Xavi Hernandez, the coach of Barcelona, expressed his desire to have Lionel Messi back in the team for the upcoming season. He disclosed that he has regular conversations with his former teammate about the potential return to the club. Messi, who left Barcelona two years ago, will become a free agent this summer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires.
Xavi Hernandez stated in an interview with Diario Sport that there are no doubts about Lionel Messi’s potential return to Barcelona and the positive impact he would have on the team. Xavi emphasized that Messi is a difference-maker, hungry for success, a winner, and a leader. He expressed his unwavering belief in Messi’s ability to contribute significantly to the team’s success if he were to come back.
Xavi acknowledged the difficulty of understanding the mindset of a player who has achieved so much. He expressed uncertainty about the possible doubts Messi may have regarding a return to Barcelona, considering it is a different project now and that key players he had a strong relationship with, such as Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, are departing. Xavi admitted that he cannot predict Messi’s thoughts as he is not inside his mind.
In terms of their relationship, Xavi emphasized his clear stance and the open door for Messi at Barcelona. He believes that the team’s style of play and approach would remain the same with Messi’s inclusion. Xavi discussed various potential positions for Messi on the field, highlighting his versatility and ability to contribute as a false nine, winger, midfielder, or even in a deeper midfield role, providing the decisive pass. Ultimately, Xavi reiterated that the decision rests with Messi and his personal choice.
Bringing back Lionel Messi to Barcelona poses not only the challenge of convincing him to return but also significant financial hurdles for the club. When Messi left in 2021, Barcelona was unable to afford his continued presence due to financial constraints.
In order to comply with LaLiga’s financial fair play regulations and register new contracts for current first-team players, as well as make new signings for the upcoming season, Barcelona must first make substantial savings of over €150 million. The recent departures of high-earning players like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have allowed the club to start reducing wage expenses. Additionally, Barcelona intends to generate transfer fees by offloading squad members who have had limited playing time this season.