Iniesta weighs in on Messi’s return, Pedri and Araujo’s condition – ‘Don’t know if there is a wound or not’ | OneFootball

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has offered thoughtful insight into the ongoing speculation surrounding Lionel Messi and the possibility, however distant, of the Argentine returning to the club in the future. 

Speaking to MARCA, the former Barça captain acknowledged that Messi’s recent late-night, unannounced visit to the Spotify Camp Nou reignited debate about his relationship with the current board. 

When questioned about the possibility of Messi ever returning and whether the tension between the Argentine and the club’s hierarchy could be repaired, Iniesta chose his words carefully.

“I don’t know if there is a wound or not. I can’t say anything beyond what Leo means to Barça. That will never change, no matter who is there, no matter when. 

“I don’t know if he will return at some point and in what capacity, but the most important thing is what Leo means to Barça,” he said.

On Pedri and Araujo

The legendary midfielder also took a moment to praise Pedri, a player often compared to him. He made it clear he does not believe in such comparisons.

“Pedri is Pedri. He’s not a mixture of anything.

“He has his qualities, his virtues, his areas for growth and improvement because he’s a very young player, although he’s very decisive at Barça and for the national team. 

Iniesta has once again praised Pedri. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

“The beauty of it is that he’s a player who, when you watch him on TV, amazes you with what he does, with how easy he makes it look, with his simplicity, with his naturalness. 

“It’s a joy for Barça fans to have him at Barça and for all Spaniards to have him on the national team.”

Turning to Ronald Araujo’s current situation, Iniesta showed empathy for the Uruguayan defender, who recently asked Barcelona for time off to recover mentally following his red card against Chelsea in the Champions League.

“Situations and circumstances in life happen, have happened, and will continue to happen. 

“It happens on a daily basis. It is that awareness of the kind of problems that people have to live with. 

“As far as possible, you have to put yourself in the hands of professionals who can help you in situations like this and, from there, find the strength to get through it. 

“Fortunately, many people do get through it, but it’s a social awareness of how we do things, how we say them, how we manage them; there are many factors that lead to that moment,” he concluded.