Messi Reunion Eyed by Barcelona President for Camp Nou Grand Reopening

Last night, Barcelona supporters were taken aback when Lionel Messi unexpectedly returned to the Spotify Camp Nou for the first time since he left the team in 2021.

The Argentine legend reportedly visited the stadium privately to see the progress of the extensive renovation works that have transformed his old home. According to Spanish media, even Barcelona officials were caught off guard, as Messi’s trip was kept entirely under wraps.

In a poetic twist, Messi’s last match at Camp Nou was against Celta Vigo—the same side Barcelona defeated just hours before his visit. The timing of his return, four years after that farewell, added a layer of sentiment to what was already an emotional gesture for both the player and fans.

Messi, who now plays for Inter Miami, is said to have walked across the newly refurbished pitch in solitude, reflecting on the place where he spent more than two decades, won countless trophies, and became the greatest player in the club’s history.

Laporta’s Grand Plan

Reports from Mundo Deportivo reveal that Joan Laporta, Barcelona’s president, hopes to bring Messi back officially for the grand reopening of the Spotify Camp Nou. The club recently received clearance to open the stadium to a limited capacity of 23,000 spectators, though Laporta and his board have chosen to wait until approval for 45,000 fans is granted to host the special event.

Construction on the stadium has accelerated in recent weeks, and there’s optimism that Barcelona’s first home game after the international break against Athletic Club could be staged at the venue. Laporta reportedly dreams of having Messi in attendance for that moment — ideally, to honour him with a long-awaited tribute in front of supporters.

Nevertheless, given the complex circumstances surrounding his 2021 departure, there is still residual tension between Messi and the club president. Laporta has openly stated that he wants to patch things up, but it’s unclear if Messi will accept the invitation.

Regardless, his subdued visit is a potent reminder of his strong emotional ties to Barcelona, which are unbreakable despite being separated by years and continents. Even in silence, the sight of Messi returning to the Camp Nou field gives supporters a sense of homecoming.