Representatives for Barcelona did not reach out to Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar who currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain, about a possible return to the Catalan club. This clarification comes amid rumors swirling around Messi’s future and the club’s interest in bringing him back. The information points to the inner circle surrounding the player rather than to any confirmed action from Barcelona’s side.
A close associate of Messi stated, “Laporta has not contacted anyone in Leo Messi’s entourage, nor have we reached out to him. A person close to the Argentine footballer is spreading a false claim.”
Earlier chatter suggested that Barcelona fans might be on the verge of a surprise signing, with Spanish journalist Javi Campos posting on social networks that Messi discussed a potential return. The Catalan club, according to Campos’ posts, was reportedly negotiating terms with Messi’s representatives for a 2023 transfer and even floated the idea of Messi terminating his contract with PSG to sign a one- or two-season deal in Barcelona. These reports added a new layer to the ongoing dialogue about Messi’s career trajectory after leaving Barcelona in 2021.
Messi left Barcelona after dedicating 18 seasons to the club and joined PSG in 2021, where he has continued to compete at the highest level. During his time with PSG, he contributed to the team’s campaign as they pursued domestic success and European ambitions. In the club’s most recent Ligue 1 campaign, PSG secured the league title, underscoring Messi’s continued impact on a top-tier squad.
For PSG, Messi appeared in 34 matches, recording 11 goals and 14 assists. In the opening fixture of the 2022/23 season against Clermont, Messi delivered a standout performance with two goals as PSG dominated the match 5-0, highlighting his ongoing ability to influence outcomes on the field despite the evolving dynamics of his career. These on-pitch contributions are frequently cited in discussions about Messi’s value and versatility, even as transfer rumors persist in the sports press.
Analysts note that any potential return to Barcelona would involve careful navigation of contract status, salary cap constraints, and the club’s long-term strategic plans. Fans and pundits alike are watching how Barcelona would balance the logistics of a high-profile reunion with their broader revival efforts under current management, all while Messi’s own priorities and playing plans continue to evolve in Paris. In the weeks and months ahead, attention will likely pivot on whether credible movements emerge from Messi’s camp or Barcelona’s leadership that could reshape the possible pathways for a potential reunion, even as sources close to the player caution that no formal talks have taken place. (Attribution: sports reporting networks)