Newell's target first half of 2027 for Lionel Messi return to Rosario | OneFootball

Newell's Old Boys are working on a Lionel Messi return in the first half of 2027, with nothing agreed.

Vice-president Juan Manuel Medina frames it as a project for the city, the province and Argentine football, dependent on infrastructure and a competitive sporting plan. Messi wore Newell's colours from age seven to 13 before joining La Masia.

The timing aligns with MLS shifting to a European-style calendar from 2027-2028, with the 2027 season starting in August, leaving Inter Miami without fixtures in the first half of that year.

"I have always said that I wanted to play in Argentine football one day, I do not know if it will happen but I have it in my head. I would not play anywhere else than at Newell's in the country. I would like to do that for at least six months." He said that in 2018 to Argentine broadcaster El Trece.

Discussions have taken place and the idea has been floated, though no decision has been made. Newell's sit 28th of 30 with one point after three games.

Any move remains complicated, as Messi extended his Inter Miami contract last year to 2028. The club won MLS for the first time at the end of 2025, and he was named MVP for the second year running with 34 matches, 35 goals and 23 assists.

Source: L'Équipe