Lionel Messi visits renovated Camp Nou, expresses wish to return for final farewell

Football legend Lionel Messi made an unexpected and emotional visit to FC Barcelona’s home ground, Camp Nou, which is currently under renovation. The visit rekindled memories of his glorious career with the club, where he became one of the greatest players in football history. During the visit, Messi expressed his heartfelt wish to one day return to the iconic stadium to officially say goodbye to the fans who supported him throughout his journey.

The Argentine superstar, who currently plays for Inter Miami in the United States, shared his thoughts in an emotional Instagram post. “Last night I returned to a place I miss with my soul. A place where I was immensely happy, where you guys made me feel a thousand times the happiest person in the world. I hope one day I can come back, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to,” Messi wrote. His words quickly went viral, evoking nostalgia among fans who have long awaited his proper farewell from the club that shaped his career.

Messi’s bond with Barcelona and his unfinished goodbye

Lionel Messi’s association with Barcelona remains one of the most celebrated partnerships in sports history. He joined the club’s youth academy, La Masia, at the age of 13, and over the next two decades, he transformed into the face of the team and the heartbeat of Catalan football. Between 2004 and 2021, Messi made over 700 appearances for Barcelona, scored more than 670 goals, and led the team to countless victories—including 10 La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League trophies, and seven Copa del Rey titles.

Despite his incredible success, Messi’s departure from Barcelona in 2021 was abrupt and emotional. The club’s severe financial crisis and restrictions imposed by La Liga’s salary cap rules prevented the renewal of his contract, forcing him to leave against his wishes. At that time, fans were heartbroken, and Messi’s tearful farewell press conference made global headlines. Unlike many football icons who get to bid farewell in front of a full stadium, Messi never had the chance to say goodbye on the Camp Nou pitch.

After leaving Barcelona, Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he played for two seasons before moving to Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami in 2023. Even while playing abroad, Messi has repeatedly spoken about his deep emotional connection with Barcelona, referring to it as his “home.” His latest visit to the Camp Nou—though brief—was symbolic, as it reignited fans’ hope that the football legend would one day receive the farewell he deserves.

Camp Nou, which has been under renovation since 2023, is expected to reopen with a modernized design and increased seating capacity. The project aims to make it one of the most advanced football stadiums in the world, capable of hosting over 100,000 spectators. For Messi, this renovation represents not just a new chapter for the club but also a possible opportunity to return and reconnect with the supporters who stood by him for nearly two decades.

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Joan Laporta’s response and plans for Messi’s tribute

Following Messi’s surprise visit, Barcelona club president Joan Laporta addressed the possibility of organising an official tribute for the legendary player. Speaking to the media, Laporta confirmed that he would be honoured to have Messi return for a grand farewell event once the stadium renovation is complete.

“Of course I’d love that. It would be a beautiful way to show gratitude and recognition,” Laporta said. “When we reach 100,000 capacity, we’ll be able to hold the tribute he, the club, and everything we achieved together deserve. But it probably won’t happen before the end of 2026, since that’s when club elections will take place. I don’t know if I’ll still be president then, but if I am, I’d be very happy to lead Messi’s tribute at the stadium.”

Laporta’s comments resonated deeply with Barcelona fans, many of whom have long wanted to see Messi honoured at Camp Nou. The relationship between Messi and Laporta has seen ups and downs, particularly during the time of Messi’s departure. However, recent interactions suggest that both sides have moved past the difficult chapter and are open to rebuilding their bond.

The president’s statement also aligns with Barcelona’s vision of preserving the club’s heritage and honouring the players who have defined its history. Messi’s contribution to Barcelona is unparalleled—he not only set numerous records but also inspired a generation of footballers and fans worldwide. A farewell event at a newly renovated Camp Nou would serve as a fitting tribute to his achievements and his emotional connection with the city.

Fans on social media responded with overwhelming enthusiasm after learning about Messi’s visit and Laporta’s remarks. Thousands of messages poured in under Messi’s Instagram post, with many calling for a grand farewell match or tribute ceremony once the new stadium opens. Some fans suggested that Messi should play one final friendly match in Barcelona colours before officially retiring from football.

Messi’s emotional return also sparked discussions about his future beyond football. Some believe he could eventually take up an ambassadorial or mentoring role at FC Barcelona once he retires, helping guide young players through La Masia and strengthening the club’s legacy.

While Messi continues to shine with Inter Miami and inspire a new generation of fans in the United States, his heart remains tied to Barcelona. His brief yet powerful visit to Camp Nou reminded the world that his story with the club is not over—it merely awaits the right ending.

As the Camp Nou renovation progresses and Barcelona prepares for a new era, fans across the world eagerly look forward to the day when Lionel Messi finally walks onto that pitch again—not as a player seeking victory, but as a legend returning home to say the goodbye he never got.