Barcelona icon Lionel Messi shared an emotional message with fans on Instagram after visiting the newly remodelled Camp Nou, expressing his desire to one day return for a proper farewell.
FC Barcelona icon Lionel Messi made a surprise visit to the remodeled Spotify Camp Nou last night and subsequently shared a poignant message with fans on his official Instagram account, expressing deep affection for the club and regretting his lack of a proper send-off.
The visit comes as Barcelona ramps up efforts for their official return to the stadium, which, according to a report from Sempre Barca, is hoped to take place on November 22 against Athletic Bilbao, subject to regulatory permissions.
The previous Friday, the club had already held an open training session at the newly developed venue.
Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami in MLS after a spell with PSG, posted photos of himself at the stadium alongside a highly emotional message directed at the Blaugrana faithful.
His message read:
“Last night I returned to a place I miss with all my heart. A place where I was immensely happy, where you made me feel a thousand times like the happiest person in the world. I hope that one day I can return, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to do…💙❤️”
The sentiment highlights the lingering disappointment shared by both the player and the fans that his career at Barcelona ended abruptly without a final tribute befitting his legendary status.
According to a report from Sempre Barca reporting suggest the pain in Messi’s words is “very evident,” noting that it “still haunts both him and Barcelona fans that they never had one final swansong.”
While a playing return to Barcelona appears unlikely at this stage, the sentiment reignites hopes among fans for a dedicated tribute in front of a fully packed stadium.
Club President Joan Laporta has previously hinted at the possibility of honouring the little magician.
Messi’s return to the Camp Nou last night, albeit brief and personal, has renewed optimism that a formal and celebratory tribute can eventually be arranged for the Argentinian maestro in the coming years.