Lionel Messi (foto: Getty Images)
Lionel Messi is reportedly considering a short-term return to Europe before the 2026 World Cup, with Galatasaray offering an unusual deal that would limit his appearances to home matches only.
Reports of a possible return of Lionel Messi to European football are growing louder, despite the Argentine star having recently extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2028.
According to information published by Goal.com, Messi is considering a short-term European spell in order to remain in competitive rhythm ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The story has attracted widespread attention due to the highly unusual conditions attached to the potential move.
Galatasaray and a four-month proposal
Interest in Messi has reportedly come from Galatasaray, with well-known Turkish football analyst Levent Tuzeman claiming that talks between Messi’s representatives and the Istanbul club have already taken place.
According to Tuzeman, Messi would be willing to sign a four-month contract and play 12 matches during that period. However, the most striking element of the proposal is a clause stipulating that Messi would only play home matches in Istanbul, at Galatasaray’s Rams Park stadium, and would not travel for away fixtures.
The reasoning behind this condition is reportedly linked to security and organisational concerns, as Messi’s presence across Turkey would require extraordinary measures.
“The talks were held, that is confirmed. Galatasaray wanted to bring Messi from the United States. He believes the MLS rhythm is exhausting and does not want to risk an injury ahead of the World Cup,” Tuzeman said during a broadcast on A Spor.
Cup final exception and Saudi rejection
Despite the home-only restriction, it is claimed that Messi would be prepared to play the Turkish Cup final if Okan Buruk’s team were to reach the decisive match.
Tuzeman also stated that Messi had rejected an offer from Al Hilal, despite extremely lucrative financial terms.
“If he had come to Turkey, he would have been welcomed by a million people,” Tuzeman added.
World Cup motivation
Messi has previously stressed that he does not want to become a burden for Argentina national football team at the 2026 World Cup. With the MLS season starting relatively late in the year, there is concern that he may lack enough high-intensity matches during a crucial preparation phase.
Although Messi has not yet officially confirmed his participation in the tournament, expectations remain that he will answer the call of head coach Lionel Scaloni and lead Argentina as captain in their title defence.