Messi to Barcelona: Xavi questions Leo’s transfer ‘desire’

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 22 May 2023 14:34 BST
• 3 min read

Barcelona head coach Xavi has put it to Lionel Messi that the PSG attacker must show a “desire” to return to the club.

Out of contract in June, Messi will become a free agent as his deal with the Ligue 1 leaders expires.

It looks improbable that he will remain with the Parc des Princes side after two mixed seasons, though exactly where he might end up next is not yet clear.

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A return to Barcelona, where Messi holds the club’s all-time record for appearances, goals and assists, is one options, but there are other alternatives for the 35-year-old.

Arguably the most attractive of these is a two-year contract worth a reported €1 billion that has been presented to him by Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, rivals to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr.

Another alternative move is Inter Miami, with David Beckham’s MLS franchise having taken an interest in the World Cup winner.

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Will Messi go back to Barcelona?

Messi has given little away over his future, and Barcelona head coach Xavi, while clearly wanting to see him back at Camp Nou, has put the pressure on the South American to show that he really wants to play for another season or two with the Catalans.

Speaking to the media, Xavi said: "His return is up in the air. It depends on many things...

“He's a spectacular footballer and he's a person I'm friends with. We will see if it can happen or not. It also depends on the intention and desire Leo has.”

Barcelona’s financial situation means that they are unlikely to be able to compete with the type of wages being offered by Al-Hilal and PSG, with Xavi underlining that fact to Messi has he weighs up his options with just six weeks of his current contract remaining.

Barca’s message to Leo is clear: if you really want to return, you will have to make a sacrifice.

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