Lionel Messi Barcelona return promise made by Inter Miami as Jorge Mas reveals World Cup winner's true feelings on Camp Nou departure

The Argentine icon was prevented from saying his goodbyes on the field in Catalunya when announcing an emotional departure from the Liga giants in 2021. With Barca unable to fund a contract extension at that point, Messi left for Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent.

A retracing of steps to Barcelona was speculated on in 2023, but Messi ultimately snubbed the option of remaining in Europe as he instead went chasing the American dream with MLS side Inter Miami. Barca have left the door open for a prodigal son to head back to his spiritual home at some stage, with an exhibition game being mooted.

Inter Miami would be happy to line up such an occasion, with club president Jorge Mas telling El Club del Deportista: “Messi's departure from Barcelona was not to his liking, he could not say goodbye to his club that welcomed him as a child, and I think the circumstances were not what Lionel wanted. I gave him my commitment that I will do everything possible in the coming years to give him the opportunity to say goodbye to his fans in Barcelona. Inter Miami will go or we will do some kind of match.”

Messi scored 672 goals for Barcelona through 778 appearances – helping them to 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns – and the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has already delivered major silverware for Inter Miami, as he inspired them to a historic triumph in the inaugural Leagues Cup.