Despite cementing his status as FC Barcelona’s greatest player ever, Lionel Messi has had a rocky relationship with the Catalan giants in recent years. His 20-year-long spell at the club infamously ended in tears. But there might just be a silver lining awaiting the Argentine. As revealed by club president Joan Laporta, Lionel Messi could possibly play one last game at the iconic Camp Nou before hanging up his boots.
During the summer window, the World Cup winner was heavily linked with a fairytale return to Barca after departing PSG. Messi’s father and Laporta were reportedly nearing an agreement, but eventually, they hit a stumbling block. Unconvinced by Barcelona’s conviction, Messi opted to consider offers from elsewhere.
Leo Messi will be presented as new Inter Miami player on July 16th, he will make his debut for the MLS side on July 21st. pic.twitter.com/6cxW0xZcOq
— Leo Messi 🔟 Fan Club (@WeAreMessi) June 26, 2023
He ultimately ended up joining MLS outfit Inter Miami. Owned by David Beckham, the club presents a refreshing challenge for the 36-year-old, who has been handed an incredible contract. While the Argentina International will be eager to get started in the US, his chapter in Barcelona remains unfinished. Messi’s send-off two years ago left much to be desired and to correct those shortcomings, Barca’s president appears to have a plan in mind.
To properly honor a club legend, Laporta is prepared to organize a testimonial match at the opening of Camp Nou. Not only would this allow Messi to play in front of his adoring fans, but it would also let him play at the iconic venue one last time.
🗣Joan Laporta(Barca President) :
“Leo Messi didn’t join us this summer because he understood our situation . We respect him and hope he has great success in Miami.We talked about giving him a big tribute and it’s going to be great at the opening ceremony of the new Camp Nou” pic.twitter.com/lHANG5BSy4
— PSG Chief (@psg_chief) June 30, 2023
Laporta recently spoke on the idea, “Barca will always be his home, we talked about giving him a big tribute and it’s going to be great at the opening ceremony of the new Camp Nou”. “We respect him and hope he has great success in Miami.’
The testimonial match will likely take place once Camp Nou’s renovation work is finished. The stadium will operate at a lower capacity during the 2024-25 season, before reaching completion during the subsequent year.
When did Lionel Messi last play at the Camp Nou?
Lionel Messi’s last game at the venue came during the 2020-21 campaign. Throughout the season, the Argentine carried most of Barcelona’s offensive load, single-handedly compensating for a lackluster attack. His final game at home was no different, as it ended in a 1-2 defeat to Celta Vigo.
“Maybe his last game at this stadium.”
The commentator called it as Messi left the Camp Nou pitch for the last time. pic.twitter.com/3fY3Ylie83
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 6, 2021
Messi scored Barcelona’s only goal of the game, taking his league tally for the season to 30. The goal also ended up winning him the Pichichi Trophy for the eighth time in his career. However, it failed to secure a victory for Barca on the day.