'My place is there' - Messi hints at Barcelona return after Miami stint

'My place is there' - Messi hints at Barcelona return after Miami stint

Hassan Abdulsalam 13:50 - 26.01.2025

Messi spent 17 years in Barcelona where he helped the team to win numerous titles.

Lionel Messi may be eyeing a return to Barcelona after his current contract expires at Inter Miami.

He has one year remaining on his Miami deal and has led the team to the 2024 playoffs, with speculation about his future continuing.

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The 2022 World Cup winner has enjoyed a successful spell with Inter Miami, leading them to League Cup and Supporters Shield titles.

Lionel Messi at Barcelona (Credit: Imago)

Family friend suggests Barcelona move

A family friend of Messi, Yanina Latorre, has indicated that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner does not plan to extend his stay in Miami.

According to Latorre, Messi has expressed his intention to return to Barcelona, the club where he established himself as a football legend.

"He [Messi] told me that when he finishes here [in Miami], where he is happy, he will return to Barcelona. No, my place is there."

However, These comments contrast with statements made by Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas at the end of 2024.

"Leo and I will sit down to discuss the future. I fully expect that in the opening of our new stadium in 2026 and the opening of our 2026 MLS season after a trophy-laden 2025 season, Leo Messi will be our No. 10."

Mas expressed his expectation that Messi would remain with the club through the opening of their new stadium in 2026 and the start of the 2026 MLS season, anticipating a successful 2025 campaign.

Lionel Messi for Argentina || Imago

Mas stated, "Leo and I will sit down to discuss the future…I fully expect…that Leo Messi will be our No. 10."

For now, Messi is focused on the MLS season, which could potentially be his last in the league.

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