Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has finally opened up about the much-talked-about move that never was — his potential return to Barcelona after the 2022 World Cup. Speaking in a candid interview with Simplemente Fútbol, the 38-year-old football legend admitted that rejoining the Catalan giants was his top priority — but once again, it fell through.
“I had the intention of returning to Barcelona and being able to go back to a place I always wanted to be, but it wasn’t possible again,” Messi said.
After leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar, Messi became a free agent following the end of his spell at Paris Saint-Germain. While many fans hoped for a storybook return to Camp Nou, Messi revealed that the situation behind the scenes didn’t allow for it. Instead, his next move became more personal than professional.
“It became a family decision,” he added. “The fact that we won the World Cup also had a big impact. I was clear that I didn’t want to be at another team in Europe, I didn’t want to go to any of them.”
A Glorious Barca Era & A New Chapter in the MLS
Messi spent 17 unforgettable seasons at Barcelona, where he won a jaw-dropping 35 trophies, including 10 LaLiga titles and 4 UEFA Champions League crowns — firmly cementing his place as one of football’s all-time greats.
Now, he’s writing a new chapter in the United States with Inter Miami, where he’s already made his mark by winning the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield.
Though a Camp Nou reunion never materialized, Messi’s love for Barcelona clearly hasn’t faded. But with a World Cup medal around his neck, a growing legacy in MLS, and his family’s happiness in mind — it seems the GOAT is right where he wants to be.
