Xavi says Lionel Messi return to Barcelona depends on ‘what he wants’

Barcelona boss Xavi has stated that he is unsure whether Lionel Messi will make an anticipated return to the club from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

Ever since he left on a free transfer in 2021, there have been rumours that he could head back to Camp Nou, and those rumours have intensified given that his time at PSG will come to an end this summer.

Xavi acknowledges that nothing has been determined yet and that a reunion is also dependent on Messi’s wishes.

“It’s up in the air,” Xavi said in a press conference. “It depends on many things. There is not much more I can say. Leo is a spectacular footballer. He is a friend. From there, it depends on many things, but above all on his intentions and what he wants.”

Barca president Joan Laporta has stated that he will do “everything” to re-sign the 35-year-old when the summer transfer market opens.

The La Liga champions are not the only ones interested in signing him, though. Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia is apparently willing to offer him a whopping £435 million to join them, while Inter Miami of the MLS has also been interested in him.

After struggling in his first season at the club, Messi has been crucial for the Ligue 1 side this season, scoring 20 goals and providing 20 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions.