Lionel Messis Camp Nou Return Still Uncertain

Barcelona sporting director Deco said a Camp Nou reunion for Lionel Messi remains complicated despite the star’s desire to return. He also addressed futures of Robert Lewandowski, Hansi Flick and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, revealing no decisions will be made mid-season. Barca sit four points clear of Real Madrid and chase Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League titles.

As the chatter around Barcelona intensifies, sporting director Deco has tried to steady the narrative on several fronts. A Lionel Messi reunion at Camp Nou remains a romantic prospect, but Deco admitted it is “complicated” to organise, especially with the legend still under contract at Inter Miami and no official date set for a proposed exhibition return. Messi has privately toured the revamped Camp Nou and expressed a desire to one day return with his family, keeping speculation alive despite a lack of concrete plans.

Deco also addressed uncertainty around several key figures. Robert Lewandowski is out of contract in the summer of 2027 and has been linked with a future move to MLS. Deco insisted the striker remains happy in Catalunya, but said any contract discussions will depend on Lewandowski’s own plans and that it is not the right moment to negotiate during a title push. Head coach Hansi Flick, who just added the 2026 Spanish Super Cup to his résumé, still has a year left on his deal and will not have his future discussed until the season’s objectives are clearer.

Meanwhile, Marc-Andre ter Stegen has returned to fitness after injury and losing his starting role, with Deco stating there are currently no January exit talks but that the club would listen if the goalkeeper requested a move for playing time. Deco also praised Raphinha’s resurgence, calling him essential as Barcelona chase LaLiga, Copa del Rey and Champions League honours, currently sitting four points above Real Madrid.