When Lionel Messi led Argentina to a World Cup title, the idea of him returning to Barcelona seemed almost impossible. The player was performing at the top of his game and was enjoying a great season at Paris Saint-Germain as well.
However, three months into the year, the possibility of Messi’s return to Barça are steadily increasing. This is due to Messi’s indifferent year on the football pitch so far, with the attacker’s performance levels taking a noticeable dip.
PSG’s elimination from the Champions League has not helped Messi either, in his bid to prolong his career at Parc des Princes. That is where Barcelona are emerging as an ideal destination for the Argentine.
Earlier in the year, Messi’s father and agent, Jorge Messi, had met Barcelona president Joan Laporta. Although the main idea behind the meeting was to discuss the tribute Barça have been planning for the attacker, the future of the player may have also been discussed.
Now, as revealed by Catalunya Radio, Jorge Messi and Laporta are set for another meeting within the next few days.
This should greatly fuel speculation over Messi’s potential desire to leave PSG, especially after their poor showing in the UCL. It also comes in the midst of reports that state the Argentine is interested in learning about the Barcelona project under Xavi.
There is much to settle between Messi and his dysfunctional relationship with the club bosses. But Barcelona have taken positive steps in mitigating the tension, in an attempt to convince the Argentine to make the fabled return to Camp Nou in the coming summer.
However, the biggest obstacle for Barcelona will be the financial limitations put forth by La Liga, in line with the Financial Fair Play regulations. With the club being told to reduce their salary limit by €200 million, it remains to be seen whether or not they can afford Messi in the coming summer.
