The true culprit of Lionel Messi's failed return to Barcelona

The return of Lionel Messi to FC Barcelona is a dream that many fans have kept alive since his departure in 2021. However, according to renowned journalist and Messi's biographer, Guillem Balague, that possibility is practically impossible. Through his social media, Balague explained the reasons that keep the Argentine star away from a comeback to the club where he became a legend.

Messi has no intention of returning

One of the main points highlighted by Guillem Balague is that Lionel Messi is not interested in returning to Barcelona. "I would say it is impossible while Laporta is in charge," stated the journalist, making it clear that the relationship between the player and the club president remains strained.

Since his departure, Messi has avoided any public statements indicating a possible return. His decision to sign for Inter Miami in 2023 was already a clear sign that his career was taking another direction, distancing himself from the media pressure and tensions he experienced at the Catalan club.

The contract with Inter Miami and the potential renewal

Messi has a contract with Inter Miami until the end of the 2025 season, and according to Balague, "it is very likely that Inter Miami will convince him to stay at the club." The project in Major League Soccer has given Messi a change of scenery and greater family stability, key factors when defining his future.

The North American team has built its structure around him, bringing in figures like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba to surround him with a familiar environment. Additionally, his impact on the American league has been enormous, both in sporting and commercial terms, making his continuity a priority for the franchise.

The conflict with Joan Laporta, an insurmountable obstacle

The journalist also emphasised the role of Joan Laporta as a determining factor in Messi's refusal to return. The Argentine's departure from Barcelona in 2021 left deep wounds, especially after the unfulfilled promises of the club president regarding his renewal.

Laporta has mentioned on several occasions his desire to bring Messi back, but the club's financial reality and the lack of guarantees at the time were factors that led the Argentine to choose other paths. With the relationship between both parties deteriorated, a return seems out of the question.

A return that will remain a fantasy

Barcelona fans still dream of seeing Lionel Messi wearing the blaugrana shirt again, but according to Guillem Balague, that will not happen. His contract with Inter Miami, the conflict with Laporta, and his lack of interest in returning are sufficient reasons to understand that the story between Messi and Barcelona seems to have reached its final chapter.