Argentina and Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has expressed his longing to return to the iconic Camp Nou, revealing his emotional connection to the club and his wish to one day bid a proper farewell to the fans who shaped his legendary career.
The 38-year-old Argentine icon visited the newly renovated Camp Nou this week, marking his first appearance at the stadium since leaving Barcelona in 2021.
In an emotional Instagram post, Messi described the visit as a deeply nostalgic experience.
“Last night I returned to a place I deeply miss. A place where I was immensely happy, where you made me feel a thousand times like the happiest person in the world,” the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi said.
Messi left Barcelona after two decades when the club’s financial troubles made his contract renewal impossible.
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He later joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) before moving to Inter Miami in 2023, where he continues to make an impact, most recently scoring twice to help his side advance in the MLS Cup play-offs.
During his glittering 17-year spell at Barcelona, Messi rose from a teenage prodigy to the club’s greatest-ever player, netting 672 goals in 778 appearances.
His time at the Catalan club brought an era of unprecedented success, including 10 LaLiga titles, four UEFA Champions League crowns, and three FIFA Club World Cups.
Barcelona reopened the Camp Nou on Friday after 895 days of renovation, celebrating the occasion with an open training session attended by nearly 22,000 fans.
“I hope one day I can return, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I was never able to do,” Messi added in his heartfelt message.
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