Jonathan Bead
Barcelona in Contact with Lionel Messi to Bring him Back to Camp Nou
Barcelona have confirmed they are in discussions with Lionel Messi about the possibility of re-signing him when his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires in June. Coach Xavi Hernandez hopes to see the Argentine back at Camp Nou.
Vice president Rafa Yuste said at a news conference, “I am still gutted he couldn’t continue here. Of course, I would love him to come back because of what he represents on a sporting, social, and economic level. We are in contact with [Messi’s camp]…there is a mutual love between the two parties.”
Messi left two years ago after two decades in Catalonia because Barca could not afford to renew his contract. The financial side of his return remains an obstacle as Barca need to knock more than €150 million off their annual spending to comply with LaLiga’s economic regulations and be able to sign players and register contract renewals. Yuste added, “We still have two months to work hard to present our revenue and sustainability plan…if all the conditions are met, we are open to the possibility…it would be the perfect ending to a very happy story.”
Xavi, who played alongside Messi, said in a news conference ahead of Saturday’s trip to Elche, “It depends more on Leo’s intentions and if he wants to come back…He’s won everything in the game, and it will depend on his happiness. If he wants to come back, if that’s his intention, we will speak about it. I hope we see him come home.”
Barcelona’s return to LaLiga action against Elche this weekend with a 12-point lead at the top of the table.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings