The quote that set Barcelona on fire

The sight of Lionel Messi inside the Spotify Camp Nou already had the fanbase buzzing, but it was Hansi Flick who lit the biggest spark. Asked if he could ever coach the Argentine star, the German smiled and dropped a now-famous:

“Why not?”

Then came the reality check.

“Messi is the best player of the last ten years or more. It’s incredible to watch him play. But his contract runs until 2028 and mine until 2027… so there’s no case.”

Admiration? Absolutely. Possibility? Practically zero.

Laporta’s stance: no return, but a tribute is coming

Club president Joan Laporta has repeated it many times: Barcelona will not try to bring Messi on loan during the MLS offseason.

The plan is clear—a massive tribute once the new Camp Nou is fully completed.
A reunion in the stands, not on the pitch.

Raphinha returns, Rashford doubtful, Lamine progressing

Beyond the Messi noise, Flick broke down Barcelona’s squad updates ahead of the long-awaited return to Camp Nou:

• Raphinha is back and will come off the bench.
• Marcus Rashford is doubtful due to illness after missing two straight sessions.
• Lamine Yamal has been working intensely after being withdrawn from Spain’s squad: “He’s disciplined, aware of his injury and managing it well.”

Flick also dismissed any conflict with Spain:

“The national team takes care of its players. His absence was the right decision.”

A phrase that created more questions than answers

Flick’s “Why not?” has already become part of Barça’s media circus—fueling hope, curiosity and debate.

But the truth remains unchanged:

Messi will not play for Barcelona again. Not while those contracts stay exactly where they are.