According to journalist Maximiliano Grillo from TNT Sports Argentina, FC Barcelona is reportedly planning Lionel Messi’s return in the summer of 2026, right after the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The club’s idea would be for the Argentine star to be part of the official reopening of the Camp Nou, coinciding with the expiration of his contract with Inter Miami.

Unfinished Business with Barça

Messi’s possible return remains a hot topic among Barça fans, especially after his painful departure in 2021, which left unresolved tensions, particularly with club president Joan Laporta. While Barcelona is exploring ways to make his comeback financially viable, contractual and economic obstacles continue to pose a challenge. However, the dream of seeing the legendary No. 10 back in a Blaugrana shirt refuses to fade.

Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has shown that his brilliance is still intact. This season, he has played five matches, scoring four goals and providing two assists. However, his future beyond 2025 remains uncertain, and many in the Barça camp hope that his story with the club will have one final chapter at the renovated Camp Nou.

Argentina’s Injury Woes

As speculation about his future continues, Messi will miss Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil. Lionel Scaloni left him out of the squad due to a muscular injury in his left adductor, sustained in Inter Miami’s recent win over Atlanta United.

Additionally, the Albiceleste will be without Paulo Dybala, Giovani Lo Celso, and Gonzalo Montiel due to injuries, while Alejandro Garnacho, Claudio Echeverri, and Francisco Ortega were left out for technical reasons. For now, Messi’s future remains uncertain. However, the idea of him bidding farewell to elite football at Camp Nou, after the 2026 World Cup, keeps the hope alive for Barça fans.