Deco shuts down possibility of Lionel Messi returning to Barcelona – ‘It was never even considered’ | OneFootball

Speaking on Que t’hi jugues (h/t Mundo Deportivo), FC Barcelona sporting director Deco has closed the door on any possibility of Lionel Messi returning to the club as a player.

Messi surprised fans across the globe a few weeks ago when he paid a secret visit to the renovated Spotify Camp Nou, with even club officials being unaware of it until he shared images on social media.

It sparked hope among supporters about a possible return for their beloved former captain, four years after he was forced out of the club in a heartbreaking manner.

However, Deco has dismissed the idea of a possible return of Messi for a final last dance on loan from Inter Miami, much like Joan Laporta had done recently.

“I don’t think it’s possible because Leo is under contract and it was never even considered. Leo is always Leo and he could still contribute something; he’s a great player, but it’s not something we’re going to talk about,” he firmly stated.

“The current situation is entirely speculative,” Deco added. 

Deco is not surprised that Messi’s name is chanted in the tenth minute during matches at the Spotify Camp Nou.

No return to Barcelona as a player for Messi. (Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images)

“Leo will have a lifelong impact. For me, Leo is the best player in the club’s history, along with Johan [Cruyff] and Ronnie [Ronaldinho]. It’s normal, being from this generation, not to forget Leo,” the former midfielder stated.

The sporting director also spoke about comparisons between Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal and Messi, commenting:

“They’re different stages, different players. They’re both ahead of the rest in terms of their perception of things.

“Leo grew up in an environment where he had no pressure or need for the spotlight because it wasn’t his time, while Lamine grew up in a different environment, at a Barça in reconstruction.

“Leo did so in an already established team, with an average age of 26-27. Leo gradually worked his way in.”

Deco further noted: “Leo generated curiosity; I went to watch the reserve team to see him play. His quality was impressive.”