Messi return talk resurfaces as Barcelona presidential candidate shares plan to reach out About Possible Return in Bid to Win Fans’ Support
Looking ahead to the future, Barcelona presidential member Victor Font has publicly stated his ambition to persuade Lionel Messi to return to the club before he retires from professional soccer.
The iconic Argentinian player is widely considered one of the greatest, if not the absolute best, to ever play the game and will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.
Throughout his illustrious career, Messi has achieved remarkable feats, scoring an impressive 791 goals in 970 matches at club level, along with 115 goals in 196 appearances for Argentina.
His trophy cabinet boasts an array of prestigious awards, including a record eight Ballon d’Ors.
During his time with Barcelona, Messi achieved incredible success, securing ten La Liga championships, seven Copa del Reys, seven Spanish Super Cups, four Champions League titles, three UEFA Super Cups, and three FIFA Club World Cups.
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Recent speculation suggests that Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami, might consider a temporary move back to Europe during the winter months to maintain his peak condition in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Adding to the intrigue, Messi recently sparked excitement among fans with an unexpected visit to the Camp Nou, which is undergoing renovations, prior to Argentina’s match against Spain during the international break.
Following his visit, Messi expressed his nostalgia on social media, saying he had returned to a place he deeply longed for.
He reminisced about the immense joy he experienced there, feeling overwhelmingly happy thanks to the fans.
He voiced his hope to return someday, not just for a proper farewell as a player, something he never had the chance to do.
His presence at Camp Nou ignited a wave of speculation on social media about a potential return to Barcelona, even though a transfer appeared improbable.
Barcelona presidential hopeful Font, in a conversation with Mundo Deportivo, pledged to contact Messi immediately if elected.
He stressed the importance of Messi knowing this by saying “it will be the first phone call I make”
Regarding the possibility of Messi returning to Barcelona before retirement, Font admitted, “As a fan, it’s incredibly exciting to think about, but ultimately it’s his decision. We shouldn’t try to exploit his image.”
He criticized Laporta for allegedly doing so in the past, particularly during elections, calling it a broken promise.
Font insisted that Messi shouldn’t be used as a political tool, but rather be assured that he would be the first person contacted if Font wins the election.
“We have a responsibility to engage in dialogue with every individual who possesses the potential to positively impact our future endeavors. Gaining insight into their aims and objectives is crucial.
However, it’s equally vital to acknowledge that the resources at our disposal are fundamentally the property of this organization. Squandering or neglecting these assets would be illogical and unproductive.
To reiterate, upon securing victory in the upcoming elections, my immediate priority will be initiating contact with Lionel Messi.”
Fresh Reports Surrounding Rashford’s Transfer
Report suggest that Dwaine Maynard, the agent and brother of Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, has been the recipient of inquiries from a pair of London-based Premier League clubs, hinting at a possible return to his roots for the talented forward.
Rashford, presently enduring his second successive temporary transfer away from Old Trafford, remains a vital attacking asset for the Red Devils.
However, it’s been whispered that he may not be enjoying a particularly strong relationship with current manager Ruben Amorim, which could further fuel speculation about a potential move.
This reported lack of rapport, combined with interest from London, determines Rashford’s future.
This lack of support became apparent soon after Amorim’s arrival in November 2024, leading to Rashford’s loan stints with Aston Villa and now Barcelona.
Rumors have consistently pointed towards Rashford’s desire to represent the Catalan giants, and a permanent transfer remains a possibility.
The €30 million (£26.2m) buy option appears to be an astute bargain, considering the forward’s impressive contribution of six goals and nine assists for Barca thus far.
However, El Nacional suggests that Rashford’s future in Spain is “far from assured.” Doubts reportedly linger within the club regarding the prudence of exercising the option to permanently acquire Rashford.
The prevailing sentiment within Barca is that the funds earmarked for the Englishman could be better utilized to recruit a marquee striker.
Should Barcelona decline to secure Rashford’s services, he will still have alternative avenues.
He is supposedly already investigating these possibilities in anticipation of a potential rejection from Barca – although remaining with the Spanish club is his preferred outcome.
Reportedly, he is eager to avoid any wasted time and is prepared to commit to another club if Barcelona opt not to retain him.
His brother and agent, Maynard, has apparently already engaged in discussions concerning his future, with both Chelsea and Tottenham, London rivals, showing interest.
Both clubs have reportedly initiated preliminary contact, aiming to persuade Rashford to join their ranks
Tottenham’s ongoing difficulties in finding a suitable left-sided winger this season suggest that the Englishman would be a valuable acquisition. In contrast, Chelsea already possess a plethora of attacking options, potentially making that transfer less appealing.
Regardless, it is understood that Rashford has no inclination to return to Manchester United. His preference, if Barcelona are willing to sign him, is to remain with the Blaugrana.
Considering that he has provided more assists than any other player in La Liga this season, it would seem logical for Barca to secure his signature, given his outstanding form and substantial influence on the team, currently second in the league.
Barcelona’s hesitance regarding the move appears somewhat illogical. Considering that he is poised to be a more economical option than other players who could provide a similar impact, it could prove to be an imprudent decision to let him depart and attempt to acquire a superior player for a comparable price.
