After completing his two-year stint in Ligue 1’s Paris Saint Germain, Lionel Messi hoped for an FC Barcelona homecoming as a free agent. But with Blaugrana’s financial situation, the club failed to bring back their home-grown legend, who eventually moved to Major League Soccer team, Inter Miami.
But Lionel Messi could soon make a return to the iconic Camp Nou for his testimonial match as confirmed by Barca club president Joan Laporta. Talking with TV3, Laporta revealed he has had a conversation with Messi's representatives about a possible testimonial match. He said, "I agreed with them to make a tribute.”
“The opening day of the Spotify Camp Nou would be an excellent date. Messi wanted to come back to Barca. He had a tough time in Paris. His father told me he didn't want the pressure. We, the Barca fans, respect that. May he do well in Miami," Joan Laporta added.
With FC Barcelona’s home stadium under renovation, Lionel Messi would have to wait at least two more years for a return to Camp Nou. The Blaugrana signed a $982.94 million deal with Turkish construction company Limak, who will complete the renovation by 2026. Hence Camp Nou will be available from the 2026/27 campaign.
Meanwhile, Barcelona will play its home games next season at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys which is located in Montjuic, the large hill southwest of the city of Barcelona. This historic venue was the host for the 1992 Olympic Games, while Camp Nou undergoes renovation.
