Lionel Messi may have left Barcelona three years ago but the Inter Miami superstar's love for the club appears to be as strong as ever.
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Messi left Barcelona back in 2021Moved to PSG and then Inter MiamiCatalan giants still hold special place in his heartWHAT HAPPENED?
Messi shocked the football world when he left Barcelona in 2021 but the Argentina has always made it clear that he did not want to move and would love to return at some point. The 37-year-old's undying love for the club has also been display while at Inter Miami. A photo has emerged of Messi at the MLS club carrying a drinks bottle emblazoned with the Barcelona crest.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Messi has previously admitted that Barcelona is his "home" and he plans to live in the city again in the future. He even donated his most recent Ballon d'Or to the Barcelona museum despite winning the famous trophy in his first season at Inter Miami. Messi is currently contracted to Miami until December 2025, and he has hinted that the MLS side will be his last club before he hangs up his boots.
WHAT MESSI HAS SAID ABOUT BARCELONA
Messi spoke about his love for Barcelona after picking up his eighth Ballon d'Or last year: "Obviously, I could return to Barcelona and I could live there. It is the club that saw me mature, that gave me everything and I gave it everything. It’s the club I love. And try to give everything for the club. I always did. It’s not something to think about today. I don’t know if I have a lot or a little left to play, but I want to enjoy it. I don’t want to say any more. It could easily happen."
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR MESSI
Messi is currently working his way back from injury suffered at the Copa America. The Inter Miami superstar has not featured for Tata Martino's side since June but is expected to return to action this month. Inter Miami's next game is on Saturday against Philadelphia Union.