Lionel Messi is reportedly heading back to Barcelona, and he could line up against Cristiano Ronaldo in a star-studded anniversary game at Camp Nou.
WHEN WILL THE GAME TAKE PLACE?
Barca have made no secret of the fact that they want to put a match in place that will allow Messi to say thank you and goodbye to a loyal fan base in style. Various plans have been mooted, with FootballTransfers now reporting that the “best tribute match ever” is being planned for November 29, 2024 – which will coincide with the club’s 125th anniversary.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Argentine icon severed ties with the Blaugrana back in 2021 when leaving for Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent. He was heavily linked with a return to Catalunya when reaching the end of his contract in France, but opted to take on a new challenge in MLS with Inter Miami instead.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
It is claimed that a Lionel Messi Barca Legends XI will be pieced together, with invites expected to be handed out to the likes of David Villa, Ronaldinho, Cesc Fabregas, Rivaldo, Romario, Luis Enrique and ex-Brazil international Ronaldo.
DID YOU KNOW?
A number of Real Madrid legends will also be asked to take part in the special fixture, with the hope being that Portuguese superstar Ronaldo will agree to feature if can be freed from obligations at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. Sergio Ramos, Zinedine Zidane, Gareth Bale and David Beckham – Messi’s current boss as co-owner of Inter Miami – may also be sounded out.