Lionel Messi concern for Inter Miami? 'Matter of time' warning sounded by Sergio Aguero as talk of Barcelona return resurfaces

Posted Monday, November 27, 2023 by Goal.com

Sergio Aguero maintains that it is "a matter of time" before Lionel Messi returns to Barcelona, despite Inter Miami mapping out future plans.

WHAT HAPPENED?
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner made a stunning move to the United States when reaching the end of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain. The opportunity to return to Camp Nou was shunned at that stage, with the iconic Argentine opting to go chasing the American dream instead of retracing his steps to his spiritual home in Europe.

WHAT AGUERO SAID
Despite seeing Messi head to Florida, former Barcelona, Manchester City and Argentina striker Aguero has told AS that "sometimes I just think it's a matter of time" before a move to Barca happens. Aguero has not discussed such a switch directly with Messi, but added that "Leo always said that he loves Barcelona" and that he remains "very identified with the club and city".

THE BIGGER PICTURE
La Liga giants Barcelona have admitted on a regular basis that they want to organise a glamour friendly that will give Messi an opportunity to say thank you and good bye to his loyal fan base in Catalunya – with there suggestions that eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo could figure in a star-studded exhibition game at Camp Nou.

WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI?
That may be the only return that he makes, with Inter Miami including the option to become a stakeholder in their club within the contract that Messi signed when moving to the U.S. His deal runs through 2025, with the option for a 12-month extension, and the 2022 World Cup winner has also spoken of wanting to head back to Newell's Old Boys before hanging up his boots.