that is not feasible.
“For me, to make speculation that is unrealistic is not fair,” Laporta said. “I believe that is not appropriate.”
He acknowledged, however, that Messi’s exit from Barcelona “did not happen in the way it should have” and said the club intends to give him a fitting farewell once renovations at the Nou Camp are completed.
“It would be right that he has the best tribute in the world,” Laporta added. “It would be wonderful to have it here, in front of 105,000 fans.”
