A steadily rising fever has been felt at FC Barcelona in recent weeks: the return of Lionel Messi is no longer perceived as just a dream, but as a realistic possibility. It’s been said at times that the Argentine is determined to come home to the Camp Nou. But things are probably not quite that far yet.
At least that’s what the newspaper published in Barcelona reports Sport. Accordingly, Messi has not yet made a decision to return to Catalonia, but continues to deal with all options open to him. According to the information in the newspaper, there are still four: In addition to a move to Barca, staying at Paris Saint-Germain is also conceivable despite faltering contract talks; Inter Miami from the North American MLS and the Saudi club Al-Hilal are also vying for the world champion’s services.
Saudi Arabia lures probably in vain
Above all, the offer from Saudi Arabia should not be ignored because of its financial dimension, which is difficult to grasp. As is well known, the local league wants to leave no stone unturned to end the rivalry of Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, there is a contract in the room that guarantees the 35-year-old 400 million euros for just one year in the desert. However, according to the report, saying goodbye to Europe is rather unrealistic. Messi continues to see himself at a high level in the most important club competitions in the world, which are now part of UEFA.
Duel PSG vs. Barça?
It also plays a role that the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, who is certainly the favorite for the current year, wants to further expand his record at the most important individual honor in professional football. Thus, it could end up being a duel between PSG and Barca in which the Catalans should have the better chances. Most recently, Messi was whistled at in Paris, but in Barcelona he continues to be idolized in his absence. According to the newspaper, it is clear that President Joan Laporta will pull out all the stops to bring Messi home. The club boss wants to make amends for the superstar’s farewell in summer 2021 and feels a great personal responsibility.
