Lionel Messi to join Inter Miami, ending hopes of Barça return
Barcelona had attempted to land sensational return for former captain after PSG contract finishes
Media reports suggest that Lionel Messi will join MLS side Inter Miami once his contract at PSG expires.
Guillem Balague of the BBC first reported that the Argentine superstar has made his decision on his next destination, amid a huge offer reportedly coming from Saudi Arabia, while Barcelona also tried to land a sensational return for their former talisman.
Despite under significant financial strain, the Catalan club had presented a viability plan to La Liga some weeks ago which included the arrival of Messi this summer, as signings must be approved by the league in accordance with the financial fair play rules.
Yet, the 2022 World Cup winner has made up his mind ahead of Barça's viability plan being accepted or rejected, even after Messi's father and agent, Jorge Messi, was seen meeting with Barcelona president Joan Laporta this week.
In an interview with Catalan newspapers Sport and Mundo Deportivo, Messi explained that he has made up his mind on his next adventure, and denied that anything was agreed with Sergio Busquets or Jordi Alba, both of whom are leaving Barcelona this summer.
The player said that he made the decision himself to go to Miami, and that the details of the transfer are not 100% completed, yet Messi was certain that wanted to leave Europe entirely.
"I had other offers from a European team but I didn't even think about it because in Europe my idea was only to return to Barcelona," the Argentine said.
"After winning the World Cup, and not being able to return to Barça, it was time to go to the MLS to experience football in another way and enjoy the day-to-day more. Obviously with the same responsibility and excitement to win and to do things correctly always, but with a bit more peace and calm."
Barça wishes Messi well
"On Monday, June 5, Jorge Messi, the player’s father and representative, informed Club President Joan Laporta of the player's decision to join Inter Miami," a statement from FC Barcelona reads.
"President Laporta understood and respected Messi's decision to want to compete in a league with fewer demands, further away from the spotlight and the pressure he has been subject to in recent years. Both Joan Laporta and Jorge Messi also agreed to work together to promote a proper tribute from Barça fans to honor a footballer who has been, is, and always will be beloved by Barça."
It's reported that the player made his decision based on lifestyle as well as commercial opportunities outside of football. The BBC report that the Inter Miami deal includes collaboration from brands like Adidas and Apple.
Leo Messi already owns a house in Miami, which he currently rents out.
The MLS side Inter Miami are partly owned and presided over by David Beckham.
Messi left Barcelona in 2021 after 21 years with the club, becoming the team's all-time top goalscorer in that time, as well as winning 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.