Barcelona Plans Fitting Tribute for Lionel Messi’s Return

Barcelona President Joan Laporta rejects the idea of a one-match loan return for Lionel Messi but expresses the club’s intention to bring him back for a proper farewell in the future.

Despite recent reports, Laporta acknowledges uncertainty about FIFA’s rules regarding a one-game loan.

He emphasizes openness to the tribute when Messi and his family wish, citing Messi’s status as the best player in history deserving recognition.

Laporta speculates the tribute could happen upon Barcelona’s return to the Spotify Camp Nou in 2024 or when the fully built stadium is ready by July 2026.

Regarding Messi’s summer transfer, Laporta explains it was left undecided, respecting Messi’s logical choice for stability at Inter Miami amid Paris Saint-Germain pressure.

Messi is slated for a reunion with Newell’s Old Boys in February with Inter Miami.