Barcelona president reveals confirms to bring Messi back

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has expressed his desire to organise a tribute match for Lionel Messi when the Camp Nou reconstruction is completed and reaches 100,000 capacity. 

Messi is undoubtedly the greatest footballer in the club's history, holding the records for most goals and most appearances. Still, he left on unceremonious terms, with Laporta failing to deliver on a pledged contract renewal. 

The club have hinted at the desire to right their wrongs and organise a proper send-off for the Argentine great. Laporta expressed those sentiments in today's partial opening of the Camp Nou. 

 “Of course, I’d love that. It would be a beautiful way to show gratitude and recognition,” he said, per Barca Times. When we reach 100,000 capacity, we’ll be able to hold the tribute he, the club, and everything we achieved together deserve.

“But it probably won’t happen before the end of 2026, since that’s when club elections will take place. I don’t know if I’ll still be president then, but if I am, I’d be very happy to lead Messi’s tribute at the stadium.” 

Barcelona’s Camp Nou rebuild is the centrepiece of the Espai Barça project and officially began in mid-2023; the club says the works are being delivered in phases so the stadium can reopen partially while finishing touches continue. 

Last month, Barcelona secured a first occupancy licence for a reduced capacity (26,000) as part of the staged handback; the Espai Barça project timeline still lists completion across remaining phases into 2026. 

Barcelona invited their fans to watch the players train at the partially opened stadium when Laporta revealed the plans to return to the Camp Nou when they get the permit to host 48,000 fans.