Deco has finally addressed the endless speculation surrounding a possible Lionel Messi return to Barcelona.
Lionel Messi remains the eternal icon of Barcelona, his every move still captivating the Camp Nou faithful four years after that tearful 2021 exit forced by financial woes, with fans chanting his name in the 10th minute of every home game as a timeless tribute to the greatest scorer in club history.
Recent whispers of a reunion gained feverish traction after Messi’s surprise, unannounced visit to the revamped Spotify Camp Nou, where he posted emotional photos hinting at unfinished business and a longing for closure he never got.
Speculation swirled about a loan spell from Inter Miami—mirroring MLS precedents like Beckham’s Milan stints—especially with his contract nearing its end and a potential World Cup prep window in 2026.
Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, fielded questions on the buzz during his interview, navigating the delicate balance between legend worship and pragmatic reality, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Deco firmly shut down any Messi Barcelona reunion as a player, declaring it “never even considered” due to Messi’s binding Inter Miami deal.
“I don’t think it’s possible… Leo is always Leo, and he could still contribute something; he’s a great player, but it’s not something we’re going to talk about.”
Deco stated, labeling the hype “entirely speculative.” He lavished praise on Lionel Messi as one of the club’s all-time best alongside Johan Cruyff and Ronaldinho, acknowledging his lifelong impact while emphasizing that no internal discussions occurred.
Deco drew parallels to Lamine Yamal, noting Messi’s pressure-free rise in a star-studded side versus Yamal’s emergence in a rebuilding Barça, yet both share elite perception and quality that turns heads.
This candid dismissal tempers fan dreams but underscores Barcelona’s focus on youth like Yamal amid financial recovery.
A tribute match post-Camp Nou reopening remains floated by Joan Laporta, but as Deco implies, competitive Blaugrana days for Leo stay firmly in the past.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
