Football fans around the world are in disbelief after Lionel Messi officially confirmed the date of his return to Spain — and, in a twist that has sent shockwaves through the sporting world, it will be in the colors of Barcelona once again. The Argentine legend made the stunning revelation during an exclusive interview late Sunday night, marking one of the most emotional announcements of his career.
After years of speculation and countless rumors about a possible homecoming, Messi has finally put all doubts to rest. The 37-year-old confirmed that he will return to play for FC Barcelona in June 2026, after completing his current contract with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. His words have reignited memories, emotions, and tears from millions of fans who never stopped believing that their greatest idol would one day wear the iconic blaugrana shirt again.
Speaking from Miami, Messi said with a smile that instantly broke the internet: “Barcelona is my home. I always said I would return when the time was right — and now, it feels right.” The announcement reportedly came after months of private discussions between Messi and Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who has long been determined to bring the club’s all-time top scorer back for a farewell season.
Sources close to the negotiations say Messi’s return is not just symbolic — it’s part of a larger plan by Barcelona to celebrate the club’s golden era and reconnect with the fanbase. The club reportedly plans to organize a global farewell tour, where Messi will wear the Barcelona shirt one last time in official competitions, before transitioning into an ambassadorial role within the organization.
In Spain, the news has been met with an outpouring of joy. Thousands of fans gathered at the Camp Nou within hours of the announcement, waving flags, lighting flares, and chanting Messi’s name. “He’s coming home,” read banners across Barcelona. The club’s official X (formerly Twitter) account simply posted: “The King Returns.”
Even current Barcelona players couldn’t hide their excitement. Pedri, one of the stars inspired by Messi, wrote online: “This is the moment every Barça fan dreamed of.” Meanwhile, Xavi Hernández — Messi’s former teammate and now Barcelona’s coach — reportedly played a major role in convincing him to make the comeback.
However, Messi made it clear that his decision was not about fame or money, but emotion and gratitude. “I owe everything to Barcelona,” he said. “I left because circumstances forced it — but in my heart, I never left. This is about closing the circle, about saying goodbye the way it should have been.”
The emotional statement has taken the football world by storm, dominating headlines and social media trends across continents. Even Inter Miami released a touching message wishing him luck in his “final European chapter.”
If all goes as planned, Messi’s first official match back in Barcelona colors will take place in August 2026, in a special tribute game at the newly renovated Camp Nou. For fans across the globe, it’s more than just a comeback — it’s the fairytale ending football always wanted. The King of Barcelona is finally coming home.