Barcelona president Joan Laporta has ruled out the idea of Lionel Messi returning to play for the club, calling it unrealistic, but he’s eager to give the legend a proper send-off.

Messi, now 37, made an unexpected appearance at the Nou Camp last week, expressing his wish to return to the club in some capacity. The Argentine icon left Barcelona in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain before joining Inter Miami in 2023, where he recently extended his contract until 2028.

Laporta admitted Messi’s departure from Barcelona wasn’t the farewell anyone wanted, as financial troubles prevented the club from renewing his deal at the time.

He now hopes to organise a tribute match once the Nou Camp reopens after renovations. During his time with Barcelona, Messi scored 672 goals in 778 appearances, lifting 10 La Liga trophies, four Champions League titles, and many other honours.