Lionel Messi set to return to Barcelona

Argentina’s Lionel Messi is set to return to FC Barcelona for the club’s 125th anniversary celebrations, according to Radio Catalunya’s Barca Reservat.

The football legend, who spent over 17 years with the club, will attend the gala at the Liceu Theatre on November 29, marking his first return to Barcelona since his departure in 2021.

Messi, who joined Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy at the age of 13, overcame significant health challenges early in his career, including growth problems, to eventually make his senior debut in 2004 at just 17 years old.

Over the next 17 years, Messi became Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer, netting 672 goals and cementing his place as one of the greatest footballers in history.

The Argentine forward’s time at Barcelona ended in 2021 due to the club’s financial difficulties, which prevented them from renewing his contract despite earlier promises from then-president Joan Laporta.

Messi’s departure left a strained relationship between the player and the club’s leadership, but Laporta has since expressed a desire to mend ties.

Reports suggest that Laporta personally invited Messi to attend the 125th anniversary celebrations, and Messi is expected to accept the invitation.

The event will be a significant moment in Messi’s ongoing relationship with the club, as it will mark his first public appearance at Barcelona since his emotional departure in 2021.