Lionel Messi's Potential Return to Newell's Old Boys: Is It Feasible?
As Lionel Messi's ties with Newell's Old Boys resurface, a presidential candidate sheds light on the potential for the Inter Miami star to make a sentimental return to his boyhood club. Dive into the details of what must transpire for Messi to reconsider his future in Argentina.
Lionel Messi has seen a return to his roots in Argentina speculated on in the recent past, with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner boasting emotional ties to Newell’s Old Boys. A presidential candidate there - ahead of elections being held - has explained what would need to happen in order for the Inter Miami superstar to leave MLS and head back home to Rosario.Messi formed part of Newell’s youth system before being given the chance to link up with La Liga giants Barcelona. They were promising to cover medical expenses and bought into the potential of a teen sensation without knowing what he would go on to become.Some 21 memorable years were spent in Catalunya, with Messi building his reputation as an all-time great. He plundered 672 goals for Barca while helping them to 10 domestic titles and four Champions League crowns.He left for Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent in 2021, with two years being spent in France. Messi then went chasing the American dream as David Beckham lured him to Inter Miami. Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup triumphs have been savoured there.At 38 years of age, the South American icon has committed to a three-year contract extension that is intended to keep him in South Florida through 2028. It appears unlikely that a change of scenery will be taken any time soon.Newell’s, though, are clinging to the hope of bringing a prodigal son home. Having narrowly avoided relegation in the 2025 campaign, they are preparing to hold another round of presidential votes.One of the topics being discussed by several candidates is that of Messi and whether he really could return to Rosario. Guillermo Munoz told TNT Sports when quizzed on that subject: “First we have to see if Messi is eager to connect with Newell's.”He went on to say of the Messi transfer talk, while pointing out that Old Boys will not waste energy and funds chasing an impossible dream: “I may really want Messi to come, but it's not enough to just say, 'someday, someday.' I see Messi and he makes me cry. But that doesn't mean he's above the club at all.”Messi’s fellow World Cup winner Diego Maradona did take in a brief spell with Newell’s when returning to Argentina from Europe, while ex-Barcelona and Inter Miami boss Tata Martino has also retraced steps to a club that he took in three spells with as a player.On the chances of Messi treading that path, Munoz added: “One day, Maradona said: ‘I’m going to play in Newell's’. One day Tata Martino said: ‘I’m going to lend a hand in Newell's. Messi has no commitment or obligation to Newell's. But if he really wants to come, he'd have to say so.”Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingMessi has stated his love for Newell’s on a regular basis, but has never announced his intention to represent the club at senior level before hanging up his boots. Others have been talking there for him.Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia, who witnessed Angel Di Maria’s return to Rosario Central at 37 years of age, told TNT Sports when asked if Messi will one day turn out in his homeland: “I hope so.”Former Newell’s boss Cristian Fabbiani told ESPN F90 back in April when asked if Messi could be signed - potentially on a short-term contract that allows him to remain tied to Inter Miami: “I hope Messi comes to play for just four months, whenever he wants. A tournament lasts that long, four months.”For now, Messi is very much focused on events in North America. Fresh from helping Inter Miami to a historic MLS Cup win, he is currently enjoying a post-season break and will get to spend Christmas with wife Antonela and their three sons. He also has the 2026 World Cup - which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico - to think about, with Argentina hoping that their talismanic captain will form part of a global title defence.
Lionel Messi's Journey From Newell's Old Boys to Global Stardom
Lionel Messi's illustrious career has taken him from the youth ranks of Newell's Old Boys to becoming a legendary figure in world football. After a remarkable spell at Barcelona, followed by a brief stint at Paris Saint-Germain and his current tenure at Inter Miami, Messi's potential return to his roots at Newell's has captured the imagination of many.
Presidential Candidate's Insights on Messi's Homecoming
Guillermo Munoz, a candidate in Newell's Old Boys' upcoming presidential elections, has shed light on the possibility of Messi's return. While expressing his admiration for Messi, Munoz emphasized the importance of assessing Messi's interest in reconnecting with the club: 'First we have to see if Messi is eager to connect with Newell's.' This stance showcases a pragmatic approach, acknowledging that sentiment alone may not suffice to facilitate Messi's return.
Challenges and Realities of Bringing Messi Back to Rosario
Despite the emotional resonance of Messi's potential return to Newell's, practical considerations come into play. The club's recent struggle to avoid relegation adds a layer of complexity to the situation. Munoz's remarks highlight the need for a realistic assessment of the feasibility of Messi's homecoming, steering clear of overly idealistic prospects.
Echoes of Past Icons: Maradona, Martino, and the Newell's Connection
Drawing parallels with other football luminaries like Diego Maradona and Tata Martino, who have had ties to Newell's Old Boys, adds a historical perspective to the discussion. While Maradona and Martino revisited the club in different capacities, Messi's potential return remains an open question that hinges on his personal inclinations.
Anticipation and Speculation: Messi's Future Amidst Club and Country Commitments
As discussions around Messi's future intensify, contrasting sentiments emerge from various stakeholders. While the Argentine FA president expresses hope for Messi's eventual return to his homeland, former club figures like Cristian Fabbiani ponder short-term scenarios that could see Messi don the Newell's jersey, albeit temporarily. Amidst ongoing club and international commitments, Messi's decision-making process continues to intrigue fans and pundits alike.
Looking Ahead: Messi's Current Focus and Future Prospects
Despite the nostalgic allure of a potential return to Newell's, Messi's immediate priorities lie with Inter Miami and his family. Following a successful season culminating in an MLS Cup triumph, Messi now enters a phase of rest and reflection, with global events like the upcoming World Cup also on the horizon. As the football world awaits further developments, the prospect of Messi's homecoming to Newell's remains a tantalizing storyline in the evolving narrative of his remarkable career.
