Even the great Lionel Messi faces challenges not all his dreams come to fruition. After securing his eighth Ballon d’Or, Messi revealed to France Football that there was talk of a Barcelona return last summer. Yet, destiny had other plans, and despite his yearning to wear the Blaugrana kit again, it led him to a new chapter with Messi Inter Miami, where he continues to weave his football magic.
Fresh off his eighth Ballon d’Or win, with Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé trailing behind, the Argentine maestro opened up in an extensive interview with the award’s founding magazine, France Football. He touched on the summer transfer saga that ultimately saw the 36-year-old leave Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent. While many anticipated a nostalgic return to his beloved FC Barcelona, Messi instead took his talents to the shores of Miami, suiting up for Inter Miami.
Messi Inter Miami Choice: A Bold New Chapter Over Barcelona
“I could have returned to Barcelona, but it wasn’t possible,” Messi confessed. Despite this, his connection to the Catalan giants remains strong; he still keeps tabs on most of their matches. “I believe the team has made significant strides under Xavi, blending young talents with seasoned pros like Robert Lewandowski and Jules Koundé.”
Messi #10 Inter Miami CF 22/23 Home Jersey
Though the MLS playoffs eluded Messi and Inter Miami, he doesn’t have to prepare for competitive fixtures until February. There was speculation about a short-term loan to Barcelona over the winter, but the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner dismissed the idea. “No, not at all. Now that I’ve moved forward by coming to the United States, I don’t think I’ll play in Europe again. Of course, I’ll miss the Champions League and La Liga, the atmosphere of those special matches. But I’ve enjoyed them as much as I could, so there’s no disappointment.”
Final Whistle in Sight? Messi Discusses His Future Beyond the Pitch
Addressing his career horizon and the whispers of a Barcelona loan, Messi set the record straight: “No, absolutely not. Having made the move to the United States, I can’t see myself returning to play in Europe. The Champions League and LaLiga will be missed—they hold a unique allure. But I’ve savored those experiences fully and carry no regrets.”
As for the final chapters of his storied career and what the future holds, Messi’s stance is unwavering: “I’ve always focused on the present rather than the future. Physically, I’m feeling strong. The length of my career isn’t something I can predict. I aim to keep playing as long as my body allows me to perform at the level I expect of myself. When the time comes that I can’t, I’ll know. Until then, I’m taking it one day at a time.”
Messi tempered expectations regarding his participation in the 2026 World Cup due to his age, saying, “Considering I’ll be 39 then, it seems unlikely, but it ultimately depends on my physical condition at the time.”
On the topic of life after hanging up his boots, Leo said, “We plan to go back to Barcelona once my playing days are over. That’s where our life, our friends, and our routines are. It’s home for me, my wife, and my kids. As for what I’ll do post-football, I truly have no clue right now. I haven’t given it much thought, and I prefer not to just yet.”
So far, Messi has recorded 11 goals and 5 assists in 14 appearances for Inter Miami, and in August, he clinched the Leagues Cup with the team.
Messi Inter Miami’s Stellar Run: Leagues Cup Glory Detailed
Lionel Messi’s inaugural Leagues Cup campaign with Inter Miami commenced with a bang as the maestro netted his first goal in the opening match, signaling the start of what would be a remarkable run.
Experience the enchantment of Messi Inter Miami anew and witness an emotionally charged Beckham, with tears brimming, in the aftermath of a breathtaking stoppage-time free-kick that sealed the triumph.
Game after game, Messi’s influence was undeniable, with his deft touches and keen eye for goal leading the charge. The group stages saw him tally not only goals but key assists, threading passes that would become as celebrated as the goals they produced.
As Inter Miami progressed, Messi’s prowess only intensified. His decisive strikes in the knockout rounds were a testament to his enduring class and match-winning ability. Whether curling free-kicks into the top corner or delivering pinpoint assists, Messi was at the heart of Miami’s attacking force, contributing to critical moments that would eventually pave their path to the final.
The climax of the competition saw Messi in familiar territory: dictating play and dismantling defenses. His goal in the final was the crown jewel of his campaign, a moment that encapsulated his undeniable impact on the team. Messi Inter Miami had not only secured silverware but had done so with their star man leading from the front, etching his name into the club’s young history.
For the full narrative of Messi Inter Miami’s journey to Leagues Cup triumph, complete with every mesmerizing goal and assist from the Argentine legend, click on the article below. Witness how Messi Inter Miami’s new chapter was turned into an unforgettable saga of success:
Messi Inter Miami’s Unmissable Triumph: All-Stars Align
The summer of 2023 in Miami sizzled not just with its typical tropical heat, but with the arrival of football’s elite to Inter Miami. The city buzzed with excitement as Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, comrades of Lionel Messi from their storied Barcelona days, inked deals with the team. With Messi Inter Miami already a headline grabber, the confirmed addition of Luis Suárez has turned the heat up even further. Now, whispers of Sergi Roberto joining next summer are fanning the flames of anticipation, as fans eagerly await the potential reunion of these Catalan giants on the pitch.
Messi Inter Miami Signs Suarez: A Barcelona Reunion
In Miami, Messi is not just playing; he’s recreating a vision of Barcelona’s golden era. With David Beckham, Messi began crafting an All-Stars team. This summer saw the arrivals of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, and now, Luis Suárez’s signing is confirmed. Each player’s arrival turns a new page in the Messi Inter Miami story, promising an exciting future. Click on the article below for full details on Luis Suarez’s move:
Sergi Roberto Eyes Inter Miami Switch: Continuing the Barcelona Legacy
The allure of Inter Miami continues to grow, with Messi at the helm, as they architect a reunion reminiscent of Barcelona’s halcyon days. Under the guidance of David Beckham, the club is weaving a tapestry of stars, with the summer having welcomed the likes of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. Following Luis Suárez’s recent signing, the buzz is that Sergi Roberto could be the next to join in the summer of 2024. His potential move would mark yet another chapter in the unfolding narrative of Messi’s Miami project, hinting at a future rich with promise and a touch of Catalan flair.
Dive into the article below for an in-depth look at the potential transfer of Sergi Roberto:
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Click to unfold more magic: discover all Messi Inter Miami tales!