Barcelona President Says Messi Return ‘Not Realistic,’ Plans Tribute Match Instead
Laporta rules out a playing comeback for Messi but promises a grand farewell at the renovated Nou Camp.
- Barcelona president says a playing comeback is “unrealistic.”
- Club intends to honour Messi at the renovated Nou Camp.
- Messi scored 672 goals in 778 games, winning 10 La Liga and 4 Champions League titles.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has ruled out the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to play for the club, describing such hopes as “unrealistic.” However, he revealed plans to honour the Argentine legend with a grand tribute match once renovations at the Nou Camp are complete.
Messi, 37, made a surprise visit to the stadium last week, expressing a desire to return to Barcelona “not just to say goodbye as a player.”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner left the Catalan club in 2021 after financial constraints prevented a new contract. He joined Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami in 2023, where he recently extended his stay until 2028.
Speaking to Catalunya Radio, Laporta said: “It’s not fair to speculate on something that’s unrealistic. Messi’s time here didn’t end the way it should have, but he deserves the best tribute in the world.”
Messi scored a record 672 goals in 778 appearances for Barcelona, winning 10 La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues, and numerous other honours during his 17-year spell.
