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Lionel Messi: Rumors of a Possible Loan Return to Barcelona

By Arthur Fernandes

BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 16: Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona looks on during the La Liga Santander match between FC Barcelona and RC Celta at Camp Nou on May 16, 2021 in Barcelona, Spain. Sporting stadiums around Spain remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 16: Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona looks on during the La Liga Santander match between FC Barcelona and RC Celta at Camp Nou on May 16, 2021 in Barcelona, Spain. Sporting stadiums around Spain remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) /
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Lionel Messi’s soccer saga continues to intrigue fans and sports observers. After his departure from Barcelona in the summer of 2021, the Argentine superstar joined Paris Saint-Germain and then embarked on an exciting adventure by signing with Inter Miami in the United States. However, now there are rumors that Messi could be on the verge of a surprising return to Barcelona, through a loan deal, as soon as the Major League Soccer (MLS) season concludes.

The story begins with Messi’s contract with Barcelona expiring in 2021, when the Catalan club couldn’t extend the agreement due to financial issues. The player then moved to Paris Saint-Germain, where he spent two years before becoming a free agent once again.

Since then, rumors have emerged that Messi discussed the possibility of a return to Camp Nou with Barcelona. However, he opted for an entirely new challenge, moving to the United States to join Inter Miami. During his time with the American club, Messi inspired the team to Copa del Liga glory, showcasing his mastery on the field once again.

BARCELONA, SPAIN – MAY 16: Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona runs with the ball during the La Liga Santander match between FC Barcelona and RC Celta at Camp Nou on May 16, 2021 in Barcelona, Spain. Sporting stadiums around Spain remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN – MAY 16: Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona runs with the ball during the La Liga Santander match between FC Barcelona and RC Celta at Camp Nou on May 16, 2021 in Barcelona, Spain. Sporting stadiums around Spain remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) /

However, an unexpected setback occurred at the worst possible time when an injury sidelined him from the 2023 MLS playoffs. With the Inter Miami season scheduled to end on October 21st, Messi faces a long break before the start of the 2024 American season, set for February.

It’s at this point that rumors of a return to the European scene have gained momentum. It has been suggested that, similar to other soccer stars like David Beckham, Thierry Henry, and Robbie Keane have done in the past, Messi could make a temporary return to Europe through a loan during the MLS offseason.

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has promised to give Messi the opportunity to bid farewell to Barcelona in a more fitting manner. However, SPORT news outlet reports that substantial negotiations regarding this loan move have not taken place so far, leaving the situation open and largely based on speculation.

Therefore, uncertainty looms over Lionel Messi’s future, and whether he will make an epic return to Barcelona or continue his journey in the United States with Inter Miami. Soccer fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting how this intriguing story will unfold in the coming months.

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