Lionel Messi has dominated headlines once again after another remarkable performance on the biggest stage.
The Argentina captain delivered a stunning hat-trick against Algeria as the reigning world champions opened their World Cup defence in perfect fashion.
His display left supporters and pundits amazed, despite a career filled with moments that have repeatedly redefined expectations.
The performance also saw Messi reach another historic milestone.
With three goals against Algeria, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner moved level with Miroslav Klose as the highest scorer in World Cup history with 16 goals.
At almost 39, Messi continues to perform at a level that few players in football history have ever reached.
His form has naturally reignited discussions about whether he could still compete at the highest level in European football. However, those conversations appear to have a clear answer.
Messi recently renewed his contract with Inter Miami. So, he has no plans to leave the MLS side before ending his playing career.
That decision seemed to end any hopes of a return to Barcelona, the club where he became one of the greatest players of all time. Yet a return could still happen in a different way.
According to Total Soccer (via El Nacional), Barcelona and Inter Miami have been discussing a friendly match. It could allow Lionel Messi to play for the Catalan club one last time.
The report claims the game would be staged as part of the Joan Gamper Trophy and could serve as a long-awaited tribute to Messi following his departure from Barcelona.
The report suggests the most likely scenario is for the match to take place in 2027 after the completion of the work on the Spotify Camp Nou
Even more remarkably, the report claims Messi could feature for both teams during the game.
The match would finally offer Barcelona supporters the farewell many believe the Argentine never received when he left the club.
🚨 Lionel Messi is expected to make an appearance in a Barcelona shirt 𝗢𝗡𝗘 𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 before retiring with Inter Miami.
Inter Miami are in talks to face Barcelona in the Joan Gamper Trophy, with plans being discussed for the Argentine to feature in the match.
Messi… pic.twitter.com/0OTo6tVbDR
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) June 21, 2026
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