Lionel Messi returns to Europe in 2025: GOAT & "The last dance"?

SPORT Jan 12, 2025 0 868 Add to Reading List

Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest footballer of all time, is on the verge of a sensational return to European football in 2025. After a successful stint with Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer (MLS), Messi is reportedly negotiating a new contract that includes a clause allowing him to play in Europe on loan after the MLS season concludes in December 2025 [1]. This potential move has sent shockwaves through the football world, with fans and experts alike eagerly anticipating the "Last Dance" of this legendary player on European soil.

Lionel Messi returns to Europe in 2025: GOAT & "The last dance"?

Messi's legacy in European football is unparalleled. He is the most decorated player in the history of the sport, having won 45 team trophies, including 12 Big Five league titles and four UEFA Champions Leagues [12]. He holds numerous records, including most European Golden Shoes (6), most goals for a single club (672 with Barcelona), and most goals in La Liga (474) [12]. His mesmerizing dribbling skills, uncanny goal-scoring ability, and unparalleled vision have captivated fans worldwide [14].

Messi's individual accolades are equally impressive. He has won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards, recognizing him as the world's best player, and he has been named FIFA World Player of the Year seven times [13]. His dominance in La Liga is evident in his six La Liga Player of the Year awards and eight Pichichi trophies as the league's top scorer [14]. Messi's impact extends beyond individual awards, as he holds the record for most goals scored for Barcelona (672) and the most goals in La Liga history (474)13. He also holds the record for the most goals in a single La Liga season, with an astonishing 50 goals in the 2011-2012 season [13].

Reasons for Messi's Potential Return

The primary motivation behind Messi's potential return to Europe appears to be his commitment to maintaining peak fitness and competitive edge in preparation for Argentina's World Cup title defense in 2026 [1]. At 37 years old, Messi remains a pivotal figure for the Argentinian national team, and a return to the more demanding environment of European football during the MLS off-season would allow him to stay sharp and match-fit for the tournament [3]. The MLS regular season concludes in October, with a long break before the World Cup begins in June, which could hinder Messi's ability to maintain the form needed for international competition [3].

Beyond the World Cup, Messi's deep-rooted connection to European football likely plays a significant role in his decision [4]. Having spent most of his illustrious career in Europe, achieving unprecedented success and etching his name in football history, a return would allow him to reconnect with his roots and add another chapter to his legendary story [4]. Moreover, Messi's arrival in the MLS significantly boosted the sport's popularity in the United States [3]. A return to Europe could further enhance the global appeal of both Messi and the MLS, demonstrating the league's growing stature and ability to attract and retain top talent.

European Clubs Interested in Signing Messi

While Messi has yet to make a final decision on his future, several European clubs have expressed interest in securing his services. Barcelona, Messi's long-time home where he achieved legendary status, is reportedly eager for a reunion [1]. The prospect of Messi once again donning the Blaugrana colors has ignited excitement among fans worldwide, who dream of witnessing a fairytale return for the prodigal son.

Beyond Barcelona, Premier League giants Manchester City, Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Chelsea have also been linked with Messi [5]. Manchester City, managed by Messi's former coach Pep Guardiola, appears to be a strong contender [5]. A move to Manchester City would reunite Messi with Guardiola, under whom he flourished at Barcelona, and potentially reignite their successful partnership.

Messi's Current Performance and Statistics

Despite his age, Messi continues to perform at an exceptional level. In the 2024-2025 MLS season, he has scored an impressive 21 goals and provided 12 assists in 22 appearances for Inter Miami CF [8]. His overall statistics for Inter Miami CF are equally remarkable, with 34 goals and 18 assists in 39 appearances [5]. Messi's exceptional dribbling skills, precise passing, and clinical finishing continue to make him a force to be reckoned with.

Messi's Inter Miami Contract

Messi's current contract with Inter Miami CF is unique in the world of professional sports. In addition to his playing salary, the deal includes an option for Messi to purchase partial ownership of the team upon the contract's expiration [9]. This groundbreaking agreement reflects the evolving landscape of player empowerment and ownership in professional sports, and it highlights Messi's influence and business acumen.

Expert Opinions and Analysis

Experts believe that Messi's potential return to Europe would significantly impact the football landscape. It would reignite old rivalries, create new narratives, and add another layer of excitement to the already competitive leagues [10]. Messi's presence would elevate the level of competition and inspire younger players, while also attracting global attention and boosting the commercial value of the league [10].

Furthermore, Messi's return could potentially shift the balance of power in European football. If he rejoins Barcelona, it could propel them back to the top, creating a formidable blend of youth and experience [11]. Alternatively, a move to Manchester City could solidify their position as a dominant force under Guardiola's leadership [11].

Historical context also supports the feasibility of Messi's potential move. Other MLS stars, such as Thierry Henry, David Beckham, and Zlatan Ibrahimović, have taken loans to European clubs during their time in the league to maintain fitness and competitive edge [1]. Messi's potential return would follow this tradition, albeit on a much grander scale, given his global stature and legendary status.

Potential Impact of Messi's Return on European Football

Messi's return to Europe would have a profound impact on the sport. It would elevate the level of competition, attract global attention, and inspire a new generation of footballers [10]. His presence would boost the commercial value of the league and increase viewership, further solidifying European football's position as the world's premier football destination.

Moreover, Messi's return could potentially shift the balance of power in European football. If he rejoins Barcelona, it could propel them back to the top of European football, creating a formidable force that combines the club's emerging young talents with the experience and leadership of a legend [11]. This blend of youth and experience could prove challenging for any team in Europe [11]. Alternatively, a move to Manchester City could solidify their position as a dominant force, potentially leading to another era of success under Guardiola's guidance.

Messi's return could also serve as a testament to the growing stature and competitive standard of the MLS [10]. By demonstrating that the league can attract and retain world-class players like Messi, even if temporarily, the MLS could further enhance its reputation and attract more top talent from around the globe.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi's potential return to Europe in 2025 is a momentous occasion for football fans worldwide. It marks the return of a legend to the stage where he achieved unprecedented success and cemented his place among the greatest players of all time. While the exact details of his move remain uncertain, the potential implications are vast.

Messi's "Last Dance" in Europe promises to be a spectacle that will captivate audiences and etch another chapter in the history of football. Whether he rejoins his beloved Barcelona, embarks on a new challenge in the Premier League, or chooses another path, his return will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of European football. The potential challenges he might face, the different scenarios that could unfold depending on which club he joins, and the long-term impact on his legacy all remain to be seen. However, one thing is certain: Messi's return will be a defining moment in the history of the sport, and the world will be watching with bated breath.