Lionel Messi’s return to Barcelona seemed a proposition that would remain a dream. The player’s poor relationship with Joan Laporta and the club’s shambolic economic situation were hurdles that did not give it much chance of happening.
Yet, there has been a turnaround in recent weeks. Optimistic reports around the Argentine’s return are now flowing around Catalonia with players and the president talking freely about the topic too.
Recently, La Liga president Javier Tebas spoke about Messi’s anticipated return to La Liga and grounded the feet of the Barcelona faithful with a realistic picture of the situation. As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, he said:
“Many things have to change for Leo Messi’s return to Barcelona. First off, he has to drastically lower his salary, the club must offload players and other things that they are yet to do. They are the only ones who can do it. We will not change the rules.”
The La Liga president then gave his opinion on what will transpire in the summer and revealed that he did not have much optimism over Messi’s return.
“Messi can’t be at Barcelona or PSG next season. In fact, PSG earn less money than Barcelona,” he said.
The coming seasons will be Messi’s last dance in Europe. Given his love for the club and the stage of his career, one assumes that the PSG star will be open to accepting a pay cut.
That throws the spotlight back on Laporta & co. who face the daunting task of player sales. Barcelona are currently struggling to even register the new contracts of Gavi and Ronald Araujo with La Liga.
Needless to say, pioneering the ex- talisman’s return could require some big decisions and departures.
Given the pre-requisite of parting ways with key players, it remains to be seen as to how far the Blaugranas are willing to go to sign the forward. Ultimately, the club’s future and its safety must take the first priority.
