Argentine international Lionel Messi, currently starring for American club Inter Miami, may return to play in Europe in the near future, with the approval of his current club.
The Spanish newspaper “Marca” reported that Inter Miami is offering Messi the opportunity to play for a European club during the first months of the upcoming year. This arrangement would allow Messi to maintain his rhythm, as the American League’s calendar is not aligned with the World Cup preparation for the 2026 tournament, where Messi will represent Argentina as they defend their title.
Additionally, Inter Miami’s management is looking to renew Messi’s contract, with an option that would allow him to play in Europe again during the final months of 2025 and early 2026.
The report suggests that Messi could follow in the footsteps of former Arsenal star Thierry Henry and ex-Milan and Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic, both of whom had brief loan spells with other clubs. Henry was loaned to Arsenal for two months, while Ibrahimovic spent time on loan at Milan.
If Messi does make a return to Europe, however, it is unlikely to be with Barcelona. Instead, he is expected to reunite with his former Barcelona coach, Pep Guardiola, at Manchester City. The English club is eager to secure Messi’s services during the next transfer window, especially given Barcelona’s ongoing financial difficulties, which prevent them from completing Messi’s return to Catalonia.