Laporta calms talk of Messi comeback after surprise Camp Nou visit | OneFootball

Lionel Messi sent social media into meltdown after sharing a photo marking his “return to Camp Nou”.

The image of the Argentine visiting his old home - accompanied by open talk of his affection for the club and hints about a comeback - reignited long-suppressed emotions among Barcelona supporters. But club president Joan Laporta was quick to calm expectations.

Speaking to Catalunya Ràdio, Laporta faced inevitable questions about Messi. Although the two have shared a close relationship, Laporta’s presidency also oversaw the star’s painful departure - a moment that still stings for many fans.

“I didn’t know he was coming,” Laporta admitted. “But the Spotify Camp Nou will always be his home. From what I’ve been told, his visit was a spontaneous and affectionate gesture.” He was keen to make clear that the club had played no role in arranging it.

Laporta does have plans for Messi’s return - but not as a player. Instead, he wants to give the club’s greatest ever icon the send-off he never received when he was forced to join Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.

“It’s only right that Leo receives the most beautiful tribute possible,” Laporta said. “When the stadium is ready, we’ll have room for 105,000 fans, and we’d love to host him then. We’re preparing a tribute worthy of his legacy - a celebration of the best football ever played, and the recognition Leo truly deserves.”

As for rumours of a short-term loan spell in 2026 - potentially allowing Messi to rejoin Barça temporarily from Inter Miami during the MLS off-season - Laporta played them down. Although many fans would love to see it, he indicated that such a scenario is highly unlikely.

“Messi’s exit wasn’t how any of us wanted it to happen,” Laporta reflected. “If this tribute can help close that chapter in the right way, it would be wonderful. But to speculate about a possible return as a player isn’t appropriate.”