Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has put an end to speculations of Lionel Messi going on loan to FC Barcelona during the MLS off-season. While there have been talks of a potential farewell match for Messi at the Camp Nou stadium, Mas made it clear that the legendary Argentine forward will not be returning to Barcelona on loan.
Since making his debut for Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup opener against Cruz Azul, Messi has displayed his brilliance, scoring a crucial last-minute free-kick in a 2-1 victory. He continued his impressive form in the following fixture, contributing two goals and an assist in a 2-0 win over Atalanta United.
Although linked with a return to financially-strained Barcelona and Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, Messi opted to join Inter Miami after his unceremonious departure from PSG. He turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia to embark on a new chapter with the MLS side.
While rumors swirled about a possible loan move to Barcelona during the MLS off-season, Mas firmly dismissed such speculations. Speaking on the Offside podcast with Taylor Twellman, Mas clarified, “He’s not going to go on loan there. That’s not going to happen.”
Mas further elaborated that while a farewell match for Messi is in the works, it does not entail him playing for Barcelona. The focus is on a proper goodbye for the iconic footballer when the new Camp Nou stadium opens. The Gamper Trophy, a traditional fixture played by Barcelona in the summer, could potentially serve as a platform for Messi’s farewell.
Currently holding a two-year contract with Inter Miami, Messi’s move to the MLS side includes an impressive salary between 50 to 60 million dollars per season, as revealed by a co-owner in a recent interview with El Pais. Furthermore, Messi stands to earn additional income through partnerships with Apple and Adidas. Apple TV, the official streaming service of MLS, and Adidas, a major sponsor for both the league and Messi, are offering him a share of profits generated from subscriptions and merchandise sales.
With Inter Miami, Messi has embarked on a new adventure, and the club is committed to ensuring a fitting farewell for the footballing legend when the time comes.
