Barcelona sporting director Deco sets the record straight on Lionel Messi’s potential return after the ovation at Camp Nou

Lionel Messi immediately became one of the hottest topics out there FC Barcelona as fans returned to the revamped Camp Nou and showered the club legend with an emotional ovation. After the moment went viral, Barcelona sporting director Decorative has now set the record straight regarding the possibility of Messi returning to the Catalan squad.

Messi’s post on social media from the Camp Nou prior to the stadium’s reopening fueled speculation about a possible return, especially as Inter Miami prepares for its MLS offseason between December and the end of February. Yet club president Joan Laporta has already downplayed the Argentine’s chances of a comeback any time soon.

In conversation with a Spanish outlet LaserDeco was asked directly about the idea of ​​a ‘last dance’ loan move, and the sporting director did not duck the question. “I don’t think it’s possible because Leo has a contract and that was never thought about,he said, pointing to Messi’s commitment to Inter Miami as a major obstacle to any possible reunion in Catalonia.

After a stellar 2025 season, Messi is still widely seen as someone who can perform at the highest level ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Deco acknowledged this, but reiterated that no discussions took place: “Leo is always Leo and he could still offer something – he’s a great player – but it’s not a topic we’re going to discuss. The context at this point is completely speculative.“

The past few weeks have been Laporta has already been blunt about the chances of Messi returning as a player: “The return of Leo Messi as a player is simply not realistic. He currently has a contract with Inter Miami.” With Messi’s deal running through 2028, Barcelona officials have consistently played down the rumors – a disappointing reality for many Barça fans.

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Messi and a sudden ovation at Camp Nou

Barcelona officially returned to the new-look Camp Nou on 22 November in a 4–0 win over Athletic Bilbao. But the moment that stole the spotlight came in the 10th minute, when thousands of fans stood up to chant Messi’s namefilling the stadium with an emotional tribute.

Asked again about the scene, Deco reflected on Messi’s lasting legacy. “Leo will have an impact forever. For me, Leo is, together with Johan, the best player in club history (Cruyff) and Ronnie (Ronaldinho). It is normal that people of this generation do not forget Leo.he said.