Joan Laporta doesn't give up. The Barcelona president has made another move to try to bring Leo Messi back to the club that gave him everything.
This time, it's not about a signing or an impossible operation, but about a tribute. One worthy of the legend. He has done so in response to Al-Hilal's latest move, as they're preparing a full offensive to sign the Argentine in 2026.
Messi, far from Barça... but not that far
Al-Hilal wants to make Leo Messi the main attraction for the 2029 Club World Cup. They're willing to offer him a multimillion contract if he decides to play in Saudi Arabia. This offensive has triggered a move in Barcelona.
Laporta has contacted Jorge Messi again. He has asked him if there's any chance Leo could return, even if only for an official farewell in front of his people.
Jorge's answer was clear: Messi doesn't consider playing for Barça again. He believes his time as a Barça footballer is over for good.
He understands it's a new team, with young players who need to have their own space and leadership. Lamine Yamal, Fermín, Cubarsí, Gavi, and company are already writing a different story, one that's not his.
But the tribute will happen
Although there won't be a competitive return, Messi does want to say goodbye to Camp Nou. To his fans. To the 105,000 culés (105,000) who chanted his name.
He doesn't want an improvised farewell or one in a half-finished stadium. That's why his intention is to wait until the new Spotify Camp Nou is completed, with all the stands full, and then... say goodbye as he deserves.
The date is set for late 2026 or early 2027. That's when the club and Messi's camp will agree on a grand tribute. Possibly with a special match that brings together former teammates and recent Barça idols.
Laporta wants him as an eternal image
For Joan Laporta, the idea that Messi could retire from soccer without one last big round of applause from Camp Nou is a personal obsession. The president wants to leave that event as the legacy of his second term leading the club.
A way to close wounds from the past. Barça, Messi, and the fans have a pending date, and it's going to happen.
Meanwhile, people in Saudi Arabia are pushing to convince Leo to extend his career. But the "10" is clear that there's only one place to close his story: Camp Nou. That moment is getting closer and closer.