‘I’d be delighted‘ — Joan Laporta speaks about a potential tribute for Lionel Messi at the Spotify Camp Nou | OneFootball

FC Barcelona took baby steps towards returning to the Spotify Camp Nou by holding an open training session. Some players, such as Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal, had their first involvement at the magnificent stadium.

The aim appears to be to return to the stadium for the match against Athletic Bilbao on 22 November, after the international break. However, there are approvals that need to be secured between now and then to ensure a smooth return.

Club president Joan Laporta has spoken on multiple topics and revealed that he would be delighted to hold a tribute to Lionel Messi at the new Spotify Camp Nou at full capacity. As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, he said:

“Of course I’d like to inaugurate the stadium with a tribute to Messi, it would be a beautiful way to inaugurate the stadium. It depends on whether they want it, but that won’t be until the end of 2026. There will be elections, and I don’t know who the president will be, but I’d be delighted to honour Leo here.”

Lionel Messi’s exit still leaves a very sour taste. For a player who defines the club better than anyone else, fans were not even aware that they had seen him play in a Blaugrana shirt for the last time, and his exit via the back door did not do justice to the player he was.

The Argentinian has since gone on to achieve special things in his career, including lifting the World Cup with his country. However, fans still have not had the opportunity to say goodbye to him and give him a proper farewell.

A tribute match at a full-capacity Spotify Camp Nou would be a beautiful way to honour the little maestro. Let us hope the dream becomes a reality one day.