RFEF president on Messi’s potential return to Barcelona: “Will welcome with open arms”

Lionel Messi is one of football’s most revered icons across the globe. There is no argument against the fact that the Argentine is one of the most influential sportspersons in the world.

When Messi signed for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, the global perception and reception of Ligue 1 changed overnight. Some of PSG’s games saw a boost in viewing figures close to 75% immediately after his arrival, putting into perspective his aura.

Messi’s separation from Barcelona two years ago was not pretty, and while the Catalans struggled for a long time after his departure, La Liga was one of the other big losers from the transfer. After all, the league lost its appeal to a significant number of fans.

Speaking in an interview recently, RFEF president Luis Rubiales had positive words to share over his thoughts on Messi’s potential return to Barcelona this summer. As quoted by COPE, he said:

“If Messi returns, we will welcome him with open arms. In the end, all Spaniards and also fans of Spanish football from outside the country want the best players to be in our league. Leo Messi is unique in world football and I will always wish him the best.”

Messi’s current contract with PSG runs out in June and a renewal does not appear to be on the cards. The player is open to returning to Spotify Camp Nou after resolving his issues with Joan Laporta.

Moreover, the club have already submitted their financial blueprint plan to a La Liga on how they will accommodate the Spaniard’s wages and comply with FFP. But La Liga president Javier Tebas has admitted that Messi’s signing will be difficult for the Catalans.

“If you ask me the question today, Messi’s return to Barça is very complicated,” Tebas said earlier this week.

However, recent reports suggest that there is a lot of optimism within the club about La Liga approving their financial plan, which would pave the way for Messi’s return.