Vice-president Rafael Yuste has revealed that Barcelona is in communication with none other than the legendary Lionel Messi regarding his possible return to the club. The 35-year-old Argentine forward, who holds the all-time scoring record of 672 goals in 778 games for the Catalan club, left Nou Camp in 2021 due to financial reasons.
Messi’s two-year deal with Paris Saint-Germain is set to expire this summer, and while it is said that he prefers to stay with the French giants, Barcelona is keen on luring him back to La Liga.
“Leo and his family know the affection I have for them,” says Yuste, expressing his fondness for the star player.
Two years ago, Messi agreed to a new contract with Barcelona on reduced wages, but the agreement was contingent upon the club selling players following new financial regulations. Unfortunately, the sales did not happen in a timely manner, leading to the end of his illustrious stint at the club, which brought about four Champions League titles and ten La Liga victories, along with six Ballon d’Or awards.
“I participated in the negotiations which unfortunately did not lead to a certain result,” Yuste recounts. “I’ve always had this thorn in my side that Leo couldn’t continue at our club. Messi knows how much we appreciate him. I would love for him to come back. We’re in contact, of course, with them.”
Despite his successes with PSG, Lionel Messi remains an iconic figure at Barcelona, and the Catalans are hoping to capitalize on this by enticing him back to the club. With 29 goals in 66 appearances for PSG, including his recent 100th international goal and 800th career strike, Messi’s talent on the field speaks for itself. Time will tell if he chooses to return home to Barcelona or stays with PSG.