Fabrizio Romano has given an update on Lionel Messi’s future on Twitter. According to the transfer expert, the 35-year-old attacker of Paris Saint-Germain will only make a decision about his future in 2023, after the World Cup in Qatar that starts in more than six weeks. The Argentinian wants to fully focus on the global final tournament, which will probably be the last of his career. Barcelona are reportedly already in talks internally about Messi’s return.
Romano, who thus indicates that Messi has not yet made a decision about his future, reports the opposite of Veronica Brunati, a journalist from Argentina. Brunati tweeted earlier on Tuesday that a return of the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner to Barcelona is almost certain. “On July 1, 2023, Lionel Messi will become a Barcelona player.” The attacker’s contract with PSG expires at the end of this season, allowing the Catalans to take him on a free transfer from the French.
Sources close to Lionel Messi insist he will decide his future in 2023, not now. Barcelona, already discussing internally of his return — and PSG will really try to extend his contract. ??????? #messiah
Messi’s camp guaranteed that no decision has been made & nothing is advanced yet. pic.twitter.com/wYIV97IL95
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) Oct 4, 2022
Les Parisiens Would like to see Messi play at the Parc des Princes after this season. Luís Campos, PSG’s technical advisor, wants the attacker to stay. “I asked Messi if he wanted to stay here and I told him I hope he stays as long as I’m here. I am very satisfied with Leo”, the Portuguese indicated two weeks ago in conversation with RMC. Messi has started his second season in France with seven goals and eight assists in twelve games. His current form and the fact that his contract expires next summer has fueled rumors of a return to Barcelona.
Eduard Romeu, the economic vice president of Barcelona, also spoke on Catalan radio last week about a possible return of Messi. “It’s definitely a possibility, because if he returns it will be a free transfer. It’s a situation that goes beyond finances, because the player has to make a decision.” Xavi also spoke about the rumors at the press conference prior to the Champions League game against Internazionale on Monday evening. “Now is not the time to talk about the return of Leo. Barcelona is his home, so let him stay calm and enjoy the rest of Paris.”