Lionel Messi’s time at Barcelona will go down in the history books, as he brought a level of artistry to the pitch that few can rival.
Having spent 17 trophy-laden seasons with the Catalan giants, Barcelona’s financial complications forced Messi to leave the club in 2021.
But despite the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner leaving due to unfavorable circumstances, he still holds the club dear to his heart.
Messi’s unconditional love for Barcelona
Guillem Balague, a journalist quite close to the Messi camp, was asked if the World Cup winner’s affection for Barcelona is on par with his love for Argentina.
The journalist shared an intriguing anecdote that confirmed it was true (h/t FCB World)
“Allow me to share this story that answers your question. In my book about Barcelona leaders, every person we talked about in the book had to write something.
The book was delayed a little bit because Leo’s script hadn’t arrived. When I contacted him, he said, “I’ll do it.” This was a big matter.
“Of course, I have a good relationship with him and I am his only biography writer, but I also asked him several things and he refused, but agreed to write this text himself because it is a book about Barcelona,” the journalist shared.
Additionally, Messi conveyed that regardless of where life takes him, Barcelona will always be home to him.
“In the text he wrote, he said that he is a part of Barcelona and will remain so, and that his love for the team is unconditional and that he will return to Barca,” Guillem said.
This commitment to contribute to the book despite previous refusals highlights Messi’s strong sense of attachment to the Blaugranes.
Messi will eventually return
When asked if Messi would return, Guillem Balague stated that it would happen eventually; there will be a point in the future when Barcelona and Leo Messi’s paths will meet again.
“That’s what he said. He will return, there will come a time when the paths of Barça and Leo Messi will cross again. Currently he is enjoying his time at Inter Miami, but the day will come when he must return home. I think that for him home is Barcelona,” he expressed.
It is uncertain in what capacity Messi will return to Barcelona, as he is unlikely to come back as a player.
However, a role in the club’s leadership seems quite possible. Messi has previously suggested he might be interested in serving as a sporting director in the future.
