“I Wanted to Return, But It Wasn’t Possible” — Messi Opens Up on Heartfelt Barcelona Desire

Football legend Lionel Messi has revealed he had strong intentions of making an emotional return to FC Barcelona after the 2022 FIFA World Cup, but circumstances beyond his control made the dream impossible.

In a candid interview with Simplemente Fútbol, the Inter Miami superstar shared how his move to the MLS came after deeply personal and emotional reflections, particularly involving his family and the euphoric aftermath of Argentina’s World Cup triumph.

“I had the intention of returning to Barcelona and being able to go back to a place I always wanted to be, but it wasn’t possible again,” Messi said.

“After that, it became a family decision. The fact that we won the World Cup also had a big impact. I was clear that I didn’t want to be at another team in Europe, I didn’t want to go to any of them.”

⚽ A Love Story That Couldn’t Rekindle

Messi’s bond with Barcelona is one of football’s most iconic relationships — a 17-year era filled with 35 trophies, including 10 LaLiga and 4 UEFA Champions League titles. For many fans, his 2021 departure still feels surreal.

That he yearned to return after Qatar 2022 only adds to the emotion. It wasn't just about football — it was about home. But financial limitations, logistical challenges, and internal club dynamics at Barça made the fairytale return unfeasible.

🇺🇸 Building New Legacies in the U.S.

Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has added two more trophies — the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield — and has transformed the profile of American soccer. Yet his words show that Barcelona remains deeply rooted in his heart.

💭 Opinion: Messi’s Story Is a Reminder That Even Legends Don’t Always Get Their Fairy Tale

Messi’s longing to return home and his honest admission that “it wasn’t possible” underscores something rarely acknowledged — even the greatest of all time face heartbreak. It also humanizes him beyond the goals and the glory. He’s not just a football icon; he’s a man who values home, legacy, and family above all.

While fans may never see him back in Blaugrana colors on the pitch, Messi’s love for Barcelona is eternal — and that, in many ways, is its own kind of victory.

📸 Messi at Inter Miami, still dazzling, still humble.
#GOAT #MessiForever #BarcelonaHeart #MLSImpact #WorldChampion