In an interesting turn of events, Inter Miami has reportedly declined an opportunity to play FC Barcelona in a friendly match this summer. According to Mundo Deportivo, the spectacle would have witnessed Lionel Messi facing off against his former club, where he spent over two decades of his career.
It is worth noting that when Messi was nearing free agency last year at Paris Saint-Germain, there were speculations about a potential return to Barcelona, the club where he began his journey at the age of 13. However, due to Barcelona's financial troubles at the time, Messi decided not to wait for them to sort out their issues and sought an immediate resolution for his future. As a result, he made the surprising move across the Atlantic to join Inter Miami in the MLS, rejecting offers from prestigious clubs like Barcelona and Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
Messi's time at Inter Miami has been nothing short of remarkable. He has already made a significant impact, helping the David Beckham co-owned franchise secure their first trophy, the Leagues Cup, and leading them to the final of the US Open Cup. With his exceptional performance and commitment, Messi has quickly become a beloved figure in Fort Lauderdale.
While Messi has already begun his pre-season training, he recently announced his participation in the Riyadh Season Cup later this month. This cup will see him compete against his former rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, who now represents Al-Nassr. However, despite the potential for a thrilling encounter, there won't be a reunion between Messi and Barcelona just yet.
Mundo Deportivo explains that Inter Miami turned down Barcelona's proposition to include them in a pre-season friendly tour in the United States. Unfortunately, scheduling conflicts arise as a potential match would coincide with Inter Miami's preparations to defend their Leagues Cup title. Moreover, the match would take place a few weeks after the Copa America, which will also be held on American soil. Consequently, it seems unlikely that Messi would be able to participate in the hypothetical match regardless.
Looking ahead, if Barcelona and Inter Miami eventually meet, it is more plausible that the encounter would take place in Catalonia. Speculations suggest that it could be part of an event such as the unveiling of the newly-renovated Spotify Camp Nou stadium, which is expected to coincide with Barcelona's 125th anniversary in November.
While fans may have to wait a little longer for a Messi-Barcelona reunion, it is clear that his focus is on contributing to Inter Miami's success and making a mark in the MLS. The prospect of witnessing Messi grace the pitch in the United States is undoubtedly exciting, and perhaps in the future, we will get to witness the long-awaited reunion between one of football's greatest players and his boyhood club.
