Operation Messi: Newell’s Old Boys launch bid to bring Argentina star back to boyhood club
Lionel Messi is wanted back in his homeland
Newell’s Old Boys have launched an ambitious plan to bring Lionel Messi back to his boyhood club.
Messi was born in Rosario and played for Newell’s as a youngster before moving to Barcelona aged 13, where his career took off.
He has spoken on several occasions of wanting to return but, now aged 38, it seems less likely, particularly as he recently signed a contract at Inter Miami that ties him to the Major League Soccer club until the end of the 2028 season.
But Newell’s vice-president Juan Manuel Medina told reporters of his desire to see the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner back in the club’s red and black kit – and revealed a wider initiative is already up and running.
He said: “We are doing everything possible to get Leo back in the first half of 2027, but for now there is nothing more than that. The initiative covers Rosario, Santa Fe and Argentine soccer. Everything depends on what we can show in terms of infrastructure and being able to offer a competitive sports package.”
Messi currently focused on MLS preparation
Messi’s main focus is preparing for the new MLS season, which kicks off on February 21. His Miami side are the defending champions and have been busy building a new roster.
Veterans Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have retired and, while he will play next season, Luis Suárez is expected to be a bench-warmer rather than first-choice.
Miami have recruited heavily, bringing in Monterrey striker Germán Berterame for $15m as well as snapping up Dayne St Clair, Sergio Reguilon, David Ayala and Micael.
Messi has yet to commit to playing for Argentina at this summer’s World Cup but it seems inconceivable the star of the 2022 tournament Qatar won’t be there to help his country defend the crown.