The entourage of Lionel Messi have shut down rumours the Paris Saint-Germain star could be set for a sensational return to Barcelona.
Messi was forced to leave the La Liga club in 2021 as a result of financial sanctions placed on Barca by the Spanish football authorities and many believed the move could just be temporary with the 35-year-old contracted until 2023. However le10sport state his entourage have "categorically denied contact" with Barcelona for his return next summer.
They said: "At the moment, there has been no approach or contact from Laporta with us, nor the reverse. Anyone who claims otherwise is lying. The number 30 of PSG is therefore focused on his season in Paris. Unfortunately, it's over." Barcelona boss Xavi also seemed to put an end to the Messi soap opera before the end of the transfer window. He told a recent press conference that it's time for the next generation to make a difference at the Nou Camp. “The mourning of the best in history will never be over. Everything he gave to Barca was extraordinary", said Xavi.
"Unfortunately, it's over. Now other people are called upon to make a difference."
Messi has been in red hot form so far this season. He has scored four goals and assisted six in only seven games after a difficult first season in France with the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner struggled to replicate his top form.
Meanwhile Barcelona president Joan Laporta was previously asked about a potential return of the mercurial superstar. And he gave an indication that it is something he would love to see happen in order to pay Messi back for the manner of his exit after 21 years on the books at the Catalan giants.
He said: "I think, hope that Leo Messi story with Barcelona is not over yet. It's still open, it's our responsibility to make sure it has a more beautiful ending than it was. As Barça president, I feel indebted to Messi".
