Overview
- SPORT reports Messi phoned Xavi in January 2023 to declare he wanted to come back, leading to regular talks and agreement on a reduced role.
- By April, director Mateu Alemany told Xavi La Liga had given the OK, and Barcelona drafted a two‑year contract to seal the reunion.
- Days later, Jorge Messi said the approval would not be granted, negotiations ceased, and Messi opted to join Inter Miami.
- Joan Laporta was briefed throughout and initially embraced the idea as a way to repair the 2021 parting.
- The account originates with SPORT and is echoed by Yahoo Sports, News18 and Goal, as Barcelona now rules out a playing return and Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami.