Overview
- Lionel Messi quietly visited the under-renovation Camp Nou and posted an emotional message saying he hopes to return one day, not just to say goodbye as a player.
- Barcelona responded publicly with a message on X telling Messi he is always welcome at his home.
- Laporta told Catalunya Radio it is not realistic to speculate about a playing comeback, while stating the club aims to stage a tribute at a completed Camp Nou.
- Reports differ on whether the visit was pre-authorised, with Barcelona citing security firm Limak’s request for clearance and local reporting relaying Messi’s camp saying no permission was sought.
- Messi extended his Inter Miami contract in October and has said the MLS club would likely be his last, reinforcing that any on-field return to Barcelona is unlikely in the near term.