Lionel Messi reveals why he still misses Barcelona after three years away

The soccer legend opens up about his love for the club, the city, and its passionate fans
Argentina v Peru - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Argentina v Peru - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier / Eurasia Sport Images/GettyImages
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Lionel Messi is anything but a regular player, and if he does something as naturally on the pitch as dribbling past defenders, it is touching hearts. In the interview he gave to "3Cat," the Spanish channel, the Argentine couldn't hide how nostalgic he felt as he opened up about his feelings for FC Barcelona three years after such a painful departure nobody desired. "I really miss the club, the city, the people, the love.".

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Barcelona is a club with huge legacy, but let's be objective: you can't talk about modern Barça without thinking of Messi. And he himself knows that too, with no false modesty at all. "It's an honor to be part of the club, to be a Barcelona fan," he said.

The weight of an idol who still inspires

Let's be honest here: Messi is all but synonymous with Barcelona. For years, his No. 10 jersey was the embodiment of success, of trophies lifted high, and goals that wowed the world. So, hearing him say he misses the club is like striking a match in an already blazing fire of emotions for the fans.

I hope it keeps doing well and we can keep making this club bigger," Messi shared. His words have a double meaning: on one hand, it's genuine support from someone who truly wants to see the team do well; on the other, it's almost a nod from someone who still feels like part of the story.

Far from home

Messi’s bond with Barcelona goes way beyond the pitch. It’s almost impossible to separate the player from the city that welcomed him at 13, shaping not just the athlete but the man he became. “I was lucky that God brought me to this place and made me spend my entire life at this wonderful club. A special club, different from all the rest,” he reflected.

For Messi, Camp Nou wasn't just a stadium-it was the stage where his greatest moments were lived. Barcelona wasn't just a city; it was a backdrop to a life packed with achievements, applause, and joy. Little wonder he still hankers. The Barcelona of today, with Messi in the stands

With Hansi Flick at the helm, Barcelona seems to be getting back on track. First in La Liga and in good form in the Champions League, the team is revitalized, even if still a far cry from the glory days of the "Messi era." And he is proud of having been able to see the club rise again.

I hope it keeps doing well," Messi said, making it clear that even from afar, he's still watching and rooting. This isn't just polite talk from a former player; it's heartfelt support from someone who will forever carry Barcelona in his soul.

Messi may be at a different chapter in his career now, but his connection to Barcelona remains as strong as ever. And for the fans, his words are a bittersweet reminder of the greatness they have seen-and a hope that maybe, just maybe, the story between Messi and Barça isn't quite finished yet.

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