‘s departure from Barcelona in 2021 was full of heartbreak, leaving many supporters convinced he would one day return. Four years on, that hope endures. Yet plenty has changed since the Argentine icon last wore the famous Blaugrana shirt, and the question is whether a reunion can actually happen.

Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, has publicly admitted he’d like to see Messi back. But journalist Guillem Balagué, who knows the player’s circle well, insists it won’t happen any time soon.

“Messi has got no intention to return to Barcelona. I would say it’s impossible while Laporta is in charge. Quite likely, will convince him to remain at the club,” Balagué said. Those words suggest personal tensions run too deep for an easy resolution.

Messi’s bond with the Catalans remains undeniable. La Liga president Javier Tebas is certain of that, stating, “I think Messi wants to go back to Barcelona… He is in love with the club.”

Still, love alone won’t fix the rifts or the financial complexities. Barcelona’s plan to clear wage space includes potentially offloading Andreas Christensen, Ansu Fati, and Ferran Torres, hoping to open the door for a short-term loan from Inter Miami.

Even so, the side reportedly wants Messi to renew his deal until December 2027 before entertaining any loan offers.

The personal dilemma vs. club politics

Messi remains the face of Inter Miami and a major figure in American soccer’s growth. He also remembers how deeply it hurt to leave Barcelona in the first place.

Combine that with the tension surrounding Laporta, and you have an emotional standoff. Sources like Balagué believe a return won’t happen if the president remains in power.

If Laporta’s stance or leadership changes, the picture might shift. Meanwhile, Inter Miami has no desire to let go of the star who put them on the global map.

The simplest scenario is that Messi honors his current contract in Florida through 2025 or even extends it until 2027. Barcelona fans can hold onto the dream of a final dance at Camp Nou, but it’s a complicated path.

Politics, finances, and personal relationships are all standing in the way. Unless something dramatic changes, the greatest player in Barça’s history may never again grace the field where he built his legend.