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Deco says Messi’s return to Barcelona in 2023 ‘wouldn’t have worked’

10. June 2025
Deco (foto: //)
Barcelona director Deco says Lionel Messi’s return in 2023 “wouldn’t have worked” due to overwhelming pressure, adding that joining Inter Miami was the right decision for all involved.

Barcelona sporting director Deco has admitted that it was ultimately “good for everyone” that Lionel Messi did not return to the club in 2023, despite strong mutual interest in a reunion.

After Messi’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain ended, speculation grew that the Blaugrana legend might return to Camp Nou. But Deco believes the emotional weight of the moment and high expectations could have made the situation “too much pressure” for Messi.

“He may have wanted to go to Miami. After Paris, the most important thing was for him to find himself again and be happy,” Deco told Globo Esporte. “Maybe that wouldn’t have happened at Barcelona, because the pressure would have been too much.”

He continued: “I think it was good for everyone. Barcelona continued on its path, trying to rebuild itself. And Messi continued on his path, scoring goals and being happy.”

Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, a move that has revived his joy for the game while boosting the profile of Major League Soccer. His arrival has turned Inter Miami into a global attraction and given the 38-year-old more time at the top level.

Meanwhile, Barcelona have also regained momentum, with a new generation pushing the club forward under the leadership of emerging stars and club veterans alike.

Messi continues to be linked with another potential return, but for now, his focus is on the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where Inter Miami will face Al Ahly, FC Porto, and Palmeiras in the group stage.

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