The signs of a Messi return are growing
Lionel Messi played for FC Barcelona from 2004 to 2021. Now there could be a comeback
Source: pa/DPPI media/Marc Gonzalez Aloma
Lionel Messi’s contract in Paris expires in the summer. For the time after that, a spectacular return to Barcelona is in the offing. A visit from Messi’s father and words from the coach give fans hope.
BAt FC Barcelona, coach Xavi would welcome his old teammate and world champion Lionel Messi with open arms. “The best player in the world and in history would always fit in. This is his home and the doors are always open for him,” said Xavi, referring to the speculation about a possible return of the six-time world footballer to the Catalans.
Messi’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires at the end of the season. The 35-year-old could then change free of charge. Jorge Messi, the father and manager of the superstar, is said to have recently met with Barça President Joan Laporta, as reported by the radio station Catalunya Ràdio and other Spanish media. Among other things, the future of the Argentine was discussed, it said.
Xavi would love to welcome Messi back to Barcelona
What: pa/NurPhoto/Jose Breton
According to other reports, in addition to Barcelona, Inter Miami and the top Saudi club Al-Hilal are also interested in signing the 35-year-old. In Saudi Arabia, Messi could collect an annual salary of 350 million US dollars, several media recently reported. That would be the equivalent of more than 320 million euros. FC Barcelona could not compete with this because of the salary caps in force in Spain.
Xavi in constant contact with Messi
Messi is a friend, emphasized Xavi, who had experienced the most successful time in the club’s history with four Champions League victories together with the offensive star. You are in constant contact. “But a lot depends on him what he wants to do in the future,” added the former midfield strategist.
First, Messi will try with PSG to bring the Champions League title to Paris for the first time. In the round of 16 first leg, however, the French champions lost 1-0 at home to FC Bayern Munich. The second leg in Munich will take place on March 8th.
