Barcelona president Joan Laporta has dismissed the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to the club, describing such expectations as “unrealistic.”
Speaking during an interview with Catalan media on Monday, Laporta said that while Messi remains a legend of the club, there are currently no plans or possibilities for him to return to play for Barcelona.
“Messi is part of our history and will always be loved here, but a return is not realistic at this stage,” Laporta said. “We are focused on building the future with our current young players and improving the squad we have.”
Laporta’s comments come amid widespread speculation that the club might bring Messi back to inaugurate the new Camp Nou stadium next year. However, the president clarified that although he would love Messi to be part of the celebration, it would not be as a player.
The Argentine star left Barcelona in 2021 due to financial issues that prevented the club from renewing his contract under La Liga’s financial fair play rules. He currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Laporta concluded by saying that the door will “always remain open for Messi as an ambassador or honorary figure,” but insisted that a professional comeback is not being considered.