New Delhi: The Argentine star Lionel Messi has decided not to attend FC Barcelona’s 125th anniversary celebration due to prior immovable commitments on the day. Initially, it was believed that the Barcelona legend would grace the event with his attendance but it now seems that will not be the case.
Messi left the club at the end of the 2021 season due to the Catalan giant’s financial issues, which prevented them from renewing his contract. The 37-year-old had solidified his place as one of the greatest players in history during his time at Camp Nou, winning 35 trophies and six Ballon d’Or awards. His name remains at the top of a long list of iconic figures in the club’s storied history.
❗️Leo Messi will not attend Barcelona’s 125th club anniversary celebration. The player has an unmovable commitment on the same day.
— @mundodeportivo pic.twitter.com/8RbV1LVIAA
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) November 22, 2024
Messi’s presence at the anniversary event would have marked the first time he returned to Barca since his exit, despite President Joan Laporta’s attempt to re-sign the attacker following his contract expiration at Paris Saint-Germain. However, due to further financial difficulties, Messi chose to sign for David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
The Inter Miami striker’s decision to skip the celebration has sparked mixed reactions from fans. Many are under the impression that he has severed ties with the club due to his past experiences but a recent report from Miguel Rico suggests otherwise.
Messi despite his absence has not turned his back on the club of his life. In a recent interview, the Argentine publicly expressed his desire to return to Camp Nou.
Lionel Messi y su confesión sobre cuanto extraña Barcelona… pic.twitter.com/dfn8Bstnrp
— SportsCenter (@SC_ESPN) November 22, 2024
Is Messi still upset about leaving the club?
The event at the Gran Teatre del Liceu was meant to celebrate Barcelona’s rich history, yet Messi’s absence highlights lingering emotions from his departure rather than any sense of disloyalty or rebellion. It highlights the complicated nature of his exit, one that has left both Messi and the club with lingering feelings.
For Barcelona, Messi’s absence at such a significant milestone will be felt deeply. Many will see it as a void, a painful reminder of what has been lost—not only in terms of the trophies and legacy Messi built at the club but also the emotional bond he shared with fans. Although Messi will not attend in person, it has been reported that he will record an interview for the club which will be played at the event.
❗️Around 15 days ago, Leo Messi received an invitation to Barcelona’s 125th anniversary celebration. Knowing he wouldn’t be able to attend, he agreed to record an interview for the club, which will be showcased during the event.
— @mundodeportivo pic.twitter.com/mPG1EfasAv
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) November 22, 2024
Messi’s dedication to the club and his legacy remains unwavering, but his interactions with the current board, which oversaw his departure are kept strictly professional and limited to what is essential.
Lionel Messi will skip Barcelona’s 125th anniversary event, fueling fan speculation about his legacy and ongoing ties with the club after his emotional exit. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
