Just when it seemed like the saga of Lionel Messi and Barcelona had reached its conclusion, new reports have reignited speculation about a potential return. The Argentine legend, now with Inter Miami, has reportedly expressed a deep desire to step onto the newly renovated Camp Nou before he retires.
With Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick reportedly already strategizing a plan to integrate Messi alongside Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski, the possibility of a fairytale reunion is back in the headlines. But what does the Argentine superstar think about his future and how it could look like?
It has been nearly four years since Messi bid an emotional farewell to Barcelona, a club where he spent over two decades, breaking records and winning countless titles. His departure in 2021 was not by choice but a result of the Catalans’ dire financial situation, which prevented them from renewing his contract. Forced to find a new home, Messi moved to Paris Saint-Germain, where he won Ligue 1 titles but never truly seemed to replicate the magic of his La Liga days.
Since moving to MLS side Inter Miami in 2023, the forward has been focused on growing soccer in North America while continuing to showcase his brilliance. However, despite his new chapter in the United States, reports suggest that the pull of the Blaugrana remains strong.
Hansi Flick’s tactical plan for Messi’s potential return
While Messi’s possible return remains uncertain, Barca manager Hansi Flick has already envisioned how he would fit into the current squad. According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, Flick’s priority is maintaining balance in the team while ensuring that young prodigy Lamine Yamal continues his development.
Rather than placing Messi back in his traditional right-wing position, where he dominated for years, Flick would deploy him as a central playmaker. This would allow Yamal to thrive on the flank while the 2022 World Cup winner dictates play from a deeper position, maximizing his vision and playmaking ability.
The report adds that one of the key concerns is Messi’s compatibility with Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker, though still a prolific goalscorer, lacks the mobility he once had. Thus, it’s said that the German manager is considering utilizing Messi as a false nine or partnering him with a more dynamic forward like Dani Olmo to avoid tactical rigidity.
What did Messi say about his future?
Despite the swirling speculation, the 37-year-old ace has remained tight-lipped about his future. In a recent interview with Apple TV, he made it clear that he is not thinking too far ahead. “My future? I feel good now and I’m just enjoying every moment of my career. I’m enjoying the club, games, teammates, family, and friends. I’m not anticipating things. I’m just loving and enjoying the moment.”
