Messi to return to Spain? Barcelona legend dreams of final Camp Nou appearance

• Argentine legend Lionel Messi spent 21 years at Barcelona, becoming their all-time top scorer and appearance-maker
• Potential farewell match options include Barcelona vs. Inter Miami or an Argentina international fixture
• Barcelona has not officially commented, but the club would likely embrace the chance to honour its greatest-ever player

Even after an unparalleled career filled with trophies, records, and unforgettable moments, Lionel Messi still has one unfinished ambition before hanging up his boots. 

The 37-year-old, who has won a record eight Ballon d’Or titles and an astonishing 45 trophies, reportedly wants one last dance at Barcelona’s legendary Camp Nou.

Messi, who spent 21 years with Barcelona, remains emotionally connected to the club and the city. While he has already expressed his desire to return to Barcelona after retirement, recent reports from Argentina suggest that he may be back even sooner, but not as a long-term signing. 

Journalist Alex Candal revealed on DSports that Messi has a special request before retiring, 

“I can’t leave football without playing at the new Camp Nou,” Messi had reportedly stated.

During his iconic tenure at Barcelona, Messi dazzled the Camp Nou faithful for 17 seasons, setting records as the club’s all-time leading scorer and appearance maker with 778 matches. 

However, the stadium he called home for so long is no more, at least not in its original form. The Catalan giants embarked on an extensive renovation project following the 2022/23 season, forcing the team to relocate temporarily to Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. 

Due to delays, the club is now targeting a return to their revamped stadium for the 2025/26 season, with full renovations expected to be completed by June 2026.

Given Messi’s current commitment to Inter Miami, a permanent return to Barcelona seems unlikely. However, the idea of a farewell match at Camp Nou could very much happen. 

One possible scenario is a friendly between Barcelona and Inter Miami, allowing Messi to step onto the pitch of the iconic stadium one final time.

Another possibility is an international fixture involving Argentina, which would see an emotional reunion with the fans who idolised him for nearly two decades.

However, scheduling remains a challenge as Inter Miami will compete in the Club World Cup this summer, while the MLS calendar operates differently from European football. 

A winter break in January 2026 could present an ideal window for Barcelona to host Messi for a one-off match. 

While no official confirmation has been made, it seems almost inevitable that Barcelona will do everything possible to ensure their greatest-ever player gets the send-off he deserves.

Messi explains his new celebration after draw with Charlotte FC

Previously, TheRadar reported that former Barcelona star Lionel Messi’s magic was on display once again as he delivered a game-tying goal in Inter Miami’s 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC on Saturday night, September 28. 

After his 67th-minute equaliser, Messi mimicked Iron Man’s liftoff pose, raising his heels and extending his hands by his sides, signalling to fans and his family in the stands. The idea came from his children, with whom he claims he shares a special connection through their love of Marvel movies.