‘Never thought it would end as it did’ – Barcelona fans rejoice as Pep Guardiola reveals hope for Lionel Messi’s return

In a recent interview with ESPN Argentina, Pep Guardiola expressed his belief that Lionel Messi will go to great lengths to make a sensational return to his beloved former club, Barcelona, once his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires this summer. Guardiola, who coached Messi during his tenure at Barcelona from 2008 to 2012, spoke highly of the Argentine superstar’s immense contribution to the Catalan club’s success.

“I’m a Barcelona fan, I’ve got my tickets [at Camp Nou], and I just hope that one day we can say goodbye to him as he deserves,” Guardiola passionately stated. “He’s the greatest player of all time. In the last 12 years or so, Barcelona had a ‘boom’ and that wouldn’t have been possible without him. And I’m not talking about numbers, but rather his involvement in the play, his beauty, his efficiency, everything.”

Guardiola’s comments reflect his deep admiration for Messi’s impact on Barcelona’s rise to prominence. Together, they secured three LaLiga titles and two Champions League trophies, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history. Despite parting ways professionally, Guardiola remains an ardent supporter of Messi’s potential homecoming.

Guardiola hopes for a fitting farewell for Messi

Regarding Messi’s departure from Barcelona in 2021, Guardiola expressed his surprise, saying, “I never would have thought that it would end as it did.” However, he believes that Barcelona’s current president, Joan Laporta, shares a mutual admiration for Messi and is eager to ensure a fitting farewell for the iconic player. Guardiola emphasized that Messi’s departure was due to challenging financial circumstances faced by the club, and he hopes that one day, he can witness the proper send-off Messi deserves.

While Messi’s future beyond PSG remains uncertain, there have been reports of interest from Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs in the United States. However, Messi’s father and agent, Jorge Messi, recently denied any agreement in place for next season and confirmed that no decision will be made until Lionel completes the current league campaign with PSG.

As the football world eagerly awaits Messi’s next move, fans and pundits alike can only speculate about the potential twists and turns in his illustrious career. Guardiola’s belief in Messi’s determination to return to Barcelona underscores the special bond forged between the two during their time together, leaving fans hopeful for a grand reunion and a farewell befitting the legendary player.