Sport Newspaper Drops a Bombshell: Messi Has One Condition to Return to Barcelona, and Laporta Knows It

The possibility of Lionel Messi returning to Barcelona has once again ignited discussions within the Blaugrana camp, especially with the new Spotify Camp Nou set to open soon. At 37 years old, the Argentine star is enjoying his experience with Inter Miami, but his deep emotional connection to Barcelona has never faded. This has given hope to Barça fans that they might see him wear the club’s jersey once again.

According to a report by the Spanish outlet El Nacional, Messi is indeed considering a return, but it won’t be an easy decision. Club president Joan Laporta is well aware of the situation and is monitoring it closely, though he knows that the final decision rests solely with Messi.

Since his departure in the summer of 2021, Messi’s relationship with Barcelona has been turbulent. He left the club in tears, unable to bid farewell as he wished. In 2023, a return seemed possible, but the club’s financial struggles prevented it, leading him to sign with Inter Miami instead.

Despite this, Messi has never completely severed his ties with Barcelona. On multiple occasions, he has expressed his desire to return someday, but only under certain conditions. The opportunity to play at the newly renovated Camp Nou could be a significant motivation, but he also understands that any return must be based on more than just nostalgia.

As per the report, Messi has set a non-negotiable condition: he will only return to Barcelona if he believes he can genuinely contribute to the team. The Argentine legend acknowledges that the club has evolved since his departure and no longer revolves around him. Instead, a new generation of talents, including Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, and Cubarsí, is shaping Barcelona’s future.

Messi does not want his return to disrupt the development of these young players or shift the team’s focus back to him. Therefore, before making any decision, he will carefully assess his physical condition and his potential impact on the squad. If he feels he can add value without affecting the team’s dynamics, he may seriously consider a return.

On the other hand, Laporta has been working to maintain a good relationship with Messi despite the tensions that arose following his departure. In recent months, there have been efforts to mend the fractured bond between them, as the Barcelona president understands that bringing Messi back would not only be a sporting boost but also a massive commercial and emotional win for the club.

However, the biggest obstacle for Barcelona is not just Messi’s decision but also the club’s ongoing financial issues. Even if Messi were to return as a free agent, his wages would still pose a significant challenge given the club’s delicate economic situation and La Liga’s strict salary cap regulations.

Additionally, Barcelona has other pressing priorities in the transfer market, such as strengthening their midfield and attack. This makes a potential move for Messi even more complicated, as the club must carefully balance its financial and sporting ambitions.

The key question remains: Will Messi wear the Barcelona shirt once again? Barça fans dream of a final dance at the new Camp Nou, but until the summer, his future remains uncertain. The decision is in Messi’s hands, and Barcelona must prove they are ready to welcome their greatest legend back in the right way.