Lionel Messi back to Barcelona? Inter Miami superstar reveals message for former club over reunion following bitter 2021 exit

There is no chance of that path being trodden any time soon, with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner tied to a contract at MLS side Inter Miami for at least another 12 months. Said deal includes the option for an extension through 2026.

Messi is determined to land more major honours in the United States, having suffered play-off heartache in 2024. Questions are, however, being asked of what the World Cup winner will decide to do once the day comes to bid farewell to Florida.

It is unlikely that he will ever represent Barcelona again as a player, but the 37-year-old has stated a desire to return to that part of the world with his wife Antonela and their three sons after hanging up his boots. Quizzed by Mundo Deportivo on whether he has a message for those at Camp Nou, Messi said: "I miss you all very much, I hope we can see each other again soon and that you feel proud to be part of the best club in the world."

Messi spent more than two decades with Barca as a player before leaving for Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent in 2021 – with the Blaugrana unable to finance a new contract. Asked about his favourite memories from that record-shattering spell with the Liga giants, the South American GOAT said: "The truth is, there were a lot of special moments. What I remember most are the collective titles we won: the year of the Sextet, and also those not so good moments when we were able to turn the situation around. They were a lot of special moments and I enjoyed them a lot."

Messi continues to keep a close eye on how Barcelona are faring, as they remain in the hunt for domestic and continental prizes. He should be able to catch plenty of games over the coming weeks, with Inter Miami not due to be back in action until starting their pre-season campaign at some point in early 2025.