Lionel Messi has explained why he was unable to return to Barcelona after the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Speaking in an interview with Simplemente Fútbol, the football icon said he truly hoped to rejoin the club where he spent most of his career. However, things didn’t go as planned.
Messi said he always wanted to go back to Barcelona, but for reasons beyond his control, it was not possible. After that setback, the decision on which club to join became more about what worked best for his family. Winning the World Cup with Argentina also influenced his mindset. He made it clear he no longer wanted to play for another European team and chose not to consider other offers from the continent.
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent, Messi joined Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. The move marked a major shift after 17 seasons with Barcelona, where he collected 35 trophies, including 10 La Liga titles and 4 Champions League trophies. Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has added two more trophies to his name—the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield.
His comments give a rare look into the personal and professional factors that guided his next chapter, confirming that the decision was more emotional than strategic.
