Lionel Messi return to Barcelona is a future option that Xavi has been quick not to rule out, but the manager has made it clear that this is not something the team can accomplish during this transfer window. That’s because a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has a year left on his contract with Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.
If no extension to that contract is reached, the Argentine superstar may become a free agent again two years after making a spectacular move from Camp Nou to Parc des Princes, with Barcelona president Joan Laporta openly saying that he would like to see an all-time great return to Catalunya.
Will Messi Return to Barcelona?
Laporta has stated that Messi’s “chapter” at Barcelona is not done and that he believes he “owes” the South American forward after being unable to fund a new contract in 2021.
Xavi, who previously played alongside a legendary figure who came through the famed La Masia academy system, would appreciate the chance to bring back a fan favourite, but is conscious that no deal can be negotiated until 2023.
When questioned about the return rumours, he stated: “At the moment, signing Leo Messi is impossible. He has a contract with Paris.
“We will see in the future. It’s not the time to talk about him.
Xavi: “Makes no sense to speak about Leo Messi’s comeback at Barcelona right now, he’s under contract with PSG so it’s impossible. We’ll see in the future”. 🚨🇦🇷 #FCB @HelenaCondis
“Laporta had already said he hoped it was not yet the end for Messi at Barça”, Xavi added. pic.twitter.com/9U0FQ9FxGX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 26, 2022
Lionel Messi Performance at PSG
Messi took a while to get started in Ligue 1, but he’s showing signs of returning to form this preseason in Japan. His PSG record is already fairly outstanding, with a total of 26 goals and assists in 34 matches. Five of the goals came in seven important Champions League games. His goals and playmaking contributed significantly to his club’s 10th Ligue 1 title. Unfortunately, he was unable to prevent his team from being knocked out of the Champions League in the round of 16 against Real Madrid.
Messi is a winner on a grand scale. With seven Ballon D’Ors, 22 top scorer awards, ten La Liga titles, and four Champions League winners medals to his name, the Argentine is really unrivalled.
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