Barcelona president Joan Laporta has labeled a playing return for club legend Lionel Messi “unrealistic,” but confirmed the club is planning a spectacular tribute match for the forward.
Laporta’s statement follows a surprise visit by Messi, 37, to the Nou Camp last week, where he expressed a desire to return “not just to say goodbye as a player.”
The president stressed that making “speculation that is unrealistic” is inappropriate, especially given Messi’s contract with Inter Miami runs until 2028. Messi initially left Barcelona in 2021 due to the club’s financial issues.
Laporta said the tribute match, which would be held once the Nou Camp reopens, would be the “best tribute in the world” and could take place in front of 105,000 fans.
Messi holds the club record for goals (672) and appearances (778), and won 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with Barcelona.
