Since his departure to PSG as a free agent in the summer of 2021, there has been speculation about Leo Messi's potential return to Barcelona multiple times. The first time was when his contract with PSG ended in 2023. The second time, in the form of a loan, was before the current MLS season with Inter Miami began. Now, we reach the third part of this story that seems to have no end.

Messi Wants to Play at Camp Nou Before Retiring

A few days ago, the renowned journalist Alex Candal made public what many have started to consider a ‘bombshell’: Leo Messi allegedly confessed to him that he would like to return to Barcelona and play in the new stadium after the renovations being carried out at the Spotify Camp Nou. In fact, he declared that Messi told him he “cannot retire without playing at Camp Nou first.”

Alex Candal, let's remember, was the journalist who broke the news of Messi's departure from Barcelona. Therefore, he is considered a reliable source… especially considering that Messi's current contract with Inter Miami ends in December 2025, and there has been no news regarding a potential renewal.

Messi's Biographer Denies a Return to Barcelona

Everyone is aware of Messi's eternal love for Barcelona and that he never wanted to leave. However, at 37 years old, a return remains complicated. In fact, Guillem Balagué, Leo Messi's official biographer, has denied the news on his ‘X’ account, providing several important details.

On one hand, Messi has no intention of returning to Barcelona while Joan Laporta remains the club's president, as he promised a solution to his continuity in 2021 but ultimately couldn't fulfill his word. On the other hand, Inter Miami is confident they can keep him at the club beyond this season.